title: Maryland Man Sentenced for Disability Benefits Scam

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: Greenbelt, Maryland – A Maryland man received a federal-prison term, today, stemming from a social-security disability benefits scam. U.S. District Judge Lydia K. Griggsby sentenced Andrew Langford, 50, of Ft. Washington, to eight months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for wire fraud in connection with the scheme. U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) records show that from January 2014 through May 2021, Langford received more than $270,000 in disability benefits that he was not entitled to. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Amy Connelly, Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (SSA-OIG) Boston–New York- Philadelphia Field Division, and Special Agent in Charge Andrew McKay, Mid-Atlantic Field Division of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). This prosecution is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. According to court documents, Langford devised a scheme to defraud the SSA to obtain money to personally enrich himself and to benefit him and his associates. Back in November 2008, Langford applied for SSA disability benefits, reporting that he was unable to work due to a disabling condition. Then in May 2009, Langford applied for child/auxiliary benefits for his three minor children. Later in 2009, SSA notified Langford that he was eligible for and would begin receiving disability benefit payments. SSA also notified Langford of his responsibility to inform the agency if he returned to work or if his health improved. As part of the scheme, Langford operated two cleaning companies — NDA Cleaning Services, LLC, and CK Janitors, Inc. — registered in Maryland and Virginia, respectively. Langford utilized an IRS system to apply for Employer Identification Numbers for his businesses associated with the alleged fraud. But Langford failed to report that he returned to work as required. Langford concealed his ownership of the businesses, along with his income and ability to work, from the SSA. In August 2020, when a SSA employee inquired about the businesses, Langford verbally advised that he never heard of NDA Janitorial Services or NDA Cleaning Services. Langford also maintained he last worked in 2008. But records showed that in March 2015, Langford filed Articles of Organization for NDA Cleaning Services, LLC, and then in October 2018, he filed Articles of Reinstatement for the business. Langford is also listed as the resident agent for the business. Further, records from the Virginia State Corporation Commission Information System show Langford is listed as the director/CEO of CK Janitors, Inc., from November 2015, through April 2018. Then in September 2019, the SSA mailed Langford a Continuing Disability Review notice, informing him of an impending review of his disability case. In January 2020, after the SSA didn’t receive required documentation, it mailed Langford a proposed decision to end his benefits. The SSA’s decision was based on the agency’s review of documents, including his earning records, as reported to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). In May 2021, SSA mailed Langford notices informing him that he received SSA disability and child/auxiliary payments overpayments to which he was not entitled. IRS records revealed that Langford earned more than $100,000, annually, for tax years 2012, 2014, and 2016. 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. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the SSA-OIG and TIGTA for their work in the investigation, along with the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation for its valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kertisha Dixon who prosecuted this case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud . # # #


title: Maryland Man Faces Charges for Threats Against President of the United States and Other Domestic Terrorism Charges

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced, today, that a Maryland man made his initial appearance in federal court in connection with domestic terrorism charges. Donald Franklin Swope, 53, is charged by criminal complaint for threats against the President of the United States; interstate communication containing a threat to harm; and influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official by threatening or injuring a family member. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the criminal complaint with Special Agent in Charge Brian McDonough, United States Secret Service (USSS) – Baltimore Field Office. According to the criminal complaint, between May 12, 2026, and July 27, Swope repeatedly made Facebook posts about harming President Donald J. Trump. Additionally, on August 5, Swope made multiple Facebooks posts threatening the USSS. Then Swope continued to post threatening posts from August 6 until August 8. This case is part of the nationwide National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 initiative, which is a White House directed, interagency effort to integrate federal, state, and local partners in protecting First Amendment rights while targeting individuals and organizations engaged in political violence and is led by the investigative and prosecutorial Joint Task Force Vanguard. A criminal complaint is not a finding of guilt. Individuals charged by criminal complaint are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding. If convicted, Swope faces a maximum of five years in prison for each count of threatening communications and 10 years for influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the USSS for its work on this case. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia McLane, who is prosecuting the federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md . # # #


title: Baltimore Man Sentenced in HSTF Drug-Trafficking Case

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – A federal judge sentenced a Baltimore man, today, for his role in a drug-trafficking organization (DTO) operating in a Baltimore open-air drug market. U.S. District Judge Brendan A. Hurson sentenced Damon Toogood, 47, to 57 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Law enforcement learned about Toogood’s connection to the DTO while conducting a federal Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) drug investigation. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD). According to Toogood’s guilty plea, in December 2024, law enforcement began investigating suspected narcotics trafficking and narcotics sales on a West Baltimore block. Investigators identified this block as an open-air drug market, with vehicles stopping to make narcotics purchases from dealers on the street and subsequently driving off. Then in April 2025, investigators started making controlled purchases of fentanyl from the narcotics dealers on the block. One individual was later identified as Toogood. During the investigation, law enforcement observed Toogood repeatedly interacting with other street-level dealers on the block and making numerous suspected narcotics sales. Between March 19, and May 21, investigators made approximately 10 undercover purchases from the open-air drug market on the block. Law enforcement received approximately 790 gel caps, containing more than 124 grams of fentanyl. As an example, on April 15, an undercover police officer went to the block to make a controlled purchase of narcotics. After arriving, the undercover officer exited his vehicle and approached Toogood. The undercover officer requested 50 gel caps, so Toogood went to another individual on the street to collect a baggie containing gel caps of narcotics. Toogood then handed the undercover officer a baggie containing 50 gel caps in exchange for cash. Subsequent forensic analysis showed the gel caps contained more than 15 grams of fentanyl. Then on April 22, the undercover officer returned to the block to make another controlled purchase. After arriving, the undercover officer approached Toogood about purchasing 50 gel caps. Toogood walked down the block to another individual to obtain a baggie containing the gel caps. Toogood, thereafter, handed the undercover officer a baggie containing the gel caps for cash. The gel caps later tested positive for 14.3 grams of fentanyl. Law enforcement conducted an additional three controlled purchases on April 29, May 7, and May 21. During these controlled buys, the undercover officer purchased 100 gel caps each time in exchange for cash. The 300 gel caps tested positive for a total of 84.3 grams of fentanyl. This prosecution is part of the HSTF initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Baltimore is comprised of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Maryland; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); the United States Marshals Service (USMS); the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA (W/B HIDTA); the Maryland State Police (MSP); the Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and BPD for their work in the investigation, along with the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, for its valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Rigney who is prosecuting this federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md . # # #


title: Malden Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Cocaine

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Malden man has pleaded guilty in federal court in Worcester to conspiring to distribute cocaine. Christhian Castillo, 33, pleaded guilty on Aug. 27, 2026 to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine and distribution of 500 or more grams of cocaine. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for Dec. 1, 2026. Castillo was indicted in May 2025 , along with his alleged co-conspirator Erick Sandoval-Perez. Castillo and allegedly Sandoval-Perez, worked together to sell cocaine on several occasions to an undercover law enforcement officer. On Feb. 12, 2025, Sandoval-Perez allegedly arranged to sell a kilogram of cocaine to an undercover. Castillo was arrested when he allegedly handed the kilogram of cocaine to the undercover. The charge of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine, and the charge of distribution of 500 or more grams of cocaine, both carry a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Sandoval-Perez is scheduled to plead guilty on Oct. 14, 2026. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jarod A. Forget Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Chief Ryan Malatos of the Leominster Police Department; and Chief Brian W. Coyne of the Clinton Police Department made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Malden Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O’Shea of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Illegal Alien Charged With Unlawful Reentry

body_text: BOSTON – A Dominican national unlawfully residing in Lawrence, Mass. has been charged with illegally reentering the United States after deportation. The defendant was previously deported after completing a state prison sentence for fentanyl distribution. Diego De Los Santos Vizcaino, 35, was charged with one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. De Los Santos will make an initial appearance in federal court in Boston at a later date. According to the charging document, De Los Santos, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, was first encountered by authorities in February 2020, after unlawfully entering the United States from Mexico by swimming across the Rio Grande River. He was subsequently released to Mexico and ordered to appear for removal proceedings in Texas, for which he failed to appear. The hearing was held in his absence, and he was ordered removed by an immigration judge. In October 2020, De Los Santos was found in Lawrence, Mass., in connection with a state residential search warrant, where he was arrested and charged with drug trafficking offenses. De Los Santos later pleaded guilty to six counts of distribution of fentanyl and was sentenced to three years in state prison. He was removed from the United States in July 2023, after completing his state prison sentence. It is alleged that, at some point thereafter, De Los Santos unlawfully reentered the United States. In September 2025, De Los Santos was again arrested by state authorities in connection with a residential search warrant execution in Lawrence. De Los Santos was subsequently charged in Essex Superior Court with 11 counts of drug trafficking arising from multiple incidents allegedly occurring in Methuen and Andover between June and September 2025. De Los Santos is currently held in state custody on $75,000 bail in connection with the pending state charges. The charge of illegal reentry provides for a sentence of up to two years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and David T. Wesling, Acting Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney John L. Potapchuk of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.


title: Convicted Felon From New Bedford Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearm and Ammunition in Elementary School Parking Lot

body_text: BOSTON – A New Bedford man pleaded guilty on Aug. 26, 2026 in federal court in Boston to possessing a firearm and ammunition on the grounds of the Charles G. Taylor Elementary School in Foxborough, Mass. Jameel Clark-White, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and one count of possessing a firearm in a school zone. U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencing for Dec. 11, 2026. Clark-White was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2025 . At the plea hearing, Clark-White admitted that he traveled from New Bedford to Foxborough on the morning of June 12, 2025, to attend a school function. Prior to the function, Clark-White was involved in a collision with another vehicle in the school’s parking lot. Before police arrived to investigate the crash, Clark-White tossed a .45 caliber Glock pistol equipped with a machinegun conversion device, as well as two additional loaded magazines, underneath two parked cars in the school’s parking lot. Clark-White fled the scene minutes later and was not apprehended until July 22, 2025. Clark-White was prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior felony convictions. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possessing a firearm in a school zone provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $100,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Foxborough Police Department and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Cutshall of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.


title: Convicted Felon From Fall River Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Firearm and Drug Offenses

body_text: BOSTON – A Fall River was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and distributing cocaine. Carlos Perez, 40, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to five years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. In April 2026 , Perez pleaded guilty to four counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and one count of distributing a controlled substance. In November 2025 , Perez was arrested and charged. On May 5, 2025, Perez sold cocaine as well as a .45 caliber pistol and ammunition to a cooperating witness. In addition, Perez sold a Sig Sauer, P230 SL, .380 caliber pistol and ammunition on June 2, 2025; a Ruger, Max 9, 9mm pistol and ammunition on June 30, 2025; and a Smith & Wesson, M&P 9 Shield, 9mm pistol and ammunition on Aug. 27, 2025. Perez is prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition due to multiple prior convictions. According to the charging documents, Perez has 61 adult charges on his record and over 15 criminal convictions, including a 2015 state conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class A Substance, for which he served two years in the house of corrections, as well as two separate convictions for Assault and Battery Dangerous Weapon in 2008, for which he received a two-year suspended sentence and six months in the house of corrections. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Fall River and New Bedford Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Reynolds III of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood .


title: Barre Woman Sentenced for Social Security Fraud

body_text: BOSTON – A Barre woman was sentenced on Aug. 28, 2026 in federal court in Worcester for stealing over $100,000 in Social Security benefits. Jennifer Valley, 51, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to one day of prison deemed served and three years of supervised release with 10 months of home confinement. Valley was also ordered to pay $100,218 in restitution. In May 2026 , Valley pleaded guilty to one count of theft of government money after being charged in April 2026 . From October 2022 through August 2025, Valley stole approximately $100,218 in Social Security retirement benefits that were intended for a beneficiary who had died and with whom she had previously lived. Prior to the beneficiary’s death, Valley had been appointed as the beneficiary’s representative payee to manage their Social Security benefits and provide regular accountings to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Valley failed to report the beneficiary’s death to SSA. Instead, in June 2023, she submitted a representative payee report to SSA stating that all the benefits received during the previous 12 months had been spent for the benefit of the deceased, including $23,157 in funds improperly paid after death during that period. Additionally, in December 2023, Valley updated the deceased’s mailing address with SSA to her new address to conceal the beneficiary’s death. 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. 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: Former loan officer sentenced for embezzlement through fake loans

component: USAO - Kansas

body_text: WICHITA, KAN. – A former Kansas credit union employee was sentenced to 19 months in prison and ordered to pay $207,920 in restitution after embezzling approximately $171,000 by creating fake loans to members. According to court documents, Ricky Naovoravong, 39, of Garden City pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement by a credit union employee. Naovoravong was a loan officer at a credit union in Garden City. In August 2024, a manager noticed a suspicious transfer from a member’s savings account into Naovoravong’s checking account. The manager noted that Naovoravong created documents for a $5,000 loan in the victim’s name then used the victim’s account to make loan payments that would be deposited into his account. A broader investigation ensued and determined Naovoravong had created other loans and transferred funds into his personal account. When confronted, Naovoravong admitted the loans were fictitious, and the victims knew nothing of them. He said would continue to create new fictitious loans to make payments on previous fictitious loans so that members wouldn’t be notified of the loans. The investigation showed the defendant embezzled $171,164 between November 2020 and August 2024. “Banks and credit unions collect people’s personal information because it’s a requirement of doing business,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Kriegshauser. “When employees with access to sensitive information use it to commit fraud, embezzlement, or other types of financial crimes, they will eventually get caught. When they are exposed, they’ll have to face the justice system.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the case. ###


title: Kailua Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison Following Jury Conviction for Attempting to Entice Minors and Receive Child Pornography

component: USAO - Hawaii

body_text: HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Ross Andrew Brown, 45, of Kailua, was sentenced on August 19, 2026, by Senior United States District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi to 240 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for attempting to sexually entice and exploit minors, and for attempting to receive child pornography. Brown was also required to pay over $115,000 in fines and assessments. Brown was previously convicted by a federal jury in February 2026. Evidence at trial showed that Brown repeatedly engaged in sexualized online communications with individuals who identified themselves as being between 14 and 17 years old. Despite knowing their stated ages, Brown continued the conversations, escalated them into sexual discussions, and arranged meetings to attempt to engage in unlawful sexual activity. When Brown arrived at one such agreed-upon meeting location, federal agents arrested him as part of a sting operation. At sentencing, additional evidence showed that Brown also engaged in similar communications with several other purported minors over a period of approximately two years. Investigators recovered conversations in which Brown attempted to initiate sexual activity, requested images of individuals he believed to be minors, and directed explicit, sexual behavior. Brown is a lawyer serving as Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps stationed in Hawaii. The court determined that Brown’s conduct was aggravated by his legal training, including a Juris Doctor degree and a Master of Laws degree, as well as his professional experience prosecuting similar child-sex offenses. Brown’s background gave him a heightened understanding of the criminal nature of his actions and the harm caused by offenses involving the sexual exploitation of minors. The District Judge further determined that Brown provided false testimony at trial and did not accept responsibility. When imposing the sentence, District Judge Kobayashi agreed with the government that Brown exhibited a pattern of predatory behavior targeting some of the most vulnerable persons in our community. The Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division and Air Force Office of Special Investigations investigated the case with assistance from Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Nolan and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Slack prosecuted the case.


title: Washington, D.C., man sentenced to over three years in prison for federal firearms charge

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

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Washington man was sentenced today to three years and five months in prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to court documents, on Nov. 8, 2025, a Virginia State Police trooper observed Jiair Olajuwan Tidwell, 30, on Interstate 495 driving a vehicle displaying a stolen Maryland license plate. When the trooper attempted to conduct a traffic stop of the vehicle, Tidwell attempted to flee at a high rate of speed. As he fled, Tidwell crashed into a civilian vehicle at approximately 100 miles per hour. Tidwell attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended by the trooper. Following Tidwell’s arrest, troopers recovered a loaded firearm in his pants. Tidwell was previously convicted of a felony in Fairfax County Circuit Court. As a previously convicted felon, Tidwell cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition. Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Pascua prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-75.


title: Norfolk man convicted of federal drug trafficking and firearms charges sentenced to 31 years in prison

body_text: NORFOLK, Va. – Jamar Edward Gay, 37, of Norfolk, was sentenced to 31 years in prison following his conviction at trial for maintaining a drug-involved premises to distribute cocaine fentanyl, marijuana, and suboxone; possessing a machinegun in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes; being a felon in possession of a firearm; and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. According to court records and evidence presented at trial, on Dec. 18, 2025, law enforcement conducting a Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) investigation searched Gay’s residence in Norfolk. During the search, investigators located a container with crack cocaine, powder cocaine, fentanyl, and suboxone strips in the kitchen. Inside the bedroom, investigators found a handgun equipped with a machinegun conversion device (MCD), rendering the firearm capable of automatic fire. Investigators also recovered two other MCDs, marijuana, and Gay’s driver’s license, debit card, and United States Marine Corp identification. Investigators found another firearm in the living room. Gay has previous convictions for, among other crimes, unlawful wounding in March 2018 and malicious wounding in August 2022. As a previously convicted felon, Gay cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition. On March 18, a federal jury convicted James Edward Sweat on charges of using a drug involved premises, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl. Sweat faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life in prison when sentenced on Sept. 25. Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; and Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes. The Chesapeake Police Department and the Norfolk Police Department assisted in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph E. DePadilla and Luke Bresnahan prosecuted the case. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Washington, D.C., comprises agents and officers from the ATF; FBI; Washington Baltimore HIDTA; Homeland Security Investigations; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Diplomatic Security Service; U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service; Naval Criminal Investigative Service; Transportation Security Administration Federal Air Marshals Service; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and Enforcement and Removal Operations, with the prosecution being led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. 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. 2:25-cr-6.


title: Nine gang members charged with RICO conspiracy and murder

component: Criminal - Violent Crime and Racketeering Section

body_text: NORFOLK, Va. – A second superseding indictment was unsealed today charging a total of nine alleged gang members with racketeering influenced corrupt organization (RICO) conspiracy, racketeering murder and attempted murder, and firearms charges, all as part of their membership with the United Bloods Nation gang and the Cautious District subset of the Immaculate Balla Family, commonly called the Makk Ballers. The indictment alleges that the following defendants were members of Cautious District, a violent Eastern Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware street gang that participated in murder, robberies, narcotics trafficking, shootings, violent assaults, weapons violations, and other acts of violence: • Christopher Clovis-Weathers Monfiston, aka YB or Twin, 34, of Chesapeake; • Tyvon Lyncurtis Smith, aka Rich Fargo, Cautious, or Teddy, 34, of Parksley; • Ky’riq Nygee Weathers, aka OG Kane, Riq, or Rico, 29, of Parksley; • Markiece Obryant Harmon, aka Issue, 41, of Hare Valley; • Zyshon Bell, aka Problem, 24, of Temperanceville; • Travon Bell, aka Lil Sav or Sav, 22, of Parksley; • Antoine Muhammad Beverley, aka Psycho, 30, of Onancock; • Quaizal Kellam, aka Sleaze Da Fox, Front, Frontline, or Qui, 25, of Exmore; and • Kemyrion Boggs, aka 38, 22, of Onancock. Smith, Monfiston, and Weathers were charged in the original indictment and the newly added defendants were the result of additional investigation. According to court documents, members and associates of the gang were expected to retaliate against members of rival gangs. On Feb. 13, 2024, Smith, Monfiston, and Weathers allegedly coordinated travel from their homes in Virginia Beach to Brown’s residence in Accomack County, where they hoped to encounter a rival gang member they believed had assaulted Weathers two days earlier. That night, they allegedly hid in the woods near the home and ambushed Victim 1, shooting him multiple times. Victim 1 died of his injuries. On Jan. 19, 2024, Smith, Boggs, and other Cautious District members allegedly shot at the home of the father of a rival gang member in an attempt to draw that member out of hiding. On Feb. 11, 2024, Smith, Weathers, Zyshon Bell, and other gang members returned to the residence. There, Zyshon Bell and another gang member allegedly looked through windows to locate the sleeping victim and fired dozens of shots into the home, striking Victim 2, who was partially paralyzed from his injuries. The gang members were also allegedly involved in numerous other shootings, including at vehicles and homes associated with rival gang members. They also allegedly carried out robberies, including armed carjackings. During the execution of search warrants, law enforcement seized numerous firearms, including guns that were traced forensically to shootings carried out by the gang. Smith, Monfiston, and Weathers each face a minimum penalty of life in prison for their role in Victim 1’s murder. Zyshon Bell faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. The remaining defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Theophani K. Stamos, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Tysen Duva, Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; and Eric Weindorf, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement. This prosecution is a result of a years-long investigation led by Accomack County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO). ACSO continues to actively investigate this case, along with HSI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen S. Taylor and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Wirt for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Ben Tonkin of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2: 25-CR-00140. An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.


title: American citizen who worked as an agent for the PRC sentenced to two years in prison

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Thomas Weir Pauken II, 51, an American citizen who lived and worked in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), was sentenced today to two years in prison for acting as an agent of a foreign government within the United State. “Thomas Pauken knowingly assisted a foreign adversary in actively subverting the government of the United States for his own financial gain,” said Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “This was not an isolated act; Pauken continued his course of conduct to aid China for seven years. It is unconscionable that an American citizen would not only undermine the interests of the United States, but also facilitate others in doing so.” “Pauken exploited his U.S. citizenship and corresponding ability to travel to the U.S. without restriction in order to support Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) operations, recruiting, and gathering of sensitive information from potential assets,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “Pauken betrayed his country for money. The National Security Division is committed to holding accountable anyone who aids or abets Chinese espionage efforts.” “Thomas Pauken admitted to working at the direction of China’s Ministry of State Security to attempt to infiltrate U.S. political circles while also providing new recruitment targets for his Chinese handlers,” said Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence and Espionage Division. “This case illustrates the lengths to which the Chinese Communist Party will go to undermine our democratic institutions, and it also demonstrates the FBI’s resolve to defend the homeland from threats to our national security. The sentencing provides a clear warning: anyone operating as an agent of a foreign government against the U.S. will be found by the FBI and held accountable.” According to court documents, from at least 2019 until February 2026, Pauken worked at the direction and control of people he knew worked for the PRC, including a person he met in 2017 identified as “Cathy.” Cathy provided Pauken with taskings, including meeting with potential intelligence assets, providing them with devices such as a laptop and cellphone to communicate with Cathy, providing taskings for the assets on what information was required, and providing Cathy with reports from the assets. Pauken received at least $100,000 for his work with Cathy. Cathy also paid for Pauken to travel several times between 2019 through 2025 from China to meet with individuals in the United States who could provide Pauken, and ultimately Cathy and the MSS, with information. Pauken worked for two other people in China whom he met in 2017 and knew as “Richard” and “William.” They told Pauken that reports he wrote for them went to Japan, but Pauken believed they worked for the PRC government. Pauken also sold reports to a group of Chinese individuals from Wuhan who sought information about technology and the U.S. Department of Justice. The Wuhan clients wanted Pauken to find an expert to help them engage in cyber espionage. The FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office investigated the case with the assistance of the FBI Washington Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gavin R. Tisdale the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Eli Ross of the Counterintelligence & Export Control Section of the National Security Division are prosecuting the case. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-103.


title: Delco Attorney Pleads Guilty to Submitting Over $400,000 in Sham Checks to Evade Taxes and Purchase an Electric Truck

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Daniel A. Pallen, 46, of Springfield, Pennsylvania, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Judge Gail A. Weilheimer to one count of tax evasion and one count of mail fraud, arising from his submission of over $400,000 in fictitious checks to evade payment of his federal taxes and to purchase a new electric utility truck. As detailed in an information filed in July of this year, the defendant, an attorney, signed and submitted 14 fake “certified” checks to the Internal Revenue Service in November 2024 and January 2025, totaling $294,454.52. Pallen also submitted payment vouchers designating that his fictitious checks be applied to his tax liabilities for Tax Years 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2022. Pallen’s checks were fraudulent because they all used a bank routing number associated with the Federal Reserve Bank and a false bank account number that was Pallen’s Social Security number. In February 2025, the defendant called the IRS to ask whether his checks had been received and to inquire as to why the corresponding payments had not been applied to his tax liabilities. In addition, Pallen signed and used a fake “cashier’s check” in the amount of $129,710.51 to purchase a new electric utility truck in October 2024 from Company A, with pickup in West Chester, Pennsylvania. The check that he signed and provided to Company A to pay for the electric truck was fraudulent and forged; the account and routing numbers listed on the check belonged not to Pallen, but to Company A’s own bank account. After Pallen’s sham check bounced and Company A secured the electric utility truck, Pallen, who is a licensed attorney and the owner of a law firm in Media, Pa., filed a civil lawsuit in November 2024 against Company A in Chester County that sought the “immediate return” of the vehicle, along with costs and attorneys’ fees. The lawsuit, which was signed and verified by Pallen, falsely represented that Company A unlawfully possessed and had no ownership, right, or title to the electric utility truck, when, in fact, the defendant knew the vehicle had been purchased with a bounced check that was forged and fictitious. His verified lawsuit also attached a made-up Form 1099-A tax filing that falsely claimed that Company A had borrowed $129,710.51 from a trust managed by Pallen. In December 2024, Pallen served a notice of default and praecipe for default judgment against Company A, which again sought possession of the electric utility truck and a money judgment against Company A. The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10 and faces a maximum possible term of 25 years’ imprisonment. 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. This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samuel S. Dalke.


title: After Two Trials and Gun Convictions in Less Than Two Weeks, Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 12½ Years in Prison

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Arthur Thompson, 40, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 150 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release by United States District Judge Karen Spencer Marston for illegally possessing guns and ammunition as a felon. At back-to-back trials earlier this year, two federal juries convicted the defendant of separate firearms offenses. On March 31, 2026, Thompson was convicted of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. As detailed in court filings and proven at trial, on December 20, 2022, two Philadelphia police officers saw the defendant commit a traffic violation and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. Thompson stopped his car, got out, tossed a loaded firearm, and ran away from the officers. After a brief foot chase, the defendant was detained and later charged locally with firearms violations. Thompson was federally indicted in January 2025 and then charged by superseding indictment in December. He had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and was not permitted to possess a firearm or ammunition. On April 10, 2026, Thompson was convicted once again of possession of a firearm by a felon. As detailed in court filings and proven at trial, on October 18, 2023, investigators with the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General’s Gun Violence Task Force (“GVTF”) carried out an operation to locate Thompson, who was the subject of an active arrest warrant. Investigators conducting surveillance on the 3000 block of North Percy Street in Philadelphia saw two people, who they believed were the defendant and his girlfriend, in a parked car, which drove away from that location a few hours later. GVTF members maintained constant visual surveillance of the vehicle, which subsequently pulled over to drop off the female passenger. After the male drove off, investigators relayed its location and path of travel to Philadelphia Police Department (“PPD”) Highway Patrol officers, who initiated a vehicle stop. After the male driver was removed from the vehicle and positively identified as Arthur Thompson, the PPD officers arrested him on the active warrant. GVTF investigators obtained and executed a search warrant on the vehicle, recovering a loaded 9mm handgun. These cases were investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Gun Violence Task Force, and the Philadelphia Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert E. Eckert and Samantha A. Arena and Special Assistant United States Attorney Tracie J. Gaydos.


title: Seminole County Resident Pleads Guilty To Armed Assault

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Anthony Cheyenne Chewey, age 32, of Wewoka, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, and one count of Use, Carry and Brandish a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, punishable by no less than 7 years in prison, consecutive to any other term of imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. The Indictment alleged that on April 11, 2026, Chewey assaulted the victim with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm, and that Chewey knowingly used, carried, and brandished a firearm during and in relation to that crime of violence. The crimes occurred in Seminole County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Wewoka Police Department, and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Chewey will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edith A. Singer represented the United States.


title: Bryan County Resident Pleads Guilty To Illegally Possessing Firearms And Ammunition

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Russton Dwight Sweeten, age 48, of Durant, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The Indictment charged Sweeten with knowingly possessing one 20-guage pump-action shotgun, one multi-caliber semi-auto rifle, one 30-30 Win caliber lever-action rifle, one .22 L.R. caliber semi-auto pistol, one 9x19mm caliber semi-auto pistol, one 40 S&W caliber semi-auto pistol, and approximately 712 rounds of ammunition on March 26, 2026, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment. The charge arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police. The Honorable D. Edward Snow, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sweeten will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edith A. Singer represented the United States.


title: Missouri Man Who Blackmailed Teens for Nude Images Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison

body_text: CAPE GIRARDEAU – A man from Bollinger County, Missouri was sentenced Tuesday to 12 years in prison for using threats to coerce two 13-year-old girls into sending him nude images. Terry Michael Howard, 21, of Marble Hill, pleaded guilty in May in U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau to one count of enticing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct. He admitted communicating with the two teens via Snapchat in December of 2024, when he was 19. Howard claimed to be the father of a 13-year-old boy who the victims knew. He threatened to hurt or kill the boy if they did not send him sexually explicit material. In January 2025, the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Office received a report about the allegations and investigated, resulting in Howard’s confession. The FBI located records of the chats, and Howard’s threats. Howard told investigators that he initially did this as a joke and stopped when he realized the girls were scared. “Terry Michael Howard actually knew both minors but pretended to be someone else online to trick them. He threatened to harm a third juvenile if the two victims didn’t produce sexually explicit images,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Weston of the FBI St. Louis Division. “I commend both 13-year-old victims for their bravery. Even though they were the ones who were sexually exploited, they called 911 because they were worried another person would be harmed.” After his release from prison, Howard will be on supervised release for 20 years and will be required to register as a sex offender. The Bollinger County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Hunter 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 the Department of Justice Criminal Division's 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: Hannibal Man’s Threats Led to Discovery of Child Pornography

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A man from Hannibal, Missouri on Tuesday admitted possessing child sexual abuse material that was discovered after he threatened a former paramour. Joseph E. Courtney, 38, admitted in his guilty plea that he threatened the woman on Sept. 10, 2024. Among other messages, Courtney wrote, “I sleep and wake up with thoughts of killing you.” After his arrest for threatening behavior, investigators conducted a court-approved search of his phone and spotted possible child sexual abuse material (CSAM). A second search warrant then uncovered 62 videos containing CSAM, including the sexual assault of crying children. Courtney pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of possession of child pornography. He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 2. The charge is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The Hannibal Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's 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, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Tickfaw Man Guilty of Distribution of Kilograms of Fentanyl

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LA – JOSHUA MOSS , (“ MOSS”), age 29, of Tangipahoa Parish, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe on August 27, 2026, to Count One of the Superseding Indictment, conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, more than 400 grams of fentanyl and 500 grams of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1); §841(b)(1)(A), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. MOSS also pled guilty to Count Five and admitted that he possessed with intent to distribute the same controlled substances alleged in Count One. Judge Ashe scheduled sentencing for November 19, 2026. At sentencing as to both counts, MOSS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five (5) years of supervised release. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee imposed per count. According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown but continuing until at least June 26, 2025, MOSS, and several other individuals, conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, multiple kilograms of fentanyl throughout the Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, and Washington Parishes region of the Eastern District of Louisiana. The conspiracy centered around MOSS’ father’s residence in Tickfaw, Louisiana. The execution of a federal search warrant at this residence led to the recovery of over five (5) kilograms of fentanyl in counterfeit pill form. A search warrant executed at another residence tied to MOSS led to the seizure of over 1,000 grams of methamphetamine and over 5,000 grams of fentanyl. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, 22nd JDC District Attorney’s Office, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Louisiana National Guard. FORT was also assisted by the Louisiana State Police, Bogalusa Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Violent Crimes Unit. ***


title: Ponchatoula Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LA – ROBERT HINES (“HINES”), age 47 of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, was sentenced on August 27, 2026, to 60 months of imprisonment by United States District Judge Barry Ashe for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Judge Ashe also sentenced HINES to a 4-year period of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee per count. HINES pled guilty to Counts 1, 3, and 4 of the superseding indictment pending against him. Count One charged him with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, over 40 grams of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846. Count Three charged him with knowingly using a telephone in committing the commission of a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 843(b) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2. Count Four charged him with possession with intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). According to court records, HINES conspired with co-defendants to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl in the Eastern District of Louisiana. In recorded wire calls, HINES discussed ordering fentanyl from his suppliers on multiple occasions. After observing HINES meet with his supplier, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of HINES and observed HINES throw fentanyl pills out of his car window. Law enforcement recovered the pills, and they tested positive for 341 grams of fentanyl. United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and Lauren Server of the Narcotics Unit. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Honduran Illegal Alien Charged With Reentry of a Removed Alien

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – HECTOR ESPINOZA-CRUZ , age 41, a native of Honduras, was charged on August 21, 2026, via bill of information, for reentry of removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to court documents, immigration officials learned of ESPINOZA‑CRUZ’s presence in the United States after he was arrested in Orleans Parish for an obscenity violation that occurred in 2025. Following that notification, ESPINOZA‑CRUZ was arrested by immigration authorities in Orleans Parish on August 12, 2026, for illegal reentry. Immigration records indicate that ESPINOZA‑CRUZ is an illegal alien from Honduras and had previously been removed by federal authorities on February 24, 2010. If convicted, ESPINOZA-CRUZ faces a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security and Immigration Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit is overseeing the prosecution. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. * * *


body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CARLOS NAUN COREA-SUAZO (“COREA-SUAZO”) , age 34, a Honduran national, was charged on August 28, 2026, via bill of information, for reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a) and (b)(1), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to court documents, COREA-SUAZO was arrested on August 2, 2026, by the Slidell Police Department for driving while intoxicated. After being notified of his arrest, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) confirmed that COREA-SUAZO had a final order of removal and was issued an immigration detainer and warrant of removal to the Slidell Police Department. On August 19, 2026, ICE took COREA-SUAZO into federal immigration custody and transported him to the ICE New Orleans Field Office in Saint Rose, Louisiana for processing. Records checks revealed that COREA-SUAZO is an alien and has previously been removed from the United States four (4) times. According to the bill of information, on or about August 2, 2026, COREA-SUAZO , an alien, was found in the United States after having been deported and removed therefrom on or about October 28, 2020, without the approval of the Attorney General of the United States or his designated successor, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, having expressly consented to the defendant’s reapplication for admission into the United States. If convicted, COREA-SUAZO faces a maximum penalty of up to ten (10) years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, United States Homeland Security Investigations, and the Slidell Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Spiro G. Latsis and Lorcan L. Connick of the General Crimes Unit are handling the prosecution. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. * * *


title: Delaware Company to Pay More Than $3.34 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Related to Paycheck Protection Program Loan

component: USAO - Delaware

body_text: WILMINGTON, Del. – Novum Pharmaceutical Research Services of Delaware, Inc. (“Novum”), a Delaware corporation with its principal place of business in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has agreed to pay $3,345,000 to resolve allegations that it improperly obtained a Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) for which it was not eligible. PPP was an emergency loan program established by Congress in March 2020 under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act and administered by the SBA. The program was created to support small businesses and to help them continue to pay employees and meet other business expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. A second round of loans was authorized in early 2021. To be eligible for these Second Draw PPP loans, a business was required to certify that it had no more than 300 employees, including employees of all domestic and foreign affiliates. Novum applied for and received a $2,000,000 Second Draw PPP loan. In its loan application, Novum certified that, together with its affiliates, it had fewer than 300 employees, as required for eligibility. Novum later applied for—and ultimately received—full forgiveness of the Second Draw loan. However, at the time of its application, Novum and its domestic and foreign affiliates, including its ultimate parent, India-based Lambda Therapeutic Research, Ltd., collectively employed more than 300 individuals. As a result, Novum was not eligible for a Second Draw PPP loan under the SBA’s employee‑based size standard. U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace announced the settlement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Laksin handled the case. The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under those provisions, a private party—known as a relator—can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. In this case, the relator will receive a share of the settlement. Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . 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. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. A copy of the settlement agreement and agreed-upon statement of facts are attached to this press release. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 24-cv-1381-GBW. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability. Novum Settlement Agreement


title: Justice Department Continues to Disrupt Hamas Terrorist Financing Schemes Through Seizures of Cryptocurrency and Internet Infrastructure

body_text: WASHINGTON —The Department of Justice today announced the disruption of an ongoing scheme by Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiyya (Hamas) — a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization — to raise funds for terrorist operations and recruit supporters, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “A message to Hamas: We will stop your fundraising for terror,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Your networks are not secure, your crypto is vulnerable, and we will not stop until your ability to wage war is defeated.” As part of the Department’s efforts, more than $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations destined for Hamas were seized and its fundraising and recruitment communication platforms and websites were disrupted. Hamas originally controlled the seized infrastructure and cryptocurrency addresses on behalf of its military wing, the Al Qassam Brigades. “These seizures deprive Hamas of resources it relies on to recruit and radicalize individuals online and finance barbaric attacks like the one on October 7, 2023,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “We will continue to tighten the vise on Hamas’s capacity for terror by infiltrating its online networks, confiscating its cryptocurrency, and shutting down its websites.” “Hamas relied on cryptocurrency and online platforms to solicit funds from donors around the world and move that money outside the formal financial system,” said Assistant Director Brett Leatherman of the FBI's Cyber Division. “The FBI seized online infrastructure and $560,000 in cryptocurrency, capturing donations intended for the organization. The FBI will continue to use its authorities to intercept illicit funds and prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting digital networks to finance their operations.” “Reducing the capabilities of foreign terrorist organization's ability to receive donations and creating distrust in communications to their donors was the primary focus of this latest operation,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. “This continued success demonstrates the unwavering commitment and determination of the FBI in fighting terrorism. We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to shut off the flow of funds to this group and protect the American people.” As alleged in court documents, a group chat claiming association with Hamas on an encrypted communications platform directed supporters to a fundraising website and provided donors with a rotating set of cryptocurrency donation addresses. As described in the three unsealed cryptocurrency seizure warrants, on March 25, 2025, June 25, 2025, and Oct. 10, 2025, investigators used information from multiple human sources to identify, trace, and seize approximately $560,000 in cryptocurrency intended to support Hamas’ Al Qassam Brigades. In conjunction with these seizures, the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office worked with human sources to identify and seize domains and servers the Al Qassam Brigades that controlled its main website, AlQassam.ps. The FBI’s capture of these domains and servers enabled it to intercept cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas. Using related sources and methods, the FBI also obtained information regarding thousands of individuals who contacted Hamas online in an effort to donate or attempt to donate to the terrorist organization using cryptocurrency and other traditional means. Such information will be used in the FBI’s future counterterrorism efforts. The FBI Albuquerque Field Office is investigating the case, in coordination with the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division, Cyber Division, and New York Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tejpal Chawla for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery for the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section are prosecuting the case. Trial Attorney Robert MacDonald of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and the October 7th Task Force is providing substantial assistance in the case. 25-sz-20_03-25.pdf link 25-sz-34_06-25.pdf link 25-sz-42_10-10.pdf link 26-sz-45_07-29.pdf link 26-sz-49_seizure_warrant_package_08-18.pdf link


title: D.C. Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Child Pornography

body_text: WASHINGTON – Hershel Andrew Green, III, 43, of the District of Columbia, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in connection with distributing videos and images of adult males engaged in sexually explicit activity with young male children, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “Let me be clear: if you seek out, receive, or distribute child sexual abuse material, we will find you, we will prosecute you, and we will hold you accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Every image represents a real child who was victimized, and every person who trades in that material perpetuates that abuse. If you prey on children, you should expect federal law enforcement to come knocking.” Green, aka “FitddyG,” pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Loren L. AliKhan to one count of distribution of child pornography, which carries a statutory penalty of five to twenty years in prison. Judge AliKhan scheduled sentencing for Nov. 30, 2026. According to court documents, the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force identified Green during an investigation into another individual’s distribution of child sexual abuse material. In July 2025, an FBI undercover agent, exchanged messages with Green and received several videos of child sexual abuse material from him. Law enforcement identified Green through digital records, open-source research, and surveillance at his residence in the Columbia Heights neighborhood of Washington, D.C. The investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Bohlen. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . 25cr310


title: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation Offenses

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JOSE ISRAEL TENESACA MEJIA, 22, a citizen of Ecuador unlawfully present in the U.S. and last residing in West Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday in Hartford federal court to child exploitation offenses. According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 29, 2025, the Stamford Police Department secured an arrest warrant charging Tenesaca Mejia with felony risk of injury and interfering with an officer. Tenesaca Mejia subsequently fled Connecticut with a 14-year-old girl (the “minor victim”). On October 28, 2025, the FBI in New Haven contacted the FBI in Minneapolis and relayed information about Tenesaca Mejia’s active arrest warrant, and that his iPhone had been tracked to a specific location in Minneapolis. Investigators surveilled the vicinity of the location, identified both Tenesaca Mejia and the minor victim, and arrested Tenesaca Mejia. Analysis of Tenesaca Mejia’s iPhone revealed videos and images of Tenesaca Mejia engaged in sexual conduct with the minor victim. Investigators also identified numerous images and videos of suspected child pornography that Tenesaca Mejia had downloaded using the Telegram app. Tenesaca Mejia pleaded guilty to production of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and to possession of child pornography, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Tenesaca Mejia has been detained since his arrest. A sentencing date is not scheduled. This investigation has been conducted by FBI New Haven, FBI Minneapolis, the Stamford Police Department, the West Haven Police Department, and the Hennepin County (Minn.) Sheriff's Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel E. Cummings. U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the District of Minnesota and the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Stamford/Norwalk for its cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com .


title: Ellington Woman Pleads Guilty to Fraud and Tax Offenses

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HEATHER MURDOCK, 58, of Ellington, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sarah F. Russell in New Haven to fraud and tax offenses stemming from an embezzlement scheme. According to court documents and statements made in court, Murdock was employed as the bookkeeper and office manager at a Hartford law firm, identified in court documents as “Firm A.” Between approximately 2010 and 2022, using Firm A’s bookkeeping software, Murdock generated hundreds of false checks made payable to herself and on which she forged the signature of Firm A’s owner. To conceal her embezzlement, Murdock doctored the bookkeeping system entries to make it appear that the checks had been issued to legitimate vendors. Murdock deposited the forged checks into her own bank account. Murdock stole approximately $578,279 through this scheme. Murdock also stole cash rental payment made by tenants of properties owned by Firm A’s owner. To conceal her theft, Murdock generated false checks from Firm A’s bank account payable to the account in which Firm A’s owner received rental income, making it appear that the expected deposits of rental income had been made, and doctored references in the firm’s bookkeeping system. Murdock stole approximately $175,559 through this scheme. Murdock failed to pay federal income taxes on the embezzled funds, substantially underreported her income in 2011 and 2012, and did not file any tax returns for the 2013 through 2022 tax years. As a result, Murdock’s underreported tax obligations total $225,991. Murdock pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and one count of tax evasion, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. She has also agreed to pay $753,838.70 in restitution to the victim, and $225,991 in back taxes, plus penalties and interest, to the IRS. Judge Russell scheduled sentencing for December 1. Murdock is released on a $40,000 bond pending sentencing. This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elena L. Coronado.


title: Sality Malware Disrupted in International Cyber Takedown

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – The Department of Justice today announced a multinational operation involving actions in the United States, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania, in collaboration with private industry partners CrowdStrike and the Shadowserver Foundation, to disrupt the botnet and malware known as Sality and take down its infrastructure. Coordination between the private sector and government partners was central to this effort and advanced the first pillar of President Trump’s Cyber Strategy for America – “Shape Adversary Behavior.” Federal law enforcement worked with the private sector to identify and disrupt malicious networks, scale national capabilities, and shape adversary behavior by degrading their tools and infrastructure. “Cybercriminals, botnets, and malware are a clear and present danger to our nation’s security and economy,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “This successful effort to take down the Sality botnet shows that by working together the public and private sectors can be a powerful force for good.” “This unique collaboration among international law enforcement and private sector partners only enhances the FBI’s cyber security capabilities and our efforts to neutralize the threat posed by the Sality botnet,” said Patrick Grandy, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI will continue working with our partners to prevent further cyber-enabled attacks and theft from victims in the United States.” “Protecting the integrity of the Department of Defense Information Network from clear threats like the Sality botnet is a top priority for us,” said Special Agent in Charge Kenneth DeChellis of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Cyber Field Office. “Today’s announcement is the result of the shared commitment and long-standing partnership between international law enforcement and the private sector.” Since 2003, the Sality botnet has installed malicious software (malware) on compromised devices, enabling cryptocurrency theft and cyberattacks on victims in the United States and abroad. The victim computers infected with Sality were part of a peer-to-peer (P2P) botnet, which is a network of computers (each a “bot”) infected with the Sality malware and controlled by the Sality operator. A P2P botnet is a decentralized network of bots that communicate directly with each other to share commands. The owners of the victim computers were typically unaware that their devices had been misappropriated as bots by Sality. On Monday, CrowdStrike’s Counter Adversary Operations team, in collaboration with the Department of Justice, FBI, DCIS, international law enforcement, and private industry partners executed a peer-to-peer sinkhole operation and coordinated disruption of the Sality botnet. As part of the international operation, the Department of Justice, FBI, and DCIS seized Sality-linked domains in the United States. International law enforcement partners in Bulgaria, Hungary, and Romania took action against additional Sality-linked domains hosted in Europe. In conjunction with these efforts, private industry partner The Shadowserver Foundation is working with internet service providers and Computer Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) to identify infections and aid in victim notification and remediation. Investigators and prosecutors from multiple jurisdictions provided crucial assistance, including Bulgaria’s General Directorate Combating Organized Crime, Hungary’s National Bureau of Investigation Cybercrime Department, Romania’s Romanian Police / Directorate for Combating Organized Crime / Central Cybercrime Unit, Eurojust, and Europol. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance. Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Restrepo of the National Security Division, along with the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office and DCIS led the U.S. efforts.


title: Nine Gang Members Charged with RICO Conspiracy and Murder

body_text: A second superseding indictment was unsealed today charging a total of nine alleged gang members with racketeering influenced corrupt organization (RICO) conspiracy, racketeering murder and attempted murder, and firearms charges, all as part of their membership with the United Bloods Nation gang and the Cautious District subset of the Immaculate Balla Family, commonly called the Makk Ballers. The indictment alleges that the following defendants were members of Cautious District, a violent Eastern Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware street gang that participated in murder, robberies, narcotics trafficking, shootings, violent assaults, weapons violations, and other acts of violence: Christopher Clovis-Weathers Monfiston, also known as “YB” and “Twin,” 34, of Chesapeake, Virginia; Tyvon Lyncurtis Smith, also known as “Rich Fargo,” “Cautious,” and “Teddy,” 34, of Parksley, Virginia; Ky’riq Nygee Weathers, also known as “OG Kane,” “Riq,” and “Rico,” 29, of Parksley, Virginia; Markiece Obryant Harmon, also known as “Issue” and “I$$Ue,” 41, of Hare Valley, Virginia; Zyshon Bell, also known as “Problem,” 24, of Temperanceville, Virginia; Travon Bell, also known as “Lil Sav” and “Sav,” 22, of Parksley, Virginia; Antoine Muhammad Beverley, also known as “Psycho,” 30, of Onancock, Virginia; Quaizal Kellam, also known as “Sleaze Da Fox,” “Front,” “Frontline,” and “Qui,” 25, of Exmore, Virginia; and Kemyrion Boggs, also known as “38,” 22, of Onancock, Virginia. Smith, Monfiston, and Weathers were charged in the original indictment and the newly added defendants were the result of additional investigation. According to court documents, members and associates of the gang were expected to retaliate against members of rival gangs. On Feb. 13, 2024, Smith, Monfiston, and Weathers allegedly coordinated travel from their homes in Virginia Beach to Brown’s residence in Accomack County, where they hoped to encounter a rival gang member they believed had assaulted Weathers two days earlier. That night, they hid in the woods near the home and ambushed Victim 1, shooting him multiple times. Victim 1 died of his injuries. On Jan. 19, 2024, Smith, Boggs, and other Cautious District members shot at the home of the father of a rival gang member in an attempt to draw that member out of hiding. On Feb. 11, 2024, Smith, Weathers, Zyshon Bell, and other gang members returned to the residence. There, Zyshon Bell and another gang member looked through windows to locate the sleeping victim and fired dozens of shots into the home, striking Victim 2, who was partially paralyzed from his injuries. The gang members were also allegedly involved in numerous other shootings, including at vehicles and homes associated with rival gang members. They also allegedly carried out robberies, including armed carjackings. During the execution of search warrants, law enforcement seized numerous firearms, including guns that were traced forensically to shootings carried out by the gang. Smith, Monfiston, and Weathers each face a minimum penalty of life in prison for their role in Victim 1’s murder. Zyshon Bell faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. The remaining defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; First Assistant U.S. Attorney Theophani K. Stamos for the Eastern District of Virginia; and Special Agent in Charge Eric Weindorf of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., Field Office made the announcement. The Accomack County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) is leading the investigation, along with HSI. Trial Attorney Ben Tonkin of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen S. Taylor and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Wirt for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Justice Department Sues Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools to Stop Secret Gender Transitions

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: Today, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, joined by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas, filed a first-of-its-kind lawsuit against Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools (KCKPS) to stop the district from facilitating secret “gender transitions” for children at school without their parents’ knowledge or consent. KCKPS’s conduct violates the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) — laws designed to safeguard parental rights, including the rights to access and oversee information collected and maintained about their children in public schools. The lawsuit follows extensive efforts by the Department of Education to secure KCKPS’s compliance with federal law. “Parental rights are paramount in the operation of America’s public schools, and Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools does not know children better than their own parents,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department will not tolerate school districts playing fast and loose with federal law in the service of radical gender ideology.” “For decades, schools operated with little accountability as federal parental rights laws like FERPA and PPRA went unenforced, allowing some districts to cut parents out of deeply personal matters involving their own children,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “That era is over. The Trump Administration is enforcing these laws at an unprecedented scale and making clear that schools cannot hide sensitive information from parents and expect to operate with impunity. We are grateful to the Department of Justice for taking this next step and for its continued partnership with the Department of Education to enforce federal law and protect the fundamental rights of parents.” “This lawsuit should not come as a surprise,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser for the District of Kansas. “Public education functions effectively only when schools and parents engage in a genuine partnership. When schools withhold information from parents, they undermine trust and disrupt the essential balance between families and public educators.” As detailed in the Department’s complaint, KCKPS’s Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Students Internal Guidance Document (Transgender Guideline) directs staff to develop and implement “transitioning” plans for children’s so-called “gender identity” without informing or obtaining consent from their parents. KCKPS implements its Transgender Guideline without the knowledge of many in the KCKPS community, including parents. FERPA prohibits a school district from maintaining any policy that denies or effectively prevents a parent from exercising the right to inspect and review his or her child’s education records. PPRA separately requires prior written parental consent before a school may require children to submit to any survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals sensitive information about the student or the student’s family. Because KCKPS’s policies and practices violate core parental rights secured by FERPA and PPRA, the lawsuit seeks an injunction to halt the Transgender Guideline’s enforcement, among other relief. Note : Read the Department’s Complaint here .


title: Justice Department Reaches Agreement with Kansas in Lawsuit Alleging Discrimination Against Servicemember

body_text: The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has reached a settlement agreement with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) to resolve allegations that KDHE violated the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA) when it stopped funding Army National Guard Staff Sergeant Stacy Gonzales’s civilian job due to her upcoming military deployment. This settlement agreement resolves the suit filed by the United States against KDHE on behalf of SSG Gonzales in the United States District Court for the District of Kansas on June 27, 2022. “No servicemember should lose her civilian job because of her service in the National Guard,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department is proud to vindicate servicemembers’ rights under USERRA and will continue to ensure that they can serve our country without fear of losing their civilian jobs because of their service.” “National Guard members are called citizen-soldiers because they must strike a balance between fulfilling obligations to civilian careers with those of military service. As a reservist myself, I know this is no easy task” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser for the District of Kansas. “When guard members deploy, they shouldn’t have to worry that their livelihoods will be stripped away while they are off serving our country. Our government put laws in place to protect the employment rights of servicemembers. The Department of Justice will continue to be a defender and champion of those rights.” The settlement agreement resolves SSG Gonzales’s claim that KDHE violated USERRA when it eliminated grant funding for her position as a Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) with the Finney County, Kansas, Department of Health, a position under the direct control and supervision of KDHE, when SSG Gonzales told them she would be deploying. As part of the settlement agreement, KDHE will pay SSG Gonzales $35,000. The settlement agreement also requires KDHE to update its USERRA policies and procedures and to train all KDHE employees, including those through grant funding, on those updated policies and procedures. USERRA protects the right of uniformed servicemembers to reemployment in their civilian jobs following absences due to military service obligations and provides that servicemembers shall not be discriminated against because of their military obligations. The Justice Department prioritizes the enforcement of servicemembers’ rights under USERRA. Additional information about USERRA can be found on the Justice Department’s website at www.justice.gov/servicemembers as well as on the Department of Labor’s website at www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra .


body_text: Note: Please see seizure affidavits below. March 25, 2025 link June 25, 2025 link Oct. 10, 2025 link July 29, 2026 link August 18, 2026 link WASHINGTON — Today the Justice Department announced the disruption of an ongoing scheme by Harakat al-Muqawama al-Islamiyya (Hamas) –— a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization — to raise funds for terrorist operations and recruit supporters. As part of the Department’s efforts, over $560,000 in cryptocurrency donations destined for Hamas were seized and its fundraising and recruitment communication platforms and websites were disrupted. Hamas originally controlled the seized infrastructure and cryptocurrency addresses on behalf of its military wing, the Al Qassam Brigades. “These seizures deprive Hamas of resources it relies on to recruit and radicalize individuals online and finance barbaric attacks like the one on October 7, 2023,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “We will continue to tighten the vise on Hamas’s capacity for terror by infiltrating its online networks, confiscating its cryptocurrency, and shutting down its websites.” “A message to Hamas: We will stop your fundraising for terror,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. “Your networks are not secure, your crypto is vulnerable, and we will not stop until your ability to wage war is defeated.” “Hamas relied on cryptocurrency and online platforms to solicit funds from donors around the world and move that money outside the formal financial system,” said Assistant Director Brett Leatherman of the FBI's Cyber Division. “The FBI seized online infrastructure and $560,000 in cryptocurrency, capturing donations intended for the organization. The FBI will continue to use its authorities to intercept illicit funds and prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting digital networks to finance their operations.” “Reducing the capabilities of foreign terrorist organization's ability to receive donations and creating distrust in communications to their donors was the primary focus of this latest operation,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. “This continued success demonstrates the unwavering commitment and determination of the FBI in fighting terrorism. We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to shut off the flow of funds to this group and protect the American people.” As alleged in court documents, a group chat claiming association with Hamas on an encrypted communications platform directed supporters to a fundraising website and provided donors with a rotating set of cryptocurrency donation addresses. As described in the three unsealed cryptocurrency seizure warrants, on March 25, 2025, June 25, 2025, and Oct. 10, 2025, investigators used information from multiple human sources to identify, trace, and seize approximately $560,000 in cryptocurrency intended to support Hamas’ Al Qassam Brigades. In conjunction with these seizures, the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office worked with human sources to identify and seize domains and servers the Al Qassam Brigades that controlled its main website, AlQassam.ps. The FBI’s capture of these domains and servers enabled it to intercept cryptocurrency donations intended for Hamas. Using related sources and methods, the FBI also obtained information regarding thousands of individuals who contacted Hamas online in an effort to donate or attempt to donate to the terrorist organization using cryptocurrency and other traditional means. Such information will be used in the FBI’s future counterterrorism efforts. The FBI Albuquerque Field Office is investigating the case, in coordination with the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division, Cyber Division, and New York Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tejpal Chawla for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery for the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section are prosecuting the case. Trial Attorney Robert MacDonald of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and the October 7 th Task Force is providing substantial assistance in the case.