title: Coral Gables Woman Pleads Guilty to Impersonating Federal Immigration Official to Dismiss Removal Proceedings

body_text: MIAMI – A Coral Gables woman pleaded guilty to falsely impersonating a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official as part of a scheme to file fraudulent motions seeking the dismissal of immigration court proceedings. According to court records, Ana Caridad Linares, 45, of Coral Gables, repeatedly held herself out as an employee of DHS and used that false identity to submit fraudulent filings to the Immigration Court. “Ana Caridad Linares pretended to be a DHS official in formal court filings to obtain the unlawful dismissal of removal proceedings,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones. “Her conduct was a fraud on the Immigration Court and an affront to the rule of law. This was a brazen effort to corrupt lawful removal proceedings, and our Office will prosecute those who use fraud to undermine the integrity of our immigration system.” Specifically, Linares represented herself in court documents as “Ana Linares, Legal Administrative Specialist, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.” In February 2024, an Immigration Judge flagged as fraudulent a motion Linares had prepared and caused to be filed on behalf of an illegal alien in removal proceedings. The motion falsely purported to have been submitted by a DHS employee and sought dismissal of the removal case. Linares caused at least three additional motions containing the same false title, language, and representations to be submitted to the Immigration Court. In each instance, Linares made the filings appear to be authentic DHS motions and accepted payment from clients for preparing and submitting them. By falsely claiming to act on behalf of DHS, Linares sought to invoke prosecutorial discretion authority reserved by Department attorneys and employees. Through these fraudulent filings, she attempted to secure the dismissal of immigration proceedings involving illegal aliens who otherwise remained subject to removal proceedings. Linares pleaded guilty to false impersonation of a federal officer. She faces a maximum sentence of three years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami made the announcement. HSI Miami is investigating the case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa Roca Shaw is prosecuting the case. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.sdfl.uscourts.gov , under case number 26-cr-20085. ###


title: Recidivist Felon Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

component: USAO - Alabama, Southern

body_text: MOBILE, AL – A Mobile man was sentenced to 30 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm as a multi-convicted felon. According to court documents, Artez Martre Williams, 24, was arrested on November 20, 2025, by Mobile Police Department narcotics investigators who executed a search warrant at Williams’s house in Mobile. During the search, police seized a loaded Glock 9mm pistol from Williams’s bedroom closet. The pistol was lying near paperwork with Williams’s name on it, including his probation drug-testing card and documents from Williams’s prior prison sentence at the Alabama Department of Corrections. In a carport attached to the house, police found marijuana in Williams’s shoes, baggies commonly used to package and distribute drugs, and a Taurus pistol magazine. Police also seized several rounds of 9mm ammunition from Williams’s vehicle, which was parked in front of the house. During an interview with detectives, Williams admitted that the pistol found in his closet was his and that he kept it for protection from members of rival gangs who would try to commit violence against him. Williams confirmed that he was on federal supervised release and state probation for prior felony convictions, that he knew he was a felon, and that he knew he was not supposed to possess firearms. Williams’s prior felony convictions include discharging a gun into an occupied building, first-degree theft of property, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to a fraudulent COVID-19 relief loan that Williams obtained. In addition to the 30-month prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Kristi K. DuBose ordered Williams to serve a three-year term of supervised release upon his release from prison, during which time Williams will be subject to drug testing and treatment. The court did not impose a fine, but Judge DuBose ordered Williams to pay $100 in special assessment and forfeited Williams’s 9mm pistol to the United States. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mobile Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Court Sentences Mobile County Man for Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted Felon

body_text: MOBILE, Ala. – On July 31, 2026, United States District Judge Kristi K. DuBose sentenced Ralpheal Rashod Bridges to 30 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. According to court documents, on July 28, 2025, an investigator with the Mobile County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) observed Bridges engage in what appeared to be a drug transaction from his vehicle in the parking lot of a Waffle House in Mobile. A MCSO deputy subsequently conducted a traffic stop after observing a traffic violation. During the ensuing investigation, law enforcement discovered approximately $3,000 in U.S. currency, approximately 420 grams of marijuana, two suspected pressed fentanyl pills, 19 30-milligram oxycodone pills, 61 20-milligram oxycodone pills, 191 10-milligram oxycodone pills, two digital scales, and a loaded Glock Model 19, 9mm handgun inside the vehicle. Federal law prohibits Bridges from possessing a firearm because of his prior felonies which include multiple Possession of Marijuana convictions and Promoting Prison Contraband. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney George F. May prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Kenel Man Found Guilty by a Federal Jury  of Felony Domestic Assault by Strangulation

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: ABERDEEN - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a jury has convicted Cody Ben Zephier, age 21, of Kenel, South Dakota, of Assault of a Dating Partner by Strangulation, Assault of a Dating Partner Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury, and Assault by Striking, Beating and Wounding following a three-day jury trial in federal district court in Aberdeen, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on July 29, 2026. Cumulatively, these convictions are punishable by up to 16 years of imprisonment, three years of supervised release, $600,000 in fines and a mandatory $225 special assessment. Restitution may also be ordered. Zephier was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2025. During the early morning hours of June 27, 2025, Zephier and his live-in girlfriend quarreled in their Kenel, South Dakota, home, within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation. When Zephier began walking away, his girlfriend slapped him across the back. Zephier responded by throwing her to the floor, punching her with “hammer fists,” kicking her, and choking her with his hands until she could not breathe. Zephier then called 911 because he could not stop himself from “smacking” his girlfriend – or her bleeding. The woman incurred two broken wrists and extensive bruising to her face and neck in the assault. This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to state court. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian of Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case. A presentence investigation was ordered. Sentencing has not yet been scheduled. Zephier was placed in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending sentencing.


title: Fort Thompson Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison for Second Degree Murder

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons, announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Fort Thompson man convicted of Second-Degree Murder. The sentencing took place on July 29, 2026. Jami Johnson, Jr., age 19, was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Johnson was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2025. He pleaded guilty on April 30, 2026. During the early morning hours of August 11, 2025, a group of young adults attended an outdoor gathering near Lower Brule, South Dakota. Among those in attendance were Jami Johnson and the victims. An argument broke out and Johnson and another person – who later took his own life - produced firearms and fired in the direction of victim 1, striking him in the head and killing him instantly. A second victim, who was not involved in the argument, was struck in the neck and mortally wounded. The offense occurred in the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation. “This was a horrifying and senseless act of violence that has shaken the community,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “Two bright young lives were taken, and no courtroom outcome can restore what was stolen from these families. We share their grief and the hollow space that remains. This sentence cannot heal those wounds, but it is our hope that it may offer them some measure of justice and, in time, a measure of peace.” This matter is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court. This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Regional Outreach Program, which aims to aid in the prevention and response to missing or murdered Indigenous people through the resolution of MMIP cases and communication, coordination, and collaboration with federal, Tribal, state, and local partners. The Department views this work as a priority for its law enforcement components. Through the MMIP Regional Outreach Program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify MMIP cases and issues in Tribal communities and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. This prosecution upholds the Department’s mission to the unwavering pursuit of justice on behalf of victims and their families despite the passage of time. This case was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs-Office of Justice Services. Missing and Murdered Indigenous Person Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Great Plains Troy R. Morley and Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges prosecuted the case. Johnson was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Two Men Indicted for Laser Strikes on Police Helicopters

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – Two Las Vegas men in separate cases were indicted and have made their initial appearances in court for allegedly aiming a laser pointer at and striking police helicopters. According to allegations contained in the indictments: On April 10, 2026, James Bodie Moore III aimed the beam of a laser pointer multiple times at and in the flight path of a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter. He is charged with one count of aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft. If convicted, the statutory maximum penalty is five years in prison. A jury trial has been scheduled for September 28, 2026, before United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II. On June 7, 2026, Jason Lamars Lee aimed the beam of a laser pointer two times at and in the flight path of a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter. He is charged with one count of aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft. If convicted, the statutory maximum penalty is five years in prison. A jury trial has been scheduled for September 28, 2026, before United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro. Pointing a laser pointer into the sky to see how far it will shine may seem like a fun thing to do but it can have serious consequences. Aiming a laser beam at an aircraft poses a serious safety risk for those on board and on the ground. Laser beams can cause disorientation, temporary blindness - potentially causing a midair collision or other incident - and in some cases permanent vision problems or blindness. According to the FAA , in 2025, pilots reported 10,993 laser strikes. First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Office made the announcement. The FBI, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and North Las Vegas Police Department investigated these cases. Assistant United States Attorney Tina Snellings is prosecuting these cases. If you spot someone aiming a laser at the sky in a suspicious manner, you can report it to the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or visiting tips.fbi.gov . You can also report laser strikes to local law enforcement and the FAA. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Zuni Man Sentenced for Triple Homicide

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the deaths of three individuals on July 4, 2025. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents, on July 4, 2025, Willis Kylestewa , 42, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, drove while intoxicated with four passengers in a vehicle without working headlights. When law enforcement attempted a traffic stop, Kylestewa fled, speeding and swerving through traffic before losing control of the vehicle, which flipped and crashed. Kylestewa and three passengers were ejected from the vehicle and two died after being ejected. Another passenger died inside the vehicle. At the hospital, Kylestewa ’s blood alcohol level was .317, and THC was also detected in his system. Kylestewa pleaded guilty to three counts of second-degree murder. Upon his release from prison, Kylestewa will be subject to five years of supervised release. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department and Zuni Open Space. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas J. Marshall and Amy Mondragon are prosecuting the case.


title: Zuni Man Accused of Stabbing Two People

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has been charged in federal court in connection with the stabbing of two individuals. According to court documents, on July 24, 2026, Roger Pino , 44, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, allegedly confronted two individuals outside a residence in Zuni, New Mexico, while armed with a knife and demanding the return of his property. During the confrontation, Pino allegedly cut one victim before stabbing a second victim in the chest and slashing his face. Witnesses reported that Pino continued waving the knife and making threats as he left the scene before fleeing to another residence, where he was later arrested by officers with the Zuni Police Department. Investigators recovered a knife believed to have been used in the assault. Medical personnel determined that the male victim suffered a stab wound to the chest and a facial laceration. The female victim sustained multiple superficial stab wounds, including injuries to her chest, arm, and leg. Pino is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing. If convicted of the current charge, Pino faces up to 10 years in prison on each count. Defendant will remain in custody pending trial. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Las Cruces Man Charged with Federal Firearms Offense After Firing Shots at Catholic Church

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man with a prior felony conviction has been charged in federal court with unlawfully possessing a firearm after allegedly firing multiple rounds at a Catholic church. According to court documents, on May 4, 2026, Las Cruces Police Department officers responded to a reported shooting at St. Genevieve’s Catholic Church in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Officers found five bullet holes in the church’s front glass entrance and recovered five .380 caliber shell casings. Surveillance footage showed a black sedan arriving at the church, after which a man exited the driver’s side and fired multiple rounds at the entrance before leaving the scene. On May 11, 2026, officers encountered the same vehicle while responding to an attempted burglary call at a Las Cruces business. The driver was identified as Matthew Albain Alarcon , 40 years old. A search warrant executed on the vehicle led to the recovery of a handgun. During a May 14 interview, Alarcon allegedly admitted to shooting at the church, stating he did so because of his religious beliefs and because he believed he was “the chosen one” to carry out the act. He also admitted that the recovered firearm belonged to him. Alarcon is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to a prior New Mexico felony conviction for possession of a controlled substance. Alarcon is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Alarcon faces up to 15 years in prison. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo is prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Belen Man Charged After Investigation into Alleged Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Belen man is facing federal charges following an investigation into two online accounts that contained suspected child sexual abuse material. According to court documents, in June 2026, Google submitted two CyberTipline reports to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children after identifying suspected Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) associated with two Google accounts linked to the same phone number. The reports identified a combined 25 files containing suspected CSAM uploaded to the accounts. Investigators identified David Candido Gomez , 51, as the suspected user of the accounts after obtaining subscriber information associated with the phone number and identifying a device connected to the accounts. Location information placed the device near a residence in Belen, New Mexico, where agents executed a search warrant on July 30, 2026. During the search, agents seized a cellphone associated with the Google accounts. According to court documents, a forensic review of the device revealed multiple images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, as well as evidence that the device had accessed both Google accounts and contained additional CSAM. The investigation, including efforts to identify victims depicted in the material, remains ongoing. Gomez is charged with possession of child pornography. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Gomez faces a maximum of 20 years in prison. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The New Mexico Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force initiated this investigation, which was later turned over to the FBI Albuquerque Field Office Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory (RCFL) and Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force assisted with the investigation. This prosecution is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .


title: Arizona Man Sentenced for Assault

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man was sentenced to 33 months in prison after admitting he assaulted a woman at her residence. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents, on September 16, 2024, Kendrick Harvey , 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, went to the home of Jane Doe while he was intoxicated. There, Harvey assaulted Jane Doe and the assault resulted in serious bodily injury to Doe. Harvey pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Upon his release from prison, Harvey will be subject to three years of supervised release. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.


title: Philadelphia County Child Predator Sentenced to 27 Years for Child Exploitation Offenses

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: CAMDEN, N.J. – A Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, man was sentenced on July 30, 2026, to 324 months in prison to be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release for various child exploitation offenses, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. Bobbyjean Orak, 31, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Karen M. Williams in Camden federal court to a five-count Indictment, charging him with transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, interstate travel with intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, enticement of a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity, and the production and possession of child pornography. Judge Williams also imposed the sentence. “There is no greater duty than protecting children from those who seek to exploit them. For years, the defendant groomed a vulnerable child before transporting her across state lines to commit horrific sexual abuse. After a month-long manhunt, the FBI and our local law enforcement partners apprehended the defendant and discovered that this child was not his only victim, but one of many that he targeted and exploited. Those who prey on our children should know this: our office will relentlessly pursue them, aggressively prosecute them, and hold them fully accountable under the law.” - U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Beginning in February 2022, Orak, who was then a 27-year-old man, began an online relationship with a then-11-year-old girl (Victim-1). Orak, who initially disguised his true age and gender, developed his relationship with Victim-1 into a sexual one, and through his exploitation of Victim-1, Orak obtained child sexual abuse material (CSAM) depicting Victim‑1. In their chats, Orak described in graphic detail the sex acts he intended to perform on Victim-1. Meanwhile, Orak engaged in a campaign to convince other minor victims, whom he found online, to send him sexually explicit photographs or videos of themselves to him, including by blackmailing these other victims. In July 2024, Orak arranged for Victim-1 to flee her home in Philadelphia in the middle of the night and transported her to New Jersey. There, the two moved between various hotels in an effort to evade law enforcement. While concealing their whereabouts, Orak sexually exploited Victim-1 and isolated her from friends and family to reduce the likelihood that authorities would locate them. To finance their time on the run, Orak committed a series of robberies at gas stations throughout Burlington County. Following a month-long search effort, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) located Orak and Victim-1 at a hotel in Galloway, New Jersey. FBI agents and local law enforcement officers arrested Orak and safely reunited Victim-1 with her family that same evening. After Victim-1 was found, investigators examined Orak’s cellphone and online accounts and discovered over 1,000 images and videos of CSAM depicting Victim-1 and other minor victims. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited law enforcement members with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy, with the investigation leading to Orak’s conviction and this sentencing. He also thanked the Philadelphia, Galloway Township, Evesham, Delran, Waterford Township, and Winslow Township Police Departments, the Atlantic County Sheriff’s Office, the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Burlington County Department of Corrections for their assistance with the investigation. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Belgiovine of the Criminal Division in Trenton. 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 Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, 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: https://www.justice.gov/psc . ### Defense counsel: Thomas Young, Assistant Federal Public Defender. orak.indictment.pdf


title: Former Postal Worker Admits to Repeatedly Burglarizing Post Offices to Steal Mail

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A former postal worker admitted to repeatedly burglarizing post offices in January and February 2023 to steal mail, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. Zyeama Johnson, 31, of Jersey City, pleaded guilty on July 28, 2026, before U.S. district Judge Madeline Cox Arleo in Newark federal court to six counts of an indictment charging her with burglary of a post office. The sentencing date is scheduled for November 24, 2026. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Zyeama Johnson had previously been employed by the United States Postal Service (USPS) when she burglarized post offices six times in January and February 2023. During each burglary, Johnson entered after business hours with the intent of stealing mail from the post office. For example, on January 10, 2023, Johnson broke into a post office in Jersey City and stole two USPS mail bins and a parcel bin. Each of the burglary charges carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or twice the value of the gain or loss, whichever is greater. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited postal inspectors with the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher Nielsen, Philadelphia Division, with the investigation. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chana Y. Zuckier of the Bank Integrity, Money Laundering, and Recovery Unit in Newark. ### Defense counsel: Linda Foster, Esq. johnson.indictment.pdf


title: Goffstown Man Sentenced to Over Eight Years on Firearms and Narcotics Offenses

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: CONCORD – A Goffstown man has been sentenced to 102 months in prison and four years of supervised release for firearm and narcotics charges, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Mark Williams, 45, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Joseph Laplante today. According to the charging documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours on October 27, 2023, Williams was driving a borrowed vehicle when he became involved in a single-car accident in Goffstown, New Hampshire. Williams walked away before Goffstown Police arrived. The unoccupied vehicle sustained disabling damage and was later towed. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a loaded 9mm handgun and distribution-level quantities of methamphetamine (41 grams), cocaine (73 grams), and fentanyl (452 grams). Williams was later arrested on November 13, 2023 and has been in custody since that date. “Mr. Williams illegally armed himself and was prepared to use violence to further his drug dealing operation,” said U.S. Attorney Creegan. “Today’s sentence reflects the serious threat posed by those who mix firearms with dealing dangerous drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine.” “The combination of a loaded firearm and significant quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl posed a serious threat to public safety,” said Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, New England Field Division. “This sentence reflects the commitment of the DEA and our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who traffic dangerous drugs while armed. We will continue working to disrupt the criminal activity that fuels addiction, violence, and harm in communities across New Hampshire.” The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Goffstown Police Department, and the Manchester Police Department. Valuable assistance was additionally provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting the case. This effort is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), 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 (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: Dominican Man and Former Massachusetts Resident Sentenced to 10 Years for Distributing Fentanyl

body_text: CONCORD – A citizen of the Dominican Republic and former Boston resident was sentenced today in federal court to 10 years in prison for distributing almost 700 grams of fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Niulmi Baez, 26, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Landya B. McCafferty to 120 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release. On April 6, 2026, Baez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl. “Fentanyl has been identified by the President as a weapon of mass destruction; it is a drug that has wreaked havoc across communities in New Hampshire and states all over the country. Working with our law enforcement partners, we are doing everything in our power to disrupt the illicit drug trade and hold those who traffic this deadly substance accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Creegan. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime committed, and the need to protect the public.” “Today’s sentence reflects the serious consequences for those who profit from distributing fentanyl, a drug that continues to devastate families and communities across New England,” said Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, New England Field Division. “By trafficking this deadly poison, the defendant placed countless lives at risk in pursuit of financial gain. The DEA, alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, remains steadfast in our commitment to disrupting the criminal organizations responsible for the flow of fentanyl and ensuring those who endanger public safety are brought to justice.” In late 2021 law enforcement learned that Baez was selling drugs. Between November 2021 and June 2022, an undercover officer engaged in a series of controlled purchases of drugs from Baez. Sometimes Baez delivered the drugs in person, while other times he used a drug runner, including his co-defendant Hamet Badia. For example, in June 2022, the undercover officer arranged to purchase 400 grams of fentanyl and 200 oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl from Baez. Baez responded that his “brother” would arrive in an Uber rideshare, and that Baez himself would arrive a few minutes later. Badia arrived at the designated meeting spot carrying a green shoe box containing the drugs. Badia gave the drugs to Baez, who exchanged the drugs for a bag containing fake U.S. currency. Baez then returned to the Dominican Republic. Law enforcement learned he planned to return to the United States and arrested him at Logan Airport on October 2, 2025. Baez has been detained since. Badia was previously sentenced to a term of 18 months’ imprisonment for his role in the offense. The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. The U.S. Marshals and Hampton Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).


title: U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould meets with Dyess AFB leadership and Taylor County Sheriff to strengthen strategic partnerships and reaffirm support for the Abilene community

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: ABILENE, Texas —United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould, recently visited Dyess Air Force Base and Taylor County Sheriff’s Office to reaffirm the collaborative mission between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Dyess leadership and local community partners. During the visits, he engaged in strategic discussions on national security, community safety, and support for military families. At Dyess on July 24, USA Raybould and AFB leadership discussed ways to strengthen legal cooperation and information‑sharing among federal prosecutors, the 7th Bomb Wing’s legal office, and local law enforcement agencies. Their shared goal is to streamline investigations and prosecutions while enhancing support for victims across both military and civilian communities. USA Raybould also reiterated the Northern District of Texas’ commitment to Dyess AFB’s national security mission. While touring the flightline and learning about the 7th Bomb Wing of the Global Strike Command’s premier and strategic missions of the B1 Bomber and C130, he highlighted the base’s strategic role in global deterrence efforts, emphasizing continued federal dedication to safeguarding critical infrastructure and ensuring the safety and readiness of Airmen and their families. While meeting with Taylor County Sheriff Ricky Bishop that afternoon, USA Raybould emphasized the increased importance of joint public safety initiatives that unite the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Dyess AFB, local law enforcement and civic organizations as Abilene is in the midst of sustained industry and population growth. By working together, these partners are proactively addressing issues such as crime, violence, substance abuse, and cyber threats—challenges that affect the installation, the city of Abilene, and the wider region. In response to the meetings, USA Raybould reflected: “The men and women of Dyess Air Force Base exemplify professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment to our nation. Their service, both at home and around the world, makes it possible for the United States to remain at the forefront of air offensive and defensive operations. As U.S. Attorney for all 100 counties in the Northern District of Texas, one of my highest responsibilities is protecting them, their families, and our communities. Working closely with local partners like the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office and supporting joint public safety initiatives, will not only allow these brave Airmen to stay focused on being the tip of the spear for America’s national security but also allow every resident of Taylor County to enjoy a safer and more secure community.


title: California man sentenced to life in federal prison for sex trafficking, enticement of a minor and other related charges

body_text: SAN ANGELO, Texas —United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould, announced that Devin Maurice Harmon, 51, from California, was sentenced to life in federal prison on July 31 for a series of crimes involving the exploitation, trafficking, and abuse of a minor over several years. On April 10, a federal jury found Harmon guilty of the following offenses: • Enticement of a minor to travel to engage in prostitution • Enticement of a minor • Sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion • Sex trafficking of a minor • Transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity • Two counts of tampering and attempted tampering with a witness “My office is laser focused on prosecuting those who harm our children and ensuring they are held accountable for their horrendous acts,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “For years, this defendant preyed on a vulnerable child, exploiting her fear and isolation for his own gratification and profit. He used violence, manipulation, and coercion to trap her in a cycle of abuse and then tried to silence her when law enforcement intervened. Today’s life sentence ensures this predator will never again victimize another child.” “The life sentence imposed on this defendant demonstrate the seriousness of his crimes,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to protecting our communities from child predators and will continue to work to ensure that those responsible for such acts are brought to justice.” According to evidence presented at trial, law enforcement first encountered Harmon and the minor victim, identified as Jane Doe 1, on July 4, 2024, after Texas Department of Public Safety troopers, with assistance from the Texas Rangers, responded to an abandoned vehicle in Crockett County. Troopers discovered that the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office had provided a courtesy transport of an adult male, a minor female, and an infant due to a vehicle breakdown. The individuals were transported by CCSO to the Economy Inn Hotel in Ozona, Crockett County, Texas. Inside the hotel room, troopers discovered Harmon with the 16 year old victim, who was listed as a nationally registered missing juvenile. Investigators learned that Harmon had met Jane Doe 1 when she was 14 and homeless in California. Over the next two years, Harmon used manipulation, violence, and coercion to control her, repeatedly sexually assaulting her and forcing her into commercial sex acts with adult men across the greater Los Angeles area. Jane Doe 1 reported engaging in sex acts with approximately 100 men during this period, all arranged by Harmon, who kept the proceeds. Harmon also used Jane Doe 1’s cell phone to book hotel rooms, communicate with customers, known as “Johns,” and receive payments from them for the commercial sex acts. Forensic analysis confirmed Harmon accessed his Facebook account from her device and used it to facilitate prostitution. Jane Doe 1 stated that when they were apprehended by law enforcement in Texas, they were on their way to Louisiana because Harmon told her that the people in Louisiana would pay her much more money and convinced her that it would be a good idea. Throughout the investigation, Harmon attempted to manipulate and threaten Jane Doe 1 and her guardian, resulting in his convictions for witness tampering. A federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment against Harmon on the aforementioned charges, Oct. 8. 2025, and a federal jury found him guilty on April 10. U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix sentenced Harmon to life in federal prison and ordered restitution of $5,250.00. The FBI, Texas Rangers, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Voice of Hope—Lubbock and the Victim-Witness Unit of the United States Attorney’s Office provided victim services and support throughout the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Whitney James from the Abilene Division and Callie Woolam from the Lubbock Division prosecuted the case. The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation and brought this case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org . ###


title: Portage County Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison For Child Pornography Offenses

body_text: AKRON, Ohio – A 36-year-old man was sentenced to prison after he admitted to receiving and sending child sexual abuse materials through online and social media platforms. Eric Michael Spreitzer, of Streetsboro, Ohio, was sentenced to 240 months (20 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Christopher A. Boyko after pleading guilty in April to: Receipt and Distribution of Visual Depictions of Minors Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct Possession of Child Pornography, or Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM) He was also ordered to serve 15 years of supervised release after imprisonment and pay $49,000 in restitution to victims. Court documents show that federal agents began an investigation into suspected CSAM activity occurring in Portage County and Spreitzer was identified. During a search warrant executed at his residence, agents seized his electronic devices and online accounts. Forensic analysis determined that numerous files containing the sexual abuse of children were on Spreitzer’s devices and in the accounts. Several of the files in his possession included images of prepubescent minors under the age of 12. Investigators found that the defendant committed criminal offenses from about January 2024 to October 2025. This case was investigated by the FBI Akron Resident Agency and the Portage County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorney Toni Beth Schnellinger Feisthamel for the Northern District of Ohio. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country and 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. To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org , or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


title: Federal Officials Announce Major Arrests in International Drug Smuggling Case

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives New York Special Agent in Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone, St. Regis Mohawk Tribal Police Chief of Police Matthew Rourke, and Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service Chief of Police Ranatiiostha Swamp , announced arrest of three individuals involved in major international smuggling operation along the northern border. Three Akwesasne individuals, dual Canadian–American citizens, were arrested Thursday July 30, 2026, for their alleged roles in an international drug‑trafficking operation. Basil Lazore, age 47, and Michael Arquette, age 38, were charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute controlled substances, in violation of 21 U.S.C. 846, 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(B). The penalties include at least 10 years and up to life in prison and up to a $10 million fine. Patricia Ransom, age 81, was also arrested and charged with 21 U.S.C. 846, 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B), conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, for which she faces at least 5 years in prison, and a maximum of 40 years. Through a coordinated partnership involving U.S. and Canadian and Tribal law enforcement, investigators initiated a joint investigation into suspected cross-border drug trafficking activity operating through Akwesasne. As the investigation progressed, authorities identified an alleged smuggling network responsible for moving illicit drugs from Canada into the United States. Investigators further determined that the defendants allegedly planned to exchange methamphetamine for multiple firearms. Lazore was taken into custody in Canada, while Arquette and Ransom were arrested in the United States. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said, “Today’s announcement reflects the unprecedented collaboration among our law enforcement partners Federal, State, Local, and Tribal, both in the United States and Canada. Their work to identify, investigate, and arrest these individuals underscores our commitment to securing the northern border and stopping the flow of deadly narcotics and dangerous firearms. As alleged, the defendants sought to exploit areas along the border where tribal lands create unmonitored access points for cross‑border criminal activity. Because of their actions, they will now face the full weight of the American justice system.” ATF New York Special Agent in Charge Bryan DiGirolamo said, “Protecting our communities requires more than responding to violent crime—it requires identifying, disrupting, and dismantling the criminal networks that drive it. Transnational criminal organizations exploit borders, jurisdictions, and every vulnerability they can find to traffic illegal commodities that threaten public safety. This investigation demonstrates the power of intelligence sharing and the extraordinary partnerships that make complex, cross-border investigations possible. I commend the special agents, detectives, analysts, prosecutors, and our federal, state, local, tribal, and international partners whose tireless dedication brought this investigation to this point. Together, we are disrupting criminal networks, reducing violent crime, and making our communities safer.” HSI Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone said, “Transnational criminal organizations exploit borders, waterways, and remote terrain to move narcotics, firearms, and people while putting communities and law enforcement officers at risk. As a Homeland Security Task Force investigation, co-led by Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo, this case reflects the strength of coordinated partnerships across federal, state, local, Tribal, and Canadian law enforcement. Together, we are targeting the criminal networks that threaten border security and public safety on both sides of the northern border.” “Criminal networks do not recognize borders, and neither does our commitment to public safety. This investigation is an example of the coordinated efforts of Canadian and U.S. law enforcement partners working together to disrupt the trafficking of illegal drugs and firearms and the criminal networks that profit from it. The Ontario Provincial Police is proud to support this joint operation and will continue to work alongside our partners to combat organized crime, reduce the availability of illegal drugs and weapons and enhance public safety,” said Ottawa Provincial Police Chief Superintendent Mike Stoddart, Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau. Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service, Chief of Police, Ranatiiostha Swamp said, “The success of this investigation highlights the importance of collaboration among law enforcement partners across jurisdictions and international borders. AMPS is proud to have contributed to this effort and remains committed to protecting the residents of Akwesasne from the impacts of organized crime in trafficking of humans, drugs, and firearms. The Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service operates within a unique border community. We have long recognized the need for coordinated and intelligence-driven enforcement strategies. This investigation reinforces the importance of law enforcement partnerships by combining resources to combat organized crime. Through continued collaboration with our law enforcement partners, we will work to ensure that those who engage in criminal activity are held accountable while preserving the safety, integrity, and reputation of our community.” The charges in the indictment and complaint are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, Royal Canadian Mounted Police Ottawa Provincial Police, Sûreté du Québec, Akwesasne Tribal Police and the St Regis Tribal Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey Stitt. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Buffalo comprises agents and officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service (IRS/ CID), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), Customs and Border Protection/ Office of Border Patrol (CBP/ OBP), Customs and Border Protection/ Office of Field Operations (CBP/ OFO), DEA, Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), USPIS, U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Department of State/Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.


title: Federal, State and Local Authorities Announce Multiple Arrests of Non-Compliant Sex Offenders and Child Exploitation Crimes Across Mississippi

component: USAO - Mississippi, Northern

body_text: OXFORD, MS— U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi (USAO NDMS), Scott Leary, hosted a press conference announcing the results of Operation Muddy Waters, a statewide initiative spearheaded by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to target child sex offenders and child exploitation crimes across Mississippi. The operation coordinated with federal, state and local law enforcement across the state. The operation began July 20 and ended July 31. In total, Operation Muddy Waters led to 13 child exploitation arrests, 48 sex offender absconder arrests, two referrals to Louisiana and Colorado, one victim recovered, more than 8 search warrants, more than 50 devices seized for forensics and at least three immigration detainers. Those participating in this operation with HSI and USAO NDMS included: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi U.S. Marshals Service Mississippi Attorney General’s Office Mississippi Department of Public Safety Marshall County Sheriff’s Department DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department Oxford Police Department Forrest County Sheriff’s Department Hinds County Sheriff’s Department Harrison County Sheriff’s Department Pearl County Sheriff’s Department Hancock County Sheriff’s Department Scott F. Leary, U.S. Attorney, stated, “When dealing with child exploitation cases, it’s time to pause and reflect on why a government exists: It is to protect and provide a better world for our children, everything else is secondary. This principle can be found in our Declaration of Independence, our founding document: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, ...’ The Declaration’s vision is that of universal, inalienable God given rights. We are duty bound to protect these rights, especially as they apply to our children. Under no circumstances can American society equivocate this duty. No rationalization, no ambiguity, no tempered response, victimizing children is evil and a civilized society cannot tolerate it. We will be absolutely relentless in our pursuit of those who seek to exploit our kids. These crimes are an abomination. I want to thank those agencies that share this vision, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the United States Marshal Service, the Mississippi Attorney General, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, and the Police Departments and Sheriff’s Offices who work with us. Together we serve the citizens of this great state. We work hard not to let you down.” “Those who choose to hide behind a computer screen to exploit children will not remain hidden,” said Matthew Reidell, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of HSI Gulfport. “Operation Muddy Waters demonstrates HSI’s unwavering commitment to protecting children, supporting victims, and holding offenders accountable. We will continue working with our federal, state and local partners to bring these crimes to light, pursue those responsible and help prevent further harm.” “For two weeks, federal, state, and local law enforcement have been working together to find the predators who hide in plain sight in our communities. And the outstanding number of arrests made during this operation point to the power of this partnership," said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. "But the most important number coming from this operation is the one child victim that was saved from a sextortion scheme in progress. The work done in this operation made all the difference to this child and to countless others who are a little safer online right now." This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC . An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Man Who Shot Federal Law Enforcement Officer and Service Canine Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder and Firearm Charges

body_text: CHICAGO — A man who shot a federal law enforcement officer and a service canine during the execution of an arrest warrant has pleaded guilty to federal criminal charges. In 2022, an Illinois state court issued an arrest warrant for TARRION JOHNSON on state charges of attempted murder and attempted robbery. On June 2, 2022, members of the Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force gathered at an apartment building in the 5200 block of West Belmont Avenue in Chicago to execute the arrest warrant and take Johnson into custody. After announcing themselves as police with an arrest warrant, the officers entered an apartment unit and encountered Johnson holding a firearm. Johnson ignored commands to put down the gun and instead shot a Senior Inspector United States Marshal and a service canine. Johnson then shot a Special Deputy United States Marshal, striking the Special Deputy Marshal’s ballistic shield. Johnson fled the residence but was quickly arrested and taken into custody. Johnson, 23, of Chicago, pleaded guilty on July 20, 2026, to federal charges of attempted murder of a federal officer and using and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, namely, using a deadly and dangerous weapon and inflicting bodily injury. U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey set a sentencing hearing for Nov. 17, 2026. The guilty plea was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Ryan Whalen, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. Substantial assistance was provided by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Chicago Police Department. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Chapman and Branka Cimesa.


title: Federal Judge Sentences Man to 14 Years in Prison for Violently Robbing Six Banks in Chicago Suburbs

body_text: CHICAGO — A federal judge has sentenced a man to 14 years in prison for violently robbing six banks in the Chicago suburbs. GERMAN CAMPOS JR., 26, of Franklin Park, Ill., committed six bank robberies over the course of ten months in 2023 and 2024. Campos brandished a gun at bank tellers and customers in five of the robberies. The robberies were as follows: Oct. 18, 2023: U.S. Bank in Schaumburg, Ill. Dec. 16, 2023: U.S. Bank in Elmhurst, Ill. March 6, 2024: U.S. Bank in Schaumburg, Ill. June 13, 2024: U.S. Bank in Elmhurst, Ill. Aug. 9, 2024: BMO Bank in Park Ridge, Ill. Aug. 28, 2024: U.S. Bank in Niles, Ill. Campos was arrested on Sept. 17, 2024, and he has remained in law enforcement custody since then. Campos pleaded guilty in March 2026 to federal bank robbery and firearm charges. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Thomas M. Durkin sentenced Campos to 14 years in federal prison. The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Ryan Whalen, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. Substantial assistance in the investigation was provided by the Schaumburg, Ill. Police Department, Elmhurst, Ill. Police Department, Park Ridge, Ill. Police Department, Niles, Ill. Police Department, and Franklin Park, Ill. Police Department. “Defendant’s repeated use of a gun during robberies, including pointing that gun into victim faces over and over again, posed a significant threat to the safety of the bank employees, customers, and general public,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie C. Stern argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “The only reason why defendant stopped his violent robbery spree was because he was finally caught after ten months of terrorizing bank employees and customers.”


title: United States Attorney’s Office Joining Law Enforcement, Community Leaders and Residents for National Night Out Events

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: Tallahassee, Pensacola & Gainesville, Florida – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida will join their law enforcement partners, neighbors, and communities for National Night Out events in North Central Florida and the Florida Panhandle. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is proud to participate in National Night Out , which is an opportunity for law enforcement to interact with members of our community to foster trust and build strong relationships. We look forward to engaging with community leaders and residents in our continued efforts to make the Northern District of Florida the best and safest place in America to live, work, and raise a family.” National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions of people take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country. National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization. Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe. For more information, visit https://natw.org/ . Below is a list of National Night Out Events that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida will be attending, all hosted by local participating law enforcement agencies. Scheduled Events: NNO Hosted by the Pensacola Police Department Tuesday, August 4, 2026 beginning at 5:00 p.m. Booker T. Washington High School located at 6000 College Pkwy, Pensacola, FL 32504 NNO Hosted by the High Springs Police Department Tuesday, August 4, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. High Spring Civic Center located at 19107 NW 240 th Street, High Springs, FL 32643 NNO Hosted by the Tallahassee Police Department Tuesday, October 6, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Cascades Park located at 1001 South Gadsden Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301 United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Crestview Woman Federally Indicted for Fraud Offenses Totaling Over Four Million Dollars

body_text: Pensacola, Florida – Rosemay G. Manzano, 40, of Crestview, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging her with 17 counts of bank fraud, 19 counts of money laundering, one count of aggravated identity theft, and five counts of filing a false tax return. This investigation is a part of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud launched by President Donald J. Trump, a whole-of-government effort to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today. The defendant appeared for her arraignment in federal court before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Michael J. Frank in Pensacola, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for September 21, 2026, before United States District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment for each of the 17 counts of bank fraud, 2 years’ imprisonment consecutive to any other imprisonment for the aggravated identity theft count, up to 10 years’ imprisonment for each money laundering count, up to 3 years’ imprisonment for each filing false tax return count and, restitution, and forfeiture of assets. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Air Force Active Duty Member Settles False Claims Act Allegations for Fraudulent Government Loan

body_text: Pensacola, Florida – Tyndall Air Force Base active-duty member, Negleatta Davis, has agreed to settle civil allegations that she violated the False Claims Act (“FCA”) by knowingly providing false information in support of a Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act. Davis agreed to pay $24,000 in damages under the FCA. The civil settlement was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said, “Whether its through aggressive criminal prosecutions or affirmative civil enforcement actions, or both, my office is committed to rooting out fraud, waste, and abuse of federal programs to ensure fraudsters are held accountable. When someone defrauds the federal government, they are victimizing every U.S taxpayer. Under the National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Department of Justice is returning to a zero-tolerance posture for fraud of any kind or amount to fulfill the fiduciary duty we have to the American taxpayer.” The United States contends that from in or about April 2021, Davis prepared and submitted, or caused to be submitted, false and fraudulent documents and a false and fraudulent application to obtain a PPP loan totaling $14,375, in her name as sole proprietor. The loan was funded directly by the United States Small Business Administration (“SBA”) or through various PPP-participating financial institutions that were federally-guaranteed by the SBA. The loan was forgiven and paid by the SBA, plus a lender fee of $2,500 and interest of $63.09, for a total of $16,938.09. Davis registered a business, Apple Jreamzz Treats & Things, with the State of Nevada while she was stationed there, on July 1, 2020. The United States contends that Davis fraudulently obtained the PPP loan at least in part because Apple Jreamzz Treats & Things was not established until July 2020, after CARES Act eligibility. The Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the U.S. Small Business Administration provided substantial assistance in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Couch represented the United States in this matter. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr. Joins the Department of Justice to Announce Unprecedented Fraud Enforcement Actions Across the Southeast

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr. joined Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, other Department of Justice leaders, and federal and state law enforcement partners for a press conference announcing a series of significant fraud enforcement actions across the Southeastern United States. The Northern District of Alabama was one of the few chosen to speak at the press event due to the recent cases from that office in the fight against fraud. During the press conference, U.S. Attorney Williams highlighted a major fraud case from the Northern District of Alabama that was investigated by IRS Criminal-Investigations. Research indicates that US v. Michael Shine is the third largest tax fraud case in years. United States vs Michael Shine In recent days, the complaint was unsealed and Michael Shine was taken into custody. Shine is a tax preparer based in the Birmingham area who owns and operates Shine’s Professional Services. It is alleged in the complaint that he filed and caused to be filed thousands of tax returns falsely claiming green energy tax credits that were baseless and fraudulent, causing over $65 million in loss to the government and the taxpaying citizens of America. “We are committed in our State to continue doing what it takes to combat fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr. “The Northern District of Alabama will continue this fight because it is a fight worth having. My sincere thanks to the Assistant U.S. Attorneys who pursued this case with our partners at the IRS, and I appreciate the fact that we have a national task force dedicated to fight fraud.” The National Fraud Enforcement Division (NFED) additionally announced new federal-state cooperation agreements with this group of states to strengthen ongoing fraud enforcement efforts, following a recent roundtable that brought together 18 U.S. Attorneys Offices, seven State Attorneys General Offices, five federal law enforcement partners, and over 50 state officials. At the Fraud Enforcement Roundtable event Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen signed a Memorandum of Intent to partner with the NFED to jointly pursue efforts to combat fraud in this state. The NFED is a part of a national effort under the direction of Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, and in concert with the overall whole of government effort of the Trump Administration to combat fraud.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office recovers more than $325,000 for fraud victims

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: BILLINGS – The U.S. Attorney’s Office recently recovered more than $325,000 for victims of a California man who defrauded 14 victims of more than a half-million dollars, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. The recovery dates back to a case from 2012. Thomas Brown Hammond was convicted that year of theft from an employee benefit plan in the Eastern District of California. The court sentenced him to four years and nine months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered Hammond to pay $536,521 to the 14 victims. Following his release from Bureau of Prisons custody, Hammond moved to Montana and served his period of supervised release under the custody of U.S. Probation & Pretrial Services with the District of Montana. Recently, Hammond received a substantial distribution from an inheritance. The U.S. Attorney’s Office garnished nonexempt funds from the financial institution and will distribute $332,703.97 to Hammond’s victims. Even though Hammond was convicted more than a decade ago, federal law empowers the U.S. Attorney’s Office to collect restitution judgments for 20 years after a defendant’s release from prison. The U.S. Attorney’s Office actively enforces restitution collection for the benefit of victims for the entire collection period, which can lead to substantial recovery for victims years or even decades after conviction. Hammond was a registered securities representative and investment advisor. At Hammond’s criminal trial, the government presented evidence that Hammond induced his victims to invest in his fraudulent private portfolio. Instead of actually investing, Hammond deposited the funds into a standard business account and withdrew the money for personal expenses. At the sentencing, Judge John A. Mendez called Hammond’s actions “inexcusable.”


title: Billings man sentenced to 3 years in prison for attempted drug trafficking after wife tips off authorities

body_text: BILLINGS – A Billings man who was receiving drug shipments in the mail was sentenced Friday afternoon to three years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Jonathan Lloyd Erwin, 38, pleaded guilty in February 2026 to one count of attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided. The government alleged in court documents that Erwin received at least one package of methamphetamine in the mail, which he had intended to sell. The package came to light after Erwin’s wife contacted the U.S. Postal Service in February 2025 and told them her husband was receiving packages of drugs in the mail. USPS officials began watching for packages addressed to Erwin and on March 11, 2025, they intercepted a suspicious parcel intended for Erwin that had been sent from a fake address. Agents obtained a warrant and searched the package, where they found 7.5 ounces of meth. Agents replaced the meth with rock salt and delivered the package to Erwin, who received it and took it into his garage. Authorities returned with a warrant and found the package hidden in Erwin’s garage rafters. His wife, who was present for the search, again reiterated to agents that her husband was receiving drugs in the mail. A search of Erwin’s phone showed messages where he discussed buying meth off the dark web, tracking packages that were shipped to him, and selling what he purchased. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Godfrey prosecuted the case. The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force conducted the investigation.


title: BATON ROUGE MAN SENTENCED TO 48 MONTHS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR CONSPIRACY TO COMMIT BANK FRAUD AND THEFT OF MAIL

component: USAO - Louisiana, Middle

body_text: Marvell Trevenski Jackson, Jr., age 26, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison following his convictions for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and theft of mail, announced U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall. United States District Judge Brian A. Jackson further sentenced Jackson to three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment. Jackson was also ordered to pay $378,394.00 in restitution and to forfeit an additional $238,804.45 to the United States. According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, Jackson conspired with others to defraud federally insured financial institutions, including Neighbor’s Federal Credit Union (“NFCU”), Essential Federal Credit Union (“EFCU”), First Guarantee Bank and Trust (“FGB”), Navy Federal Credit Union (“Navy FCU”), and Regions Bank, among others. Jackson and his co-conspirators employed a variety of methods, including stealing or obtaining stolen mail to obtain personal and financial information of bank customers; altering or washing checks stolen from the mail; creating counterfeit checks using stolen bank account information; disseminating spam text messages designed to trick bank customers into revealing bank account information and login credentials; and using that confidential information to unlawfully access and transfer funds from victims’ accounts. Jackson also recruited other individuals, commonly known as “money mules,” either to open accounts or to use existing accounts to receive the fraud proceeds. Once the stolen funds were deposited into the accounts held by the money mules or other co-conspirators, these individuals withdrew the funds, keeping a portion for themselves and providing the majority to Jackson. Additionally, Jackson stole mail, including personal and business checks totaling at least $20,378 that had been placed for collection in the blue boxes at the U.S. Postal Service’s office on Florida Street in Baton Rouge. These stolen checks and others, totaling over $270,000, were later located in a residence used by Jackson, along with the tools and supplies required for printing counterfeit checks. In total, Jackson and his conspirators obtained or sought to obtain over $500,000 by negotiating, and attempting to negotiate, altered or counterfeit checks using checks and other financial data obtained from stolen U.S. mail. Members of the conspiracy also engaged in “smishing,” short for “SMS phishing,” a cyber-attack technique whereby perpetrators use Short Message Service (“SMS”) or text messages purporting to be from reputable companies to induce victims to reveal personal information, such as usernames, passwords, or bank account numbers. Jackson and his co-conspirators executed the smishing scheme in East Baton Rouge Parish, Iberville Parish, Livingston Parish, and others, defrauding financial institutions, including NFCU, EFCU, FGB, and their customers of over $300,000. U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall praised the work of the U.S. Postal Service, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. “This was a fantastic effort by a team of agencies that worked together along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul L. Pugliese. Marvel Jackson is a professional scammer and deserves every day of that sentence and more,” Wall said.


title: BATON ROUGE MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO RECEIPT OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

body_text: Jonathan Isaac Gibbs, age 26, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge John W. deGravelles to receipt of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall. According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, on August 10, 2024, Gibbs’ manager at the store where he was employed made a report to Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) regarding Gibbs recording an “up the skirt” video of a minor in the store. Subsequently, BRPD issued an arrest warrant for Gibbs, and he was arrested for one count of video voyeurism and one count of indecent behavior with juveniles. The matter was also referred to Louisiana State Police. Law enforcement obtained lawful search warrants for several of Gibbs’ electronic devices and executed them. On his cellphone, a Russian website associated with child pornography was located. Law enforcement also located 20 “upskirt” images of minors on the cellphone. On Gibbs’ laptop, law enforcement found three images of child sexual abuse material on a hard drive. Gibbs’ conviction is punishable by a term of imprisonment of not less than five years and not more than twenty years, a fine of $250,000, or both. Also, Gibbs faces up to a lifetime of supervised release and will be subject to sex offender registration requirements. U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baton Rouge Police Department, and Louisiana State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy S. Johnson led the prosecution. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Columbus Repeat Offender Sentenced to Prison for Armed Drug Trafficking

body_text: COLUMBUS, Ga. – A Georgia man with a violent criminal record, whose supervised release was revoked for previously assaulting a federal officer, was sentenced to more than 10 years in prison on top of his current 60-month term after a federal jury convicted him of multiple drug and gun offenses. “This defendant and others like him who continue to violate the law and endanger others will be held accountable in the Middle District of Georgia, where there is no parole,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “We will continue to work with law enforcement to ensure that repeat offenders face justice.” “This defendant callously picked up right where he left off from prior convictions,” said Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Thomas Clark. “The FBI will continue to investigate anyone who repeatedly violates the law by illegally arming themselves and committing crimes that continue to harm the community.” Nimesh Vijay Desai, 44, of Columbus, was sentenced to serve 121 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on Aug. 3. Desai was found guilty of one count of possession of methamphetamine, one count of possession of fentanyl, one count of possession of heroin, and one count of possession of firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon on March 4, following a three-day trial that began on March 2, before U.S. District Judge Clay Land. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents and statements referenced at trial, law enforcement executed two search warrants on Feb. 28, 2024, at a Columbus apartment and a storage unit leased to Desai, resulting from an ongoing investigation into armed drug trafficking in the community. During the searches, agents seized 2.2 kilograms of methamphetamine and 800 grams of fentanyl and heroin, along with scales and grinders often used in the distribution of illegal drugs, and $12,800. Law enforcement also recovered seven firearms and numerous rounds of ammunition, including magazines, all belonging to Desai. At the time of the searches, Desai was on federal supervised release for his 2012 convictions in the Middle District of Georgia for distributing methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and assaulting federal agents with a deadly weapon. Desai is currently serving 60 months in federal prison because of a revocation of his supervised release for these prior convictions. Today’s sentence will run consecutively to his current 60-month federal sentence. 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. FBI investigated the case with assistance from the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office. Criminal Chief Leah McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government.


title: Medicare Advantage Provider Complete Health to Pay $14,100,000 to Settle False Claims Act Suit

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Jacksonville, FL - Complete Health Partners Holdings, headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, has agreed to pay $14,100,000, to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by causing the submission of false diagnosis codes in order to increase payments that they received from the Medicare Advantage program. “Health care fraud enforcement has long been a cornerstone of the mission of this office,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “This settlement sends a strong message to our district, its residents, and medical providers doing business here, that our focus on this vital practice area has not wavered.” “As the Medicare Advantage program continues to grow, providers who participate in the program must be held to account when they attempt to improperly profit at the taxpayer’s expense,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement reflects the Department’s commitment to protecting taxpayer money and ensuring that Medicare payments are based on information that is true and accurate.” “Companies that attempt to improperly boost their own profits by reporting bogus medical conditions of Medicare Advantage enrollees — as alleged in this case — will be held responsible for their actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Isaac M. Bledsoe of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Today’s settlement demonstrates our office’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of federal health care programs, including Medicare Advantage, which exist to provide necessary care to enrollees, not as a vehicle for improper financial gain.” Under the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program, also known as Medicare Part C, Medicare beneficiaries may opt out of traditional Medicare and enroll in private health plans offered by insurance companies known as Medicare Advantage Organizations, or MAOs. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) pays the MAOs a fixed monthly amount for each Medicare beneficiary enrolled in their plans. CMS adjusts these monthly payments to account for various “risk” factors that affect expected health expenditures for the beneficiary. In general, CMS pays MAOs more for sicker beneficiaries expected to incur higher healthcare costs and less for healthier beneficiaries expected to incur lower costs. To calculate the payment amounts, CMS uses a health-based risk adjustment model — the Hierarchical Conditions Category (HCC) model — that takes into account diagnoses reported by healthcare providers. In general, the more severe the diagnosis or costly the associated treatment, the higher the risk score and the higher the corresponding payments to the MAO. Complete Health Partners Holdings (Complete Health) is a management services organization that manages, owns or otherwise operates affiliated provider groups operating out of Florida, Alabama and Colorado. Under the contracts, the MAOs agreed to pay Complete Health a percentage of the payments they received from CMS. This “risk sharing” compensation arrangement gave Complete Health a financial incentive to submit additional diagnosis codes to increase its patients’ risk scores and the corresponding payments made by CMS. The settlement resolves allegations, from 2020 to 2023, Complete Health submitted diagnosis codes within Hierarchical Condition Code (HCC) 55 (Drug and Alcohol Dependence) and HCC 59 (Major Depressive, Bipolar, and Paranoid Disorders) that were not clinically valid, not properly supported by the beneficiary’s medical records, and/or not considered in the care, management, or treatment of the beneficiary. The United States contends that Complete Health disseminated incorrect coding guidance to its coders and physicians regarding diagnosis codes within HCC 55 and HCC 59. The United States further contends that Complete Health coders reviewed its beneficiaries’ medical records and identified additional diagnosis codes for chronic conditions, including diagnoses within HCC 55 and HCC 59. Complete Health then prompted doctors to add those diagnosis codes, even when the diagnosis codes were unsubstantiated or not clinically justified. As a result, the doctors added those diagnosis codes, which were not accurate. These diagnoses resulted in an increase in payment from CMS to the MA Plans in which the beneficiaries were enrolled, and the MA Plan then passed along a portion of the increased payment to Complete Health. The civil settlement resolves claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Karen Bowers, former Associate Director of Risk Adjustment at VIVA Health. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Karen Bowers vs. Complete Health Partners, Inc., Pharos Capital Group, LLC, Viva Health Inc., and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Civil Action No. 3:22-cv-463 (M.D. Fla.). Karen Bowers will receive approximately $2,467,500 as her share of the federal recovery. This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, with assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). The matter was investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Keefe and Collette Cunningham for the Middle District of Florida and Fraud Section Attorneys Olga Yevtukhova and J. Jennifer Koh . The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.


title: Marion County Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Possession with Intent  to Distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine

body_text: Ocala, Florida – Phillip Washington, III a/k/a “Lil’ Phil” (33, Marion County) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber to 20 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Washington was found guilty on April 2, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents and the evidence presented at trial, on May 13, 2024, the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team (UDEST) executed a search warrant on Washington’s residence. A search revealed that Washington possessed with intent to distribute 3,034 grams of actual methamphetamine, 885 grams of fentanyl, and 302 grams of cocaine. A large portion of the controlled substances were found in a duffle bag on the dining table. Washington was also in possession of multiple scales and other items consistent with the packaging and distribution of controlled substances. His residence was equipped with a video-recorded security system. Footage from the system showed Washington bringing the duffle bag containing the controlled substances into his residence. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.