title: New Orleans Man Indicted for Possession of Fentanyl and Federal Gun Charges

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LA – On July 24, 2026, United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that JOCK WALKER (“WALKER”) , age 45, of Orleans Parish, was indicted on a three-count indictment. Count One charges WALKER with possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). Count Two charges WALKER with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). Count Three charges WALKER with felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, Unites States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). The Indictment contains a sentencing enhancement provision under Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(b)(1)(C) and 851. Prior to committing the offense charged in Count One of the Indictment, WALKER had a conviction, for which he served a term of imprisonment of more than 12 months, and for which his release from any term of imprisonment was within 15 years of the commencement of the offense charged in Count One of the Indictment. As a result, WALKER is subject to increased punishment for committing the offense charged Count One of the Indictment. According to the Indictment, on or about July 15, 2026, WALKER , did and intentionally possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, namely fentanyl, while in possession of a firearm to further his drug trafficking enterprise. Furthermore, WALKER, knowing that he had been convi9-millimeteres punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, in Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans, State of Louisiana, and a felony conviction on May 25, 2011, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, did knowingly possess firearms, specifically, a Glock Model 43X, 9 millimeter caliber pistol; a Rossi Model 85, .38 Special revolver, and ammunition. If convicted of Count One, WALKER faces up to 30 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $2,000,000, at least Six (6) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. If convicted of Count Two, WALKER faces 5 years to life imprisonment, imposed consecutively, a fine up to $250,000, up to five (5) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. If convicted of Count Three, WALKER faces up to 15 years of imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crime Unit. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. * * *


title: Honduran Illegal Alien Sentenced to Prison

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – ERIK ROBERTO MACHADO-MENCIA , a/k/a “Roberto Machado-Mencia,” age 37, a native of Honduras, was sentenced by United States District Judge Susie Morgan on July 30, 2026, to three months in federal prison arising out of his conviction for illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to court documents, MACHADO-MENCIA was found in the United States on May 15, 2025, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States after being previously deported on December 16, 2019. On May 15, 2025, agents with the U.S. Border Patrol were working highway interdiction on Interstate 12 near Lacombe, Louisiana, when a vehicle with a fictitious license plate passed the agents. The agents conducted a traffic stop and determined that one of the occupants of the vehicle, MACHADO-MENCIA , was a citizen of Honduras who had been previously removed from the United States. U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Border Patrol in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. * * *


title: Former St. Tammany Paralegal Guilty of  Embezzling $1.8 Million & Tax Fraud

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – BOBBIE ELLIS a/k/a “BOBBIE GREEN” (“ELLIS” ), age 63, currently a resident of Fairhope, Alabama pleaded guilty on July 28, 2026, to wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343 and tax evasion in violation of Title 26, United States Code, 7201, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to court documents, from 2010 to 2018 ELLIS worked for a small law firm in Mandeville, Louisiana. ELLIS performed duties of an office manager, bookkeeper, and paralegal. In those roles, ELLIS had access to the law firm’s financial records, bank accounts, notary stamp, and other legal documents. From at least 2012 to 2018, ELLIS , without authorization, accessed bank accounts controlled by the law firm and forged her employer’s signature on numerous checks stealing over $1.8 million. ELLIS used the fraudulently obtained proceeds to purchase a home in Georgia and another home in Florida. ELLIS also fraudulently used a credit card linked to her employer. ELLIS charged over $945,000 in unauthorized purchases, including expenses related to vacations, hotel stays, retail store purchases, restaurants, and purchases for her children and pets. To conceal her fraud, ELLIS used funds from bank accounts controlled by the law firm to pay for her fraudulent credit card charges. In total, ELLIS embezzled $1,861,575.75 from bank accounts controlled by her employer. From 2013 through 2017, ELLIS attempted to evade the income tax due to the IRS based on her legitimate and illegal income. ELLIS willfully failed to report to the IRS the money she stole and the money she earned while working at the law firm. ELLIS owes the IRS a total of $657,707 for evading her taxes from 2013 through 2017. For wire fraud, ELLIS faces a maximum penalty of twenty years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 mandatory special assessment fee. For tax evasion, ELLIS faces a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 mandatory special assessment fee. ELLIS also will be ordered to pay restitution. This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiwana Wright of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution. * * *


title: Former Gretna Bank Manager Guilty of Bank Theft

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that on July 30, 2026, ALEXA MARIE BRAUD , (“BRAUD”), age 34, of Gretna, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to bank theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(b). Sentencing is set for October 22, 2026. According to the factual basis, on February 4, 2026, BRAUD , entered a credit union located in Gretna, Louisiana where she was a bank manager, and took $185,000 in United States currency. The deposits of the credit union are insured by the National Credit Union Administration. BRAUD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment cost. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Gretna Police Department and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Anne Flippo of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. * * *


title: Chinese Graduate Student Pleads Guilty to Receiving Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced today that Chinese national, JIAXIN TIAN(“TIAN”) , age 29, of New Orleans, pled guilty on July 30, 2026, for Receipt of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(2) and (b)(1). TIAN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years and a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. The case against TIAN began with an undercover online investigation initiated by the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office (“PRCSO”) when they were searching for individuals sharing Child Sex Abuse Material (“CSAM”) on the internet. The PRCSO investigation led them to a subject in New Orleans resulting in the PRCSO notifying the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (“LBI”) of their findings. According to court documents, on December 12, 2025, agents with the LBI and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (“HSI”) executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in New Orleans. During the search, agents recovered an MSI laptop computer, Apple I-Phone, Huawei cell phone, and various other electronic storage devices, in TIAN’s bedroom. TIAN admitted to the agents that he had downloaded images and videos of prepubescent CSAM. Thereafter, LBI and HSI located images and videos depicting the victimization of children on TIAN’s computer. Although TIAN was initially arrested on state child pornography charges, through a partnership between state and federal authorities, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is now prosecuting TIAN federally. TIAN will remain in federal custody until he is sentenced on November 19, 2026 before United States District Judge Anna St. John. U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, and the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division. 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 United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.


title: Florida Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: LEXINGTON, Ky. – An Orlando, Fl., man, Ivory Joe Pruitt, 61, was sentenced on Friday to 63 months imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Pruitt was also ordered to pay $137,392.74 in restitution. More than a dozen university, hospital, and local police agencies across the country took part in the investigation. The collaboration and sharing of investigation revealed that between August 2022 and May 2024, Pruitt and several co‑conspirators carried out an organized, multi‑state fraud scheme. The group traveled to hospitals and university buildings across the country to steal wallets containing credit cards, debit cards, and personal identifying information. After the group stole the wallets, they then used the stolen cards—and fraudulent Sam’s Club accounts created with victims’ identities—to make, or attempt to make, more than $179,000 in purchases at retailers including Sam’s Club, Walmart, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Target. Pruitt played a central role by directing aspects of the operation, personally stealing numerous wallets, and repeatedly using stolen identities. The conspiracy spanned at least a dozen states and involved more than 30 victims whose financial information was used without authorization. Pruitt’s co-conspirators have previously been sentenced for their role in the wire fraud conspiracy. They received the following sentences: Yoshi Keori Williams was sentenced to 112 months in prison, and supervised release of 2 years. Daniel Rashaud Sanchious was sentenced to credit for time served, or 21 months, and supervised release of 2 years. Tashawn Shamal Canegata was sentenced to 30 months, and supervised release of 2 years. Kellie Marie Miller was sentenced to a total of 45 months, and supervised release of 2 years. Jason Parman, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Olivia Olson, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; and Chief Joe Monroe, University of Kentucky Police Department, jointly announced the sentence. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, the University of Kentucky Police Department, and dozens of police agencies across the country. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Mattingly Williams prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. – END –


title: Pine Bluff Man Who Was Found Guilty of Conspiracy to Possess  with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug-Trafficking Crime Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—Spencer Walker will spend the next 360 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down today by United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky. On August 5, 2025, a federal grand jury returned a Third Superseding Indictment charging Walker, 37, of Pine Bluff, with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On September 25, 2025, after a four-day jury trial, Walker was found guilty by the federal jury on all three counts in the Third Superseding Indictment. Walker was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Judge Rudofsky also sentenced Walker to serve an additional 60 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which will be served at the completion of the first sentence. In addition to the federal prison sentences, Judge Rudofsky ordered Walker to serve five years’ supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. During the trial, the evidence revealed that in September 2022, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) intercepted two packages, each containing five pounds of methamphetamine. Law enforcement officers performed a controlled delivery of those packages to Walker’s address. After the controlled delivery, they conducted a search of Walker’s residence and located an additional unopened package that was found to contain 10 pounds of methamphetamine; in his bedroom they located a shotgun with a 25-round drum magazine. Law enforcement officers continued their investigation into the owner of the residence, tracing his location for a period of time. They noted that the owner frequented a house in Bryant, Arkansas. Law enforcement officers then discovered that an additional three packages addressed to the Bryant residence containing 10 pounds of methamphetamine each, had been previously intercepted. In January of 2023, law enforcement officers intercepted another package going to the Bryant residence that contained 10 pounds of methamphetamine. During the trial, Walker attempted to place the blame on an ex-girlfriend. It was through the interception by USPIS of those parcels, as well as several witness statements and photo identification, that law enforcement officers were able to identify Walker as the intended recipient of all the packages containing methamphetamine. Walker has previous felony convictions for breaking or entering, possession of a handgun on public school property, theft of property, fleeing, theft by receiving, forgery, and residential burglary. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and Little Rock Police Department. # # # Additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: Mabelvale Woman Indicted for Illegally Smuggling Clams into the United States

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—Yanci Lissbeth Amaya Aguiluz appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joe J. Volpe for plea and arraignment after being charged with illegally smuggling clams into the United States. Aguiluz, 52, of Mabelvale, was indicted on July 8, 2026, on two counts of smuggling more than three dozen clams into the United States on two different occasions. Aguiluz entered a plea of not guilty to the charges in the Indictment and trial is scheduled for August 31, 2026. The Indictment alleges that after receiving notification from the Arkansas Department of Health in July 2025, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) launched an investigation into Aguiluz’s alleged illegal possession and sale of a certain species of clams known as blood clams (scientific name is Anadora tuberculosa) that came from El Salvador. The Arkansas Department of Health sent Aguiluz a notice regarding her attempt to import and sell the clams. An investigation further revealed that after allegedly smuggling the clams into the United States, Aguiluz sold the clams on a social media platform at local events in central Arkansas. It is a violation of law to ship clams from El Salvador due to El Salvador not being listed on the Interstate Certified Shellfish Shippers List (ICSSL). The ICSSL is an official list maintained by the Food and Drug Administration that identifies shellfish dealers who are authorized to ship shellfish within the United States. Shellfish such as clams are filter feeders, meaning they eat and filter the water in which they live. The United States has high water quality standards and will only accept shellfish from certain geographic areas that meet certain quality levels. The type of clams Aguiluz is accused of smuggling are known for carrying Hepatitis A, Norovirus, parasites, and can carry marine biotoxins such as paralytic shellfish poisoning. If convicted, Aguiluz faces a potential penalty of up to 20 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. This case was investigated by the NOAA with assistance from the Environmental Crimes Natural Resource Division, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Customs & Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, Arkansas Department of Health, and Arkansas Game and Fish. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward Walker. An Indictment contains only allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. # # # Additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: Illegal Alien from Guatemala Sentenced to More Than Eight Years in Federal Prison for Being an Illegal Alien in Possession of a Firearm

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—Silvino Herrera-Munoz, who is in the United States illegally, will spend the next 102 months in federal prison after being convicted of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down today by United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky. On March 4, 2025, Herrera-Munoz, 34, who resided in North Little Rock, was indicted by a federal grand jury in an Indictment charging him with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. On January 12, 2026, Herrera-Munoz pleaded guilty to the Indictment. Judge Rudofsky also sentenced Herrera-Munoz to three years’ supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. An investigation revealed that on February 2, 2025, a concerned citizen called 911 and reported a vehicle driving eastbound on Interstate 30 near Geyer Springs, Arkansas, with the driver shooting 5-7 times out of the driver’s window. The driver/shooter, later identified as Herrera-Munoz, was going back and forth speeding up and slowing down and brake checking the tractor trailer before he began to shoot. The caller followed Herrera-Munoz’s vehicle until an Arkansas State Police Trooper conducted a stop. Herrera-Munoz, an illegal alien, had an odor of alcohol and a blood-alcohol content of .12, well above the legal limit in Arkansas. After the Trooper approached the vehicle, he observed a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber firearm and a spent shell casing on the driver’s floorboard. During a search of the nearby area of the traffic stop, Troopers located two additional shell casings on Interstate 30, which were later confirmed to be fired from the firearm Troopers located on the floorboard of Herrera-Munoz’s vehicle. Herrera-Munoz’s criminal history includes two convictions for driving while intoxicated. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement with assistance from the Arkansas State Police and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Crews. # # # Additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: Teen Sentenced to Prison Term for Armed Carjacking Using a Fully Automatic Weapon

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Mekhi Greene, 18, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced to five years in prison today in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the carjacking of a local resident, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Greene pleaded guilty to carjacking on September 19, 2025. His co-defendant, Keon Preston, also pleaded guilty to this offense and was sentenced to four years in prison on May 15, 2026. In addition to the 5-year sentence for Greene, the Honorable Judge Deborah Israel ordered him to serve 36 months of probation. Greene was 17 years old at the time of the offense. This case was prosecuted under Title 16 of the D.C. Code. According to court documents, on March 23, 2025, at approximately 9:19 p.m., Greene, his co-defendant Preston, and two other unidentified suspects carjacked the victim at gunpoint in the 3500 block of East Capitol Street Northeast. All four men were seen wearing masks, dark clothing, and one had a large weapon with an extended clip. Police located the vehicle, a white Volkswagen Jetta, and attempted a traffic stop before three of the suspects fled on foot. Officers were able to stop and apprehend Greene and Preston. Officers later recovered two firearms, one in the flight path of Preston and one in the rear passenger seat of the stolen vehicle, with an automatic conversion switch and a round chambered inside. Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. In announcing the sentencing, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll acknowledged the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Green, who prosecuted the case. 2025 CF3 003166


title: Previously Convicted Robber Sentenced to 36 Months for Possessing ‘Ghost Gun’ and Ammunition in Southeast D.C.

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

body_text: WASHINGTON — Davon Boyd, 28, a previously convicted felon residing in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 36 months in prison for his unlawful possession of a “ghost gun” and ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Boyd was found guilty on April 3, 2026, following a stipulated bench trial before U.S. District Judge Beryl A. Howell, of one count of unlawful possession of ammunition by a felon, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm, and one count of possession of a prohibited weapon. Judge Howell sentenced Boyd to 36 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors had requested a 60-month prison term. According to court papers, on Sept. 26, 2025, at about 10 p.m., Metropolitan Police Department officers were on routine patrol in the 1500 block of Marion Barry Avenue SE when they pulled into an alley and made contact with a group of individuals. Officers approached Boyd, who was among the group, and who had appeared to be concealing something in his waistband. Officers stopped Boyd and during a pat-down, an officer detected a firearm on Boyd's person and placed him in handcuffs. Officers then lifted Boyd's hoodie and removed the firearm from his waistband. The firearm was later identified as a ghost AR pistol, privately manufactured, bearing no serial number and untraceable by law enforcement. The firearm was loaded with 29 rounds of ammunition, 28 in the magazine and one in the chamber. Boyd did not have a valid permit to carry a firearm in the District of Columbia. Boyd had previously been convicted of robbery and attempted robbery in Superior Court for the District of Columbia. The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Washington Field Office. The matter was prosecuted under the Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful initiative by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Barclay. Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful is a law enforcement initiative in support of President Trump's Executive Order to crack down on gun violence, prioritize federal firearms violations, pursue tougher penalties, and seek detention for federal firearms violators. Police recovered an AR pistol (above) and 29 of rounds of ammunition from Boyd. 25cr317


title: D.C. Teen Sentenced in 2025 Crime Spree

body_text: WASHINGTON – Makai Bridges, 17, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 12 years in prison for a string of crimes that included robbery, carjacking, and assault, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “At just 16, Bridges repeatedly victimized members of our community through violence, intimidation, and theft,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Even after being detained, he continued to endanger others by assaulting fellow detainees. This 12-year sentence ensures he will be held accountable for his actions and protects the public from further harm.” Bridges pleaded guilty on March 5, 2026, to carjacking, robbery, possession of a prohibited weapon, and simple assault. Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld sentenced Bridges to 12 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. The government requested 12 years in prison, which was the maximum under the sentencing guidelines. According to the government’s evidence, on May 1, 2025, at around 2:00 am, Bridges and an additional accomplice approached the victim near the intersection of 3rd Street NE and Rhode Island Avenue NE, Washington, D.C. while she was waiting at the bus stop. The two men both pointed what appeared to be firearms at the victim, one pointing the weapon at her head and the other pushing his weapon into her stomach. They then pulled the victim’s purse from her shoulder and took her cellphone out of her hand. The defendant and his conspirator threatened the victim, saying they would kill her if she called the police, and then fled the scene. The victim contacted MPD around 7:38 am, on May 1, 2025, and reported the crime. In a separate incident, on May 7, 2025, at around 10:10 pm. Bridges and four other accomplices approached another victim as he was exiting his vehicle at 1430 Otis Street NE. One member of the group pulled out what appeared to be a firearm, while the others demanded the victim’s keys. All five entered the vehicle and drove away. At around 10:50 pm, officers attempted to apprehend the defendant and his accomplices in a traffic stop after confirming the vehicle had been reported stolen earlier that evening. The vehicle fled, eventually colliding with a tree box near the 1200 block of 3rd St NE. After crashing, all five men exited the vehicle and fled the officers. Officers pursued and apprehended Bridges. While in custody at the Department of Youth and Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) Youth Services Center, located at 1000 Mount Oliver Rd. NE, Bridges and seven other individuals assaulted three detainees as they were being escorted through the cell block. The group rushed into the cell block, pushing past DYRS staff in an attempt to reach the detainees. Bridges was ultimately restrained by DYRS staff and then struggled to free himself in an effort to join the assault of the three victims. Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Valerie Tsesarenko and Brian Hanley, who prosecuted the case. 2025 CF3 010940 & 2025 CF3 015480


title: D.C. Man Sentenced for the Fatal Stabbing of Wheelchair Bound Victim

body_text: WASHINGTON – Kevin Johnson, 40, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced to 18 years in prison today in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the fatal stabbing of 44-year-old D.C. resident Antonio Pierre Woody, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree murder while armed on February 24, 2026. Johnson’s guilty plea was pursuant to Rule 11(c)(1)(c) where the parties agreed to a prison sentence range between 18 and 23 years. In addition to the 18-year sentence, the Honorable Rainey Brandt ordered Johnson to serve five years of supervised release. According to court documents, in the early morning hours of October 6, 2024, in Northeast D.C., Johnson and the victim were socializing in a group on the sidewalk outside 1719 Lincoln Road, NE and the adjacent parking lot of 1725 Lincoln Road, NE. Johnson, agitated from a previous altercation on October 5, 2024, made threats before approaching the victim, lunging at him and stabbing him multiple times. The victim, wheelchair-bound, attempted to crawl away from the defendant, before the defendant struck and stabbed him again. The defendant then proceeded to dispose of the victim’s cell phone down a storm drain and leave the scene, walking back towards the parking lot of 1725 Lincoln Road, NE. Officers arrived on the scene, noting that the only exit from the parking lot was into a Department of Human Services Shelter. The defendant was identified by an individual working security. Police located the defendant and transported him to the MPD Homicide Branch where he was arrested for murder in the second degree. Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marybeth Manfreda and Rashmika Nedungadi, who prosecuted the case. 2024 CF1 010048


title: D.C. Man is Sentenced to 24 Months for Strangling His Wife

body_text: WASHINGTON – Johnny Gregory, 42, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for strangling his wife in January 2026, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “Strangulation is an unmistakable warning sign that a victim's life is in imminent danger,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Research shows that after just one episode of strangulation, a victim is approximately 800% more likely to die at the hands of the same aggressor. Crimes like this deserve stronger punishment and the criminal justice system must treat strangulation with the gravity it deserves and do everything possible to protect victims before domestic violence turns fatal." Gregory was found guilty at trial on May 4, 2026, of one count of strangulation. Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel sentenced Gregory to 24 months, a top of the guidelines sentence. The judge suspended part of that sentence and ordered Gregory to complete 18 months of probation. The government requested 24 months in prison for the strangulation offense, which was the maximum under the sentencing guidelines. According to the government’s evidence, on January 5, 2026, Gregory and his wife had an argument over laundry detergent. Gregory pushed her to the ground, punched her in the face multiple times then put his knee on her chest and strangled her with both his hands. She lost consciousness and was taken to a local hospital where she was treated for her injuries. At the time of the assault, the victim’s 15-year-old daughter was present. Gregory was arrested on January 6, 2026, and has remained in custody since. Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Interim Chief Carroll commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrea Friedman and Charles Klug, who prosecuted the case. 2026 FD3 000281


title: California Country Club Agrees to Pay $850,000 to Resolve  False Claims Act Allegations of Improper Receipt of  Paycheck Protection Program Loan

body_text: WASHINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia announced today that it has reached a civil settlement agreement with the Club at Morningside Inc., whereby the club agreed to pay $850,000, plus interest, to resolve allegations that the club violated the False Claims Act when it applied for and received a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for which it was not eligible. When Congress enacted the Coronavirus, Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, it authorized forgivable PPP loans to eligible small businesses and nonprofit organizations for job retention and certain other expenses. The PPP loan program was administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). At the time of the loan covered by this settlement, certain entities organized under section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code were not eligible for PPP loans, including section 501(c)(7) organizations. In 2020, Morningside, a country club located in Rancho Mirage, California, applied for a PPP loan in the amount of $727,427 and certified that it was eligible to receive the loan even though it was ineligible as a section 501(c)(7) nonprofit organization. After receiving the PPP loan, Morningside sought and received forgiveness of the entire loan amount. The United States contended that Morningside knowingly falsely represented its eligibility to receive the PPP loan, and that it caused the SBA to pay lender fees to the bank that processed the loan. After an analysis of Morningside’s ability to pay pursuant to a settlement, Morningside agreed to pay $850,000, plus interest, to the United States to resolve these allegations. The settlement resolves claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under these provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the recovery. The qui tam complaint was filed by Relator Aidan Forsyth and is captioned United States ex rel. Aidan Forsyth v. Club at Morningside Inc., et al., Civ. A. No. 24-1175 (D.D.C.). Forsyth will receive a total share of approximately $83,266.55, plus a portion of interest paid by Morningside, in connection with the settlement. The civil settlement resulted from an investigation by Assistant United States Attorney Sean M. Tepe and Auditor Timothy J. Hurley with the support of attorney Caitlin J. Kelly of SBA’s Office of the General Counsel. Tips and complaint regarding potential fraud affecting COVID-19 government relief programs can be reported by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or by submitting a NCDF Web Complaint form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. The claims resolved by the civil settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.


title: Woman Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Robbing Banks in Waterbury and Bristol in 2024

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: David X, Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that HEATHER BROWN, 50, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for robbing three Connecticut banks in 2024. According to court documents and statements made in court, Brown robbed the Wells Fargo Bank located at 800 Wolcott Street in Waterbury on February 6, 2024; the Liberty Bank located at 1030 Hamilton Avenue in Waterbury on February 7, 2024; and the Webster Bank located at 575 Farmington Avenue in Bristol on February 9, 2024. Judge Oliver ordered Brown to pay $8,328 in restitution. Brown, who last resided in New Haven, has been detained since her arrest on February 9, 2024. She pleaded guilty on October 7, 2025. Brown was convicted of state bank robbery offenses in 2006 and again in 2010, and she served more than 15 years in prison for those offenses. This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Waterbury, Bristol, and Southington Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan J. Guevremont.


title: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Trafficking Charge

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, announced that FELIX JIMENEZ, 38, a citizen of the Dominican Republic unlawfully residing in the U.S., pleaded guilty today in New Haven federal court to a cocaine trafficking offense. According to court documents and statements made in court, members of the DEA New Haven District Office (NHDO) Task Force coordinated a purchase of cocaine with an individual in New York. On April 9, 2026, Jiminez drove to the meeting location in Waterbury and provided approximately one kilogram of cocaine to an undercover officer. After the transaction, task force officers converged on the location. Jimenez drove his car into several law enforcement vehicles and fled at a high rate of speed. He was found a short distance away hiding in a closet in an autobody shop in Waterbury and was taken into custody. Jimenez has been detained since his arrest. While incarcerated, he was overheard on a phone call with his girlfriend discussing the possession of firearms at a residence they shared in Ansonia. Law enforcement subsequently conducted a court-authorized search of the residence and seized two handguns. Jimenez pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 23. Jimenez was deported to the Dominican Republic in 2019 after he was convicted of a prior federal offense. The NHDO Task Force includes members from the DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut State Police, and the New Haven, Waterbury, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, Ansonia, Meriden, Naugatuck, and Shelton Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Lembo. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Swedish Man Who Licensed the Rights to Late Colombian Drug Lord Pablo Escobar Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Fraud

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A Swedish national who licensed the rights of the late Colombian narco-terrorist Pablo Escobar was sentenced today to 48 months in federal prison for defrauding investors by marketing and selling products – including flamethrowers and cellphones – that he never delivered. Olof Kyros Gustafsson, 32, a.k.a. “El Silencio,” was sentenced by United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha, who also fined him $25,000, and ordered him to pay $1,300,193 in restitution. Gustafsson has agreed to forfeit funds that were proceeds of the fraud schemes, including money currently held in a bank account in Sweden. Gustafsson pleaded guilty in July 2025 to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, one count of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, one count of concealment money laundering, and one count of international concealment money laundering. Gustafsson was the CEO of Escobar Inc., a corporation registered in Puerto Rico that held successor-in-interest rights to the persona and legacy of Pablo Escobar, the deceased Colombian narco-terrorist and late head of the Medellín Cartel. Escobar Inc. used Pablo Escobar’s likeness and persona to market and sell purported consumer products to the public. From July 2019 to November 2023, Gustafsson identified existing products in the marketplace that were being manufactured and sold to the public. He then used the Escobar persona to market and advertise similar and competing products purportedly being sold by Escobar Inc., advertising them at a price substantially lower than existing counterparts being sold by other companies. Gustafsson then purportedly sold the products – including an Escobar Flamethrower, an Escobar Fold Phone, an Escobar Gold 11 Pro Phone, and Escobar Cash (marketed as a “physical cryptocurrency”) – to customers, receiving payments via PayPal, Stripe, and Coinbase, among other payment processors, as well as bank and wire transfers. Despite receiving customer payments, Gustafsson did not deliver the Escobar Inc. products to paying customers because the products did not exist. In furtherance of the scheme, Gustafsson sent crudely made samples of the purported Escobar Inc. products to online technology reviewers and social media influencers to attempt to increase the public’s demand for them. For example, Gustafsson sent Samsung Galaxy Fold Phones wrapped in gold foil and disguised as Escobar Inc. phones to online technology reviewers to attempt to induce victims who watched the online reviews into buying the products that never would be delivered. Also, rather than sending paying customers the actual products, Gustafsson mailed them a “Certificate of Ownership,” a book, or other Escobar Inc. promotional materials so there was a record of mailing from the company to the customer. When a paying customer attempted to obtain a refund when the product was never delivered, Gustafsson fraudulently referred the payment processor to the proof of mailing for the Certificate of Ownership or other material as proof that the product itself was shipped and that the customer had received it so the refund requests would be denied. Gustafsson also caused bank accounts to be opened under his name and entities he controlled to be used as funnel accounts – bank accounts into which he deposited and withdrew proceeds derived from his criminal activities. The purpose was to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. The bank accounts were located in the United States, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates. Gustafsson has been in federal custody since March 2025, when he was extradited to the United States from Spain, where he was arrested in December 2023. IRS Criminal Investigation, the FBI, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Office of Inspector General are investigating this matter, with assistance from the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the United States Marshals Service, Eurojust, Spanish authorities, and French judicial authorities. Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua O. Mausner of the National Security Division and James E. Dochterman of the Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section prosecuted this case.


title: District of Arizona Charges 216 Individuals for Immigration-Related Criminal Conduct this Week

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – During the week of enforcement operations from July 25 through July 31, 2026, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 216 individuals. Specifically, the United States filed 106 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 98 aliens for illegally entering the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States filed cases against 12 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona. These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE-ERO), ICE- Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Recent matters of interest include: United States v. Sarah Desiree Rios-Martin. On July 29, 2026, Sarah Desiree Rios-Martin was charged by criminal complaint with Transportation of an Illegal Alien. On July 28, 2026, an Arizona Department of Public Safety Trooper saw a blue Volvo SUV abruptly veer across the gore point to an exit. The Trooper initiated a traffic stop and the driver of the Volvo, Rios-Martin, pulled over on the dirt shoulder of the frontage road. After he pulled over, three Hispanic males wearing camouflage clothing got out of the Volvo and ran away while Rios-Martin and the front seat passenger remained in the car. Border Patrol Agents (BPAs) arrived on the scene and searched for the passengers who had fled. Following footprints, agents found one of the passengers hiding in a tree. The BPAs determined that he was a citizen of Mexico, unlawfully present in the United States. [Case Number: 26-MJ-5354] United States v. Tucto-Rivera. On July 27, 2026, Hector Maruicio Tucto-Rivera was charged by criminal complaint with Reentry of a Removed Alien. Tucto-Rivera had been previously removed from the United States on June 20, 2017, after being convicted of felony aggravated assault in the Superior Court of Arizona. Tucto-Rivera was sentenced to 18 months of probation in that case. [Case Number: 26-MJ-5337] The cases are 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. A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-128_July 31, 2026 Immigration Enforcement # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Two Additional Ophthalmology Practices Agree to Pay $2.3M to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Claims to Medicare and Medicaid for Cranial Ultrasounds

component: Civil Division

body_text: New York ophthalmology practices Mark D. Fromer, P.C. doing business as Fromer Eye Centers and Floral Park Ophthalmology P.C. have agreed to pay a total of $2.3 million to resolve alleged violations of the False Claims Act arising from their billing for trans-cranial doppler ultrasounds (TCDs) through a kickback arrangement with a third-party testing company. The Estate of Mark Fromer, the former owner of Fromer Eye Centers, also joined in the settlement with the practice. Both practices have agreed to cooperate with the Justice Department’s ongoing investigations of other participants in the alleged scheme. “The integrity of healthcare decision-making depends on sound medical advice that is free from undue influence of illegal kickbacks and other improper arrangements,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will continue to hold accountable healthcare providers who engage in such schemes.” “Medical service providers who place profit above patients not only compromise the integrity of our health care system, but patients’ care,” stated U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “Our office will continue working with our partners to combat fraud against our federal health care programs.” “Kickback arrangements work to corrupt impartial medical decision-making and drive up health care costs for everyone,” said Special Agent in Charge Isaac M. Bledsoe of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud federal health care programs.” The settlements announced today resolve allegations that the settling practices knowingly submitted, and caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare (and, with respect to Fromer Eye, Medicaid) for medically unnecessary TCDs. The United States alleges that the settling practices performed TCDs on thousands of patients and billed Medicare and Medicaid hundreds of dollars per test. Before the patients received the results of the test, the practices and the third-party testing company allegedly identified the patients as having received a serious diagnosis that could qualify the patient for reimbursement of a TCD. However, the United States alleged that nearly all patients who received TCDs never had that diagnosis, and it was not reflected in the patient’s medical history or in the TCD results. In addition, Floral Park Ophthalmology allegedly received remuneration paid by the third-party testing company to induce the practice to refer its Medicare and Medicaid patients to the testing provider for TCDs. The United States alleged that as a result of this scheme, the settling practices submitted, or caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare and Medicaid for TCDs that were medically unnecessary, that were premised on false diagnoses, and that resulted from violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute and the Stark Law. As a result of the settlements, Fromer Eye Centers and the Estate of Mark Fromer will pay $1,800,000 and Floral Park Ophthalmology will pay $500,000. Of the total settlement amounts, $384,000 will be paid to the State of New York for its share of Medicaid, which is a jointly funded federal and state program. The civil settlements resolved claims in a lawsuit filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the Government’s recovery. The qui tam was filed by a whistleblower who will receive approximately $132,000 in connection with the settlement with Fromer Eye Centers. The settlements were the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, with assistance from HHS-OIG and the FBI. The United States previously resolved similar allegations against Brandon Eye Associates P.A. , Pinellas Eye Care, P.A. (doing business as Gulfcoast Eye Care) , Clay Eye Holdings LLC, Retina Macula Specialist of Miami LLC, Florida Eye Institute P.A., Miami Eye LLC, and Kendall Eye Institute Inc . The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates 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 HHS at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). 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. Trial Attorney Nelson Wagner in the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mamie Wise for the Middle District of Florida handled the matter. The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.


title: Turkey-Based Global Director of Sham Charity Arrested and Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to Hamas

body_text: A three-count complaint was unsealed today charging Mohammad Yousef Hasna, also known as “Orhan Korkmaz” and “Abu al-Baraa,” 45, of Istanbul, Turkey, with conspiring to provide material support to Hamas, a U.S. designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO), and related terrorism financing charges. As alleged, Hasna used his senior role at a purported global humanitarian organization to coordinate directly with Hamas’s senior leadership regarding the delivery of funds and supplies to Gaza, and the distribution of those funds and supplies at Hamas leadership’s instructions. Hasna was arrested in the United Kingdom today. “The money that flows from sham charities like the one described in the complaint fuels Hamas’s terrorist activities, including the atrocities the group committed on October 7,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “Hamas cannot function without injections of money through its illicit financial networks. The National Security Division will continue to work tirelessly to disrupt Hamas’s operations, including through the prosecutions such as this.” “Mohammad Hasna is alleged to have abused his position as the global director of a purported humanitarian organization to raise money and provide funds and supplies to Hamas, a brutal terrorist organization responsible for the murders of dozens of Americans and over a thousand other innocent victims, including as part of the heinous atrocities of October 7,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald for the Southern District of New York. “Hasna worked closely with Hamas’s senior leadership to deliver supplies, food, funding, and other materials to terrorists under the guise of humanitarian aid. Our arrest of Mohammad Hasna demonstrates our commitment to dismantling Hamas’s illicit global financing networks and the sham charities that support terrorist organizations and their violent aims using the lie of philanthropy.” “The accused allegedly used a purported humanitarian aid organization to raise funds and provide financing and supplies to Hamas, a ruthless international terrorist organization,” said Assistant Director Jarod Brown of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “According to the criminal complaint, the defendant coordinated his actions closely with a senior leader of Hamas and knew the resources were going to that group rather than to needy non-combatants. The FBI is committed to cutting off funding and other assistance to terrorist organizations and will continue to work closely with our U.S. government and international partners to present a united front against global terrorism.” According to the allegations contained in the complaint, Hasna is the global director of a purported international charity registered in the United Kingdom (the “Sham Charity”). In that role, Hasna allegedly provided financing and commodities to Hamas, including by coordinating extensively with individuals at the highest levels of Hamas. As alleged, Hasna worked closely with senior Hamas leader Ghazi Hamad (Hamad), a member of Hamas’s governing body known as the Politburo and the Minster for the Ministry of Social Development in Gaza (MoSD), a putative governmental agency that is controlled by Hamas. Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiyya, commonly known as Hamas, is a terrorist organization that was founded in 1987, and has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the United States since 1997. From its inception, Hamas’s stated purpose has been to create an Islamic Palestinian state throughout Israel by eliminating the State of Israel through violent holy war, or jihad. Hamas also promotes attacks against the United States and its citizens, and over more than two decades, Hamas has murdered and injured dozens of Americans as part of its campaign of violence and terror. On October 7, 2023, Hamas committed its most violent, large-scale terrorist attack to date (the “October 7 Hamas Massacres”) when Hamas sent more than 2,000-armed fighters into farms and towns in southern Israel, where they carried out the massacres of over a thousand people and the kidnappings of 251 hostages. Following the October 7 Hamas Massacres, in its disclosures to UK authorities, the Sham Charity reported that its total gross income nearly doubled from approximately $41.8 million USD in fiscal year 2023, to approximately $81.56 million USD in fiscal year 2024. The Sham Charity represented that it spent approximately $91 million on charitable activities in the fiscal year ending July 31, 2025. Since at least 2023, Hasna and Hamad coordinated the delivery of purported humanitarian aid organized by or allocated to the Sham Charity into Gaza for Hamas’s benefit, repeatedly coordinating the delivery of supplies, food, and other items by Hasna (under the guise of humanitarian aid from the Sham Charity) directly into Hamad’s and Hamas’s hands. In coordination with Hamad and at Hamad’s direction, Hasna allegedly arranged (1) deliveries of cash to Hamad; (2) the procurement of supplies for import to Gaza; (3) transportation of supplies into Gaza by truck from Egypt and elsewhere; (4) deliveries to warehouses controlled by the Sham Charity or by MoSD, according to Hamad’s instructions; and (5) distribution of those supplies to lists of recipients identified by Hamad. As part of this scheme, Hasna and Hamad concealed where the supplies were being delivered or stored, including by misrepresenting that supplies were being delivered to MoSD when in fact they were being delivered to warehouses controlled by Hasna; having supplies delivered initially to MoSD but then redistributed to the actual receiving parties; and taking pictures and videos of the supplies that omitted any signage inside the warehouses that would reveal their location or control. Hasna is charged with conspiring to provide material support to Hamas, conspiring to finance terrorism, and financing terrorism, each of which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine their sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division thanks the U.K. authorities and the Israeli Security Agency for their assistance with this investigation. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the United Kingdom’s law enforcement authorities provided significant assistance. This case is being handled by the Southern District of New York’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah L. Kushner, Michael D. Lockard, and Juliana N. Murray are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Alicia Cook of the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Justice Department Announces Funding Opportunities to Advance Public Safety Efforts Across Tribal Nations

component: Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS)

body_text: Note: View Notice of Funding Opportunity here . The Justice Department today announced the opening of the Fiscal Year 2026 Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for comprehensive funding to American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes to develop comprehensive approaches to public safety and victimization issues. The department anticipates awarding more than $107 million in grant funding. Administered by the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) and Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office), The NOFO includes guidance on how federally recognized Tribal governments and Tribal consortia can apply for funding to aid in the development of a comprehensive and coordinated approach to public safety and victimization. “The Department is dedicated to promoting public safety and supporting victims in Tribal Nations,” said Associate Attorney General Stanley E. Woodward, Jr. “Through these grant funding opportunities, tribes can receive support to develop comprehensive plans that identify gaps, strengthen coordination and address the underlying conditions that contribute to criminal and social disorder. This Department is proud to contribute resources to ensuring the overall success and improvement of tribal justice systems.” This NOFO responds directly to Tribal leaders’ requests to improve and simplify the DOJ grant-making process by combining many of its Tribal government-specific funding opportunities into one NOFO and requiring only one application. CTAS funding can be used for a range of public safety and justice-related projects and services, including strengthening law enforcement through hiring, training, and purchasing equipment; improving Tribal justice systems to address and prevent crime; improving justice system physical infrastructure; increasing access to substance use treatment and recovery support services; and reducing juvenile delinquency and improving youth outcomes. In addition, the grants serve American Indian and Alaska Native victims of child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence and elder abuse. In FY 2025, the department awarded 108 CTAS grants, amounting to more than $99 million in CTAS funding to Tribes and Tribal consortia across the United States. The grants.gov application deadline for CTAS is Oct. 15, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET, and the JustGrants deadline is Oct. 22, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET. The department will also facilitate a series of webinars to guide applicants through the application process. The full list of available webinars and registration links are available here . About the Office of Justice Programs The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation's capacity to prevent and reduce crime; promote fair and impartial administration of justice; assist victims; and uphold the rule of law. More information about OJP and its program offices – the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Bureau of Justice Statistics, National Institute of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Office for Victims of Crime, and Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking or SMART Office – can be found at ojp.gov . About the Office of Community Orienting Police The COPS Office is the component of the U.S. Department of Justice responsible for advancing the practice of community policing and the Administration’s priority of Making America Safe Again by supporting the nation’s state, local, territorial and Tribal law enforcement agencies through information and grant resources.


title: CEO of Skincare Company Pleads Guilty to FDCA Charges and Mail Fraud

component: Criminal Division

body_text: Bryce Cleveland, the President and CEO of Scalpa, Inc., pleaded guilty today to three charges related to Scalpa’s selling of skincare products that had not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Cleveland, 42, of Scottsdale, Arizona, pleaded guilty to mail fraud, introduction of an adulterated device into interstate commerce, and introduction of an unapproved new drug into interstate commerce. Cleveland was apprehended late last year in Colombia and removed back to the United States where he was arrested on an outstanding federal warrant by the U.S. Marshals Service after an indictment against him was returned in July 2024. In 2015, Scalpa was a for-profit corporation incorporated in Arizona that marketed and sold medical devices and drug products intended to affect the structure and function of the human body. Between March 2018 and December 2020, Cleveland devised a fraudulent scheme to unlawfully enrich himself by marketing and delivering, and causing others to market and deliver, unapproved devices to consumers, including the ScalpaJECT Hyaluronic Acid, and Hyaluron Pen, while making false representations that the devices were not subject to FDA regulation. Similarly, Cleveland introduced and delivered, and caused others to introduce and deliver, the unapproved new drug “Scalpatox” into commerce. The ScalpaJECT Hyaluronic Pen, Hylaron Pen, and similar unapproved and misbranded devices and drugs are especially concerning from a public health perspective because injectable drug products can pose risks of serious harm to users. Injectable products are delivered directly into the body, sometimes directly into the bloodstream, and therefore, bypass some of the body’s key defenses against toxins and microorganisms that can lead to serious and life-threatening conditions. Scalpatox was an unapproved and misbranded botulinum toxin product. On Nov. 5, 2025, the FDA issued a warning to owners of websites illegally marketing unapproved and misbranded botulinum toxin products, commonly called Botox. The agency is aware of adverse events associated with unapproved and misbranded botulinum toxin products, including botulism symptoms. Cleveland has agreed to be sentenced to a prison term of between four and eight years. He has also agreed to pay restitution for the entire scope of his criminal conduct, and to forfeit $800,000. The FDA Office of Criminal Investigations investigated the case with assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Valuable assistance was provided by the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and the Judicial Attaché Office in Bogotá. The U.S. Marshals Service provided exceptional assistance in locating the defendant in Colombia and facilitating his return to the United States. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corey Hall and Randy Ramseyer for the Western District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Taylor Broadbent of the Criminal Division’s Health and Safety Unit are prosecuting the case. The Health and Safety Unit within the Department’s Criminal Division works with law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute violations of federal laws designed to protect public health and safety. The unit focuses on corporations and individuals who make and sell dangerous drugs, food, and other consumer products that could cause significant harm to Americans. For more information, see https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/health-safety-unit.


title: Brother of Notorious Mexican Cartel Leader Pleads Guilty to  International Drug Trafficking and Firearm Offenses

body_text: A Mexican national pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine for unlawful importation into the United States, and using, carrying, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy. According to court documents, Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, 67, of Michoacán, Mexico, trafficked cocaine and methamphetamine into the United States for Mexico-based cartels for over two decades. From around 2002 to 2010, Oseguera Cervantes operated as a member of the Milenio Cartel in Jalisco, Mexico, overseeing narcotics sales, protecting territories from rival cartels, and supervising and maintaining the operations of methamphetamine laboratories. He procured precursor chemicals for the manufacture of methamphetamine and distributed methamphetamine and cocaine destined for the United States. The court filings state that since around 2010, Oseguera Cervantes worked with and reported directly to his notorious and now-deceased brother, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “Mencho,” who co-founded and led the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG). The CJNG is one of the most prolific and dangerous drug cartels in Mexico, based in the State of Jalisco, which traffics multi-tonnage quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine into the United States. Oseguera Cervantes furthered CJNG’s drug trafficking operations, including by supplying precursor chemicals to CJNG methamphetamine laboratories and distributing cocaine and methamphetamine for the CJNG. He also collected drug proceeds and managed CJNG’s money laundering activities, such as transferring drug proceeds from the United States to Mexico through currency exchange locations. When collecting drug proceeds or attending meetings to discuss drug trafficking, Oseguera Cervantes armed himself with a pistol. Oseguera Cervantes pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 500 grams or more of methamphetamine destined to the United States, as well as using, carrying, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 13 and faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of two consecutive life sentences in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Administrator Terrance C. Cole of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) made the announcement. The DEA’s Special Operations Division Bilateral Investigations Unit Los Angeles is investigating the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance to Oseguera Cervantes’ February 2025 transfer from Mexico to the United States pursuant to Mexico’s National Security law. The Department of Justice thanks the Government of Mexico for its assistance in securing Oseguera Cervantes’ presence in the United States for prosecution. Chief Kaitlin Sahni of the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Unit (NDDU) and Trial Attorneys Lernik Begian, Douglas Meisel, and Nicole Lockhart, of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section are prosecuting the case. The Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section’s (MNF) mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations. MNF’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Unit investigates and prosecutes the top command and control elements of international drug cartels, drug trafficking organizations and related transnational criminal organizations. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.


title: West Tennessee Woman Sentenced to 16 Months for Stolen Valor

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Memphis, TN – Amanda Kate Walker Bass , 36 , was sentenced to 16 months in prison for executing a scheme to defraud, whereby she claimed to be a U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran. United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today. According to information provided in court, Bass claimed to be a multiple-time deployed U.S. Marine Corps veteran who was the lone survivor of an enemy ambush in Afghanistan in 2010 that left her seriously wounded. She used this fictitious narrative for financial gain by having a GoFundMe page set up for her benefit and sharing the story online and otherwise in order to gain donations, free labor, and other benefits. In July 2021, she induced The Daily Memphian to publish an article about her titled, “Disabled, legally blind veteran now dealer of luxury goods.” Bass never served in the armed forces. On February 5, 2026, Bass pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of fraudulent use of military medals, otherwise known as “Stolen Valor.” U.S. District Judge Mark S. Norris sentenced Bass to 16 months in prison to be followed by a three-year period of supervised release. The court will enter a judgment of restitution at a later date. Victims of Bass’s fraud who have not already submitted claims for restitution are encouraged to reach out to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. There is no parole in the federal system. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, “Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces represent the very best ideals of service and sacrifice for our nation, and our office will always protect and vindicate their interests. Fraudulently claiming military service or medals for unjust personal enrichment not only victimizes our military heroes, but also preys upon the trust that citizens have in our great veterans. We are pleased to impose a real consequence on this faker and thief.” The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). Assistant United States Attorney William C. Bateman III prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States with assistance from the State of Tennessee’s Twenty-Fifth Judicial District Attorney General’s Office. ### For more information, please contact the media relations team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov . Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.


title: Utah Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Sexual Exploitation of Two Minor  Victims and Illegal Reentry

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Salt Lake City, Utah man was sentenced today for sexually exploiting two minor victims and illegally reentering the United States. Erik Santana-Garcia, 34, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to 20 years in federal prison without parole, followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Santana-Garcia received a 20-year total sentence for interstate transportation of a minor with intent to engage in illegal sexual activity, possession of child pornography, and illegally reentering the United States following a prior deportation. According to court documents, Santana-Garcia, who pleaded guilty on March 3, 2026, transported a minor, identified as Minor Victim 1, across state lines with the intent to engage in illegal sexual activity with the minor victim. Santana-Garcia left Utah with Minor Victim 1 on Nov. 10, 2024. Santana-Garcia intended to transport Minor Victim 1 to New York, but they were located in Missouri on Nov. 12, 2024, by officers with the Oak Grove, Missouri Police Department. Investigators with the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations later found child pornography depicting Minor Victim 2 on a phone seized from Santana-Garcia at his arrest. Santana-Garcia was an alien who had been previously deported and removed from the United States on multiple occasions, most recently on March 6, 2019. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alison Dunning. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Oak Grove, Missouri Police Department. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources." Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Kansas City Woman Sentenced to Seven Years for Possession and Intent to Distribute Meth

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. April Cevasco, 48, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 84 months in federal prison without parole for possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Cevasco pleaded guilty on Jan. 2, 2026. On Jan. 12, 2024, Riverside Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop of Cevasco. After a drug‑detection canine alerted to the vehicle, officers searched the car and located a purple duffle bag containing a loaded .38‑caliber revolver and drug paraphernalia. Officers also recovered a large amount of cash from Cevasco representing proceeds of drug distribution. Cevasco had previously possessed two pounds of methamphetamine for distribution and the quantity recovered by officers was what remained. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James Kirkpatrick. It was investigated by the Riverside Police Department and the Jackson County Drug Task Force.


title: Guatemalan National Pleads Guilty for Illegal Reentry into the United States After a Prior Deportation

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Guatemalan National who was previously indicted by a federal grand jury, pleaded guilty to the offense of illegal reentry into the United States after being previously deported. Julien Cristobal-Perez, 62, pleaded guilty before District Judge Douglas Harpool to the sole count of the indictment, related to his illegal re-entry after being previously deported from the United States. Under federal statute, illegally reentering into the United States after being previously deported is in direct violation of existing federal immigration law and is subject to a sentence of up to two years imprisonment. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Monett, Missouri, Police Department. Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Guatemalan National Indicted for Illegal Reentry into the United States After Prior Deportation

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Guatemalan National was indicted by a federal grand jury for illegal re-entry into the United States after being previously deported. Isaias Hernandez-Sales, 40, was indicted for an offense that occurred on June 20, 2026, in Newton County, Mo., related to his illegal reentry after being previously deported from the United States. Under federal statute, illegally reentering into the United States after being previously deported is in direct violation of existing federal immigration law and is subject to a sentence of up to two years imprisonment. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Neosho, Missouri Police Department. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. Operation Take Back America This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Criminal Complaint Filed Against Lee’s Summit, Missouri Man for Ponzi Scheme Defrauding Millions of Dollars from Investors

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A criminal complaint has been filed against a Lee’s Summit, Mo. man, alleging he operated an ongoing investment scheme that defrauded millions of dollars from victims. Signed by United States Magistrate Judge W. Brian Gaddy, the complaint alleges that Trevor Uhls, 29, operated a Ponzi scheme that fraudulently obtained more than $2 million from at least 24 individual investors through false and misleading representations. Investor funds were allegedly misappropriated for Uhls’ personal benefit. This is one of many federal fraud cases pursued under the leadership of President Donald Trump and through the establishment of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. The complaint charges that on or about June 12, 2025, Uhls text messaged an Independence, Mo., investor claiming that the investor could earn 8.5% interest by pooling his money with others for a storage unit investment. The investor wired $15,000 to Uhls’ checking account. The complaint alleges Uhls used that investor’s money plus another $5,000 to purchase a Rolex FMT-Master II watch and a Rolex Jubilee bracelet from Meierotto Jewelers for a total amount of $20,155.35. According to the complaint, the storage unit investment Uhls offered the victim was part of a fraudulent scheme and that Uhls made false statements to solicit funds to further the scheme. A review of Uhls’ financial records found no evidence that he invested the victim’s money in storage units, according to the complaint. On July 20, 2026, United States District Judge Stephen R. Bough issued a temporary restraining order against Uhls, ordering him to, among other things, stop committing wire fraud; soliciting, receiving, or accepting any funds from investors; and contacting people that he had previously asked for money. A motion filed with the complaint seeking Uhls’ detention without bond alleges that Uhls continued to contact victims and confronted them about their cooperation with law enforcement. The charges contained in this complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. Under federal statutes, Uhls is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole for wire fraud and up to 10 years in federal prison without parole for money laundering. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dave Ketchmark. It was investigated by Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI). National Fraud Enforcement Division On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.