title: D.C. Felon Who Fled from Officers Sentenced in Possession of a Loaded Glock 9mm Pistol

body_text: WASHINGTON – James Gaskins, 30, a previously convicted felon residing in the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 26 months in prison in connection with his possession of a loaded Glock 9mm pistol that was recovered after he attempted to flee from police in Southeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Gaskins pleaded guilty on Sept. 12, 2025, before Judge Amir H. Ali to one count of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. In addition to the 26-month prison term, Judge Ali ordered Gaskins to serve three years of supervised release. Federal prosecutors had requested a 41-month prison term. According to court papers, on Oct. 4, 2025, officers from the Metropolitan Police Department observed Gaskins and a co-defendant attempting to get into a building on the 2800 block of 28th Street SE and attempted to stop them. Gaskins fled and ran into an alley between two residences. As officers chased him, Gaskins tossed a firearm. Officers later recovered a Glock 17 9mm semiautomatic pistol from along Gaskins’ flight path. The firearm was loaded with one round in the chamber and an additional 16 rounds of ammunition in a 17-round capacity magazine. A forensic test of the Glock linked Gaskins’ DNA to the firearm. Following his arrest, officers searched a Honda Odyssey that matched keys found on Gaskins’ co-defendant and found a satchel with Gaskins’ identification inside. In the satchel with the ID, officers found a plastic bag containing 11 green “zips” with a powder-like substance, and a separate rock-like substance broken up into a plastic bag. The substances later tested positive for cocaine base. Gaskins has a prior felony conviction and was therefore legally barred from possessing any firearm. In March 2023, he was convicted in Superior Court for unlawful possession of a firearm. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department with the valuable assistance of the FBI Washington Field Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Caelainn Carney. This case was prosecuted under the Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful initiative. 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. 25cr39


title: Carjacking and Firearms Offense Leads to Guilty Plea from D.C. Man

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Dominick Carter, 22, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty Tuesday for a carjacking and firearms offenses committed in January 2025, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Carter pleaded guilty in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, to one count of carjacking and one count of carrying a pistol without a license. The sentencing guidelines for carjacking are 36-84 months with a 7-year mandatory minimum. For the charge of carrying a pistol without a license, the guidelines are 6-24 months. Carter’s co-defendant, De’Shean Dean, accepted a guilty plea last year for carjacking and carrying a dangerous weapon. Dean was sentenced to seven years. Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno scheduled sentencing for October 2, 2026. According to the government’s evidence, on the afternoon of January 21, 2025, the two victims drove from Maryland to an apartment building located at 1641 W Street, SE, to purchase marijuana. When they arrived at that location, the victims met with the defendant and entered an apartment unit. Once inside, co-defendant De’Shean Dean, emerged from the kitchen with a firearm, pointed it at the victims and told them not to move. Shortly thereafter, Carter and Dean made the decision to drive the victims to the Anacostia Metro Station. Carter got into the driver’s seat of victim 1’s car, victim 2 sat in the passenger seat, victim 1 sat in the rear driver’s seat, and Dean sat in the rear passenger seat. Once they arrived at the Anacostia Metro Station, the two co-defendants ordered the victims out of the car. The victims complied and exited the car, at which point the co-defendants fled the scene in the victim’s car. On the day of the offense, Carter was in possession of a firearm. The defendant was not licensed to carry the firearm in the District of Columbia. Carter was arrested on February 28, 2026, and has been in custody since. Joining the announcement was Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll of the Metropolitan Police Department. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katerina Qesari. 2026 CF3 003005


title: Waterbury Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Firearms

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY PRIMAVERA, 22, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 18 months of imprisonment and two years of supervised release for trafficking firearms. According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2024, the FBI New Haven Safe Streets Task Force investigated a drug trafficking organization led by Primavera’s associate. The investigation included controlled purchases and the seizure of various narcotics, including multi-colored pills pressed to look like ecstasy and containing methamphetamine and metonitazene, a synthetic opioid with a potency similar to or greater than fentanyl. During the investigation, law enforcement seized more than six kilograms of methamphetamine pills, approximately 600 grams of metonitazene pills, and approximately 300 grams of pills containing a synthetic amphetamine. In October 2024, Primavera’s associate also sold a stolen pistol and a Polymer 80 handgun (“ghost gun”) to a convicted felon. The investigation revealed that Primavera had supplied the two firearms involved in the transaction. Primavera was arrested on May 20, 2025. On March 10, 2026, he pleaded guilty to engaging in a firearms trafficking conspiracy. Primavera, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on October 14. This matter is being investigated by the FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force, the New Haven Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie T. Levick and Brendan J. Keefe.


title: New York Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation Offenses

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that NICOLAS BROWN, also known as “Breezy,” 30, of New York, New York, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny in Hartford to 180 months of imprisonment and 10 years of supervised release for child exploitation offenses. According to court documents and statements made in court, on multiple occasions in March 2024, Brown arranged Uber trips to pick up one to three teenage girls, two of whom were under the age of 18, from a state-run group home in Connecticut and deliver them to him at various Connecticut hotels and shopping malls where he engaged in sexual conduct with one of the minor victims. On one occasion, an Uber trip that Brown arranged took the two minors to meet him at the Bridgeport train station. Brown and the two minors traveled to Manhattan, and then to a hotel in South Hackensack, New Jersey, where they stayed for several days. On March 20, 2024, Brown was located at a hotel in Danbury and arrested on state charges. An iPhone seized from Brown at the time of his arrest revealed videos depicting child sex abuse, including videos that that he took engaging in sexual conduct with a minor victim. Brown has been detained since his state arrest. On December 20, 2024, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of production of child pornography and one count of possessing and accessing with intent to view child pornography. This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Hartford Police Department, and the Danbury Police Department, with the assistance of the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Lembo. U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the State’s Attorney’s Office for the Judicial District of Danbury for its cooperation in investigating and prosecuting this matter. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com .


title: Ledyard Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation Offense

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JASON GIBSON, 46, of Ledyard, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to 120 months of imprisonment and 20 years of supervised release for possession of child pornography. According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2020, Gibson was convicted in state court of possession of child pornography and sentenced to 10 years of incarceration, suspended after 30 months, and 10 years of probation. He was released from state custody in January 2021. In April 2023, Gibson’s probation was revoked for violating the conditions of his release and he was sentenced to 90 months of incarceration, suspended after six months, and 94 months of probation. He was released from state custody in August 2023. On March 6, 2024, state probation officers made a routine home visit to Gibson’s residence and seized an unapproved cellphone that also contained a dark web application. Subsequent analysis of the phone revealed more than 200 child sex abuse images and videos, and numerous text messages with links to access child pornography on the dark web. On April 2, 2025, probation officers made another home visit to Gibson’s residence and seized an external hard drive. Analysis of the hard drive revealed more than 18,000 images and 1,400 videos depicting child sex abuse. Gibson has been detained since that date. Judge Williams ordered Gibson to pay a total of $181,500 in restitution to 24 victims depicted in the images and videos he possessed. On January 13, 2026, Gibson pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography. The penalties in this matter were enhanced because of Gibson’s prior state convictions. This investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the New Haven Police Department, with the assistance of the Town of Groton Police Department, the Watertown Police Department, the Westport Police Department, and the Connecticut Court Support Services Division – Adult Probation Services. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Gordon through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com .


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

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that BELIN ANTONIO GONZALEZ-GARCIA, also known as Belin Garcia and Belin Gonzalez, 39, a citizen of Honduras, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with illegal reentry of a removed alien. As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in October 2009, Gonzalez-Garcia, under the name Belin Gonzalez, was convicted in Connecticut state court of assault in the first degree and sentenced to 18 years of imprisonment, suspended after seven years, and three years of probation. In April 2015, Gonzalez-Garcia was removed from the U.S. to Honduras. In September 2016, U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) encountered and arrested Gonzalez-Garcia in Brownsville, Texas. He was subsequently convicted in the Southern District of Texas of illegal reentry of a removed alien and sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment. In December 2018, Gonzalez-Garcia was again removed to Honduras. The complaint further alleges that, in August 2020, USBP encountered and arrested Gonzalez-Garcia in La Joya, Texas. In January 2021, he was convicted in the Southern District of Texas of illegal reentry of a removed alien and sentenced to 37 months of imprisonment. In June 2023, he was again removed to Honduras. In December 2023, USBP encountered and arrested Gonzalez-Garcia in Eagle Pass, Texas. In January 2024, he was again removed to Honduras. The complaint further alleges that, on June 7, 2026, Connecticut State Police arrested Gonzalez-Garcia, who identified himself as “Belin Garcia,” in Andover, Connecticut, following a car accident. Gonzalez-Garcia was charged in Connecticut Superior Court in Rockville with illegal operation of motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs, evading responsibility – injury/property damage, failure to drive in proper lane, and operating a motor vehicle without a license. He was released on a $2,500 bond. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took Gonzalez-Garcia into custody on June 23, 2026. Gonzalez-Garcia appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford and was ordered detained. If convicted of the charge of unlawful reentry, Gonzalez-Garcia faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This matter is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neeraj N. Patel and Michael S. Deel. 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: Hartford Man Charged with Child Exploitation Offenses

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the FBI, today announced that ABISAI RODRIGUEZ, 38, of Hartford, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with multiple child exploitation offenses. As alleged in court documents, in December 2010, Rodriguez was convicted in Connecticut state court of possession of child pornography in the first degree. In November 2018, Rodriguez was convicted in Connecticut state court of illegal sexual contact with a minor and, in February 2019, was sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment, suspended after five years, and 10 years of probation for the offense. He was released from state custody in January 2023. On March 23, 2026, Rodriguez was arrested by Manchester Police for failure to register as a sex offender. Following Rodriguez’s arrest for this offense and for violating his state probation related to his arrest, investigators searched Rodriguez’s two cellphones and his laptop computer. One of the cellphones contained approximately 211 images and 154 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. Rodriguez was using encrypted messaging apps to trade and store the child sex abuse material. The criminal complaint charges Rodriguez with both receipt and distribution of child pornography, offenses that each carry a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, and with possession of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. The penalties in this matter are enhanced because of Rodriguez’s prior state convictions. Rodriguez has been detained since his federal arrest on June 11, 2026. U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that a criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, with the assistance of the Connecticut Court Support Services Division – Adult Probation Services, the Connecticut Computer Crimes and Electronic Evidence Laboratory, and the Farmington Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis L. Beyerlein. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com .


title: Long Beach Man Sentenced to 26½ Years in Federal Prison for Armed Robbery Spree that Ended in Fatal Car Crash During Police Pursuit

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A Long Beach man was sentenced today to 318 months in federal prison for committing armed robberies of three Los Angeles County businesses in September 2023, a crime spree that ended in a high-speed police chase that resulted in the defendant hitting and killing an innocent bystander with a stolen car. Kaelenn Sinaukoko Maea, 29, was sentenced by United States District Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald. Restitution will be determined at a later date. Maea pleaded guilty in April 2025 to one count of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act), one count of Hobbs Act robbery, and one count of possessing, using, carrying, brandishing, and discharging a short-barreled rifle in furtherance, and during and in relation to, a crime of violence. According to his plea agreement, Maea and his accomplices committed three armed robberies during a one-week span in late September 2023: specifically, a Downey liquor store, a Compton gasoline station, and a South El Monte convenience store, netting a total of approximately $5,050 in stolen cash. Inside the Downey liquor store, Maea discharged a short-barreled rifle. While inside the Compton gasoline station, he brandished a short-barreled rifle at an employee and stood in the doorway to prevent the customers or employees inside from escaping. He also brandished the rifle at the South El Monte convenience store. On October 9, 2023, Maea drove a stolen Range Rover used in the latter two robberies and fled from law enforcement, driving recklessly and at a high rate of speed. Shortly after fleeing, Maea crashed the stolen getaway car into a civilian motorist, killing the victim. Nevertheless, he continued that dangerous flight, hitting even more cars and injuring another civilian motorist. Maea then fled on foot and hid underneath a house until law enforcement arrested him. The three co-defendants charged in this case have pleaded guilty to federal criminal charges. Isaiah Villasana, 27, of Carson, is serving a 10-year federal prison sentence after pleading guilty in April 2025 to a firearms charge for holding a victim at gunpoint during the Downey liquor store robbery. Mathew Salanoa, 32, of Placentia, is serving a 49-month federal prison sentence for participating in the Compton robbery after pleading guilty in August 2025 to one count of Hobbs Act robbery conspiracy. Salagi Iakopo, 26, of Compton, pleaded guilty in August 2025 to one count of Hobbs Act robbery conspiracy and is scheduled for sentencing on August 19. The FBI and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department investigated this matter. The Los Angeles Police Department, the El Monte Police Department, and the Downey Police Department provided assistance. Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Butler and Jena A. MacCabe of the Major Crimes Section prosecuted this case.


title: Sells Man Pleads Guilty to Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – Mario JB Juan, 39 years old, of Sells, Arizona, pleaded guilty on June 26, to one count of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 8, 2026, before United States District Judge Angela M. Martinez. Juan admitted that in 2015, he knowingly engaged in sexual contact with the victim, who was under the age of 12 at the time. Juan was employed at the Head Start Program in Sells at the time. A conviction for Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life. Anyone with information regarding this defendant or who may have also been a victim of this defendant is encouraged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips.fbi.gov. The FBI Phoenix Division’s Tucson office conducted the investigation, with assistance from the Tohono O’odham Nation Police Department. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: 25-CR-01242-TUC-AMM RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-121_Juan # # # 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: Three Texas Tax Preparers Sentenced to Prison as Part of False Tax Return Scheme

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: Three Texas tax return preparers – a tax return preparation business owner and two of his employees – were sentenced today to 50 months, 26 months, and 18 months in prison for their roles in conspiring to file false tax returns on behalf of clients. Two other tax return preparers who admitted to filing false tax returns for clients as part of the same scheme still await sentencing. “No matter the scheme, the agency, or the program involved, those who cheat on their taxes for personal enrichment undermine the very foundation of public trust,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “The Fraud Division is working across all fronts to detect, investigate, and prosecute criminal tax violations. We will protect the integrity of our tax system and ensure that those who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of honest citizens face the full weight of federal prosecution.” “Though they used a pencil and paper rather than a gun and a mask, these defendants are nothing more than common thieves,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “The United States is ‘We the People,’ and when you steal from the people, we will hold you to account. Thank you to our partners at the National Fraud Enforcement Division for their great work here on behalf of the American people.” According to court documents and statements made in court, from approximately January 2019 to October 2022, Mathews Chacko, Anish Pillai, and Subhala Suresh conspired to defraud the United States by filing tax returns for clients that contained false business expenses. These false expenses artificially reduced the taxes that the clients owed to the IRS, which enabled them to receive refunds to which they were not entitled. At times, Chacko and his co-conspirators included false business expenses on client returns without their clients’ knowledge, then sometimes provided false explanations to clients justifying the false items. At other times, Chacko and his co-conspirators informed clients by email that they were submitting false information to the IRS. Chacko admitted to causing a tax loss to the United States exceeding $3.5 million but less than $9.5 million. Pillai admitted that he caused approximately $1.5 million to $3.5 million in losses to the United States. Suresh admitted that she caused approximately $250,000 to $550,000 in losses to the United States. Chacko pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the IRS. Pillai and Suresh both pleaded guilty to aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return. Chacko was sentenced to 50 months in prison, Pillai was sentenced to 26 months in prison, and Suresh was sentenced to 18 months in prison. IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case. Acting Assistant Deputy Chief Marissa R. Brodney and Trial Attorney Michael L. Jones of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section prosecuted the case. 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: Nihilistic Violent Extremist Sentenced to 40 Years in Prison in San Antonio

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: A San Antonio-based member of a Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) group related to the 764 network was sentenced today to 40 years in prison, lifetime supervised release, and to pay $10,000 in restitution for racketeering activity and multiple acts relating to the sexual exploitation of children. According to court documents, Alexis Aldair Chavez, also known as Zack and Zack8884, 19, was an administrator and online leader of the ‘8884’ network, which is a network related to 764. These NVEs share accelerationist goals that include social unrest and the downfall of the current world order, including the U.S. Government. Members of 8884 work in concert with one another towards a common purpose of destroying civilized society through the corruption and exploitation of vulnerable populations, including minors. NVEs engage in criminal conduct within the United States and abroad, in furtherance of political, social, or religious goals that derive primarily from a hatred of society at large and a desire to bring about its collapse by sowing indiscriminate chaos, destruction, and social instability. NVEs demand, coerce, and extort victims to engage in variety of violent conduct, including self-mutilation, online and in-person sexual acts, harm to animals, sexual exploitation of siblings and others, acts of violence, threats of violence, suicide, and murder. “Chavez’s crimes reveal the ruthless exploitation and manipulation at the core of NVE groups,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “These organizations target children as part of their broader mission to spread terror. These groups ultimately seek nothing less than the destruction of our society. NSD will use every resource at its disposal to identify and prosecute 764-linked criminality and to protect the most innocent among us from these predators.” “What Alexis Chavez and other members of these Nihilistic Violent Extremist groups have done to the vulnerable children they target is among the most disturbing conduct this office has prosecuted,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “Parents need to know what their children are doing online and must stay engaged, ask difficult questions, and not fall into the trap of believing their child is “just playing games” or “just talking with their friends.” There is darkness present within many people in this world that want nothing more than to see the United States and western civilization fail. There is no limit to the actions these individuals will take to accomplish that goal, including torturing and abusing children. Regardless of one’s inherent motivations, our office and our law enforcement partners at the local, state and federal levels investigate and prosecute these cases with absolute dedication because protecting our children is not just a priority; it is the priority.” “Nothing is more abhorrent than those who prey on children and other vulnerable members of our society and this defendant will pay a steep price for doing just that,” said Acting Assistant Director Coult Markovsky of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “The FBI has made it a high priority to identity and arrest Nihilistic Violent Extremists who coerce juveniles into horrific acts of self-harm. We will never let up on our efforts and will continue working closely with our Justice Department partners to ensure these predators are held accountable.” “This sentencing demonstrates the FBI’s unwavering resolve to identify, hunt down, investigate, and prosecute criminals like Chavez who prey on children through violent online networks, including 764, and orchestrate horrific, unspeakable acts of exploitation and violence,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Faith of the FBI San Antonio Field Office. “These predators use social media, messaging apps, gaming platforms, chat rooms, and video services to groom vulnerable children. Staying engaged in your child's online life, maintaining open communication, recognizing the warning signs, and reporting suspicious online activity to law enforcement are critical to stopping these offenders. Learn more at: PSA . The FBI will use every lawful authority at our disposal to dismantle these criminal networks and hold offenders accountable because no child should ever become the next victim of these predators.” On or about October 2023, Chavez and a co-conspirator attempted to have a minor female kill herself in a video chat by overdosing on pills. The two conspirators recorded the attempted suicide to obtain “content” that would allow them to maintain and increase their status within 8884. Approximately two months later, Chavez and the minor female victim worked together to coerce a female located overseas to strip naked on camera, cut herself, and engage in sexual acts. They also extorted another female by forcing the victim to cut the name “Zack” into herself. Around Dec. 29, 2023, Chavez and a co-conspirator coerced another minor female to cut her tongue as well as torture and kill a cat on a live video call. That same month, Chavez and another co-conspirator worked together to groom and extort several other minor females. In one instance, the two conspirators coerced a female victim to light her arm on fire and have the fire burn through her skin and deeper into her body, while on a recorded video chat within the 8884 channel. They also groomed another minor female victim, forcing her to drink her own urine and attempt to overdose on unknown pills. On or about Jan. 23, 2024, Chavez and a co-conspirator threatened and coerced a minor female victim to engage in sexually obscene activities and other egregious acts. He was arrested on Oct. 24, 2024, and pleaded guilty on Dec. 19, 2025, to one count of racketeering, one count of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography. The FBI San Antonio Field Office investigated the case with assistance from FBI Washington Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Roomberg and Bill Harris for the Western District of Texas, and Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department remains vigilant against the threat of Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) networks, like 764, that operate within the United States and around the globe. NVEs often target vulnerable individuals, including minors, using social media platforms to share CSAM and gore material, and groom victims toward committing acts of violence. Victims are often extorted, coerced, compelled, and blackmailed into complying with NVE demands, including self-mutilation, online and in-person sexual acts, harm to animals, sexual exploitation of siblings and others, acts of violence, threats of violence, suicide, and murder. For more information on how to protect children and others, read about the online risks here: Parents, Caregivers, Teachers — FBI and the FBI’s March 2025 public service announcement . This case was brought 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 United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Maryland Man Sentenced for Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISIS

body_text: A Maryland man was sentenced today in connection with charges stemming from his attempt to join and fight for ISIS. U.S. District Judge Adam B. Abelson sentenced Michael Sam Teekaye Jr., 22, to 15 years in prison followed by lifetime supervised release, for attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Teekaye revealed his plan to join and fight for ISIS to an undercover officer (UCO). “Mr. Teekaye sought to support a foreign terrorist organization that has committed unspeakable acts of violence and took real-world steps to carry out a terrorist attack in Maryland,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O’Hayes for the District of Maryland. “Today’s sentence underscores that those who seek to aid terrorist organizations will be identified, prosecuted, and held fully accountable. I commend the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and our law-enforcement partners for their exceptional work in disrupting this threat and protecting our communities before any harm could occur. There is no margin for error when it comes to terrorism.” “This sentencing reinforces the gravity of Michael Teekaye’s crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “Undoubtedly, lives were saved because law enforcement thwarted Teekaye’s plan to join ISIS and murder Americans. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force works around the clock to protect our country by identifying threats like this and preventing them from being carried out and harming our citizens.” According to court documents, between March and April 2023, Teekaye engaged in multiple conversations with the UCO. During these conversations, Teekaye told the UCO he wanted to travel to Africa to join ISIS as a “mujahid,” or fighter. Teekaye also told the UCO that his “plan B” was to carry out an attack in the United States against Jews and people who support Israel. He said that he researched buildings close to him that support Israel and thought about how to “gun down key members or anyone involved.” On three occasions in May and June of 2024, Teekaye purchased ammunition and range time at a shooting range in Severn, Maryland, which he later told the UCO was part of his “training.” Then in July 2024, Teekaye attempted to purchase a Kalashnikov K-9 9mm assault rifle, but since Teekaye was on probation in a state criminal case, the purchase was denied. Between August and October 2024, Teekaye told the UCO that he engaged with a Somali ISIS fighter regarding his plans to travel to Somalia to join ISIS. Teekaye explained that he would first fly to Turkey, then travel to Ethiopia, and then cross the border into Somalia. He sent the UCO screenshots of an Ethiopian e-Visa he obtained from the ISIS fighter. On Oct. 4, Teekaye told the UCO that he received airline tickets from the ISIS fighter. He also sent the UCO screenshots of his travel itinerary showing that he planned to depart from Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) on Oct. 14, and fly to Istanbul, Turkey, with a layover in London. Then on Oct. 10, Teekaye sent the UCO a photo of himself wearing a black mask and holding a large machete, and he added, “Victory or shahada [ i.e. , martyrdom] … either you do it here or over there or both.” On Oct. 11, the UCO asked whether Teekaye was “sure” he wanted to join ISIS. Teekaye responded that he was “sure” because he had done “a lot of research” and “they are the only group that has the most true and sincere intentions.” On Oct. 14, FBI agents arrested Teekaye at BWI after he checked in for his flight and proceeded through security. After his arrest, Teekaye made the following unprovoked statements, among others: “I’m just gonna get out in 20 years and I’m just gonna do it here. Okay? Okay? It will never stop. Jihad will never stop. I’ll just do it here then, when I get out.” He then made reference to a recent attack in which ISIS prison inmates killed four Russian penal colony guards, and threatened to kill a guard while in prison. He continued: “You think 20 years is something? I’ll be like 40 when I get out, then I’ll just do it. I don’t care. It will never stop. Jihad will never stop. I’ll come and I’ll kill your soldiers. I’ll kill you, and I’ll kill . . . .” While making these statements, Teekaye kicked and spat on one of the arresting agents. Following Teekaye’s arrest, the FBI searched his cell phone pursuant to a search warrant. The cell phone showed that he conducted multiple searches for specific Jewish and Israeli individuals and organizations in Howard County. Additionally, law enforcement discovered that Teekaye conducted searches about “how to break into a home” and “how to escape murder.” One of these individuals, a rabbi, submitted a victim-impact statement. The rabbi also spoke at the sentencing, detailing how Teekaye’s crime impacted him and the Jewish community. On Oct. 24, 2024, a federal grand jury in the District of Maryland returned an indictment charging Teekaye with one count of attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization ( i.e. , ISIS), and one count of assaulting a federal officer. Teekaye pled guilty to the first count on January 30, 2026. After Teekaye entered his guilty plea, and before he was sentenced, guards discovered two homemade weapons in Teekaye’s jail cell, including a large knife, as pictured below: Image of homemade knife in Teekaye's cell. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI Baltimore Field Office for its work in the investigation and praised the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, along with the FBI’s Newark and Richmond Field Offices and New York Police Department, for their valuable assistance. The case was prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Christina Hoffman for the District of Maryland with the assistance of Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat of the Justice Department’s National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.


title: Illegal Alien and Guatemalan National Extradited to the U.S. Admit to Roles in 2021 Alien Smuggling Mass Casualty Event in Chiapas, Mexico

component: Criminal Division

body_text: An illegal alien from Guatemala and a Guatemalan national have pleaded guilty to human smuggling charges related to the crash of a tractor-trailer packed with at least 160 illegal aliens which resulted in the deaths of more than 50 people, including unaccompanied children, and injured over 100 more. These two defendants are part of a group of six who were charged in this case. Five of six defendants have now admitted to their role in a conspiracy to bring illegal aliens from Guatemala into the United States. Agapito Jorge Ventura, 34, and an illegal alien from Guatemala, and Oswaldo Manuel Zavala Quino, 26, a Guatemalan national extradited to the United States in 2025, acknowledged that they conspired with other smugglers to smuggle and transport illegal aliens, both adults and unaccompanied minors, from Guatemala through Mexico to the United States. “This crime shows that human smugglers care only about profiting from their crimes, not about the illegal aliens they transport and the life-and-death risks to which they expose them” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These defendants worked together to exploit vulnerable people by breaking the immigration laws of this country, with deadly consequences that followed. Robust border enforcement avoids deadly results like this. The Criminal Division will continue to pursue those who put profit over people and ensure our nation’s immigration laws are enforced.” “With today’s guilty pleas, five defendants charged in this case have now been held accountable for one of the deadliest human smuggling tragedies in recent memory,” said U.S. Attorney John E. Marck for the Southern District of Texas. “These defendants treated more than 150 people as cargo, packing them into a tractor-trailer for profit with total disregard for human life. The Southern District of Texas will continue to hunt down smugglers wherever they hide, because there is no place on earth safe enough to escape justice for the lives lost on that Chiapas roadside.” “This case underscores U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) relentless pursuit of transnational criminal organizations that profit from the exploitation of vulnerable individuals,” said Acting Executive Associate Director John A. Condon of HSI. “The guilty pleas of these defendants send a clear message: those who orchestrate and facilitate dangerous human smuggling operations — placing lives at grave risk — will be held accountable. HSI remains committed to working with our domestic and international partners to dismantle these criminal networks, protect our borders, and uphold the rule of law.” Aliens paid Ventura, Zavala Quino, and their co-conspirators to be smuggled into the United States, with Ventura coordinating from the Houston area. During the previous administration’s policy to parole illegal aliens into the United States, Ventura also facilitated the release of Guatemalan aliens who were smuggled illegally into the United States from U.S. immigration authorities, to include unaccompanied minors. Ventura provided his coconspirators, including Zavala Quino, with falsified scripts and instructions to provide to adults and unaccompanied minors on what to say to immigration officials if apprehended to secure their release. Ventura would also provide a person who would falsely pose as a relative of the apprehended alien to gain the alien’s release. On Dec. 9, 2021, Ventura, Zavala Quino, and others arranged for the aliens they were smuggling to the United States to be loaded into a tractor trailer that was to transport them through Mexico. Over 150 illegal aliens, including adults and unaccompanied minors, were crammed into the trailer. The vehicle ultimately crashed north of the Guatemala/Mexico border near Tuxtla Guiterrez, Chiapas, Mexico, resulting in deaths and serious bodily injury. Ventura and Zavala Quino pleaded guilty to conspiracy to bring and attempt to bring an illegal alien to the United States, placing life in jeopardy, causing serious bodily injury, and resulting in death. They will be sentenced on Oct. 6 and each face a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Daniel Zavala Ramos, Josefa Canil De Zavala, Alberto Macario Chitic, Tomas Quino Canil, and Oswaldo Manuel Zavala Quino, were extradited from Guatemala in 2025 to face charges. Authorities arrested Jorge Agapito Ventura, 33, at his residence in Cleveland, Texas, in December 2024. Zavala Ramos, 42, pleaded guilty on April 7. Canil De Zavala, 44, and Macario Chitic, 33, pleaded guilty on June 11. HSI’s Washington, D.C. Field Office investigated the case in partnership with HSI Guatemala and HSI Mexico. Valuable assistance was provided by HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C.; HSI Houston; HSI Laredo; U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s International Interdiction Task Force; U.S. Border Patrol; Liberty County Constable, Precinct 6; Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Houston; U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas; and the Criminal Division’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance, and Training. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the arrests and extraditions of the defendants. Guatemalan prosecutors from the Office of Public Ministry and Mexican prosecutors from the Republic of Mexico’s Federal Prosecutions Office, with the support of law enforcement officials from both countries, were also instrumental in furthering the investigation. Senior Trial Attorney Danielle Hickman of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary Lou Castillo and Jennifer Day for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case, with substantial assistance from HRSP Latin American Specialist/Historian Joanna Crandall. The investigation and charges are supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean, and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 464 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 414 U.S. convictions; and more than 360 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets. This case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Court Agrees with Justice Department that Environmental Groups Lack Standing to Challenge Deepwater Port

component: Energy and Natural Resources Division

body_text: The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit yesterday denied a petition for review in a legal challenge to the Maritime Administration’s issuance of a deepwater port license to Delfin LNG. In denying the petition, the court held that three environmental groups failed to establish standing. The court did not rule on the merits of the case because the petitioners did not show any injury that might be traced to the challenged project. “This project is an important part of the President’s energy dominance agenda, as evidenced by the President’s directives to the Maritime Administration about this project in his Unleashing American Energy Executive Order,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “The Fifth Circuit’s ruling will make it harder for environmental groups — who have no stake in important energy projects — to challenge projects that will bring jobs and prosperity to Americans.” “This commonsense ruling ensures that this vital energy infrastructure project won't be derailed by Far Left climate activists,” said Maritime Administrator Stephen M. Carmel. “Under the President's directive, the Maritime Administration is proud to support the Delfin LNG Deepwater port’s operations and the good-paying jobs it'll create while unleashing America’s energy dominance.” The Delfin deepwater port will export liquefied natural gas (LNG). The Maritime Administration first authorized the port in 2017. In 2024, the Biden Administration told Delfin that more environmental review was necessary and declined to issue a license for the port. In the January 2025 Unleashing American Energy executive order, President Trump directed the Maritime Administration to consider again whether additional environmental review was necessary and then to issue the license. The Maritime Administration licensed the project in March 2025. Attorney Rebecca Jaffe of ENRD argued the case before the Fifth Circuit. Deputy Assistant Attorney General Robert Stander and Appellate Deputy Chief Robert Lundman of ENRD also worked on this matter.


title: Two Seattle area men charged with string of pharmacy burglaries throughout the Puget Sound region

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – Two men have been charged in a 24-count indictment following the investigation of a string of pharmacy burglaries that stretched from Kirkland, Washington, to Chehalis, Washington, announced First Assistant United States Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Koumssa Wakgira, 44, of Seattle and Juston Young, 42, of Renton, Washington, are charged in an indictment alleging conspiracy to commit burglaries involving controlled substances, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, five counts of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, and 17 counts of burglary or attempted burglary involving controlled substances. Young was arraigned on the indictment last month and is detained pending additional hearings. Wakgira was arrested by the U.S. Marshal Service this morning and will appear in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:00 today. “As alleged in the indictment, these defendants were relentless in their attempts to break into pharmacies and steal narcotics,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. “I commend local and federal law enforcement who worked together to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice.” “These defendants fueled the illegal drug market and placed communities at risk by stealing thousands of doses of controlled substances, targeting pharmacies throughout the Puget Sound region for nearly a year.” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “This investigation demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts and DEA’s commitment to disrupting the diversion and illegal distribution of prescription medications.” According to records filed in the case, the two have been linked to a series of pharmacy burglaries where a variety of prescription medications were the target. In some cases, the suspects failed to obtain any pharmaceuticals, but in one case they obtained more than 24,000 doses of restricted medications worth more than $37,000. The detailed criminal complaint lays out how the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) worked with state and local law enforcement to link the two men to various pharmacy burglaries using surveillance images from cameras at the pharmacies. DNA evidence was linked to one of the suspects from a piece of clothing left at a burglary scene. Court documents outline how investigators linked various cars involved in the scheme to Wakgira and Young, how their phones confirmed their proximity to each other, and how clothing, tools, and narcotics recovered in searches of the men’s home and vehicles tied them to the burglaries. In all, one or both defendants are allegedly tied to these burglaries or attempted burglaries: 5/2/25, Bob Johnson’s Pharmacy, Seattle - Wakgira 5/8/25, Arow Pharmacy Olympia, WA - Wakgira & Young 5/17/25, Sy Pharmacy, Seattle - Wakgira 9/13/25, Hawks Prairie Pharmacy, Lacey, WA - Wakgira & Young 9/13/25, Good Pharmacy, Tacoma, WA - Wakgira & Young 11/16/25, Navos Pharmacy, Seattle, - Wakgira & Young 11/28/25, Ready Meds Pharmacy, Renton, WA - Wakgira & Young 12/20/25, Evergreen Professional Center Pharm., Kirkland, - Wakgira & Young 12/21/25, Swedish Arnold Pharmacy, Seattle, - Wakgira & Young 12/25/25, Fred Meyer Pharmacy, Seattle - Wakgira & Young 1/1/26, Tukwila Station Pharmacy, SeaTac, WA – Wakgira 2/1/26, Tukwila Station Pharmacy, SeaTac, WA – Wakgira 2/24/26, Sea Mar Pharmacy, Olympia, WA – Wakgira 2/25/26 Purdy Cost Less Prescriptions, Gig Harbor, WA - Wakgira & Young 3/22/26, Panorama Pharmacy, Lacey, WA – Wakgira 3/22/26, Centralia Pharmacy, Centralia, WA – Wakgira 3/22/26, Chehalis Pharmacy, Chehalis, WA – Wakgira As part of the investigation, in March 2026, law enforcement observed Wakgira engaged in what appears to be drug sales following some of the burglaries. Conspiracy to commit burglary involving controlled substances is punishable by up to ten years in prison. Burglary and attempted burglary involving controlled substances is punishable by up to twenty years in prison. Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute are punishable by up to twenty years in prison. The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The case is being investigated by DEA Seattle Diversion Group with assistance from Olympia Special Investigations Response Team (SIRT), the Olympia, Lacey, and Renton Police Departments, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Yemini. pharmacy_burglary_complaint.pdf


title: Seattle man sentenced to 20 years in prison for sex trafficking a minor and an adult woman – induced both to travel to Seattle for prostitution

body_text: Seattle – A 38-year-old Seattle man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 20 years in prison for five federal felonies connected to his sex trafficking of a minor and an adult woman, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. In April 2026, a judge and jury convicted Shante Broady of sex trafficking an adult victim through force, threats of force, fraud, and coercion; sex trafficking a minor; transporting both the adult victim and the minor victim for prostitution; and unlawful possession of a firearm. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour said the twenty-year sentence was justified by “the violence of events in the case” and was in line with other sex trafficking sentences imposed in the Western District of Washington. “Shante Broady is one of six defendants involved in sex trafficking this office has prosecuted in the last six months. Like many sex traffickers in this district, Mr. Broady took a minor to north Aurora Avenue to sell her to sex buyers. This area – which traffickers refer to as “the track” or “the blade” – is a dangerous hub for commercial sexual exploitation of children and adults and associated violent and dangerous criminal activity,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. “This office is working tirelessly with our state and federal partners to assist potential victims, identify traffickers, and reduce crime in that known sex trafficking area. This twenty-year sentence, alongside other federal and state prosecutions, are helping to remove some of the most violent traffickers off the streets for a lengthy period.” “Mr. Broady scoured the internet and various social media platforms searching for vulnerable children and women to entice into his commercial sex trade,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “He succeeded in coercing a minor victim and an adult victim through false promises of a relationship, protection, and money, to travel across state and country lines to commit commercial sex acts at his instruction. Instead of a lavish lifestyle, the victims were met with anger, threats, and violence. The FBI and our partners are committed to combatting this sexual exploitation and violence to hold these perpetrators responsible." According to records filed in the case and testimony at trial, Broady had been on law enforcement’s radar since March 2023, when they received a report that Broady had been sex trafficking a victim in Portland, Oregon. In November 2024, a former girlfriend reported being assaulted by Broady. In April 2025, two adult women in Seattle contacted the FBI regarding Broady’s sex trafficking and threats of violence. One woman said Broady was ultimately unsuccessful in his attempt to force her into prostitution. The other reported that in March 2025, Broady had lured her to travel from Canada, paying for her plane ticket. He then pressured her and forced her into prostitution with false promises, threats, and physical violence, and brandished a firearm at her. Text messages obtained from Broady’s phone document the threats. The victims obtained a civil restraining order to try to keep him away from them. The woman from Canada was ultimately able to return home. Records in the case and court testimony also detail Broady’s involvement in transporting and harboring a minor victim who had run away from a boarding school in another state. The minor victim was encountered on North Aurora Avenue and taken into custody by law enforcement. She was ultimately safely returned to family members. Information obtained from Broady’s phone demonstrated that he was aware of her age and that he was directing her how to interact with potential sex buyers. Broady was convicted of sex trafficking this minor. In a second short bench trial after the first, prosecutors presented evidence that Broady possessed a firearm, even though he was prohibited due to convictions in Stafford County, Virginia for Burglary of a Dwelling while Armed with Deadly Weapon, Robbery, Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony, and Attempted Robbery. When police searched Broady’s residence on April 11, 2025, they recovered a black Ruger LCP, .380 caliber firearm with a loaded magazine. Judge Coughenour found he committed that crime. In addition to the 20-year prison term Judge Coughenour ordered that he be on 15 years of supervised release following his prison term. In asking for the 20-year prison term and 15 years of supervised release, Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Crisham told the court Broady “is a violent man and a sexual predator who targets vulnerable young girls.” Broady will be required to register as a sex offender following his prison term. The case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Seattle Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kate Crisham and Michael Harder. Ms. Crisham leads the Anti-Trafficking prosecutions in the Western District of Washington.


title: Mexican National to Spend 27 years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Over One Thousand Kilograms of Methamphetamine in Homeland Security Task Force Case

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: SAN ANTONIO – A Mexican National was sentenced by a federal court in San Antonio to 27 years in prison for leading an international methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, Justin R. Simmons. According to court documents, Arturo Leija-Alvarado, 43, led an organization that trafficked well over one thousand kilograms of methamphetamine from Mexico into the United States, for distribution in and around the San Antonio area. The conspiracy involved large quantities of methamphetamine that were smuggled into the United States while hidden in various ways, most commonly in large loads of lettuce. At the time that Leija led the drug trafficking organization, Leija had already been convicted twice of illegally reentering the United States following a previous removal and had been removed from the United States on at least three separate occasions. Following his most recent removal, Leija illegally reentered the United States during the Spring of 2024, and by May 2024 was already coordinating a load of methamphetamine hidden in 16 pallets of lettuce: Leija coordinated and oversaw the smuggling of multiple additional large loads of methamphetamine during July, August, and September 2024. These loads were also hidden in shipments of lettuce, and often included hundreds of kilograms of methamphetamine at a time: One load from September 2024 included at least approximately 500 kilograms of methamphetamine by itself: Evidence in the case also depicted a large number of firearms that were possessed during this conspiracy, including more than twenty that were depicted in these photographs from July 2024: As the conspiracy continued, law enforcement learned that Leija and his co-conspirators were receiving the shipments of methamphetamine at a secluded property in Atascosa, Texas. After unloading the methamphetamine at the Atascosa property, Leija’s drug organization distributed the methamphetamine into the San Antonio community and surrounding areas. On October 17, 2024, after obtaining a federal search warrant for the property, law enforcement observed a semi-truck with a flatbed trailer arrive at the ranch. Immediately prior to executing the warrant, law enforcement observed a group of individuals, overseen by Leija, spend several hours using welding tools to cut open hidden compartments on the trailer. Shortly after midnight on October 18, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant and found dozens of packages of methamphetamine that had been wrapped in tape, covered in grease, and secreted inside of hidden compartments on the flatbed trailer that had been welded shut. Subsequent DEA laboratory testing confirmed that the packages seized on this day alone contained 63 kilograms of 100% methamphetamine hydrochloride, i.e. , crystal meth. Agents arrested Leija inside an RV on the property. Agents found a firearm and $21,646.00 in U.S. currency in that RV, and another firearm elsewhere on the property. Leija was arrested along with co-conspirators Francis Edward “Eddie” Hilliard and Richard William Aaron Patton. The trio were charged with various offenses, including Conspiring to Possess with Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. All three Defendants subsequently pled guilty to that charge. In addition to Leija’s sentence of 27 years, Hilliard, who is 77 years old, was sentenced last month to 145 months in prison, and Patton is scheduled to be sentenced later this month. “Mr. Leija ignored our immigration laws, ignored our drug laws, and ignored our gun laws,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons. “However, he cannot ignore the fact that he will now spend the next couple of decades behind walls of steel and concrete. I want to thank our law enforcement partners who helped put this case together and to AUSA John Fedock, who carried this case through to the finish line.” “Drug traffickers smuggle more than just illegal drugs—they bring violence, fuel crime, and put American lives at risk with every shipment," said DEA San Antonio Field Division Special Agent in Charge Miguel Madrigal. Through the dedicated efforts of DEA San Antonio and its law enforcement partners, thousands of lethal doses of illegal drugs were prevented from reaching San Antonio and communities across the nation. This prosecution is another victory that reflects the DEA’s unwavering commitment to protecting the public, disrupting drug trafficking organizations, and saving American lives.” “It is our priority to make the community safer, and by removing the leader of a prolific drug trafficking organization, we have gotten one step closer to our goal,” said Daniel Faith, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI San Antonio Field Office. "Along with our law enforcement partners, we have been able to disrupt the distribution of drugs throughout our community. Let this be a message that we will not back down from our fight against violent organized crime.” The Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, San Antonio Police Department, Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, and Hondo Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Fedock prosecuted the case. 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 comprises agents and officers from FBI; ICE HSI; DEA; ATF; U.S. Border Patrol; USMS; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Department of Transportation; IRS Criminal Investigation; Texas Department of Public Safety; as well as local police departments and sheriff’s offices, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas. ###


title: Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Firearm After Shooting Outside Convenience Store

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Western

body_text: OKLAHOMA CITY – ANDREA DELAWRENCE JACKSON , 58, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 71 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. According to public records, on May 3, 2025, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department responded to a convenience store on the east side of Oklahoma City after receiving reports of a shooting. Witnesses told police that a man, later identified as Jackson, shot at another man outside the store. Responding officers located Jackson nearby pushing a woman in a wheelchair. Officers recovered a firearm from the seat of the wheelchair. Public records further reflect that Jackson has prior felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court, including convictions for possession of cocaine and marijuana in Case No. CF-2003-6301, possession of cocaine and a stolen vehicle in Case No. CF-2006-465, and possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction in Case No. CF-2007-2435. On December 16, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Jackson with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jackson pleaded guilty on February 6, 2026, and admitted that he knowingly possessed a firearm despite his previous felony convictions. At a sentencing hearing on July 2, 2026, Chief U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Jackson to serve 71 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Palk noted Jackson’s extensive criminal history and the dangerous nature of the offense. This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Gridley prosecuted the case. Reference is made to public filings for additional information.


title: Caddo County Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison After Embezzling from Caddo Nation

body_text: Defendant Also Ordered to Pay More Than $150,000 in Restitution OKLAHOMA CITY – LARISHA LARELL WABAUNASEE , 39, of Anadarko, has been sentenced to serve six months in federal prison for embezzlement and theft from the Caddo Nation, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. According to public records, while employed by the Caddo Nation, Wabaunasee worked in part at the Caddo Nation Tag Office. Between October 2023 and November 2024, she used an unauthorized point-of-sale account to divert customer payments intended for the Caddo Nation into her personal bank accounts. On November 4, 2025, a federal grand jury charged Wabaunasee with embezzlement and theft from an Indian tribal organization. On February 2, 2026, Wabaunasee pleaded guilty and admitted she embezzled and stole from the Caddo Nation Tag Office by diverting customer transactions to her personal accounts. At a sentencing hearing on June 29, 2026, U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones, II, sentenced Wabaunasee to serve six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Wabaunasee was also ordered to pay $151,208.25 in restitution. In announcing his sentence, Judge Jones noted the need to impose a just punishment for the offense. This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon prosecuted the case. 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. Reference is made to public filings for additional information.


title: Greece man arrested, charged with stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars by filing false class action lawsuit claims

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: ROCHESTER, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Phillip Digennaro, 38 of Greece, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy, wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering, which carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. According to the criminal complaint, Digennaro has filed false claims in multiple class action lawsuits in order to obtain payments from settlement funds that he was not otherwise entitled to receive. He used over 480 bank accounts at eight different financial institutions to perpetuate this scheme, including Synchrony Bank, Alliant Bank, Chase Bank, Key Bank, M&T Bank, PNC Bank, Discover Bank, and Barclays Bank, as well as Pay Pal. Between January 2022 and December 2025, Digennaro is accused of receiving approximately 27,052 payments totaling approximately $1,303,060.59 from approximately 107 different class action lawsuit settlements. Digennaro continued to transfer funds derived from the class action lawsuits between various accounts in his control until April 2026. One example, Digennaro filed false claims in the Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep EcoDiesel Marketing, Sales Practices and Products Liability Lawsuit, which was litigated in the Northern District of California. The lawsuit alleged that the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, Model Years 2014-2016, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee Eco Diesel, model years 2014-2016, did not comply with federal and state emissions regulations and that Fiat Chrysler made misrepresentations to consumers regarding the vehicles. The defendants settled the Ecodiesel Class Action Lawsuit by making cash payments to class members ranging from $990 to $3,075. Between January 25, 2022, and May 19, 2023, Digennaro received nine payments totaling $27,060 from the lawsuit settlement fund. The investigation determined that Digennaro submitted at least five fraudulent driver’s licenses to support his fraudulent claims. On May 21, 2026, law enforcement executed a federal seizure warrant and seized approximately $1,224,497.27 from accounts controlled by Digennaro. That same day, investigators executed a search warrant at his residence, seizing multiple checks that were issued from class action settlement funds and were payable to individuals other than Digennaro. During the search warrant, law enforcement also seized numerous electronic devices, which contained voluminous records of class action lawsuit filings, photoshopped documents with fake names, and a folder labeled “ready for claims” with subfolders for various class action lawsuits. Digennaro made an initial appearance before U.S. District Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was released on conditions. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meghan K. McGuire and Melanie Bailey. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Allen D. Davis II. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. # # # #


title: HSTF Investigation Leads to Lengthy Prison Sentence for Illegal Alien from Mexico Who Trafficked Methamphetamine Supplied by the Sinaloa Cartel

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – An investigation by the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) has resulted in the conviction and sentencing of an illegal alien from Mexico who distributed hundreds of kilograms of methamphetamine for a drug trafficking organization supplied by the Sinaloa Cartel, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Anselmo Nava-Sanchez, 32, was sentenced to 188 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. After serving his prison sentence, Nava-Sanchez will be removed from the United States. “The Sinaloa Cartel depends on drug trafficking organizations operating inside our country to distribute deadly drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “This one illegal alien defendant trafficked almost 800 pounds of drugs for the organization. For that, he will serve almost 16 years in an American prison before being deported.” According to filed documents and court proceedings, law enforcement identified Nava-Sanchez as a drug distributor for a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) supplied by the Sinaloa Cartel. Over the course of the investigation, Nava-Sanchez was involved in the importation, manufacture, and distribution of hundreds of kilograms of methamphetamine. In August 2023, law enforcement intercepted Nava-Sanchez’s vehicle on his way from Georgia to North Carolina to make an arranged drug delivery. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement seized two large trash bags containing plastic bins with nearly 10 kilograms of methamphetamine. Law enforcement also searched Nava-Sanchez’s residence where they found multiple coolers filled with more than 85 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine, plastic tubs containing nearly 90 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, drug ledgers, digital scales, and items indicating that Nava-Sanchez was using his residence as a meth lab to convert liquid meth into crystal meth. Law enforcement also located a Buick SUV at the residence that had built-in trap compartments commonly used to avoid detection by law enforcement when transporting large quantities of drugs. In total, during the investigation, Nava-Sanchez was responsible for trafficking more than 360 kilograms of methamphetamine for the DTO. Nava-Sanchez will remain in federal custody until he is transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation to a federal facility. This was an investigation led by the HSTF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nick J. Miller of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. HSTF is an 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 CORE 23 (Charlotte) is comprised of agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), United States Marshal Service (USMS), United States Customers and Border Protection (CBP), United States ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), the United States Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), the Naval Criminal investigative Service (NCIS), the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FIDC) Office of Inspector General (OIG), the Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Inspector General (OIG), the North Carolina Insurance Bureau, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), the Raleigh Police Department, the Durham County Sheriff’s Office, the Cary Police Department, the Nash Count Sheriff’s Office, the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, the Halifax County Sheriff’s office, the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office, the Brunswick Count Sheriff’s Office, the Dare County Sheriff’s Office, the Currituck County Sheriff’s Office, the Wilmington Police Department, the Nags Head Police Department, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety (NCDPS), the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the Alexander County Sheriff’s Office, Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), the Kannapolis Police Department, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the Waxhaw Police Department, the Gaston County Police Department, the Gastonia Police Department, the Huntersville Police Department, the Cornelius Police Department, the Matthews Police Department, the Pineville Police Department, the Stallings Police Department, the Kings Mountain Police Department, the Greensville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU), the Cherokee County Sheriff’s office, the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, the Greenville-Spartanburg (GSP) International Airport Police Department, the South Carolina Department of Corrections, the Anderson City Police Department, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, the Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office, the Charleston County Airport Police Department, the Charleston Police Department, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Summerville Police Department, the Greensboro Police Department, the Winston-Salem Police Department, the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, the Alamance County Sheriff’s office, the Davie County Sheriff’s Office, the Eden Police Department, the Piedmont Triad Internal Airport Police Department, the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office, the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office, and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Districts of North and South Carolina.


title: Kansas City Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms and Dog Fighting Charges from Interstate “Mayhem Madness” Event

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY – Kansas City, Mo., resident Vinol Wilson, 52, pleaded guilty today in federal court to illegally possessing a firearm after a felony conviction and to multiple federal dog fighting offenses. Those offenses include conspiring to violate the federal Animal Welfare Act’s animal fighting law, keeping a dog for use in dog fighting, and buying and receiving a dog to use in a dog fighting venture. “Wilson subjected animals to pain and suffering all for sport and profit,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam R.F. Gustafson of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Energy and Natural Resources Division. “The Justice Department continues to aggressively prosecute this criminal activity, and we work with our partners to rescue dogs whenever we can.” “Inflicting cruelty on innocent dogs for entertainment and profit is both deplorable and in violation of federal law,” said U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price of the Western District of Missouri. “The Western District of Missouri is proud to have worked alongside our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to enforce the Animal Welfare Act and hold those responsible accountable. Through these efforts, we help protect those that cannot defend themselves.” According to court documents filed in the case, the defendant ran a dog fighting operation. He invited several others to participate in a multi-card dog fighting event known as “Mayhem Madness 2025” to be held at his residence in Kansas City on May 17, 2025. Parties traveled with fighting dogs from multiple states and used rental cars and short-term, internet-based vacation rental housing in connection with their trip to attend the “Mayhem Madness 2025” dog fighting event. At the event, four dog fights were set to take place and three occurred. During the overnight period of May 17–18, 2025, after all dog fights were completed, the defendant polled attendees for their views on which dog performed the best and which was the “gamest,” or most willing to continue fighting despite injury, of the evening. The defendant awarded large trophies for “Best in Show” and “Gamest in Show” to two of the dog fight participants. Wilson further purchased and received a puppy from one of the out-of-state participants and intended to possess this dog for fighting purposes. During a search warrant executed at Wilson’s residence on May 20, 2025, agents recovered sixteen fighting dogs, four of whom were pregnant and soon thereafter gave birth to 31 puppies. Agents also recovered items used in connection with the possession and maintenance of fighting dogs, such as medications, syringes, a “slatmill” dog treadmill, and fighting dog “pedigrees.” The defendant was further found in unlawful possession of a 5.56mm pistol loaded and chambered with 29 rounds of ammunition. The dogs were rescued and cared for by a program administered by the U.S. Marshals Service. Following a separate, successful civil forfeiture action brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri, these dogs did not have to be returned to the defendant, but instead, could be rehabilitated and evaluated for possible adoption. Under federal law, it is illegal not only to fight dogs in a venture that affects interstate commerce, but also to possess, train, transport, deliver, sell, purchase or receive dogs for fighting purposes. Each of the three dog fighting counts carries a maximum of five years in prison and a criminal fine of up to $250,000. The firearm charge carries a maximum of fifteen years in prison and a criminal fine of up to $250,000. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General and the Jackson County Drug Task Force investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Becker, David Barnes, and James Kirkpatrick and Senior Trial Attorney Ethan Eddy of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Farmakidis handled the civil forfeiture case for the dogs.


title: Lafayette Man Sentenced to Over 5 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking

component: Asset Forfeiture Program

body_text: LAFAYETTE – On June 30, 2026, Javon Robertson , 40, of Lafayette, was sentenced to 66 months in federal prison after his April 2026 guilty plea to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. As part of his plea, Robinson forfeited $79,805.00 in U.S. currency and a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, which were proceeds derived from his sale of illegal narcotics. “Methamphetamine continues to inflict tremendous harm on families and communities across Louisiana,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This sentence reflects our office’s commitment to holding traffickers accountable and to supporting the law enforcement partners who work every day to keep our neighborhoods safe.” In July of 2025, the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit opened an investigation into Robertson based on information that he was selling narcotics out of his home in Lafayette, Louisiana. While surveilling Robertson’s residence, law enforcement observed Robertson leave his residence, meet an individual at a local store, and conduct a “hand-to-hand” transaction of suspected illegal drugs. The recipient in this transaction admitted to law enforcement that she had just purchased drugs from Robertson . Law Enforcement then obtained a search warrant for Robertson’s residence, which was executed on July 29, 2025. During the execution of this search warrant, agents seized large quantities of controlled substances and drug distribution paraphernalia, including two hydraulic presses, a currency counter, and $79,805.00 in U.S. currency. Robertson admitted to law enforcement that the seized narcotics belonged to him. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s South-Central Laboratory confirmed that the narcotics seized from Robertson’s residence included 38.22 grams of cocaine base, 134.9 grams of cocaine, and 90.46 grams of methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. The Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit (LPSONU) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren L. Nickel with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25-CR-00322-01. ### Public Affairs United States Attorney’s Office Western District of Louisiana USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Twitter @USAO_WDLA


title: Member of Eleven-Person Meth Trafficking Ring Sentenced to Over 24 Years in Federal Prison

body_text: SHREVEPORT – On June 26, 2026, Perry Willis , 37, of Natchitoches, was sentenced to 292 months in federal prison after his guilty plea to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in connection with an eleven-person drug trafficking conspiracy operating in central Louisiana. “This significant sentence reflects the serious threat this organization posed to our community and the importance of dismantling high-volume illicit drug suppliers lurking in our midst,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This Office remains committed to protecting our communities and bringing these dangerous criminals to justice.” In 2023, the DEA launched an investigation into this drug trafficking ring operating across Louisiana and Texas. Wire taps and surveillance identified Willis and his co-conspirator, Daniel Efferson , 33, of Natchitoches, as members of the network. The investigation escalated on August 16, 2024, when Louisiana authorities conducted a traffic stop of Efferson near the state line. Efferson , Willis , and Jaquez Flakes , 19, of Natchitoches, fled the stop, initiating a vehicle chase that ended in a crash. Agents recovered approximately nine kilograms of methamphetamine and twenty-four pounds of synthetic marijuana from the vehicle. The crash led to further investigation in Houston, where agents seized 221.5 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine, disguised as bottled water, and discovered a meth conversion lab with burners, pots, and 11 kilograms of processed methamphetamine. These seizures linked Willis , Efferson , Flakes , and 8 other co-conspirators to the same supply network. Others previously charged and sentenced in the case are: Daniel Efferson , 33, of Natchitoches — 360 months (30 years) Christopher Caffey , 37, of Shreveport — 262 months (over 21 years) Joshua Hardy , 32, of Shreveport — 151 months (over 12 years) Delannie Lee , 51, of Shreveport — 168 months (14 years) Crystal Williams , 36, of Mansfield — 60 months (5 years) Kellie Yates , 50, of Shreveport — 3 years’ probation Amadeo Penaloza-Meza , 22, of Mexico — 135 months (over 11 years) Brayan Sandoval , 22, of Mexico — 135 months (over 11 years) Jeffrey Flack , 51, of Shreveport — 120 months (10 years) The last remaining defendant, Flakes , will be sentenced in August of 2026. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Louisiana State Police, and multiple local law-enforcement partners investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Moody with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:24-CR-00256-10. ### Public Affairs United States Attorney’s Office Western District of Louisiana USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Twitter @USAO_WDLA


title: Repeat Sex Offender Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation Offense

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY –A Jefferson County man was sentenced this week to 15 years in federal prison for two counts of receipt of child pornography. U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement. William James Lewis, 34, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by a life term of supervised release, for using a cellular telephone to communicate with other individuals on an application called Telegram to seek out photos and videos of child pornography. At the time Lewis was on state supervision for having been previously convicted of possession of child pornography. In 2017, Lewis was convicted of ten counts of possession of child pornography in Fayette Circuit Court, Lexington, Kentucky and was sentenced to 8 years in prison followed by five years of sex offender post incarceration supervision. United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Lewis was undeterred by his previous 8-year state prison sentence for possessing child pornography. Shortly after his release, he reengaged in reprehensible act of seeking out and receiving more child pornography. Because of the incredible investigative work by local and federal law enforcement partners, Lewis will now serve 15 years in federal prison. When he’s released this time, he’ll spend the remainder of his life under the supervision of the federal probation office—ensuring that he does not continue to victimize our most vulnerable.” Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson stated, “This case is an example of the incredible difference we can make when the FBI and local law enforcement partners work together to protect our most vulnerable citizens. Lewis' repeated attempts to acquire child pornography, despite his prior incarceration, are a stark reminder of the call to remain vigilant. Our children deserve no less." Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey stated, “These crimes are reprehensible and unacceptable. This sentence sends a clear message that those who exploit children will be held accountable. Even after a prior conviction and prison sentence, this offender continued to engage in behavior that fuels the victimization and abuse of some of our most vulnerable citizens. There is no place in our community for child predators. LMPD will continue working with our federal partners to identify offenders, protect children, and pursue justice for victims.” There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by FBI with the assistance of LMPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Yannelli prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and 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: New Hampshire Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for  Fentanyl and Firearms Possession

component: USAO - Arkansas, Western

body_text: HOT SPRINGS – A New Hampshire man has been sentenced to 15 years in Federal Prison to be followed by five years of Supervised Release for Possession of Fentanyl with the Intent to Distribute and Possession of a Firearm in furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense. The Honorable District Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearings, which took place in the United States District Court in Hot Springs. According to court records, in April of 2025 a Trooper with the Arkansas State Police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being operated by Robert Liles , age 31, of Manchester, New Hampshire. During the course of the traffic stop, the Trooper located and seized over 7,300 fentanyl pills, three (3) firearms, body armor, and a large amount of United States Currency. It was also determined that Liles had previously been convicted of a felony. On November 18, 2025, Liles pleaded guilty to Possession of Fentanyl with the Intent to Distribute and Possession of a Firearm in furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense. On July 7, 2026, United States District Judge Susan O. Hickey sentenced Liles to a term of imprisonment of 120 months for the fentanyl possession, to a term of imprisonment of 60 months for the weapons possession, to run consecutive to each other, for a total term of imprisonment of 180 months, or 15 years, to be followed by 5 years of Supervised Release. United States Attorney Kevin R. Holmes made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan A. Achorn prosecuted the case for the United States. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Arkansas State Police investigated the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the U.S. 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. Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website at www.pacer.gov .