title: Second Suspect In August 2025 Mount Vernon Gunpoint Robbery Located In Poconos, Arrested, And Charged

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., announced today that ERIC BOOTHE was arrested and charged as the second participant in an August 29, 2025, gunpoint robbery of a gas station in Mount Vernon. BOOTHE was presented today before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith C. McCarthy and ordered detained pending trial. “Last summer, Mount Vernon residents’ morning routines came to a halt when two individuals robbed a gas station at gunpoint and fled, kicking off a manhunt across the region,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “One of the men, Jamaire Robertson, allegedly shot at NYPD officers while in flight. Robertson was quickly identified, arrested, and charged within hours, but Eric Boothe allegedly fled into the Bronx and tried to disappear, eventually relocating to rural Pennsylvania. Thanks to the FBI and our White Plains prosecutors, Boothe’s getaway has ended, and he will now answer to our federal Complaint in court.” “Eric Boothe spent months attempting to evade accountability following an alleged gas station robbery in August 2025,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “Thanks to the relentless efforts of FBI investigators, and our Summer Heat 2.0 initiative, he was located, apprehended, and will now face consequences for his actions. No matter how long someone runs, we remain committed to pursuing those who endanger our communities.” According to the Complaint unsealed in White Plains federal court:(1) After spending much of the prior evening traveling in tandem through the Bronx and Mount Vernon, BOOTHE and Jamaire Robertson parked Robertson’s car near Robertson’s apartment in the Bronx at around 5:10 a.m. on August 29, 2025, donned masks, hoods, and gloves, and set off on foot together toward a gas station in nearby Mount Vernon. At approximately 5:29 a.m., BOOTHE and Robertson, each brandishing a handgun, violently robbed the gas station attendant at gunpoint: Following the robbery, the two suspects ran south on foot and eventually separated. Robertson fled down a residential street in Mount Vernon near its border with the Bronx, where he discharged his firearm at New York City Police Department officers attempting to approach him. Robertson was arrested that afternoon, but BOOTHE fled deeper into the Bronx, ceased use of his phone, and altered his patterns of financial and social media activity, eventually relocating to the Poconos in Pennsylvania. The FBI’s investigation led to a new phone used by BOOTHE, registered in the name of a third party, and to a pizzeria frequented by BOOTHE in the vicinity of Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, near where BOOTHE was eventually arrested. * * * BOOTHE, 40, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery and Hobbs Act robbery, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. BOOTHE is also charged with possessing and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Because BOOTHE was convicted in 2016 of the same firearms crime, he now faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison, which must be served consecutive to any other prison term imposed. Federal robbery and firearms charges against Jamaire Robertson remain pending. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI’s Westchester Safe Streets Task Force, as well as the NYPD and the Mount Vernon Police Department. Mr. McDonald also thanked the FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania for their assistance in apprehending the defendant. This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sarlitto is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ^ As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described therein should be treated as an allegation.


title: Manhattan Man Charged With Distributing Narcotics That Caused The Death Of Resident At Transitional Facility

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, and Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, announced today the filing of a Superseding Indictment charging MATTHEW SPATOLA with distribution of narcotics resulting in death in connection with the June 26, 2026, overdose death of a resident (“Victim-1”) of a Manhattan building providing transitional and emergency shelter to homeless individuals, as well as distribution and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl. SPATOLA is detained, awaiting trial before U.S. District Judge Ronnie Abrams. “As alleged, Matthew Spatola provided lethal narcotics to a woman in the very building where she was living to escape addiction,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “But even her death did not stop Spatola from allegedly continuing to deal drugs, exposing particularly vulnerable neighbors fighting for their own recovery to the same life-threatening poison that killed her. If you deal drugs inside a transitional facility, you are dealing death to the same people trying to fight it, and you will be held accountable.” “As alleged in the complaint, Matthew Spatola callously preyed on individuals at a transitional housing facility in Manhattan,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “The defendant sold the drugs that resulted in one resident’s death and continued to distribute them even after her demise, caring more for money than human life. This individual is now being held accountable and can no longer sell his poison on our streets. I thank our investigators and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York for bringing dangerous drug peddlers to justice.” As alleged in the Superseding Indictment, other public filings, and during court proceedings: On June 26, 2026, SPATOLA sold narcotics to Victim-1 in the building—which provides transitional and emergency shelter—where they both lived, causing her death. Surveillance video shows that, on or about June 26, 2026, SPATOLA and Victim-1 were seen together, and that at approximately 9:00 a.m., SPATOLA handed Victim-1 narcotics. SPATOLA returned to Victim-1’s room again that afternoon, briefly entering and exiting twice before leaving. A short time later, Victim-1 was found dead in her room. A glassine envelope and pipes recovered on or near her body tested positive for cocaine. Rather than stop dealing, SPATOLA continued to distribute narcotics to other residents of the building in the days following Victim-1’s death. On July 14, 2026, law enforcement executed search warrants on SPATOLA’s residence and person and recovered a substantial quantity of narcotics and narcotics distribution paraphernalia, which tested positive for crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl. * * * SPATOLA, 37, of New York, New York, is charged with one count of distribution of narcotics resulting in death, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison, and one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute narcotics, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The minimum and maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge. Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the NYPD, the Digital Forensics Unit, and the Complex Analytics and Social Media Enhancement Team at the New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, as well as the Special Agents and Task Force Officers assigned to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. The case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Zabel is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Superseding Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Leaders And Members Of Bronx Gang “Dub City” Sentenced For Multiple Shootings, Racketeering, Narcotics, Fraud, And Firearms Offenses

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced today that BRUCE SILVA, a/k/a “Brucie,” a leader of the Bronx gang “Dub City,” which was affiliated with the larger MacBallers street gang, was sentenced to 22 years in prison. On February 24, 2026, SILVA pled guilty to racketeering conspiracy and multiple firearms offenses in connection with shootings, one of which left the victim paralyzed, before U.S. District Judge Paul G. Gardephe, who imposed today’s sentence. “For years, the members of the so-called ‘Dub City’ gang terrorized several Bronx neighborhoods in their claimed territory by repeatedly shooting at rivals and fellow gang members alike,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “The significant sentences imposed in this case serve to hold the leaders and members of this violent street gang accountable for their gun violence and other criminal activity. This Office will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to dismantle violent criminal organizations and protect the communities they prey upon through violence.” According to the charging instruments, court filings, and statements made in court: The “Dub City” gang was a criminal organization based in the Mt. Hope and Morris Heights sections of the Bronx, New York, whose members predominantly were also members of the larger MacBallers street gang. A map of Dub City’s claimed territory is below: From 2019 until the defendants were arrested in April 2023, the Dub City gang members sold drugs, committed robberies, committed financial fraud, used guns, and committed numerous acts of violence in furtherance of the Dub City gang, including shootings against members of rival gangs and against other Dub City gang members. The violence committed by the defendants included shootings where innocent bystanders were hit. In one case, SILVA shot at an individual, causing permanent paralysis. In another case, co-defendant BRUCE MELVIN shot at a rival gang member, hitting an innocent bystander in the leg. In total, the defendants were collectively convicted for their roles in eight separate shootings on Bronx streets between summer 2019 and summer 2022. The following photographs depict Dub City members and co-defendants SILVA, MELVIN, and ELIJAH POUGH firing their weapons at rival gang members and others on Bronx streets: In imposing today’s sentence, Judge Gardephe said that Silva poses a “clear and present danger to the community.” * * * A chart containing the names and ages of the defendants, the charges they were convicted of, and the sentences they received is set forth below. Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the New York City Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations, and also thanked the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office for its assistance. This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent Organizations and Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael R. Herman, Jacob R. Fiddelman, and Matthew J. King are in charge of the prosecution. Defendant Age Conviction Sentence BRUCE SILVA, a/k/a “Brucie,” 30 Racketeering conspiracy Two counts of use, possession, and brandishing of a firearms in connection with an attempted assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering Possession of ammunition after a felony conviction 22 years in prison; 3 years supervised release BRUCE MELVIN, a/k/a “BG,” 27 Racketeering conspiracy Two counts of use, possession, and brandishing of a firearms in connection with an attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering 240 months in prison; 5 years supervised release JORDAN BENNETT a/k/a “Billy Bandz,” a/k/a “J Bills,” 32 Racketeering conspiracy 144 months 3 years supervised release ELIJAH POUGH, a/k/a “Eli,” 30 Racketeering conspiracy Use, possession, and brandishing, of a firearm in connection with an attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering 120 months 5 years supervised release SHADELL MCBRIDE, a/k/a “Deli,” 31 Racketeering conspiracy Use and possession of a firearm in connection with an attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering 120 months 5 years supervised release JUSTIN BALLESTER, a/k/a “J-Gunz,” 31 Racketeering conspiracy 60 months 3 years supervised release ALZUBAIR SALEH, a/k/a “Sammy,” 35 Racketeering conspiracy 51 months 3 years supervised release GIOVANNI RODRIGUEZ, a/k/a “Karrot,” 27 Racketeering conspiracy 36 months 3 years supervised release GABRIEL VALDEZ, a/k/a “Wolf,” 27 Racketeering conspiracy 48 months (including 20 months spent in New York state custody) 3 years supervised release EMMANUEL PEREZ, a/k/a “Manny,” a/k/a “Haven,” 26 Racketeering conspiracy 36 months 3 years supervised release


title: Bronx Man Charged With Federal Hate Crimes For Attack At Manhattan Synagogue

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, Assistant Attorney General for the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, Harmeet K. Dhillon, Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., and the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, announced today that LARRY MONTES was charged with two counts of committing hate crimes in connection with his race- and religious-based assaults of a congregant and a security guard during a Shabbat service at a synagogue in Manhattan on August 14, 2026, as well as one count of destruction of religious property resulting in bodily injury. MONTES is currently in state custody and will be transported to and presented in Manhattan federal court at a later date to face the federal charges filed in the Southern District of New York. “Today, the Southern District of New York filed federal charges against Larry Montes for his violent, hate‑motivated attack during Shabbat services at Central Synagogue on August 14, in which he disrupted worship, struck a congregant, damaged synagogue property, and spat on and headbutted a security guard,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “An attack on a house of worship is an attack on the fundamental right to practice one’s faith safely, and our Office will work tirelessly to ensure the defendant is held fully accountable as we continue to protect all communities from hate‑driven violence.” “These charges serve as notice that the Department of Justice will intervene to protect the public in the face of antisemitic and racially motivated attacks,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “The Civil Rights Division stands ready to combat assaults against worshippers and houses of worship. Americans’ fundamental right to worship without fear of bias-motivated violence is sacrosanct and must be protected at all costs.” “Larry Montes’ targeted acts of violence on a congregant, security guard, and synagogue during a Shabbat service are deeply disturbing,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “The FBI condemns any incident driven by bias or hate, and we commend the swift actions of the security personnel and first responders. Hate crimes have no place in New York, and we remain steadfast in protecting every community.” “As alleged in the complaint, Larry Montes brought violence to Jewish New Yorkers engaged in prayer when he disrupted Shabbat services at Central Synagogue in Manhattan,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “I am grateful that an NYPD sergeant was there to take him into custody, and for the ongoing efforts of our Hate Crimes Task Force and our federal partners to hold Montes accountable for his alleged crimes.” As alleged in the Complaint:(1) On August 14, 2026, at a Friday night Shabbat service attended by approximately 375 people at a synagogue in Manhattan, MONTES stood up and began shouting and then physically struck and caused damage to two ceremonial silver candlesticks with gold accents. The head of security at the synagogue proceeded to attempt to remove MONTES from the area where the service was taking place, during which MONTES stated, in sum and substance, and among other things, “fuck you people” and “I don’t fuck with you people.” MONTES also punched with a closed fist a woman (“Victim-1”) who was attending services at the synagogue and, later, while being handcuffed by security guards and law enforcement, looked at one of the security guards (“Victim-2”), who is a Black man, and stated, in sum and substance, “fuck you [n-word].” He then spat in Victim-2’s face and headbutted Victim-2 near Victim-2’s left eye socket. MONTES also stated, in sum and substance, that he planned to return to the synagogue on a later date. During a recorded, Mirandized post-arrest interview, MONTES stated, in substance and in part, “fuck the Jews. . . . It’s racial” and “I will never affiliate with no filthy fucking synagogues, either here or in fucking Israel.” MONTES also stated about his actions at the synagogue that “it’s all a racial thing” and that it was “all religious motivated.” * * * MONTES, 46, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with two counts of committing hate crimes, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and one count of damage to religious property resulting in bodily injury, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The statutory maximum sentences are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge. Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and the NYPD for their assistance. The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights and Human Trafficking Unit in the Criminal Division, with consultation from the Criminal Section of the Civil Rights Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith C. Foster is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Complaint are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ^ As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth in this release constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: 17 Iranians Charged With Conducting Massive Cyber Theft Campaign On Behalf Of The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps And Other Iranian Entities

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, Assistant Attorney General for National Security, John A. Eisenberg, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., announced today the unsealing of a 14-count Superseding (“S2”) Indictment charging 17 members of the Mabna Institute, an Iran-based company that, since at least 2013, conducted a coordinated campaign of cyber intrusions into computer systems to 144 U.S.-based universities, 178 foreign universities, at least 42 U.S.-based private sector companies, at least 11 foreign private sector companies, at least five U.S. federal and state government agencies, and at least two non-governmental organizations (“NGOs”). Through the defendants’ activities, the Mabna Institute stole more than 31 terabytes of academic data and intellectual property from universities, and the email accounts of employees at private sector companies, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. The defendants conducted many of these intrusions on behalf of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s (“Iran”) Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (“IRGC”), one of several entities within the government of Iran responsible for gathering intelligence, as well as other Iranian government and university clients. Nine of the 17 defendants charged in the S2 Indictment were previously charged in a 7-count Indictment announced in March 2018 . The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Jesse M. Furman. “Today’s charges show that neither sophistication nor geographic boundaries will deter us from protecting the national security of our country from those who target the United States from abroad,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “These charges, which include eight additional defendants, reveal the broader network allegedly behind a sweeping, state-sponsored campaign to steal research and intellectual property from American universities, businesses, and government institutions. Cyber operations have become a central instrument of national power, and attacks on American and allied institutions carry direct consequences for our security and economic strength. This Office and our partners will continue to protect American innovation and pursue accountability for the individuals behind these attacks.” “The superseding indictment alleges that, at the behest of entities including the IRGC, these defendants hacked into universities and other research institutions worldwide, including the United States, stealing at least 31 terabytes of information and intellectual property of untold value,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “The National Security Division is committed to protecting the United States from such predators and will pursue those who perpetrate such crimes for as long as it takes to bring them to justice.” “Coordinated cyber intrusions like those allegedly carried out by the 17 members of the Mabna Institute represent a serious threat to our national security,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “Their campaign stole vast amounts of intellectual property and sensitive information, reinforcing the FBI's commitment to confront this activity head-on. Backed by the IRGC, this operation reflects a broader, organized effort to target U.S. institutions and global partners. No matter where these actors operate or how they attempt to hide, the FBI will persist in its efforts to disrupt this criminal activity.” According to the allegations contained in the S2 Indictment:(1) Background on the Mabna Institute GHOLAMREZA RAFATNEJAD and EHSAN MOHAMMADI founded the Mabna Institute in approximately 2013 to assist Iranian universities and scientific and research organizations in stealing access to non-Iranian scientific resources. In furtherance of its mission, the Mabna Institute employed, contracted, and affiliated itself with hackers-for-hire and other contract personnel to conduct cyber intrusions to steal academic data, intellectual property, email inboxes and other proprietary data, including ABDOLLAH KARIMA, a/k/a “Vahid Karima,” MOSTAFA SADEGHI, SEYED ALI MIRKARIMI, MOHAMMED REZA SABAHI, ROOZBEH SABAHI, ABUZAR GOHARI MOQADAM, SAJJAD TAHMASEBI, SAEID HOUSHYAR, BEHZAD MESRI, a/k/a “Skote Vahshat,” MANOUCHEHR HASHEMLOO, KEYVAN FAYAZ, a/k/a “Achilles,” a/k/a “The Joker,” a/k/a “bc.monster,” AMIR BARATI, SABER SHAHBAZI BALLOJEH, ARMAN KAHZADIAN, and MOJTABA GALEKUHI, a/k/a “Mojtaba Ghaleh Koui.” The Mabna Institute contracted with both Iranian governmental and private entities to conduct hacking activities on their behalf, and specifically conducted the university spearphishing campaign on behalf of the IRGC. The Mabna Institute is located at Tehran, Sheikh Bahaii Shomali, Koucheh Dawazdeh Metri Sevom, Plak 14, Vahed 2, Code Posti 1995873351. University Hacking Campaign The Mabna Institute, through the activities of the defendants, targeted more than 100,000 accounts of professors around the world. They successfully compromised approximately 8,000 professor email accounts across 144 U.S.-based universities, and 178 universities located in foreign countries, including Australia, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom. The campaign started in approximately 2013, continued through at least December 2017, and broadly targeted all types of academic data and intellectual property from the systems of compromised universities. Through the course of the conspiracy, U.S.-based universities spent more than approximately $3.4 billion to procure and access such data and intellectual property. The members of the conspiracy used stolen account credentials to obtain unauthorized access to victim professor accounts, which they used to steal research, and other academic data and documents, including, among other things, academic journals, theses, dissertations, and electronic books. The defendants targeted data across all fields of research and academic disciplines, including science and technology, engineering, social sciences, medical, and other professional fields. The defendants stole at least approximately 31.5 terabytes of academic data and intellectual property, which they exfiltrated to servers outside the United States that were under the control of members of the conspiracy. In addition to stealing academic data and login credentials for the benefit of the Government of Iran, the defendants also sold the stolen data through two websites, Megapaper.ir (Megapaper) and Gigapaper.ir (Gigapaper). Megapaper was operated by Falinoos Company, a company controlled by ABDOLLAH KARIMA, a/k/a “Vahid Karima,” and Gigapaper was affiliated with KARIMA. Megapaper sold stolen academic resources to customers within Iran, including Iran-based public universities and institutions, and Gigapaper sold a service to customers within Iran whereby purchasing customers could use compromised university professor accounts to directly access the online library systems of particular U.S.-based and foreign universities. Private Sector and Governmental and Non-Governmental Organization Hacking Campaigns In addition to targeting and compromising universities, the defendants targeted and compromised and exfiltrated employee email accounts for at least approximately at least five U.S. federal and state government agencies, at least 42 U.S. based private sector companies, at least approximately 11 foreign companies based in Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, and various governmental and non-governmental organizations within the U.S., including the U.S. Department of Labor, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the State of Hawaii, the State of Indiana, the United Nations, and the United Nations Children’s Fund. Eight Additional Defendants Charged in the S2 Indictment The S2 Indictment charges eight additional defendants and describes continued efforts by the Mabna Institute to target American and international institutions. For example, the defendants targeted Home Box Office, Inc. (“HBO”), a media and entertainment company headquartered in New York, New York. MESRI was separately charged in United States v. Behzad Mesri , 17 Cr. 689 (AJN), with hacking into HBO’s computer systems, stealing proprietary data, and then attempting to extort HBO for approximately $6 million worth of Bitcoin, a form of digital currency. HOUSHYAR, HASHEMLOO, FAYAZ, BALLOJEH, and KAHZADIAN were also directly involved in the hack of HBO’s systems along with MESRI. In addition, GALEKUHI, FAYAZ, and BALLOJEH participated in the Mabana Institute’s efforts to hack into private sector companies and at least two governmental entities—including through password spray attacks, obtaining unauthorized access to victim systems, and exfiltrating data—causing victims to have suffered from an excess of $20 million in costs to investigate and remediate the intrusions. BARATI moreover was involved in tracking the progress of the spearfishing campaigns, exchanging login credentials for compromised accounts with other co-conspirators, creating targeting lists, conducting computer network reconnaissance, and crafting spearfishing messages. Concurrent with the unsealing of the S2 Indictment, the U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice program (“RFJ”) is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the location of defendants MESRI, GALEKUHI, KAHZADIAN, FAYAZ, and BALLOJEH. The RFJ program seeks information on any person who, while acting at the direction or under the control of a foreign government, engages in certain malicious cyber activities in violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Anyone with information on these malicious cyber actors, or associated individuals or entities, please contact Rewards for Justice via the Tor-based tips-reporting channel at: he5dybnt7sr6cm32xt77pazmtm65flqy6irivtflruqfc5ep7eiodiad.onion. More information about this RFJ reward offer is located on the Rewards for Justice website . * * * A chart containing the names, charges, and maximum penalties for the defendants is set forth below. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI. He also thanked the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs. Mr. McDonald further thanked the RFJ Program for their support. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas W. Chiuchiolo, Connie L. Dang, and Adam Sowlati are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance provided by Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section. The charges contained in the S2 Indictment are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. COUNT CHARGE DEFENDANTS MAX. PENALTIES 1 Conspiracy to Commit Computer Intrusions (18 U.S.C. § 371) RAFATNEJAD, MOHAMMADI, KARIMA, SADEGHI, MIRKARIMI, SABAHI, SABAHI, MOQADAM, TAHMASEBI, HOUSHYAR, MESRI, HASHEMLOO, FAYAZ, BARATI, BALLOJEH, and KAHZADIAN Five years in prison 2 Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1349) RAFATNEJAD, MOHAMMADI, KARIMA, SADEGHI, MIRKARIMI, SABAHI, SABAHI, MOQADAM, TAHMASEBI, HOUSHYAR, MESRI, HASHEMLOO, FAYAZ, BARATI, BALLOJEH, and KAHZADIAN 20 years in prison 3 Computer Fraud – Unauthorized Access for Private Financial Gain (18 U.S.C. §§ 1030(a)(2), (c)(2)(B)(i), (c)(2)(B)(iii) and 2) RAFATNEJAD, MOHAMMADI, KARIMA, SADEGHI, MIRKARIMI, SABAHI, SABAHI, MOQADAM, TAHMASEBI, HOUSHYAR, MESRI, HASHEMLOO, FAYAZ, BARATI, and KAHZADIAN Five years in prison 4 Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. §§ 1343 and 2) RAFATNEJAD, MOHAMMADI, KARIMA, SADEGHI, MIRKARIMI, SABAHI, SABAHI, MOQADAM, TAHMASEBI, HOUSHYAR, MESRI, HASHEMLOO, BARATI, and KAHZADIAN 20 years in prison 5 Computer Fraud – Unauthorized Access for Private Financial Gain (18 U.S.C. §§ 1030(a)(2), (c)(2)(B)(i), (c)(2)(B)(iii) and 2) RAFATNEJAD, MOHAMMADI, KARIMA, SADEGHI, MIRKARIMI, SABAHI, SABAHI, MOQADAM, TAHMASEBI, HOUSHYAR, MESRI, HASHEMLOO, BARATI, and KAHZADIAN Five years in prison 6 Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. §§ 1343 and 2) RAFATNEJAD, MOHAMMADI, KARIMA, SADEGHI, MIRKARIMI, SABAHI, SABAHI, MOQADAM, TAHMASEBI, HOUSHYAR, MESRI, HASHEMLOO, BARATI, and KAHZADIAN 20 years in prison 7 Aggravated Identity Theft (18 U.S.C. §§ 1028A(a)(1), 1028A(b), and 2) RAFATNEJAD, MOHAMMADI, KARIMA, SADEGHI, MIRKARIMI, SABAHI, SABAHI, MOQADAM, TAHMASEBI, HOUSHYAR, MESRI, HASHEMLOO, FAYAZ, BARATI, BALLOJEH, and KAHZADIAN Mandatory sentence of two years in prison 8 Computer Fraud – Unauthorized Access for Private Financial Gain (18 U.S.C. §§ 1030(a)(2), (c)(2)(B)(i), (c)(2)(B)(iii), and 2; 18 U.S.C. § 3238) HOUSHYAR, HASHEMLOO, FAYAZ, BALLOJEH, and KAHZADIAN Five years in prison 9 Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. §§ 1343 and 2; 18 U.S.C. § 3238) HOUSHYAR, HASHEMLOO, FAYAZ, BALLOJEH, and KAHZADIAN 20 years in prison 10 Aggravated Identity Theft (18 U.S.C. §§ 1028A(a)(1), 1028A(b), and 2; 18 U.S.C. § 3238) HOUSHYAR, HASHEMLOO, FAYAZ, BALLOJEH, and KAHZADIAN Mandatory sentence of two years in prison 11 Conspiracy to Commit Computer Intrusions (18 U.S.C. § 371; 18 U.S.C. § 3238) FAYAZ, BALLOJEH, and MOJTABA GALEKUHI Five years in prison 12 Computer Intrusion (18 U.S.C. §§ 1030(a)(2), (c)(2)(B)(i), and (c)(2)(B)(iii)) FAYAZ, BALLOJEH, and MOJTABA GALEKUHI Five years in prison 13 Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1349; 18 U.S.C. § 3238) FAYAZ, BALLOJEH, and MOJTABA GALEKUHI 20 years in prison 14 Aggravated Identity Theft (18 U.S.C. §§ 1028A(a)(1), 1028A(b), and 2; 18 U.S.C. § 3238) FAYAZ, BALLOJEH, and MOJTABA GALEKUHI Mandatory sentence of two years in prison ^ As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described therein should be treated as an allegation.


title: Evansville Felon Linked to Fatal Highway 41 Crash Sentenced to 13 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing 41 Firearms

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

body_text: EVANSVILLE- Brandon D. McKinney, 31, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 13 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to court documents, in December 2024, detectives with the Evansville Police Department learned that convicted felon Brandon McKinney was in possession of multiple firearms and illegal drugs inside his Evansville home. On January 28, 2025, officers began surveillance of the residence. During that surveillance, detectives observed two individuals enter McKinney’s home and leave a short time later in a blue Chevy Blazer, behavior consistent with a potential drug transaction. Officers attempted a traffic stop on the Blazer, but the driver fled. The vehicle ultimately crashed, killing both the driver and the front-seat passenger. The crash shut down Highway 41 for nearly two hours while officers conducted their investigation. Investigators recovered marijuana and 1.9 grams of methamphetamine from the vehicle. After the two individuals left McKinney’s home, detectives observed McKinney place a small object in his backyard and cover it with a jacket before leaving the residence. Officers took McKinney into custody as he departed. Detectives then executed a search warrant at McKinney’s home. Inside, they recovered 41 firearms—two of which were reported stolen—390 grams of marijuana, 54.7 grams of methamphetamine, $2,686 in cash, two sets of body armor, approximately 3,000 rounds of assorted ammunition, and multiple high‑capacity magazines. McKinney has prior felony convictions in Indiana, including burglary with a deadly weapon in Warrick County and felony domestic battery in Vanderburgh County. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of Mr. McKinney’s actions and our commitment to keeping firearms out of the hands of convicted felons,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The large cache of weapons and drugs recovered in this case posed a significant threat to the Evansville community, and today’s outcome helps ensure greater safety for everyone.” “While the circumstances surrounding Brandon McKinney’s arrest are deeply tragic and troubling, this 13-year federal sentence reflects the seriousness of the harm caused and helps protect our community from the dangers associated with illegal drugs and firearms. Our thoughts remain with those impacted by his actions. ATF remains committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to prevent violence, disrupt the illegal drug trade, and help create safer, healthier neighborhoods for everyone,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Jorge A. Rosendo U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Kemper, who prosecuted this case.


title: Savannah man sentenced to more than 16 years in federal prison

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: SAVANNAH, Georgia: A Savannah man has been ordered to be confined in federal prison after pleading guilty to multiple charges. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Chief Judge R. Stan Baker and announced by Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. Jason Johnny Wilson , 29, of Savannah, was sentenced to 200 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, Possession of a Stolen Mail Key and Possession of Stolen Mail. Wilson was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $66,358.05 Wilsons’ codefendants, Terriona Grubbs , 27, of Savannah, Arthur Lee Bryant , 30, of Port Wentworth, and Tiana Lashaun Gill , 29, of Savannah, were previously sentenced after pleading guilty to various charges including Fraudulently Passing a Treasury Check, Bank Fraud, and Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud. There is no parole in the federal system. As described in court documents and testimony, from May 2023 to December 2024, the defendants took part in a mail theft scheme in which they would steal mail from U.S. postal receptacles using a stolen mail key. The stolen mail included personal identifying information and checks of multiple victims which were used by the defendants for fraudulent purposes. After creating fraudulent checks using the stolen mail, the defendants would deposit the checks into their personal accounts and use the funds for personal gain. In all, an analysis of multiple electronic devices revealed countless images of bulk cash, checks, and other financial instruments resulting in losses totaling more than $12.1 million. “Possessing stolen mail keys and engaging in the theft of personal and private correspondence is a crime against the public and this defendant will now answer for his misguided actions,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “The outstanding investigators, prosecutors and our law enforcement partners of the agencies involved should all be commended for their relentless effort to bring these defendants to justice.” “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service relentlessly pursues criminals who exploit the U.S. Mail system for unlawful purposes. The sentencing of these defendants who stole checks and other financial instruments and defrauded American citizens serves as a resounding message to anyone who wants to steal U.S. Mail,” stated Rodney M. Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Atlanta Division. “We will unwaveringly work with our partners in law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to hold criminals accountable for their actions,” The United States Postal Inspection Service, the FBI, Chatham County Police Department, Savannah Police Department, Rock Hill (South Carolina) Police Department, and Savannah-Chatham Counter Narcotics Team assisted in the investigation of the case which was prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley R. Thompson.


title: Two Arrested in Years-Long Scheme to Smuggle Protected Reptiles Across U.S.-Mexico Border

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: SAN DIEGO – Georgina Bribiesca Chavez of Tijuana, Mexico, appeared in federal court today to face a wildlife trafficking charge after she allegedly participated in a years-long scheme to smuggle exotic reptiles into and out of the United States. Chavez’s alleged wildlife trafficking partner, Salvador Pelayo of Chula Vista, was arrested in July and faces a similar federal charge for trafficking exotic wildlife. Chavez was arrested last week while attempting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border with a vehicle containing dozens of concealed reptiles, including four venomous, yellow-blotched palm pit vipers; three caimans; one baby crocodile; and more than 60 other reptiles protected under international treaties because of declining populations worldwide. According to court documents, on the morning of August 10, 2026, Chavez applied for entry into the United States at the San Ysidro Port of Entry. She told a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer that she had nothing to declare. While checking her identification, the officer discovered that Chavez had an outstanding arrest warrant related to a long-term wildlife trafficking investigation. She was taken into custody, and her vehicle was seized. The following morning, CBP officers assigned to the seized-vehicle lot inspected Chavez’s red Volkswagen. Inside, they discovered a concealed factory compartment behind the rear bench seat. The compartment contained pillowcases that had been knotted closed and sealed with tape. One of the pillowcases was moving. The officer called for backup. Later that day, the pillowcases were transported to the San Diego Zoo for examination and handling. Zoo staff carefully opened the packages and discovered the 60 abronia lizards, four venomous yellow-blotched palm pit vipers, three caimans, one baby crocodile, and one indigo snake. Several of these species are protected under international treaties because of their endangered or threatened status. Even after her arrest, Chavez never told CBP officers about the live animals in her car, leaving them abandoned for nearly 24 hours in the August heat in San Ysidro. All three caimans died before the San Diego Zoo could provide care. As of last week, the remaining animals were stable and remained under the Zoo’s care. “These animals were not cargo—they were living creatures subjected to dangerous conditions for profit,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. At today’s hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Jill L. Burkhardt ordered Chavez held without bond pending trial. Chavez and Pelayo have both pleaded not guilty. According to court documents, Chavez and Pelayo began working together to traffic wildlife into the U.S. to sell to American buyers in 2023. Investigators with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service began an undercover investigation about 18 months ago, targeting their trafficking activity. Over the course of the investigation, Pelayo and Chavez were involved in several undercover buys of protected turtles and were surveilled by investigators sending and receiving wildlife at shipping centers around San Diego. On one occasion in March 2025, as alleged in Chavez’s complaint, undercover agents purchased four protected Mexican box turtles from Pelayo and their partner in Mexico; Chavez met the undercover agent in person to deliver the live animals just hours after she crossed the U.S.-Mexico border. The agent paid Chavez $2,600 cash in exchange for the turtles. After the undercover buy, the turtles were transferred to the Oakland Zoo for care and keeping, where they were identified as protected species native to Mexico. The turtles were in bad health, likely because they were caught in the wild and had contracted a respiratory disease. By May 2025, all four of the turtles had died. On another occasion also in March 2025, as alleged in Pelayo’s complaint, another undercover agent purchased four protected Mexican and Yucatan box turtles from their partner in Mexico to be shipped to New York. The turtles, which are native to Mexico, were smuggled into the U.S. On March 11, 2025, Pelayo used a fake name, “Jose Lopez,” to ship a box containing the four turtles to the undercover agent in New York. The agent received the turtles the next day and transferred them to the Buffalo Zoo for care and keeping. Pelayo and Chavez are believed to have trafficked exotic wildlife together for several years and court documents allege that they made tens of thousands of dollars in profits from the sale of those animals to buyers in the United States. According to court records, at times, they would buy protected wildlife that was sourced in the United States and export it to Mexico, where customers in Mexico would purchase the rare animals. Chavez was observed picking up Eastern box turtles native to New York at a shipping center in San Diego, which she smuggled into Mexico in the trunk of her red Volkswagen. Chavez is due in court on August 27, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., for a preliminary hearing before Judge Burkhardt. Pelayo’s next hearing is on October 2, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Cathy A. Bencivengo. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are members of the Department of Justice’s Trade Fraud Task Force, a cross-agency law enforcement effort that also involves the National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Criminal and Civil Divisions, the Energy and Natural Resources Division, the Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide. The Task Force was created to leverage all of the Department’s tools and authorities to prevent trade fraud that deprives the government of vital revenue, threatens critical domestic industries, undermines consumer confidence, and weakens national security. The Task Force is designed to pursue enforcement actions against parties who seek to evade tariffs and other duties, as well as smugglers who seek to import prohibited goods into the American economy. The Justice Department encourages whistleblowers to alert the government to credible allegations of fraud, including utilizing the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act or through the Criminal Division’s Corporate Whistleblower Program at CorporateWhistleblower@usdoj.gov using the form available here . This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily W. Allen for the Southern District of California. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Office of Law Enforcement is investigating this case with assistance from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. DEFENDANTS Salvador Pelayo, Case No. 26-mj-4326-DDL Age: 28 Chula Vista, CA Georgina Bribiesca Chavez, Case No. 26-mj-4598-JLB Age: 66 Tijuana, Mexico SUMMARY OF CHARGES Lacey Act Trafficking – Title 16, U.S.C., Sections 3372(a)(1) and 3373(d)(1)(B) Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and $250,000 fine INVESTIGATING AGENCY U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service


title: Lakeside Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: EUGENE, Ore.—A Lakeside, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Bradley Vernon Mullanix, 50, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison and 5 years’ supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. According to court documents, on February 5 th Mullanix purchased two pounds of Methamphetamine from an undercover agent, believing he was a drug dealer. Mullanix paid $2,400 for the drugs and intended to sell them. Upon placing the drugs on a scale, he was arrested. Mullanix previously illegally possessed and sold firearms in June 2024. Mullanix sold the firearms to a confidential informant. Those firearms were seized by law enforcement and will be forfeited. On February 6, 2025, Mullanix was charged by criminal complaint with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. On May 14, 2026, Mullanix pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. This case was investigated by ATF and the South Coast Interagency Narcotics Team. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Huynh.


title: Mexican National Sentenced to Prison for Role in Fentanyl Trafficking Conspiracy

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national, who was illegally in the United States, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to the mandatory minimum of five years in prison for distributing over 1,000 fentanyl pills in North Las Vegas. "Fentanyl is a deadly poison that continues to devastate families across communities,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message to those who profit from trafficking this lethal drug: federal law enforcement will pursue you, and you will face severe consequences in federal prison. We remain committed to removing these dangerous substances and the individuals who distribute them from our streets.” “Fentanyl remains an insatiable killer, bringing irreparable harm into our communities,” said David S. Olesky, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration Los Angeles Field Division, which covers Nevada. “All those involved in illicit drug trafficking, irrespective of their role in the supply chain, will face the full weight of the law.” According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 8, 2023, a co-defendant directed Erick Fuentes Lopez to distribute fentanyl pills. When he arrived at a parking lot Fuentes Lopez sold approximately 600 fentanyl pills. Later, on July 12, 2023, a co-defendant directed Fuentes Lopez to distribute fentanyl pills at the same parking lot. Fuentes Lopez distributed approximately 500 fentanyl pills. A total of 118.3 grams of fentanyl were distributed. Fuentes Lopez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. This case was investigated by the DEA and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Melanee Smith prosecuted the case. ###


title: Home Healthcare Company and its Owner Pay $1.2M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Related to COVID-19 Pandemic Relief Loans

body_text: CONCORD — The U.S. Attorney for the District of New Hampshire, Erin Creegan announces that Jean-Paul Karangwa and Caring Bees Healthcare, Inc., (Caring Bees) have paid $1,200,000 to resolve allegations that Karangwa and Caring Bees violated the False Claims Act by misusing Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan. Congress created the PPP and EIDL programs to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA). The EIDL program provided low interest loans from the SBA to allow small businesses to maintain their operations during shutdowns and other economic circumstances caused by the pandemic. PPP and EIDL funds were to be used solely to cover legitimate business expenses, such as payroll costs, rent, and utilities. PPP and EIDL funds were not to be used for personal purposes. The United States contends that Karangwa and Caring Bees violated the False Claims Act by misrepresenting their plan to use $200,000 of the EIDL funds and $400,000 of the PPP funds for authorized expenses and to alleviate economic injury but instead, Karangwa used them for personal investments, including in commercial real estate and in a start-up online retailer. He applied for and was granted forgiveness for the PPP loan despite this misuse. “PPP and EIDL loans were intended to aid Americans and small businesses and shore up the economy amid the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan. “This Office and our law enforcement partners remain committed to protecting and recovering unlawfully obtained taxpayer dollars.” “This settlement resolves allegations that Jean-Paul Karangwa and his home healthcare company drained a government program – implemented amid widespread economic upheaval – for personal gain,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “Anyone who thinks defrauding U.S. taxpayers is a quick way to an easy payday best think again, because the FBI stands very ready to hold you accountable.” Civil Chief Raphael Katz, with the assistance of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samuel Martin and Alexander Chen, handled this matter. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. There was no admission of liability.


title: Colebrook Man Sentenced to Nearly Seven Years in Prison for Role in Fentanyl Trafficking Organization

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: CONCORD – Michael Savard, 40, of Colebrook, was sentenced yesterday in federal court for fentanyl trafficking conspiracy in a case brought by New Hampshire’s Homeland Security Task Force, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Savard was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Landya McCafferty to 80 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release. Savard previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. “This defendant trafficked dangerously addictive fentanyl, brokering large scale deals moving drugs into many New Hampshire communities – thankfully this operation is now out of commission,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan. “This sentence makes clear that the Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners will hold drug distributors accountable.” “This sentence holds a dangerous fentanyl trafficker accountable for his role in a conspiracy that put countless lives at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, New England Field Division. “Fentanyl is devastating families and communities across our country, and those who knowingly traffic this deadly poison must understand that there are consequences for their actions. The DEA and our law enforcement partners will continue to aggressively target those who distribute fentanyl, dismantle the networks that fuel this crisis, and bring traffickers to justice.” According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in fall of 2022, the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated a Lawrence-based organization that distributed fentanyl across New Hampshire and Massachusetts. The organization used social media, messaging applications, and a dedicated phone line to take drug orders and send runners to make deliveries. Savard was one of several New Hampshire-based redistributors of the organization, who purchased approximately half a kilogram of fentanyl within a six-month period in 2023 for resale to his own customers, and brokered introductions between the organization’s leader and other prospective New Hampshire-based customers. The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cesar A. Vega and Mike Shannon are prosecuting 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 New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.


title: Project Safe Schools initiative debuts as U.S. Attorney moves against Forney ISD and former educators for  reporting failures

body_text: DALLAS — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould, announced today the launch of Project Safe Schools, a federal initiative aimed at protecting students, enforcing accountability and restoring transparency in public schools across North Texas. According to the Texas Education Agency, more than 9,720 educator‑misconduct investigations have been opened in the past two years, resulting in hundreds of disciplinary actions and placements on the Do Not Hire registry. Yet, districts across North Texas continue to underreport abuse and retain educators with known misconduct issues. Project Safe Schools directly targets these failures by coordinating federal and state resources to enforce mandatory reporting laws and protect students. “Protecting children is not optional—it is the law,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “We will support those who follow their obligations and put students first, and we will rigorously pursue accountability for anyone who conceals misconduct or allows harm to continue. Project Safe Schools is about transparency, responsibility and ensuring every child is safe in the classroom.” “The FBI is proud to partner in Project Safe Schools to ensure that our students not only receive a good education, but that education is provided in a safe environment,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “We all share a role in protecting students, and through this partnership, we can succeed in making our schools safer.” FORNEY ISD: CIVIL SETTLEMENT AND CRIMINAL CHARGES As part of this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced two coordinated enforcement actions involving Forney Independent School District: a civil settlement under the False Claims Act and criminal charges against a former principal and a teacher. To resolve allegations that it submitted false or misleading certifications regarding compliance with mandatory reporting laws when applying for federal funding under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Forney ISD agreed to pay $14,308 and adopt enhanced compliance measures designed to prevent future reporting failures and strengthen protections for students across the district. U.S. Attorney Raybould stated that “the settlement amount reflects Forney ISD’s decision to come forward and cooperate; districts that fail to self‑report similar violations should expect significantly harsher consequences.” On the criminal side, former Principal Wendy Bailey and teacher Michael Roell, also known as Johnathan Michael, have been charged with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Both allegedly played a role in concealing Roell’s prior arrest, facilitating his legal name change to evade background checks, and falsifying hiring documents—conduct that allowed him to obtain a special education teaching position despite repeated misconduct concerns. U.S. Attorney Raybould praised the outstanding work of the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, General Services Administration Office of the Inspector General, Texas Education Agency, Department of Public Safety, Texas Rangers and Kaufman County District Attorney. The civil matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Javan Porter and Brian Stoltz. The criminal matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Theodore Parran and Claire Demers. The civil claims resolved by the settlement agreement are allegations only; there has been no determination of civil liability. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. CALL FOR VOLUNTARY DISCLOSURE FROM NORTH TEXAS SCHOOL DISTRICTS The U.S. Attorney’s Office is urging all North Texas public school districts to proactively review their reporting practices and come forward if they identify past failures that occurred within the last five years. Districts that knowingly concealed educator misconduct, failed to submit mandatory reports, or certified compliance inaccurately when receiving federal education funds should self‑report through the Project Safe Schools Voluntary Disclosure pathway. Voluntary and timely disclosure will be considered in accordance with Department of Justice guidance and may lead to significantly different outcomes than misconduct uncovered through enforcement actions. Coming forward demonstrates a district’s commitment to compliance and to protecting students. Districts should submit disclosures to: USATXN.ProjectSafeSchools@usdoj.gov complaint_roell_and_bailey_002.pdf forney_isd_settlement_agreement_executed_2065-4027-2646_v.1.pdf


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office and U.S. Marshals Service Announce More than 600 Arrests in Northern Ohio Violent Crime Crackdown

body_text: CLEVELAND – Hundreds of individuals were apprehended and taken into custody throughout northern Ohio as part of a multi-agency strategic initiative to combat violent crime. The multi-jurisdictional sweep across eight cities, known as Operation Northern Shield, was coordinated among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and task forces. In May, June, and July, more than 600 people were arrested and nearly 200 firearms were seized along with varying amounts of fentanyl, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, cocaine, illicit drugs, and U.S. currency. Approximately 264 of these arrests came from surges into individual cities, and an additional 355 arrests were from other areas across the District. “Operation Northern Shield was a different strategy than what was done before. We’ve never targeted multiple cities simultaneously. But we knew that, historically, rising temps in the summer months tend to correlate with rising crime and we needed to act swiftly across our region, not just in one area,” said U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio. “We were determined to shield our communities with the highest crime areas. We especially would like to thank the U.S. Marshals Service for taking the lead in this effort to align state and local agencies and resources to take down some of the most wanted criminals in our District while continuing to perform their regular work to hunt down fugitives.” “Operation Northern Shield succeeded because agencies did not work in silos, they worked as one team. This is what successful multi-agency operations look like. Different patches, uniforms, and chains of command, one mission making northern Ohio safer,” said U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott. “For 23 years our USMS (NOVFTF) was built on and sustained through our partnerships. My special thanks to all the federal, state and local officers, assistant U.S. attorneys, and crime analysts who put in the long hours to make this operation a complete success, ensuring the safety of our communities.” Plans for Operation Northern Shield began in early 2026, with the goal to partner with local law enforcement agencies in a cohesive and integrated effort to target and apprehend violent fugitives in eight northern Ohio cities including Akron, Cleveland, Lorain, Youngstown, Elyria, Canton, Mansfield, and Toledo. Fugitives were wanted for crimes of violence such as homicide, manslaughter, assault, robbery, and sex offenses. Other offenses involved human trafficking, firearms, and illegal drugs. Overall, Operation Northern Shield yielded the following totals from May 17-July 18: 619 arrested 684 warrants cleared 29 (suspected) gang members arrested 1.317 kg of narcotics seized (methamphetamine, cocaine, ecstasy, and fentanyl) 6 pounds of marijuana seized $120,200 in U.S. Currency seized 198 firearms, 2 suppressors, 2 machine gun conversion devices, 1 inert grenade, 2 sets of ballistic body armor seized DOJ, Operation Northern Shield Many of those apprehended will face state charges, and several are expected to be referred for federal prosecution where appropriate. Among those arrested who are facing federal charges are: Sidney Booty, 47, of Cleveland, a previously convicted felon who was allegedly found possessing an illegal firearm, a silencer, and methamphetamine which he intended to distribute and sell. Marcus Brown, 36, and Terence Montgomery, 32, both of Cleveland, were allegedly part of a drug conspiracy that trafficked fentanyl, crack, and cocaine. They are also charged with interstate transportation in aid of racketeering. Operation Northern Shield was led by the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) for the Northern District of Ohio. U.S. Attorney Toepfer would like to gratefully acknowledge the following agencies for each of their roles in this successful operation to keep Northern Ohio communities safe: USMS Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFT) teams from Akron, Canton, Lorain, Mansfield, Painesville, Toledo, and Cleveland USMS Special Operations Group, K-9 Team Ohio State Highway Patrol Special Response Team Ohio Adult Parole Authority USMS Southern District of Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team Akron Police Department, Gun Violence Reduction Team Cleveland Division of Police Canton Police Department Elyria Police Department Lorain Police Department Mansfield Police Department Toledo Police Department Youngstown Police Department Wyandot County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Drug Enforcement Administration FBI Cleveland Division U.S. Secret Service


title: Ohio Man and Texas Woman Sentenced Collectively to More Than 56 Years in Prison for Child Exploitation Offenses

component: USAO - Ohio, Northern

body_text: TOLEDO, Ohio – Two people have been sentenced to prison for conspiring to produce child pornography by sexually exploiting two children. Chaz Jacob, 36, of Toledo, and Amy Fountain, 51, of McDade, Texas, were sentenced to prison by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey J. Helmick after pleading guilty in February to criminal offenses. Jacob was sentenced to 420 months (35 years) in prison for Conspiracy to Produce Child Pornography, two counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography. He was also ordered to serve a lifetime of supervised release and pay a combined $75,000 in restitution to 25 victims. Fountain was sentenced to 262 months (21.83 years) in prison for Conspiracy to Produce Child Pornography and Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. She was ordered to serve three years of supervised release after imprisonment. According to court documents, federal agents were investigating the suspected sexual abuse of a minor victim in Toledo and Jacob was subsequently identified. During a search warrant executed at Jacob’s residence, several of his electronic devices were seized. Forensic analysis of these electronic devices revealed videos that Jacob recorded himself while he sexually abused several minors. Other videos found on the devices depicted Fountain, and her husband Christopher Hagerman, 50, also of McDade, sexually abusing two minors under the age of 12 at Jacob’s residence. Hagerman pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Produce Child Pornography and Sexual Exploitation of a Minor in June and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 7. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorneys Sara Al-Sorghali and Frank Spryszak for the Northern District of Ohio. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country and marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org , or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


title: Vestal Company and Owner to Pay $130,000 to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – M Squared Staffing LLC, the former operator of the Vestal Coal House in Vestal, New York, and its owner, Mark Mushalla, will pay $130,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by falsely certifying that the restaurant was eligible to receive funding from the federal Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). “The Restaurant Revitalization Fund was created to support certain small businesses facing the economic hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “By falsely certifying that a permanently closed restaurant was eligible for funding, Mark Mushalla caused his company to obtain funds for which it was not eligible and undermined the integrity of this critical relief program. Our office remains committed to enforcing the False Claims Act and holding accountable those who misrepresent their eligibility for federal funding.” Congress enacted the American Rescue Plan Act in March 2021, as a continuation of the federal government’s efforts to provide relief to American individuals and businesses suffering the economic and public health effects of the pandemic. The Act allocated $28.6 billion to the RRF, which allowed the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) to award grants to qualifying restaurants and other eligible entities based on pandemic-related revenue losses. Businesses that were permanently closed were not eligible for RRF funding. M Squared operated a café and events center at the Vestal Coal House, located at 204 Stage Road in Vestal, New York, pursuant to a license agreement with the Town of Vestal. The license agreement expired on December 31, 2020. After the license agreement expired, M Squared vacated the Coal House location and removed the restaurant equipment from the premises. As part of the settlement agreement, M Squared and Mushalla admitted that the Vestal Coal House had permanently closed before M Squared applied for RRF funding. On May 4, 2021, M Squared applied to SBA for an RRF grant on behalf of the business identified in the application as “M Squared Staffing LLC, doing business as Vestal Coal House.” Mushalla completed and signed the application on behalf of M Squared. The application specifically asked whether the applicant’s business was permanently closed and instructed applicants to answer “No” only if the business was temporarily closed or actively working on opening. M Squared, through Mushalla, falsely answered “No.” Although M Squared remained a legal entity, the Vestal Coal House had permanently ceased operations and was not eligible to receive an RRF grant. Based on the admitted facts, the United States contends that M Squared and Mushalla knowingly caused false claims to be made to SBA and knowingly made false statements material to false claims paid by SBA by falsely certifying that the applicant business had not permanently closed and was eligible to receive an RRF grant. This matter arose from a qui tam complaint filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York. The False Claims Act allows private individuals to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in any recovery. Under the settlement agreement, the relator will receive $13,000. The settlement is captioned United States ex rel. Howitt v. M Squared, et al. , No. 5:24-cv-0262 (N.D.N.Y.). The investigation and resolution of this matter were the result of a coordinated effort between the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York, SBA Office of Inspector General, and SBA Office of General Counsel. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorneys Adam J. Katz and Christopher R. Moran.


title: United States and State of Illinois File Complaint in Intervention in False Claims Act Lawsuit Against Chicago-Area Medical Practice and Billing Company for Allegedly Submitting Fraudulent Medicare and Medicaid Claims

body_text: CHICAGO — The United States and the State of Illinois have filed a joint complaint in intervention alleging that a Chicago-area medical practice and billing company knowingly submitted fraudulent claims to Medicaid and Medicare, resulting in the payment of more than $5.2 million in false claims. The government’s complaint alleges that FOOT & ANKLE HEALTH CARE CENTER, LTD., EUROPEAN FOOT & ANKLE SURGICAL CARE, LTD., their owner, DR. VADIM GOSHKO, and the billing companies, ATLANTIC WAVE HOLDINGS, LLC and ATLANTIC WAVE II, LLC, knowingly submitted fraudulent claims to Medicaid for podiatry services performed by Dr. Goshko after he had already been terminated from the Medicaid program. Because Illinois Medicaid was no longer paying Dr. Goshko’s claims, the defendants allegedly worked together to submit claims that listed other physicians as having provided the podiatry services that were actually performed by Dr. Goshko. Although Dr. Goshko and other defendants had an affirmative obligation to inform Medicare of his exclusion from Medicaid, the complaint alleges that they failed to do so. Medicare eventually revoked Dr. Goshko’s privileges after learning of his Medicaid exclusion. As a result of the fraud, the United States and the State of Illinois, through the Medicare and Medicaid programs, paid the defendants more than $5.2 million in federal and state monies to which the defendants were not entitled, the complaint states. The government’s complaint was filed on Monday in U.S. District Court in Chicago. The government had previously notified the Court that it was intervening in a lawsuit filed by PayrHealth, LLC, which had acquired the billing company in December 2020, under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. After acquiring the billing company, PayrHealth discovered the Goshko entities’ fraudulent conduct, terminated them as clients, and notified the government of the alleged fraud. The government’s complaint seeks treble damages and civil penalties under the federal False Claims Act, the Illinois False Claims Act, and common law claims for payments by mistake and unjust enrichment. The lawsuit was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Kwame Raoul, Illinois Attorney General; Ryan Whalen, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI; and Thomas Ethridge, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Region of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Valerie R. Raedy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Deputy Chief Melissa Guske of the Illinois Attorney General’s Office. The False Claims Act permits private individuals to sue for false claims on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery. The Act allows the government to intervene or take over the lawsuit, as it has done in this case, and to recover three times its damages plus civil penalties ranging from $5,500 to $11,000 for each false claim. Medicaid is a state-administered program, and each state sets its own guidelines regarding eligibility and services. For Illinois Medicaid recipients, funding is shared between the federal government and the State of Illinois. The case is captioned as United States and State of Illinois, ex rel. PayrHealth v. Foot Ankle, et al. , No. 21 C 2536 (N.D. Ill.). The public is reminded that civil allegations are only accusations, and there has been no determination of liability. In a civil case, the government has the burden of proving the allegations by a preponderance of the evidence. dkt._54_-_joint_complaint_in_intervention_-_us_and_il_ex_rel_payrhealth_v._foot_and_ankle.pdf


title: Man Charged in Federal Court With Robbing Victim at Gunpoint During Facebook Marketplace Meeting in Chicago

body_text: CHICAGO — The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago today charged a man with robbing an individual at gunpoint of his laptop computer during a Facebook Marketplace meeting on the city’s North Side. The robbery occurred on the evening of Aug. 5, 2026, in the 700 block of West Belmont Avenue in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. The victim had offered his MacBook Pro laptop for sale on Facebook Marketplace and agreed to meet with a purported buyer, later identified as MAYKEL GONZALEZ DEMARIA. According to a criminal complaint filed today in U.S. District Court in Chicago, Gonzalez Demaria arrived at the pre-arranged meeting location driving a Blue Toyota Corolla and asked the victim to get inside. The victim declined but handed the laptop and a charger to Gonzalez Demaria to inspect, the complaint states. After the pair discussed a price for the laptop, Gonzalez Demaria reached into the backseat, grabbed a firearm, and pointed it at the victim, the complaint states. Gonzalez Demaria then allegedly drove off with the laptop and charger. The victim was able to take a photograph of the Corolla and its license plate number, which he conveyed to Chicago Police in a 911 call. Less than 30 minutes later, police observed a car matching the description about a mile away and conducted a traffic stop, during which they discovered the laptop, the charger, and the firearm, the complaint states. Gonzalez Demaria was placed under arrest. The complaint charges Gonzalez Demaria, 19, with one count of robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. His initial appearance in federal court in Chicago has not yet been scheduled. The complaint was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Christopher Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and Fred Waller, Interim Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. The Chicago Police Department provided valuable assistance. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jalan L. Jaskot. The public is reminded that a complaint is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. gonzalez_demaria_complaint.pdf


title: Georgia Businessman Charged with $24 Million Bank Fraud

body_text: ATLANTA - Thomas Mwangi, the former owner of a Cartersville, Georgia manufacturing business, was arraigned last week on federal bank and wire fraud charges after allegedly defrauding First Financial Bank (“First Financial”) out of more than $20 million. “Mwangi allegedly conned a bank out of approximately $24 million by forging signatures and fabricating account statements,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Fraudulent loans not only harm banks but also restrict access to credit for honest businesses and individuals. We will work with our law enforcement partners to root out and punish manipulation of our financial institutions.” “The rewards for lying, stealing, and falsifying records are serious charges and potential prison time,” said Marlo Graham, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI will continue to use our expertise to investigate and prosecute all those who defraud American businesses.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Mwangi owned and operated CAMaster, a manufacturing company in Cartersville, Georgia. In 2023, Mwangi allegedly duped First Financial into financing his purchase of two Texas companies by falsely pledging millions of dollars as collateral. On one occasion, Mwangi allegedly falsified his brokerage statement to claim he had $22 million dollars when he actually had less than $1 million. Additionally, Mwangi allegedly presented First Financial with a forged document from a brokerage house purporting to acknowledge First Financial’s security interest in Mwangi’s account. Based on Mwangi’s fraudulent representations, First Financial loaned Mwangi $24 million in 2023. After receiving the fraudulent funds, Mwangi allegedly emailed fake financial statements to First Financial on at least 23 occasions to lull the bank into believing he had sufficient collateral for his loans. Last summer, Mwangi defaulted on his loan payments to First Financial. On August 10, 2026, Thomas Mwangi, 48, of Atlanta, Georgia, was arraigned in federal court on an indictment charging two counts of bank fraud and thirteen counts of wire fraud. A federal grand jury returned the indictment on August 4, 2026. Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dwayne A. Brown Jr. is prosecuting the case. For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.


title: Tallahassee Man Indicted for Possession of a Machine Gun & Postal Crimes

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Yasir Jaimon Za’Quis Hawkins, 20, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for illegal possession of a machine gun, possession of Postal Service key, and possession of stolen mail. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges. Hawkins appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for September 29, 2026, before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor. Hawkins faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the possession of a machine gun count; up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the possession of Postal Service key count; and up to five years’ imprisonment on the possession of stolen mail count. This case was jointly investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Emma Schwan is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities . The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Repeat Felon Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Firearm Offense

body_text: Gainesville, Florida – Robert Anthony Yancy, Jr., 25, of Tampa, Florida, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The safety of our communities is not negotiable, and we will not yield control of our streets to serial felons, like this defendant, who have amply demonstrated their outright refusal to follow the law. My office will aggressively prosecute these cases to deliver the safe, crime-free streets our citizens deserve.” Court documents reflect that on the evening of January 2, 2026, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on the defendant’s vehicle. During the stop, law enforcement detected the odor of marijuana and saw evidence of marijuana inside, which led to a search of the vehicle. In addition to locating marijuana and a scale with residue, law enforcement found a handgun in the vehicle. The defendant cannot possess a handgun because he is a six-time convicted felon. Upon his release, Yancy will be subject to three years’ supervised release. The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner prosecuted the case. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Pensacola Felon Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun & Drug Crimes

body_text: Pensacola, Florida – EP Hall, 42, of Pensacola, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and possession of a controlled substance. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the plea. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office remains committed to aggressively prosecuting these cases until criminals realize we have zero-tolerance for lawlessness in the Northern District of Florida. The citizens of our District deserve to live on safe, drug-free streets, and that is exactly what I intend to deliver with more successful prosecutions like this one.” Court documents showed that, in March 2026, the defendant was encountered by law enforcement while walking in a public roadway in Pensacola with a loaded revolver in his waistband and wearing a fanny pack containing crack cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine. As a previously convicted felon, the defendant was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Sentencing is scheduled for November 10, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. Hall faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and up to three years’ imprisonment for possession of a controlled substance due to a prior drug-related conviction. The case was jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Jefferson County Man Charged with Preparing False Tax Returns and Filing False Tax Returns

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment today charging a Jefferson County man with preparing false and fraudulent tax returns for others and filing false and fraudulent tax returns for himself. “As alleged, Mr. Shine orchestrated a sweeping tax fraud scheme that exploited federal energy‑credit programs and siphoned tens of millions of dollars from the U.S. Treasury,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Tax preparers have a responsibility to help their clients comply with the law—not to misuse the tax system for personal gain. The Justice Department will continue to work closely with the IRS to pursue those who prepare or file knowingly false returns and to protect the integrity of our tax system.” “The defendant engaged in an alleged scheme to defraud the United States by preparing false tax returns,” said U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr. “With the establishment of the Department’s Fraud Enforcement Division focused on combating fraud, we are strengthening our efforts to investigate and prosecute those who seek to defraud our government. We will use every resource available to hold these individuals accountable and protect the citizens of the Northern District of Alabama.” “The Michael Shine case is a clear example of how fraud harms honest taxpayers and erodes trust in the system,” said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, IRS Criminal Investigation Atlanta Field Office. “By partnering closely with the Department of Justice’s Fraud Enforcement Division, IRS Criminal Investigation can bring advanced investigative tools and nationwide expertise to bear against schemes that threaten the financial integrity of the United States. This collaboration ensures that individuals who exploit government programs for personal gain are swiftly identified, investigated, and brought to justice. Together, we are protecting American taxpayers, safeguarding public funds, and reinforcing confidence that our institutions will hold fraudsters accountable, no matter the size or complexity of their schemes.” According to the indictment, between 2021 and 2026, Michael A. Shine, 55, of Pinson, Alabama owned a tax preparation business named “Shine’s Professional Services.” Shine allegedly prepared or assisted in the preparation of false tax returns for clients. The tax returns allegedly contained false information about whether the clients had qualified geothermal heat pump property costs. As a result of this allegedly false information, the clients received tax refunds that they were not entitled to receive. Shine allegedly changed and continued with his scheme after his EFIN (filing identification number) was revoked and after the IRS executed a search warrant at his tax preparation business. Shine also allegedly filed false and fraudulent personal income tax returns for himself. These returns allegedly underreported Shine’s income from his tax preparation business, among other falsities. Shine and his business allegedly filed tax returns claiming tax refunds totaling more than $70 million, of which $65 million was paid out. Agents believe that the vast majority of these refunds were predicated on false returns. Shine is charged with 30 counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return and three counts of filing a false tax return. If convicted, Shine faces up to three years in prison for each false return count. Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division and U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, Phillip W. Williams, Jr., made the announcement. Trial Attorney Isaiah Boyd III of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama Allison Garnett are prosecuting the case. This indictment follows a federal complaint where Shine was arrested for the same conduct. A federal criminal complaint is a sworn, preliminary charge filed by a prosecutor and a law enforcement officer seeking an arrest warrant. After a complaint, the federal grand jury considers the evidence and, if it finds probable cause, indicts on the formal felony charge. A complaint and an indictment are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 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: San Antonio Man Sentenced to 256 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in the Production of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Michael Salas, 52, of San Antonio, was sentenced to 256 months in prison for his role in the production and attempted production of child pornography. According to court documents, in March 2025, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and law enforcement received anonymous information that an eleven-year-old girl was being blackmailed over social media into sending sexual photographs of herself. The internet account was traced back to Salas, a then-fifty-one-year-old man in San Antonio, Texas. On or about March 9, 2025, after Salas pressed the minor female victim, she sent a video to Salas. After receiving that video, Salas still requested more explicit material from the victim. Salas was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Eric C. Tostrud on August 18, 2026. Salas previously pleaded guilty on February 11, 2026. During the hearing, Judge Tostrud described the offense conduct in this case as “depraved, cruel, and contemptable,” noting that the consequences to the victim may be “life long, life altering, and severe.” “No sentence can fully heal the harm that this defendant has done to this young girl and her family, but it will hold this repeat and dangerous sex offender accountable for his actions,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “From the comfort of his home in San Antonio, Texas, Michael Salas engaged in a months-long campaign to sexually exploit an 11-year-old child in Minnesota. When caught, he attempted to take his own life. Thankfully, the FBI Special Agents who arrested him were successful in their lifesaving efforts,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “Today’s sentence shows that no matter the distance, the FBI will make every effort to seek justice for child victims. Child sexual exploitation creates long-lasting trauma for victims, so it rightly carries long-lasting criminal consequences for offenders.” “Today’s sentencing reflects the strength of collaboration between our local officers and our federal partners. By combining resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to public safety, we were able to bring this case forward effectively and ensure accountability. We remain dedicated to working together to protect our community,” said Plymouth Police Chief and Public Safety Director Erik Fadden. This case was the result of an investigation by the FBI, New Hope Police Department, Plymouth Police Department, with assistance from other law enforcement partners. Assistant United States Attorney Albania Concepcion 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. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .