title: New York City Man Charged with Federal Hate Crimes for Attack at Manhattan Synagogue

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: The Department of Justice 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 Aug. 14, 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. “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 of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “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.” “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 for the Southern District of New York. “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.” “Larry Montes’ targeted acts of violence on a congregant, security guard, and synagogue during a Shabbat service are deeply disturbing,” said Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI New York Field Office. “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, on Aug. 14, 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 penalty of 10 years in prison, and one count of damage to religious property resulting in bodily injury, which carries a maximum penalty 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. 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 Civil Rights Division of the Criminal Section. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith C. Foster for the Southern District of New York is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Complaint are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Kentucky Man Pleads Guilty to Falsifying Clean Air Act Reports

component: Energy and Natural Resources Division

body_text: The owner of a company that produces charcoal pleaded guilty to fabricating data relating to the air emissions from his charcoal production facility. According to court documents, Nicholas Upchurch, 46, owned Rebel Smoke, a company in Burkesville, Kentucky, that used kilns to convert wood to charcoal. The air emissions from the facility were to be routed through emissions control facilities to reduce the air pollution released into the environment. However, as part of his plea agreement, Upchurch admitted to falsifying data submitted to the Commonwealth of Kentucky as part of compliance with the company’s air permit. Upchurch’s sentencing date has not been scheduled. The falsification count has a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine whether to accept the plea agreement after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Assistant Administrator Jeffrey A. Hall of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance (OECA) made the announcement. EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case, with assistance from the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, Department for Environmental Protection. Senior Trial Attorney Adam Cullman of ENRD is prosecuting the case. Additional assistance was provided by former Senior Trial Attorney Matthew Morris of ENRD.


title: Justice Department to Conduct Election Monitoring in Florida and Wyoming Primary Elections

body_text: Today, the Civil Rights Division is monitoring polling sites in Florida and Wyoming for the states’ primary elections to ensure transparency, ballot security, and compliance with federal law. “Election monitoring is an ongoing priority for this office,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Nondiscriminatory monitoring ensures all elections remain free, fair, and accessible to all.” The DOJ, through the Civil Rights Division, enforces federal voting laws which protect the voting rights of all eligible citizens. The DOJ regularly deploys staff to monitor compliance with federal civil rights laws in communities across the country, as it previously did in Florida and Wyoming in 2022. The DOJ is monitoring polls in Miami-Dade County, Florida, with approximately four Civil Rights Division attorneys and in Laramie County, Wyoming, with two Civil Rights Division attorneys. Thus far the DOJ has deployed over 75 monitors across five states and over 200 polling locations this primary season. By comparison, during the 2022 midterms the DOJ sent monitors to nine states. This monitoring initiative is aimed at promoting transparency and an open flow of communication between poll observers and election monitors. The Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section enforces various federal statutes that protect the right to vote, including the Voting Rights Act, National Voter Registration Act, Help America Vote Act, Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Civil Rights Acts. From now through the general election on Nov. 3, Civil Rights Division personnel will be available to receive questions and complaints from the public related to federal voting rights laws. If you have a question or complaint or would like to request election monitoring in a particular jurisdiction, please contact the Voting Section at VEM@usdoj.gov.


title: 17 Iranians Charged with Conducting Massive Cyber Theft Campaign on Behalf of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Other Iranian Entities

component: Criminal - Office of International Affairs

body_text: A 14-count superseding (S2) indictment was unsealed today charging 17 members of the Mabna Institute, an Iran-based company that, since at least 2013, has conducted a coordinated campaign of cyber intrusions into computer systems for 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). The Mabna Institute stole more than 31 terabytes of academic data and intellectual property from these universities, as well as the email accounts of employees at the private sector companies, government agencies, and NGOs. The defendants conducted many of these intrusions on behalf of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s 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. “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.” “Today’s 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,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald for the Southern District of New York. “More than eight years after making the original indictment public, these charges make clear that the passage of time will not deter us from identifying and pursuing those who target the United States from abroad. 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.” “These defendants allegedly built and profited from a sprawling hacking-for-hire operation that targeted the intellectual property of American and allied universities, companies, and government agencies for the benefit of the Iranian government,” said Assistant Director Brett Leatherman of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “Today’s charges make clear to cyber adversaries everywhere: the FBI’s memory is long, and time will not blunt our resolve to pursue justice. The FBI will continue working with law enforcement and private sector partners to identify malicious cyber actors, disrupt their operations, and impose real cost on them, wherever they operate.” According to the allegations contained in the S2 indictment: 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. The Mabna Institute employed, contracted, and affiliated itself with hackers-for-hire and other contract personnel, including Abdollah Karima, also known as “Vahid Karima,” Mostafa Sadeghi, Seyed Ali Mirkarmi, Mohammed Reza Sabahi, Roozbeh Sabahi, Abuzar Gohari Moqadam, Sajjad Tahmasebi, Saeid Houshyar, Behzad Mesri, also known as “Skote Vahshat,” Manouchehr Hashemloo, Keyvan Fayaz, also known as “Achilles,” also known as “The Joker,” also known as “bc.monster,” Amir Barati, Saber Shahbazi Ballojeh, Arman Kahzadian, and Mojtaba Galekuhi, also known as “Mojtaba Ghaleh Koui,” to conduct cyber intrusions to steal academic data, intellectual property, email inboxes, and other proprietary data. 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. 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. 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, and Gigapaper was also 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 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. 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 suffer an excess of $20 million in costs to investigate and remediate the intrusions. Barati moreover was involved in tracking the progress of the spearphishing campaigns, exchanging login credentials for compromised accounts with other co-conspirators, creating targeting lists, conducting computer network reconnaissance, and crafting phishing messages. 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 are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. The National Security Division praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI, the assistance of the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA), and thanked OFAC and the RFJ Program for their support. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs is providing critical assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas W. Chiuchiolo, Connie L. Dang, and Adam Sowlati for the Southern District of New York lead the prosecution, with assistance provided by Trial Attorney Jacques Singer-Emery and former Trial Attorney Matthew Chang of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 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


title: Illegal Firearm Possession Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison After Fleeing Officers During Traffic Stop

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Western

body_text: OKLAHOMA CITY – TREY ALEXANDER WARD , 29, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 72 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. According to public records, on December 29, 2025, an Oklahoma City Police Department officer observed Ward commit multiple traffic violations while riding a motorcycle near Southwest 61st Street and South May Avenue. When the officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, Ward abandoned the motorcycle and fled on foot, jumping several residential fences before officers ultimately apprehended him. After his arrest, officers recovered a firearm from Ward’s person. Public records further reflect that Ward has previous felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court that include: possession of a stolen vehicle, concealing stolen property, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving without a driver’s license in case number CF-2016-8310; possession of a controlled dangerous substance, domestic abuse (assault & battery), and possession of drug paraphernalia in case number CF-2017-2033; and unlawful possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm while in the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm while on probation, acquiring proceeds from drug activity, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia in case number CF-2020-2783. On January 20, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Ward with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Ward pleaded guilty on April 7, 2026, and admitted he possessed a firearm despite his previous felony convictions. At a sentencing hearing on August 7, 2026, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Ward to serve 72 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Wyrick noted that Ward’s conduct put members of the public and law enforcement at risk and that the sentence was necessary to teach Ward respect for the law. This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Desiree Veca prosecuted the case. Reference is made to public filings for additional information.


title: Safire nursing homes agree to pay $9 million to resolve fraudulent Medicare and Medicaid billing allegations

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Safire Rehabilitation of Northtowns, LLC, Safire Rehabilitation of Southtowns, LLC, and Williamsville Suburban, LLC, have agreed to pay $9,000,000 to resolve allegations arising under the Federal False Claims Act and the New York False Claims Act regarding false claims submitted to Medicare and Medicaid. This action is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. The United States alleges that between approximately January 1, 2015 and approximately October 1, 2019, Safire submitted false claims to the Medicare and Medicaid programs for skilled rehabilitative therapy services that Safire knew were not reasonable or necessary, supported by the documentation in medical records, documented as provided, or provided at all. The United States specifically alleged that Safire fraudulently inflated reimbursements from the Medicare and Medicaid programs by: (a) scheduling skilled rehabilitative therapy and setting skilled rehabilitative therapy goals for residents based on the reimbursement policies of the residents’ insurer, rather than medical need, such that Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries were scheduled for more skilled rehabilitative therapy than was necessary; (b) pressuring treating therapists to provide therapy even when treating therapists recommended against therapy; (c) pressuring residents to attend therapy sessions even after the residents repeatedly refused to participate; and (d) manufacturing and/or altered therapy referrals and medical records to justify unreasonable and unnecessary therapy. “Medicare and Medicaid fraud drains taxpayer funds and weakens these vital government programs”, stated U.S. Attorney DiGiacomo. “This settlement reinforces our commitment to safeguarding federal funds and ensuring seniors receive the care they deserve.” 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. The civil settlement is the result of a matter brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act in the matter captioned United States and the State of New York ex rel. Ciavarella v. Safire Rehabilitation of Northtowns, LLC., et al., 20-cv-07078-EAW (W.D.N.Y.). Of the $9 million settlement, $5.4 million constitutes the federal portion of the recovery and $3.6 million constitutes a recovery for State Medicaid programs. The Relator/whistleblower will receive a share of the federal recovery in this case. The resolution of this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and the New York State Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Coriell and Investigator Peggy McFarland handled the matter on behalf of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. # # # #


title: Niagara Falls man going to prison for gun conspiracy and filling fraudulent hydrocodone prescriptions

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Sean Reed, Jr., 38, of Niagara Falls, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to illegally transport firearms and obtaining controlled substances through fraud, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara. Between September 2018 and May 2019, Reed conspired with others to transport at least 25 firearms to New York State that had been purchased in the State of Kentucky. Reed traveled to Kentucky, purchased the firearms from an individual living in Kentucky, and then transported the firearms back to New York. The firearms were purchased at various flea markets and pawn shops. In addition, beginning in July 2021, Reed began receiving fraudulent prescriptions for hydrocodone from a secretary at a medical practice in Niagara Falls. The secretary had illegally accessed a doctor’s e-prescribing token and used it to issue hydrocodone prescriptions for herself, Reed, and others. The doctor was unaware of the secretary’s unlawful use of his e-prescribing token. Reed submitted the prescriptions to various pharmacies in the Niagara Falls area to obtain the hydrocodone pills. Reed received a total of 68 hydrocodone prescriptions, with each containing between 20 and 28 pills. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, New York Field Division, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division. # # # #


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Marks National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day with Facebook Live Discussion

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Ahead of National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day on Friday, August 21, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is raising awareness about the dangers of illicit fentanyl and inviting the public to join “A Conversation on Fentanyl: Awareness, Prevention, and Public Health.” U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson will host the Facebook Live discussion on Tuesday, August 18, at 10 a.m. ET, focusing on prevention, enforcement, treatment, and recovery. U.S. Attorney Ferguson will be joined by Eric Conaway, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Charlotte Division, Atrium Health emergency room physician Dr. Cory Hines, and treatment and recovery expert Mackie Johnson, Executive Director of MCJ Counseling Services. National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day is observed annually on August 21 and brings together families, law enforcement, healthcare professionals, educators, community organizations, and others to increase education about the dangers of illicit fentanyl. Illicit fentanyl remains one of the most dangerous drug threats facing our communities. Fentanyl is extremely potent, and even a small amount can be potentially lethal. Fentanyl is often mixed into other illicit drugs and pressed into counterfeit pills made to resemble legitimate prescription medicines. “Some of the heaviest days I have as U.S. Attorney are meeting families who have lost a loved one to a fentanyl overdose,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson. “This drug has devastated families across Western North Carolina. National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day is a time to remember those we have lost to an overdose, educate people about the dangers of counterfeit pills and other illicit drugs, and support those seeking treatment and recovery. The fentanyl crisis cannot be solved by any one agency or organization. We all have a role to play, from law enforcement and healthcare professionals, to parents, educators, and families. My office will continue pursuing cartels, drug trafficking organizations, and distributors who bring this poison into our communities, while working with our partners to promote prevention, education, treatment, and recovery. Awareness and support can save lives.” “National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day reminds us that protecting our communities starts with prevention,” said Jae W. Chung, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “We must protect lives by raising awareness of the dangers of fentanyl, prevent tragedy through education and informed decision-making, and support families with the resources they need to have these important conversations. Together, we can save lives and work toward a Fentanyl Free America.” Identifying and dismantling drug trafficking networks remains a top enforcement priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners. Federal prosecutors regularly handle cases involving traffickers responsible for distributing fentanyl and other illicit drugs. On August 13, 2026, a repeat federal drug trafficker and his girlfriend were sentenced for distributing fentanyl. On August 13, 2026, a North Carolina physician was sentenced for conspiring to allow his DEA registration number to be used for thousands of unlawful buprenorphine prescriptions. On August 12, 2026, an illegal alien and affiliate of the Sinaloa Cartel was sentenced for trafficking more than 133,000 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl. On August 5, 2026, two illegal aliens from Honduras were sentenced for fentanyl trafficking. On July 21, 2026, a convicted felon on probation was sentenced for distributing guns and drugs, including fentanyl. On June 4, 2026, a Mexican national with ties to the CJNG Cartel was sentenced for distributing fentanyl and other illicit drugs. For more information about the dangers of illicit fentanyl and resources available to families and communities, visit the DEA’s fentanyl awareness webpage . Contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for help with treatment referral and information for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit the online treatment locator .


title: North Carolina Physician Sentenced to Prison

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A North Carolina physician has been sentenced to prison for conspiring to allow his Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration number to be used for thousands of unlawful buprenorphine prescriptions, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell ordered Henry Ronald Emery, Jr., 54, of Waxhaw, N.C., to serve six months in prison, followed by one year of supervised release. The sentencing hearing was held on Thursday, August 13, 2026. “To end the opioid epidemic, we have to address the problem on all fronts, and that includes physicians who abuse their responsibility prescribing controlled substances,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson. “Physicians play a significant role in treating patients struggling with substance use disorder and the vast majority take that responsibility very seriously. However, those who abandon that responsibility, compromise patient care, and fuel the unlawful distribution of addictive drugs will be held accountable.” According to filed documents, from September 2018 through 2022, Emery was a licensed physician in North Carolina with a family medicine practice in Weddington, N.C. He was also employed by Church Ekklasia Sozo (CES), a non-profit corporation operating as an online medical provider. CES purported to offer a legitimate opioid addiction treatment program that provided care through telemedicine. In order to obtain a prescription through CES, patients were required to fill out a short questionnaire on the organization’s website. Generally, a member of the CES administrative staff then reached out to the patient, obtained payment for the prescription, and used a medical prescriber’s DEA registration number to issue the prescription. Emery allowed administrative personnel at CES to use his DEA registration number to issue over 25,000 prescriptions of buprenorphine to patients in multiple states. Generally, Emery did not have any personal interaction with a CES patient before a buprenorphine prescription was issued in his name by CES administrative personnel. Emery received payments totaling $452,830 from CES during the conspiracy. A forfeiture money judgment was ordered in this amount by Judge Bell at sentencing. In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the DEA for their investigation of the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nick J. Miller and William Bozin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.


title: West Monroe and Alexandria Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm Offenses

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

body_text: MONROE / ALEXANDRIA – Defendants from West Monroe and Alexandria have been sentenced in separate cases involving drug trafficking and firearm offenses. On July 29, 2026, United States Chief District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Eaan Lee Blake , 24, of West Monroe, to 10 years in federal prison after his conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Marijuana. Blake had previously pled guilty to the charge. According to court documents, on February 16, 2025, a Portland, Arkansas, Police Officer attempted to stop a white Chevrolet Trailblazer traveling 55 mph in a 35-mph zone. The driver, later identified as Blake , initially pulled over, but then fled the scene, leading officers on a pursuit from Arkansas into Louisiana. Morehouse Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO) deputies deployed spike strips, stopping the vehicle on U.S. Highway 165 in Bastrop, Louisiana, over 40 miles from the initial stop. Blake , the sole occupant of the vehicle, admitted that the car was “filled with dope.” A search of the vehicle uncovered multiple suitcases containing approximately 75 pounds of methamphetamine and nine pounds of marijuana, along with hydrocodone/acetaminophen tablets, a vacuum sealing machine, hotel receipts from California and Arizona bearing Blake’s name, and $713 in U.S. currency. The Portland Police Department (PPD) and the Morehouse Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO) investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moody with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart. On August 6, 2026, United States District Judge Jerry Edwards, Jr., sentenced Johnathan Casey Baker , 32, of Alexandria, to over six years in federal prison followed by two years of supervised release for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon. Baker had also pled guilty to the charge. According to court documents, on October 3, 2025, the Alexandria Police Department (APD) conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Baker , the sole occupant. Officers observed a Smith & Wesson M&P .22-caliber rifle in plain view inside the vehicle. After obtaining a search warrant, investigators recovered the firearm. Baker , a previously convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing firearms. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) later confirmed the rifle was capable of firing a bullet by the action of an explosive. APD and ATF investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey N. Stelly with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart. This case was investigated as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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. 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. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under Case Numbers 3:25-cr-00065-01 (Eaan Lee Blake) and 1:26-cr-00018-01 (Johnathan Casey Baker). ### CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla X: @USAO_WDLA Facebook: USAO_WDLA (337) 262-6704


title: Shepherdsville Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Multi-Million Dollar Investment Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY – A Shepherdsville, Kentucky man was sentenced on August 11, 2026, to 9 years in federal prison for wire fraud and spending fraud proceeds. U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Bobby Kuszynski of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office made the announcement. Stacy Allen Taylor, 59, of Shepherdsville, conspired with others in an international wire fraud scheme to defraud more than forty victims out of over $23.6 million. Victims believed they were investing money into a private trading platform that would provide significant returns on their investments. Most victims lost their entire investment to the scheme. Taylor was previously convicted in the Western District of Kentucky and served a three-year sentence for federal fraud and drug crimes related to his role in an illegal online pharmacy. In this case, Taylor entered guilty pleas to the seven counts in his indictment, including charges for wire fraud, wire fraud conspiracy, and carrying out transactions over $10,000 with criminal proceeds. Taylor has been ordered to pay restitution to victims of his fraud scheme. “Taylor is a repeat offender engaged in complex fraud, causing significant harm to dozens of victims,” said United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner. “A dedicated team of agents from FBI and IRS-CI worked together tirelessly over the course of years to bring justice to the fraud victims in this case. Taylor’s significant prison sentence will help protect others who might have fallen prey to this fraud scheme and, hopefully, sends a strong deterrent message to other fraudsters to stop or they will certainly find themselves in a cell next to Taylor.” FBI Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson stated, "Investment schemes like the one perpetrated by Mr. Taylor may not only lead to the loss of a victim's life savings, but can irreparably damage one's livelihood. Through the FBI’s strong partnerships with IRS-CI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office-Western District of Kentucky, this fraud scheme was identified and stopped before additional unsuspecting Americans were victimized.” “When you knowingly mix deceit and fraud into the financial well-being of individuals, you create a recipe for devastation that could last a lifetime,” said Robert Kuszynski, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “Today's sentencing demonstrates how federal law enforcement will band together to help put an end to the criminal behavior of those who prey on investors for their personal financial gain. IRS-CI special agents will continue to use their financial expertise to identify and trace laundered funds in these types of investor fraud schemes.” There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the FBI Louisville Field Office and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne E. Keel prosecuted the case. ###


title: Mexican national admits role in fatal human smuggling attempt

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: LAREDO, Texas – A 19-year-old illegal alien has pleaded guilty to conspiring to transport illegal aliens resulting in death and bringing three illegal aliens into the United States for financial gain. Gerardo David Zarate Martinez admitted he participated in the smuggling scheme in exchange for payment. On Jan. 8, law enforcement encountered a white SUV in Laredo suspected of being involved in human smuggling. As authorities followed the vehicle, the driver accelerated, ran multiple red lights, and ultimately crashed into a utility pole. Following the crash, authorities discovered two illegal aliens unresponsive in the rear of the SUV. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. As part of his plea, Zarate Martinez admitted an individual in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, offered to pay him to guide a group of illegal aliens further into the United States after they crossed the Rio Grande. A juvenile drove the SUV while Zarate Martinez rode in the passenger seat. After the crash, both attempted to flee. U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga accepted the plea and set sentencing for Nov. 10. At that time, Zarate Martinez faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and Border Patrol conducted the investigation with the assistance of Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew P. Hakala-Finch is prosecuting the case.


title: Border enforcement actions continue with 198 additional cases filed in Operation Take Back America efforts

body_text: HOUSTON – The Southern District of Texas has charged another 199 people, including 188 illegal aliens, for immigration- and border security-related crimes from Aug. 7-13. A total of 154 criminal complaints were filed for felony reentry after prior removal, while another 27 illegal aliens face charges of illegal entry. Many have prior felonies involving narcotics, violent crime, immigration crimes, and more. In addition, 16 people have been charged with human smuggling, which includes seven illegal aliens themselves. Among the new cases are three Mexican nationals, all charged with felony reentry after removal. Authorities found Juan Pablo Sosa-Alvizo and Janny Martinez-Solis in the McAllen area allegedly without legal authorization to be in the United States. According to the criminal complaints, both had previously been removed already this year. Sosa-Alvizo has a prior conviction for theft of property, while Martinez-Solis has a prior conviction for injury to a child/elder/disabled, according to their respective charges. Law enforcement also discovered Agueda Anait Ambriz-Penaloza near Rio Grande City after he had allegedly been removed Feb. 14, 2025. Court records reflect a prior conviction for conspiracy to possess meth with intent to distribute. All face up to 20 years in prison if convicted. In addition to the new cases, Mexican national Juan Garcia-Villa was ordered to serve 42 months in federal prison for his illegal reentry conviction. The court considered his criminal history while unlawfully present in the United States, including convictions for possession with intent to manufacture and/or distribute a controlled substance, evading arrest, and illegal reentry. Authorities first removed him in October 2008, but he repeatedly returned. Law enforcement discovered him again in Houston with no authorization to be in the country. The cases are referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, ICE - Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, as well as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners. The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigrants, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the Southern District. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault, and violence against children. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than 10 million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen, and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state, and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes. An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: Illinois Man Charged With Scheme To Impersonate Doctors And Make False Statements To Obtain GLP-1 Medications

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., and Special Agent in Charge of the New York Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”), Naomi D. Gruchacz, announced that RODNEY GREER, a/k/a “Christian Marchand,” appeared for arraignment today in connection with a four-count Indictment charging GREER with a scheme to impersonate doctors to obtain unauthorized prescription medications on behalf of individuals who paid him. GREER was arrested in Chicago on June 17, 2026. This case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian. “As alleged in the indictment, Rodney Greer impersonated and stole the identities of physicians and made false statements to pharmacies to obtain unauthorized prescription medications,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “This alleged conduct put scores of individuals in danger by allowing them to access prescription medication without the evaluation or approval of a licensed physician. The defendant now faces serious criminal charges for his alleged crimes.” “The misuse of a physician's personally identifiable information to fraudulently obtain GLP-1 medications is a serious crime,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “Rodney Greer's alleged scheme not only compromises sensitive data, but also abuses systems designed to support legitimate patient care. The FBI does not tolerate fraud in any form, and we will continue to investigate those who exploit the healthcare system and the providers.” “The defendant in this case allegedly orchestrated an extensive scheme that generated hundreds of thousands of dollars in prescription claims paid by federal health care programs—claims that should never have been authorized,” said HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Naomi D. Gruchacz. “HHS‑OIG remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to dismantle schemes that exploit federal health care programs and to hold accountable those who perpetrate such fraud.” As alleged in the Indictment:(1) Beginning in or about March 2023, GREER engaged in a scheme to impersonate physicians and make false statements to pharmacies and other third-party pharmacy benefit managers located throughout the United States in order to fraudulently obtain unauthorized prescription medications for customers in exchange for payments. GREER acquired personal identifying information (“PII”) for individual physicians, including their names and their national provider identification number (“NPI”). GREER maintained handwritten lists containing physicians’ PII for approximately 60 physicians located in approximately 19 states. Between on or about January 4, 2023, through on or about March 9, 2026, GREER called approximately 261 Pharmacies on approximately 3,329 occasions. Throughout that period, GREER used physicians’ PII and license information to impersonate them. GREER falsely claimed to be a health care provider; falsely identified himself as a physician; and provided other false information to receive GLP-1 and other prescription medications. By fraudulently inducing the provision of unauthorized medications to individuals who had not obtained prior authorization or approval for these prescription medications, GREER facilitated the unauthorized redemption of hundreds of thousands of dollars in healthcare plan benefits to the individuals who paid GREER for his services. * * * GREER, 51, is charged with one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of health care fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; and two counts of aggravated identity theft, each of which carries a mandatory term of two years in prison. The maximum potential 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 work of the FBI and HHS-OIG. The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon C. Thompson and Georgia V. Kostopoulos are in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Indictment 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 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: Florida Man Sentenced to 48 Months for Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft

component: Department of Justice

body_text: JACKSON, MS – A Miami, Florida man was sentenced today to 48 months in prison for one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft. A sentence of 24 months was imposed as to the conspiracy to commit bank fraud charge. A sentence of 24 months was also imposed as to each of the two aggravated identity theft charges. The sentences for the aggravated identity theft charges were imposed to run concurrently to each other, but consecutively to the conspiracy to commit bank fraud charge for a total of 48 months. According to court documents, and statements made in open court, Guy Gerral Georges, 32, conspired with another person in a scheme that utilized fraudulent ATM cards to obtain thousands of dollars. Georges used a card programming device, in conjunction with information provided to him by his co-conspirator, to access the bank accounts of numerous individuals through various ATM machines. Thanks to the quick action of law enforcement officers, Georges was stopped and arrested in the midst of the scheme. The funds that Georges gained through fraud were seized during a search of the car he was using. Those funds were returned to the affected bank, and the bank refunded the amounts wrongfully taken from its customers. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Georges on March 4, 2025. Georges pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft on October 14, 2025. U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi; U.S. Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Patrick Glaze; and Lynn Fitch, Mississippi Attorney General, made the announcement. The United States Secret Service and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office investigated the case through their partnership in the Cyber Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Herbert S. Carraway and Charles W. Kirkham prosecuted the case.


title: Canton Man Connected to Madison Timber Ponzi Scheme Sentenced to 20 months for Perjury

body_text: Jackson, MS – A Canton man was sentenced to 20 months in prison for perjury. According to court documents, on February 25, 2026, William Byrd McHenry, Jr., 79, a federal jury found defendant guilty of making false statements under oath. On October 1, 2018, a civil suit was filed against McHenry and others to recover monies for victims of the Lamar Adams - Madison Timber Properties multi-state Ponzi scheme involving more than one hundred million dollars and hundreds of victims spanning a number of years. McHenry recruited others to invest in the scheme. A court judgment against McHenry for $3,473,230 was obtained in the civil suit on August 16, 2019. This was the amount the court determined McHenry owed to the victims. The court-appointed receiver, charged with recouping money for the victims, later examined McHenry under oath in a judgement-debtor examination when she could not recover any monies from McHenry towards satisfaction of the judgment. During the examination, McHenry lied about assets that could have been used to partially satisfy the civil judgment against him. More specifically, McHenry was asked directly about certain assets and whether he had sold them during the pendency of his own personal bankruptcy, which he filed after the $3,473,320 judgment. He falsely denied selling any such assets. U.S. Attorney J.E. Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff made the announcement. “McHenry believed he could evade justice by committing perjury to avoid accountability. Today’s sentence proves otherwise. Making false statements under oath and attempting to obstruct justice will not be tolerated. The FBI and our partners remain steadfast in our commitment to uncover, investigate, disrupt, and dismantle finance and illicit fraud schemes-and to pursue justice and restitution for the victims affected by them.” The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Allen prosecuted the case.


title: Former Miami Gardens Police Officer Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Relief Loan Fraud

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – A former Miami Gardens Police Department (MGPD) officer has pleaded guilty to making a false statement to obtain a $63,900 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) through a COVID-19 relief program administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Alvin Bernard, 38, of Miami Gardens, pleaded guilty to making a false statement to the SBA. “Alvin Bernard was a police officer sworn to uphold the law, yet he lied to obtain federal relief funds intended for businesses harmed by the pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones. “His guilty plea holds him accountable for abusing the public trust and stealing from a program funded by American taxpayers.” The EIDL program, established under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, provided financial assistance to qualifying businesses suffering economic injury during the COVID-19 pandemic. Applicants were required to certify, under penalty of perjury, that the information submitted — including the business’s gross revenues — was true and accurate. According to court records, Bernard was employed as a police officer with the MGPD while serving as the sole manager and authorized representative of Vanity Properties LLC. Acting on behalf of the company, Bernard submitted an online EIDL application that falsely represented Vanity Properties’ gross revenues in order to qualify for federal disaster assistance. Specifically, Bernard falsely certified that Vanity Properties generated $127,881 in gross revenues for the 12-month period preceding Jan. 31, 2020. In reality, the company had not earned those revenues. Based on the false information, the SBA approved and disbursed a $63,900 EIDL by electronic funds transfer into Vanity Properties’ bank account. Bernard faces a maximum sentence of two years in federal prison. As part of his plea agreement, he also agreed to resign from the MGPD, surrender his Florida law enforcement certification, and permanently refrain from seeking recertification. U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones; Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office; Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Xerri of the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG), Eastern Region; and Special Agent in Charge Michael Townsend of the U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Miami Field Office, made the announcement. FBI Miami, SBA OIG Eastern Region, and USSS Miami Field Office are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward N. Stamm is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Zack is handling asset forfeiture. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 26-cr-20055. ###


title: Six Charged in Gang-Related RICO Conspiracy Involving Drugs, Guns and Violence

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: SAN DIEGO – Five alleged members and associates of the “El Cajon Locos” criminal street gang have been indicted on federal racketeering charges in connection with drug and firearms trafficking and violent crimes. A sixth defendant has been charged with witness tampering and witness harassment. The defendants are charged under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), which makes it a federal crime to participate in an enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity, including drug trafficking, firearms offenses and violent crimes. All defendants are in custody. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by state and federal authorities into alleged criminal activity by the El Cajon Locos (ECLS), including offenses allegedly committed on behalf of the gang between April and November 2025. The indictment alleges that ECLS and its associates have primarily operated out of the Terraza Hills Apartments in El Cajon. According to the indictment, ECLS and its associates committed violent acts such as assaulting and robbing an individual believed to have cooperated with law enforcement, and robbing another person of drugs, guns, and money. In addition, the indictment charges defendant Nicole Cristina Gracia with witness tampering and witness harassment. According to the indictment, the defendant intimidated, harassed, threatened and persuaded a robbery victim to mislead law enforcement by falsely claiming that a video depicting a robbery was staged for a music video. DEFENDANTS Case Number 26-CR-2808-LL Defendant 1 – SEALED Defendant 2 – SEALED Jose Morales aka “Pee Wee” Age: 49 San Diego, CA Luis Baltierrez aka “Snow Owl” Age: 40 San Diego, CA Oscar Mendoza Alatorre Sr. aka “Lurch” Age: 43 San Diego, CA Nicole Christine Gracia Age: 34 San Diego, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Conspiracy to Conduct Enterprise Affairs Through a Pattern of Racketeering Activity – 18 U.S.C. §1962(d) Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine *Redacted defendants, Jose Morales, Luis Baltierrez, and Oscar Mendoza Alatorre Sr. Felon in Possession of a Firearm — 18 U.S.C. §922(g)(1) Maximum Penalty: Fifteen years in prison and $250,000 fine *Redacted defendant Possessing a Firearm During and In Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime – 18 U.S.C. §924(c)(1)(A) Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a five-year mandatory minimum and $250,000 fine *Redacted defendant Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine — 21 U.S.C. §841(a)(1) Maximum Penalty: Life in prison and $10 million fine *Redacted defendant Witness Tampering – 18 U.S.C. §1512(b)(3) Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine *Nicole Cristina Gracia Harassing a Witness – 18 U.S.C. §1512(d)(2) Maximum Penalty: Three years in prison and $100,000 fine *Nicole Cristina Gracia INVESTIGATING AGENCIES El Cajon Police Department Federal Bureau of Investigation Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Homeland Security Investigations San Diego County Sheriff’s Office This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF San Diego comprises agents and officers from FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals, Department of Defense, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Interpol, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities .


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Files Civil Complaint against Texas Corporation and  North Carolina Man for Allegedly Defrauding Medicare

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons has announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Dakota filed a civil complaint against two defendants for an alleged scheme to defraud Medicare. The complaint filed in federal court is part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. “We’ve been directed by the Attorney General to do everything possible to eliminate fraud against the government and seek to recover funds stolen from taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “That is what we are doing—and I am incredibly proud of our Assistant United States Attorneys and our entire team of legal specialists who are working so hard to accomplish that mission.” As alleged in the complaint, Michael Bingham, age 72, of Laurel Springs, North Carolina, and NeuroSolutions 100, LLC, of Dallas, Texas, violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims, false records, and false statements to obtain funds from Medicare. The government seeks a total recovery of $4,591,003 from the defendants. Within the complaint, the government alleges that NeuroSolutions 100, LLC, which is owned by Michael Bingham, improperly billed Medicare for the surgical implantation of electro-neurostimulators, when in fact the devices were temporary non-surgical electro-acupuncture devices applied behind the patients ear using an adhesive and/or with needles inserted into the patient’s ear similar to acupuncture. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) investigated this matter. The case is being litigated by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne Weyer. This year’s National Health Care Fraud Takedown represents the greatest whole-of-government effort to combat health care fraud in our Nation’s history,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Under the decisive leadership of President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, and our law enforcement partners, this administration has ushered in a new era of enforcement that will safeguard taxpayer dollars.” The complaint announced by U.S. Attorney Parsons is part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in charges against 455 defendants, including 90 doctors and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes involving over $6.5 billion in false claims and significant patient harm, including death. The Takedown represents a new era in federal, state, and international cooperation to combat health care fraud: charges in 56 federal districts and involving 45 U.S. states and territories, the most in Department history. In addition, unprecedented international cooperation over the two-week Takedown resulted in the apprehension and return to the United States of the following health care fraudsters: one defendant in Kyrenia in connection with an over $3.7 billion scheme; two defendants in Estonia in connection with a previously charged $10.6 billion scheme; and, in the Philippines, one of FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters in connection with a $1.2 billion telemedicine scheme. The Takedown involves the cutting-edge use of data analytics to target the worst actors; seize over $182 million in cash, houses, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and other assets; and provide full spectrum accountability for all criminal actors from doctor’s offices to corporate boardrooms. This coordinated enforcement action involves a whole-of-government approach, including: Actions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to suspend 1,079 providers and revoke billing privileges for 1,403 providers. 48 Civil Monetary Payment settlements amounting to over $73 million, over 1,400 provider exclusions, and 25 actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) under the Civil Monetary Penalties Law seeking more than $10 billion in payments to the Medicare Trust Fund from payments that CMS caught and suspended before the funds were paid to the fraudulent providers. Civil charges against 13 defendants for $14.8 million in health care fraud schemes, as well as civil settlements with 31 defendants totaling $23 million. 928 administrative cases by the Drug Enforcement Administration seeking the revocation of authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances since October 1, 2025. The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Section’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, Texas, and West Coast Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Eastern District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Colorado, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Northern District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, District of Iowa, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Western District of Michigan, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, District of Nex Mexico, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Middle District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Western District of Pennsylvania, District of Rhode Island, District of South Carolina, District of South Dakota, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, Eastern District of Virginia, Northern District of West Virginia, Southern District of West Virginia, Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Western District of Wisconsin; and State Attorneys General’s Offices in Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Inidiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Descriptions of each case involved in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown are available on the Department’s website: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/national-health-care-fraud-takedown-results-455-defendants-charged-connection-over-65 . A civil complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven liable in a court of law.


title: Rosebud Man and Woman Sentenced to 3 Decades in Federal Prison for Second Degree Murder

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Rosebud, South Dakota man and a Parmelee, South Dakota woman, following their convictions for Second Degree Murder. Dillion Millard, age 27, pleaded guilty on August 13, 2025. On August 10, 2026, he was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Charmaine Medicine, age 31, pleaded guilty on May 12, 2026. On August 10, 2026, she was also sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Millard and Medicine were indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2024. The convictions stem from an incident that occurred July 2019, in Todd County, South Dakota, in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. In the early morning hours of July 9, 2019, Millard and Medicine picked up the victim, a 15-year-old male, from his residence, and told him they were going to go drink alcoholic beverages together. They drove him to a nearby park and walked to a secluded area where they sat and drank. The victim became intoxicated, at which point Millard began to strangle the victim with his hands. When the victim stopped struggling, Millard dragged his lifeless body over to a tree and used his belt to tie the victim to a branch by his neck. Medicine and Millard then departed the scene. A few hours later, however, they returned, poured oil on the victim’s body and lit him on fire in an effort to destroy the evidence of their malicious and evil deed. The victim’s body was discovered by hikers on the afternoon of July 10, 2019. The case remained under active investigation until May 2024, when Millard confessed to his and Medicine’s actions. “I am so saddened and disheartened by the inhumanity of this terrible crime,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “But I’m relieved for the victim’s family that they finally have some answers and can know that a measure of justice has been achieved,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court. This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case. Millard and Medicine were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service at the conclusion of their individual sentencing hearings.


title: Columbia Man Sentenced to More than 20 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Distribution

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — Pearish Pierre Pretty, 43, of Columbia, has been sentenced to more than 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Pretty was a major cocaine and methamphetamine supplier for a drug trafficking organization operating in the Columbia and Lexington County areas. Pretty was held responsible for distributing more than 18,000 grams of methamphetamine and 9,000 grams of cocaine between November 2022 and December 2024. Pretty has prior federal convictions for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Pretty committed the offenses while on federal supervise release. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Pretty to 250 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the City of Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case. ###


title: Man Charged for Interstate Threats and Cyberstalking

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: CAMDEN, N.J. – A man with ties to New Jersey, Georgia, Malaysia, Morocco, and Albania was charged with threatening to kill and injure victims in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. Jarvis Shabazz, 37, who most recently was living in Albania, was charged in an indictment with eight counts of interstate threats and two counts of cyberstalking. He made his initial appearance and was arraigned today in Camden federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Sharon A. King. According to the Indictment and statements made in court: On October 10, 2022, Shabazz left a graphic voicemail for a victim, threatening to kill that victim and stating that Shabazz would soon be “dismembering bodies and carving human f***ing flesh.” Approximately a week later, Shabazz left another threatening voicemail for the same victim, stating, “there is not a white paramilitary organization on planet Earth that is going to prevent me from taking your life. I want you to understand me well. You will die at my hands. White people cannot protect you. And your children will suffer the same fate. Inshallah mother f***er.” For the next fifteen months, Shabazz continued to send additional death threats and harassing communications to this same victim, as well as to another victim. Shabazz made his threats in voicemails and text messages. He frequently changed his phone number, so that he could continue making threats to the victims even after they had blocked his number. Shabazz’s threats were filled with violent imagery, religious references, racial epithets, and obscenity. Each of the counts of interstate threats, and each of the counts of cyberstalking, carries a maximum penalty of up to 5 years in prison, for a total potential maximum penalty of up to 50 years in prison. Each of the charged counts also carries a maximum fine of up to $250,000, or twice the gross loss to the victim or gain to the defendant, whichever is greatest. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The charges and allegations contained in the indictment against Shabazz are merely accusations, and Shabazz is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office and South Jersey Resident Agency Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Wayne Jacobs, with the investigation leading to these charges. He also thanked the West Deptford Police Department Office, under the direction of Chief John Craig, for their valuable assistance in the investigation. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Richardson and Sara Aliabadi of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden. ###


title: Massachusetts Pharmacist Pleads Guilty to Diverting Controlled Substances

body_text: CONCORD – Massachusetts pharmacist Rima Gerges-Maalouf, 60, pleaded guilty today in Federal Court to diverting controlled prescription drugs while working as a pharmacist in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. As set forth in the plea agreement, in August 2024, Gerges-Maalouf served as a per diem pharmacist at a pharmacy in northern New Hampshire. While on duty, Gerges-Maalouf removed capsuled medication powder and prescription pills that were meant for patients and kept them for her own use. Gerges-Maalouf ingested some of the controlled substances while at work at the pharmacy. Judge Landya B. McCafferty scheduled sentencing for November 23, 2026. “The facts in this case are that the defendant – a licensed pharmacist – emptied medication from pills prescribed for others and took them herself, giving some pills to patients where the medication had already been drained out. This is very dangerous for patients whose health and safety depend on these treatments,” said U.S. Attorney Creegan. “We will continue to pursue enforcement against misuse of controlled substances to protect healthcare customers, patients, and the public safety of all citizens here in New Hampshire.” “Diversion of controlled substances, particularly by a licensed pharmacist, is a serious crime that erodes public trust and places lives at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, New England Field Division. “The DEA and our law enforcement partners will use every available resource to identify those responsible for diverting controlled substances and bring them to justice. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting the integrity of our nation’s healthcare system, safeguarding the controlled pharmaceutical supply chain, and ensuring that those who abuse positions of trust are held fully accountable.” The charge of diverting controlled substances carries a maximum prison term of 4 years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and term of supervised release not to exceed 1 year. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The Drug Enforcement Agency and the Federal Drug Administration Office of Inspections and Investigations led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Vicinanzo is prosecuting the case.


title: Meth Trafficking Leads to Significant Federal Prison Sentence for Ohio Man

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – An Ohio man will spend the next 12 years behind bars after being sentenced for selling methamphetamine in Wetzel County, West Virginia, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. Christopher W. Radcliff, 56, of Byesville, Ohio, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison for methamphetamine offenses. Radcliff, also known as “Squeak,” was observed selling methamphetamine in New Martinsville, West Virginia on several dates in 2024. During a traffic stop in Pleasants County, West Virginia, officers seized methamphetamine and $1,200. In total, the drug weight from the sales and the seizure amounted to nearly a pound and a half of methamphetamine. Radcliff’s criminal history includes multiple drug and theft convictions. Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, and repel the invasion of illegal immigration. U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.


title: U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould announces Fifth Circuit victory clarifying citizenship transmission law

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: DALLAS — U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould, announced that on Aug. 14, the Fifth Circuit affirmed the dismissal of two consolidated lawsuits seeking derivative U.S. citizenship and immigration related relief. The plaintiffs asked the Court to adopt a “constructive presence” doctrine to bypass the statutory physical presence requirements for transmitting citizenship. The Fifth Circuit firmly rejected that theory, emphasizing that Congress, not the courts, defines who may acquire U.S. citizenship. In a key line summarizing the Court’s approach, the panel wrote: “The applicable law for transmitting citizenship to a child born abroad is the statute in effect at the time of the child’s birth.” The Court concluded the plaintiffs could not satisfy those statutes and made clear that judges may not rewrite them: “We reject the constructive presence doctrine…none of the statutory exceptions apply here, and we will not create judicial ones.” Judge Ho’s concurrence reinforced the ruling in direct terms: “Federal courts may not confer U.S. citizenship on any individual who fails to comply with all of the conditions and requirements set forth in our naturalization laws, and that includes the requirement of physical presence.” The Court also held that the plaintiffs’ claims were barred under 8 U.S.C. § 1252(g), that their declaratory-judgment claims were unexhausted and that their APA claims lacked any reviewable final agency action. U.S. Attorney Raybould praised the ruling: “This opinion brings essential clarity to citizenship transmission law. The Fifth Circuit confirmed that Congress’s rules govern, and that those rules must be applied exactly as written. AUSA Brian Stoltz did outstanding work securing this clean and decisive victory.” The Fifth Circuit’s decision was issued in the consolidated cases Guerra Quezada v. United States, No. 25-10372, and Guerra Vasquez v. United States, No. 25-10555. For more information, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas. ###


title: Guilty plea in $400k tax evasion case could bring five-year federal prison term

body_text: DALLAS — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould, announced that Anderson Condoll, Jr., 44, from The Colony, Texas, pleaded guilty in court filings to one count of tax evasion on Aug. 10. Condoll, Jr. was indicted in April 2026 on five counts of tax evasion for years 2019-2023. He entered into a plea agreement on Monday to one count of tax evasion. “Tax fraud is not a victimless crime,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “Every dollar stolen from the Treasury is a dollar that cannot support the men and women who defend our country, care for our veterans or provide a lifeline to Americans who truly need one. This defendant admitted to stealing money from Americans, and we will seek a stiff prison sentence at his sentencing hearing for his crimes.” “American workers must file an accurate IRS Form W-4, so the correct taxes are withheld,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher J. Altemus Jr. of IRS CI’s Texas Field Office. “When someone falsely claims exempt status to evade paying taxes, it’s a crime that shifts the burden to everyone else. The women and men of IRS-CI and our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, will continue to aggressively pursue those who would attempt to defraud or defeat the United States tax system." In plea papers, Condoll, Jr. admitted that he owed $437,245 in federal income taxes spanning 2014-2025. Condoll, Jr. admitted that he would file Forms W-4 with his employers falsely claiming to be exempt from income taxes, causing his employers to not withhold income taxes from his wages. Condoll, Jr. faces up to five years in federal prison if convicted. His sentencing date has not been set. IRS Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ignacio Perez de la Cruz from the Fraud section and Katy Gardner from the Major Crimes section are prosecuting the case. ###


title: Christopher J. Nassar Appointed U.S. Attorney  for the Northern District of Oklahoma

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: The Honorable Christopher J. Nassar was sworn in as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma on August 14th, 2026, after being nominated by President Donald J. Trump and confirmed by the United States Senate. “It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar. “I want to thank President Trump, Senator Lankford, Senator Armstrong, and (former Senator) Secretary Mullin for having the confidence in me to serve and protect the citizens of the Northern District. I am grateful for their support throughout the nomination and confirmation process. With the exception of Washington, D.C., federal law enforcement in the Northern District of Oklahoma has a greater responsibility for public safety than any other district in the country. I am excited to lead this office and advance this important mission.” As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Nassar serves as the chief federal law enforcement officer for the Northern District of Oklahoma, overseeing all federal criminal prosecutions and civil litigation involving the United States. The district spans 11 counties and includes 14 federally recognized Indian tribes. The Northern District is uniquely situated following the Supreme Court’s McGirt decision. As a result of that ruling, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is responsible for prosecuting all Major Crimes occurring in Indian Country within the district, in addition to its traditional federal law enforcement responsibilities. Mr. Nassar leads a team of more than 130 attorneys and support professionals dedicated to carrying out this mission. Mr. Nassar joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Oklahoma in January 2018 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. In 2023, he was promoted to Deputy Criminal Chief, where he supervised investigations and prosecutions involving national security, cybercrime, child exploitation, human trafficking, and Project Safe Neighborhoods. He has prosecuted and tried a wide range of offenses, with concentrations in child exploitation, sex trafficking, cybercrime, Indian Country homicides and sexual assaults, gun crime, and national security cases. He has also served as the District’s Project Safe Childhood Coordinator, National Security Coordinator, and Crisis Management Coordinator. From 2015 to 2016, Mr. Nassar served as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of North Carolina Mr. Nassar is a lieutenant colonel in the United States Marine Corps Reserve and has served as an active-duty and reserve judge advocate since 2009. On active duty, Mr. Nassar served as a trial counsel prosecuting criminal cases involving military members around the world, primarily concerning crimes against children and national security matters. In the reserves, Mr. Nassar has served as a victims’ legal counsel, cyber operational law advisor to USCYBERCOM, and a legal advisor to MARFORRES and MARFORSOUTH. U.S. Attorney Nassar is a graduate of the University of Arkansas and the University of Oklahoma College of Law. Additionally, he holds certifications as a Supervisory Litigator and a Master of Cyber, Intelligence, and Information Law from the US Marine Corps.


title: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Transporting Aliens

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Igor Vieira-Bastos, 30, of Brazil, pled guilty Wednesday, July 29, to one count of transporting aliens. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Richard J. Fortunato, Acting Chief Patrol Agent, U.S. Border Patrol made the announcement. On March 22, 2026, United States Border Patrol detected two individuals crossing the United States-Canada border near Chateaugay, New York. The two individuals were observed entering a vehicle that was waiting for them. The vehicle was stopped moments later, and Vieira-Bastos was identified as the driver, the two back seat passengers matched the descriptions of the individuals that were observed crossing the border. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “This administration’s commitment to securing our borders is evident in the relentless work carried out every day by U.S. Border Patrol agents. Thanks to their efforts, this defendant was stopped in his tracks as he attempted to smuggle two aliens into the country—while being unlawfully present himself. As a result of his actions, he will now serve a term of imprisonment before facing deportation.” Swanton Sector’s Acting Chief Patrol Agent Richard J. Fortunato said, “I commend the agents of Swanton Sector for their hard work in contributing to the successful prosecution of those who commit crimes along our nation’s borders. Our efforts help protect and improve the quality of life for border communities and for those in the interior of our country.” United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino sentenced Vieira-Bastos to four months’ imprisonment. Following his sentence, Vieira-Bastos is subject to deportation. United States Border Patrol investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Whalen prosecuted the case.


body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Faraon Chavez-Rosas, 25, of Mexico, pled guilty Tuesday, July 28, to one count of transporting aliens. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Richard J. Fortunato, Acting Chief Patrol Agent, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, made the announcement. On May 24, 2026, United States Border Patrol detected three individuals crossing the United States-Canada border near Churubusco, New York. A vehicle was observed entering the area of the crossing and leaving moments later. The vehicle was subsequently stopped, and Chavez-Rosas was identified as the driver, along with three passengers. Upon stopping the vehicle, agents determined that the three individuals and the defendant had no legal right to be in the United States. After questioning, Chavez-Rosas admitted that he was asked and then drove to pick up his brother and two individuals at the border. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “Our northern border remains a central focus of this administration’s efforts to combat illegal immigration. This defendant’s attempt to smuggle three individuals into the United States was stopped thanks to the vigilance and quick action of U.S. Border Patrol agents. I commend their decisive work in identifying and investigating this vehicle, ultimately disrupting an attempted alien‑smuggling operation.” Swanton Sector’s Acting Chief Patrol Agent Richard J. Fortunato said, “I commend the agents of Swanton Sector for their hard work in contributing to the successful prosecution of those who commit crimes along our nation’s borders. Our efforts help protect and improve the quality of life for border communities and for those in the interior of our country.” United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino sentenced Chavez-Rosas to two months’ imprisonment. Following his sentence, Chavez-Rosas is subject to deportation. United States Border Patrol investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Whalen prosecuted the case.