title: Seaside Postmaster Charged with Distribution & Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—The Seaside, Oregon, Postmaster has been charged with possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material and production of obscene visual representations of child sexual abuse, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. Ryan Sherman, 36, has been charged by criminal complaint and made his initial appearance in federal court today. According to court documents, Sherman was in possession of dozens of images and videos of child sexual abuse material. In addition to possessing images and videos Sheman produced obscene child sexual abuse images for people he talked to on the internet, taking innocuous photographs of children and using artificial intelligence (AI) to turn them into obscene images. Sherman exchanged child abuse material on SimpleX with other members of a chat group. When asked by an individual seeking obscene images whether he had any limit to the images he would or could create, defendant bragged that he had “none.” Sherman occupies a position of trust as the Postmaster for Seaside, Oregon. On August 25, 2026, Sherman was arrested in Seaside, Oregon. Sherman made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. magistrate judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings. The FBI and Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case, with assistance from the Seaside Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha Geiling is prosecuting the case. This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Extradited Mexican Citizen Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—A Mexican man was sentenced to federal prison today for drug distribution. Abel Resendiz-Villa, 42, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. This sentencing was significantly delayed because the defendant fled to Mexico before his previous sentencing hearing, in violation of his plea agreement. He was later found in Mexico and successfully extradited to the U.S. The United States Marshals Service Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force for the District of Oregon provided critical information with its Mexico Foreign Field Office to locate and extradite Abel Resendiz-Villa. “Resendiz-Villa tried to escape the consequences of his criminal choices. The U.S. Attorney’s Office sees their cases through. As seen in this case, even fleeing the country won’t allow drug dealers to flee consequences,” said United States Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “As was the case in this criminal investigation, drug traffickers who poison our communities with deadly fentanyl will be held accountable in a court of law. The DEA and our law enforcement partners and prosecutors remain steadfast in our commitment to keep communities safe from fentanyl by reducing demand, cutting off drug supply chains, and saving American lives,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Seattle Field Division. According to court documents, Resendiz-Villa trafficked meth, heroin, and counterfeit oxycodone pills into the U.S. From on or about July 26, 2020, to, on or about July 30, 2020, Resendiz-Villa smuggled drugs in the U.S. to be sold and distributed in Portland. Resendiz-Villa was arrested on August 29, 2020, crossing the U.S.-Mexico border on a motorcycle. Resendiz-Villa possessed 4.5 kilograms of heroin concealed in his motorcycle and helmet. On July 25, 2022, Resendiz-Villa pleaded guilty to conspiracy with intent to distribute controlled substances. On January 6, 2023, Resendiz-Villa failed to appear for sentencing, and the court issued a warrant for his arrest. On February 20, 2026, Resendiz-Villa was arrested by Mexican authorities on the warrant in Tijuana, Mexico. He was detained at his initial appearance after this re-arrest. On August 20, 2020, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment on Resendiz-Villa and his co-defendants. Resendiz-Villa was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances, to use a communication facility and to maintain drug-involved premises. This case was investigated by DEA with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Maloney. The U.S. Marshals Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics and fugitive task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations while locating and arresting violent fugitives and criminals. This is accomplished while using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. The task force is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) and is comprised of investigators from the U.S. Marshals Service, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Portland Police Bureau, Oregon State Police and covers the Districts of Alaska, Oregon, Eastern Washington, and Western Washington. 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 Portland comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, USMS, IRS-CI, ATF, USPIS, CBP, TSA, U.S. Coast Guard, Oregon Air, Army National Guard Counterdrug program, and Oregon-Idaho HIDTA with prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.


title: Albuquerque Man Sentenced for Series of Armed Bank Robberies Across Albuquerque and Rio Rancho

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for carrying out four armed bank robberies across Albuquerque and Rio Rancho between January 2024 and July 2025. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents, between January 2024 and July 2025, Daniel Ray Guliford, 40, committed four armed bank robberies in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho, stealing more than $140,000 and terrorizing bank employees and customers. During each robbery, Guliford wore a dark or gray hoodie, black face mask, gloves and dark clothing and brandished a handgun. He forced customers and employees to the ground and, during several robberies, ordered bank employees to open the vault. The robberies included: January 4, 2024 – Guliford stole approximately $9,250 from U.S. Bank in Albuquerque. Investigators later recovered his fingerprints from a note left at the bank. March 21, 2024 – Guliford stole approximately $26,650 from U.S. Bank in Albuquerque after forcing employees to the ground and demanding that a teller open the vault. A witness later identified a black BMW associated with Guliford as the vehicle used to flee the robbery. July 5, 2024 – Guliford stole approximately $72,043.99 from New Mexico Bank & Trust in Rio Rancho after threatening employees and demanding that they open the vault. A witness photographed a black BMW without a visible license plate leaving the area. July 24, 2025 – Guliford stole approximately $31,261 from First Financial Credit Union in Albuquerque after brandishing a handgun and ordering employees to open the vault. Surveillance footage captured a black BMW matching Guliford ’s vehicle near the credit union. A teller who witnessed the January and March 2024 robberies later spotted what he recognized as the robber's BMW at a Dion’s Pizza in Albuquerque. Investigators determined the vehicle was registered to Guliford . Following the final robbery, investigators searched Guliford ’s residence and recovered a firearm matching the appearance of the firearm used during the robberies, approximately $28,530 in cash, bank money bands and clothing matching that worn during the robberies. Guliford pled guilty to four counts of bank robbery with a dangerous weapon and one count of using, carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Upon his release from prison, Guliford will be subject to two years of supervised release. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department, Rio Rancho Police Department, Sandia Pueblo Police Department and Pueblo of Isleta Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Elena Stiteler is prosecuting the case.


title: Three Sentenced for Trafficking Large Quantities of Methamphetamine

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Methamphetamine trafficking in the Northern District of West Virginia has sent three people to federal prison for decades, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. Dustin Thomas Socks, 43, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced to 150 months in prison. Socks, also known as “Dutch,” was convicted following a long‑term drug trafficking investigation spanning from Washington County, Maryland, to Berkeley County, West Virginia. Investigators documented multiple sales of methamphetamine and cocaine base by Socks. Throughout the investigation, Socks coordinated drug deals across state lines and repeatedly met for sales at locations in Hagerstown, Maryland. Socks has multiple prior drug convictions. Mercedes Danielle Waye, 33, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for trafficking methamphetamine in Hampshire County. U.S. Postal Inspection Service personnel intercepted a parcel containing more than 430 grams of high‑purity methamphetamine addressed to Waye at a Romney, West Virginia address. Waye and co-defendant Charles Muffley, III, attempted to pick up the package the following day and was detained. Searches of Waye’s and Muffley’s vehicles and belongings uncovered additional methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, digital scales, and multiple cellular devices. Muffley was convicted of his crimes at trial in March 2026 and is scheduled for sentencing in November 2026. Alvie William Woods, 64, was sentenced to 36 months in prison. U.S. Postal Inspection Service personnel intercepted a suspicious USPS Priority Mail parcel and obtained a search warrant. Inside the package, officers found nearly two pounds of methamphetamine. The parcel had been mailed from Moreno Valley, California, and was addressed to “K. Myers” at a Flatwoods residence. Woods and co-defendant Kelly Myers arrived to retrieve the package and were arrested. Investigators later determined that Woods had received additional methamphetamine shipments at his home from the same California address. Myers was sentenced on August 5, 2026, to 12 months in prison for her role in the scheme. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher, Kyle Kane, and Andrew Cogar prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. Investigative agencies include the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office; and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. These cases are a 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 Gina M. Groh presided over the Socks and Waye sentencings. Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided over the Woods sentencing.


title: U.S. Attorney Raybould announces DOJ funding to strengthen regional law enforcement partnerships and support public safety in Tarrant County

component: Department of Justice

body_text: FORT WORTH, Texas — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould, announced new federal awards through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program, designed to deepen multijurisdictional partnerships and ensure that federal resources directly support local efforts to fight crime and improve community safety. As Fort Worth and the surrounding Tarrant County region continue to experience unprecedented growth, the Department of Justice is investing in key public safety initiatives to help law enforcement meet the evolving needs of a rapidly expanding metropolitan area. U.S. Attorney Raybould underscored that strong multijurisdictional partnerships are essential for a county facing the challenges of rapid development, diverse needs, and increasing calls for service. “As Fort Worth and Tarrant County continue to grow, effective public safety depends on deepening partnerships across jurisdictions and making sure federal resources are brought to bear where they’re needed most. These grants represent one of many steps the Department of Justice is taking to support local law.” These grants reflect an important commitment: as cities grow, public safety must grow with them. In Tarrant County, one of the fastest growing regions in Texas, strengthening coordination among agencies and giving officers the tools they need to effectively serve a larger and more complex community are essential. Under these awards, jurisdictions across Tarrant County will receive targeted federal support to modernize forensic systems, expand mental health crisis response, and strengthen officer readiness. Fort Worth has been awarded $577,626 to acquire a new Laboratory Information Management System to enhance forensic efficiency and evidence processing, allowing investigators to manage rising case volumes in a rapidly growing city. Tarrant County has been awarded funding to expand mental health assistance for police calls, ensuring that officers responding to individuals in crisis have expert support. Arlington will bolster officer safety by purchasing Glock MOS pistols with red dot sights, strengthening readiness in a city that plays a major role in the county’s public safety ecosystem. North Richland Hills has been awarded $12,033 to implement an indoor drone program, an innovative tool that improves situational awareness, supports de-escalation, and reduces risks during building searches, barricaded suspect events, and other complex operations. “Every dollar we receive from the Department of Justice is investment in public safety,” said Fort Worth Police Chief Eddie Garcia. “Modernizing our laboratory systems allows our investigators and forensic professionals to work faster, smarter, and more efficiently, helping us deliver justice to our community. We are grateful for our partnership with the Department of Justice and for their investment in keeping Fort Worth Safe.” “I’ve said for years that the Tarrant County Jail is the largest mental health facility in our county, and the continued rise in mental health incidents shows just how urgent this challenge has become,” said Tarrant County Sheriff Bill E. Waybourn. “This new funding equips our deputies with the tools, training, and support they need to respond with understanding — keeping the individual in crisis safe, as well as the deputy and the community we serve.” “Effective policing means building strong partnerships and the federal funding available through the JAG grant is a strong example of the support our community receives through the Department of Justice,” said North Richland Hills Police Chief Jeff Garner. “Our department prioritizes the sanctity of all human life, and this indoor drone program will create additional response options that support both officer and community safety.” The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program is a formula grant program which serves as the leading source of federal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions. It was named after Edward “Eddie” R. Byrne, an officer in the New York City Police Department who was murdered while protecting a witness in a drug case. The JAG Program provides states, tribes, and local governments with critical funding necessary to support personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, training, technical assistance, and information systems for criminal justice or civil proceedings. ###


title: Loan broker sentenced to 58 months in federal prison for multi-year bank fraud scheme

body_text: DALLAS — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould announced that Kwanghee Anh, 46, from Dallas, was sentenced today to nearly 5 years in federal prison for her role in a multi‑year bank fraud conspiracy that defrauded lenders of more than $8.3 million. On March 17, Anh pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. “This was not a victimless paperwork scheme,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “Ms. Anh and her partners flooded lenders with false documents and manipulated credit reports to steal millions. Their actions undermine confidence in the financial markets that North Texans and Main Street families rely on every day. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute anyone who threatens the stability of our region’s banking system and the financial security of hardworking consumers.” “The sentence imposed demonstrates the lengths Ms. Ahn took to defraud North Texas lenders, several of which were federally insured, to benefit herself and her clients.” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “The FBI remains committed to investigating and holding accountable those who abuse their roles to further fraudulent schemes.” According to plea documents, from January 2014 through March 2016, Anh and other charged co‑conspirators employed at Preferred Marketing Group, created and supplied fraudulent financial documents including false IRS Forms W‑2, fabricated paystubs and fictitious employment records to inflate clients’ incomes and misrepresent their jobs. Anh helped clients prepare loan applications that included this false information and assisted in transmitting fraudulent materials to lenders across North Texas. Over the course of the conspiracy, Anh and her co-defendants caused lenders—many federally insured—to issue at least $10 million in fraudulently obtained loans and credit products. At today’s sentencing hearing, the government explained that Anh fled the United States in 2017, shortly after initial plea discussions but before she could be indicted. She remained abroad for years until authorities arrested her in South Korea in September 2025 and transferred to U.S. custody in November 2025 to face federal charges. U.S. District Judge David C. Godbey sentenced her to 58 months’ imprisonment and ordered her to pay $8,340,647.46 in restitution to affected financial institutions. The FBI Dallas Division conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elise Aldendifer from the Fraud section prosecuted the case. ###


title: Dallas medical clinic to pay $7.5 million to resolve COVID-19 testing overbilling allegations

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: DALLAS — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould announced today that Aymancare PLLC, a medical clinic with offices in the Dallas area, agreed to pay $7.5 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by overbilling the federal government in connection with COVID-19 testing services performed for uninsured patients. “Aggressively investigating and pursuing healthcare fraud is a top priority for my office,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “We will use all available tools, including through civil enforcement mechanisms like the False Claims Act, to identify and recover any healthcare dollars lost to fraud, waste or abuse—the American taxpayer deserves no less.” “Ensuring that federal funds dedicated to the COVID-19 response are used appropriately remains a core oversight priority for HHS-OIG,” said Jason E. Meadows, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “Billing for services that were never provided is a blatant abuse of the health care system and diverts critical resources away from patients who genuinely need them. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who exploit federal programs and to safeguard taxpayer dollars.” As alleged by the United States, Aymancare operated “pop-up” testing sites during the COVID-19 pandemic and advertised “free” COVID testing that was in fact paid for by the federal government through a program for uninsured patients operated by the Health Resources and Service Administration – the COVID-19 Claims Reimbursement to Health Care Providers and Facilities for Testing, Treatment, and Vaccine Administration for the Uninsured Program. The United States alleged that, in addition to billing the government for the specimen collection and testing services that were provided through these testing sites, Aymancare also billed the government for separate “E&M services” (evaluation and management services, which typically represent services like office visits) as if the patients had been seen by a medical provider for some separate treatment or visit, when in fact no such separate services were performed. All that occurred during the testing encounters was that a technician or other personnel used nasal swabs to administer the COVID-19 tests. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. This year, the Trump Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the Administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s False Claims Act enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. False Claims Act matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s False Claims work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Stoltz. The civil claims settled by the agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of civil liability. ###


title: Vinita Man Sentenced for Raping a 16-Year-Old

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A Vinita man was sentenced today after being found guilty by a federal jury in April for raping a 16-year-old, announced U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar. U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Garret Lee Monroe, 38, who was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force in Indian Country. Monroe was ordered to serve 360 months imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervised release. Upon release, Monroe will also be required to register as a sex offender. “Garrett Monroe is a sexual predator and career criminal who preyed upon and violently sexually assaulted an innocent sixteen-year-old girl,” stated U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar. “Thanks to the efforts of our AUSAs and investigators, he will now spend a well-deserved thirty years in federal prison. I want to commend the victim for her brave testimony at trial, and I’m thankful that our office was able to bring her some measure of justice.” "The courageous testimony of the young victim in this case was critical to securing the conviction and the significant sentence imposed today," said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater. "The FBI and our partners remain steadfast in our mission to remove sexual predators from our communities and ensure they face the full weight of the federal justice system." At trial, evidence was presented that in November 2025, Vinita Police officers were dispatched to a fight in progress. When officers arrived, they broke up a fight between Monroe and another man. Officers spoke with the man, who stated that he was contacted by the 16-year-old minor victim, who asked him to come home as soon as possible because something bad had happened. The man explained that the minor victim told him that Monroe had strangled, raped, and threatened to kill her. The man confronted Monroe for raping the minor victim and a fight ensued. Officers then spoke with the 16-year-old minor victim. She told officers that Monroe woke her up in the middle of the night by covering her mouth and strangling her. When the minor victim testified, she explained to the jury that while Monroe was strangling her, she could not breathe and thought she was going to die. She began screaming, and Monroe put a knife to her throat and threatened to kill her. Monroe then proceeded to rape the minor victim. After he was finished, Monroe told the victim he was afraid he was “gonna go back to prison” and offered to pay the victim $500 a week not to tell anyone. When the sexual assault nurse testified at trial, she went through her detailed reports and explained to the jury what the minor victim reported to her. The nurse took DNA swabs and photographed the 16-year-old’s injuries. The photographs were shown to the jury, including photos of bruises and abrasions to her neck and of the petechiae in the victim’s eyes and on her face caused by the strangulation. When a DNA expert with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation testified, they confirmed that the swabs taken from the minor victim matched the victim and Monroe’s DNA. Court dockets show that Monroe is a prior felon and was previously convicted of serious offenses, including assault and battery on an officer, assault and battery with a deadly weapon, and robbery. When Monroe was sentenced in 2007 for robbery, he was sentenced to 20 years in the Department of Corrections, with 16 years suspended. Monroe did not comply with the terms of his release and his sentence was revoked. He served more than 14 years in prison, and court records show that he was released seven months prior to the rape. Monroe is a citizen of the Northern Arapaho Tribe of Wyoming and will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The FBI, the Vinita Police Department, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stacey Todd and Blithe Cravens prosecuted the case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, local, and tribal resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .


title: Tulsa Man Pleaded Guilty to Manufacturing DMT  in his Apartment

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A Tulsa man pleaded guilty in federal court to manufacturing the dangerous drug, DMT, in his apartment, announced U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar. Aaron Michael Bennett, 41, pleaded guilty to Manufacturing a Controlled Substance; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; and being a Felon in Possession of Ammunition. In January 2025, agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) received information that N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) was being manufactured and sold out of an apartment in Tulsa. During the narcotics investigation, agents partnered with the Broken Arrow Police Department and conducted surveillance. They discovered that Bennett resided in the apartment and produced large amounts of the dangerous chemical. When HSI obtained a search warrant for the apartment, they partnered with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Oklahoma National Guard to safely execute the warrant and dispose of the chemical. In Bennett’s bedroom, law enforcement discovered nearly one pound of DMT. Additionally, Bennett unlawfully possessed ammunition while manufacturing this dangerous chemical. Court dockets show that Bennett was previously convicted of a felony, and it is unlawful for him to possess ammunition. Bennett’s sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. Prior to sentencing, a federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Bennett will remain in custody pending sentencing. Homeland Security Investigations and the Broken Arrow Police Department investigated the case. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Oklahoma National Guard assisted during the execution of the search warrant. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Flynn prosecuted the case.


title: Owner of West Camp Dog Fighting Venture Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Federal Prison for Dog Fighting and Domestic Violence

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A Tulsa man was sentenced for six counts related to running a dog fighting venture in his home and for beating his then-girlfriend with a golf club, announced U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar. U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Julius Deane Griffin, 44, for five counts of Possession of a Dog for an Animal Fighting Venture; Causing an Individual Under the Age of 16 to Attend an Animal Fighting Venture; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; and Tampering with Evidence by Corrupt Persuasion. Griffin was ordered to serve 210 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. “Julius Griffin engaged in a sustained pattern of harming animals and people alike. And then when he was finally brought to justice, he tried to destroy evidence of his crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Chris Nassar. “This sentence sends a strong message that engaging in dog fighting and domestic violence will not be tolerated in the Northern District of Oklahoma and will be met with significant consequences.” In 2024, law enforcement began investigating Griffin for drug activities. When agents obtained a search warrant on Griffin’s social media account, they discovered that he was fighting dogs under the name “West Camp.” Agents then executed a search warrant at Griffin’s home and seized 17 live pit bull-type dogs and other fighting dogs, and one deceased dog. Agents seized over $16,000 in cash, electronic devices, dog-fighting trophies, dog treadmills, kennels, digital scales to weigh the dogs, dog food, injectable steroids, syringes, and dog medications. The dogs seized were placed with outside caregivers and received immediate medical attention. Some dogs had missing and damaged body parts, visible scars, and open wounds, consistent with dog fighting. The deceased dog exhibited visible scars and open wounds, consistent with dog fighting, and was recently deceased. Court documents show that Griffin admitted to possessing 18 dogs in his backyard and basement of his house located in Tulsa. During sentencing, the prosecutor stated that Griffin would take a dog into his basement for “training.” While in the dark basement, the dog would be starved and run on a treadmill several times to prepare for an upcoming fight. The investigation revealed that Griffin possessed 1,000s of images and videos documenting his dog-fighting venture. At sentencing, prosecutors showed several graphic images and videos of dogs injured or fighting. A brief video showed a dog that appeared to be lifeless, muzzled by duct tape, and attacked by a separate dog, as Griffin cheered on the prevailing dog. Griffin admitted to traveling between Oklahoma and Kansas to fight the dogs and to buying or selling dogs in Oklahoma, Illinois, Missouri, Texas, Georgia, Arkansas, and Pennsylvania. During one of his dog fights, Griffin admitted he allowed two children, ages 4 and 2, to watch the dog fight. After being arrested in April 2025, Griffin contacted a friend and directed them to log in to his accounts and delete data from his cloud-based devices. Griffin knowingly directed his friend to conceal and delete videos, conversations, and pictures related to his animal-fighting venture. Additionally, in December 2023, Griffin admitted to assaulting the woman he was dating at that time. He struck her several times with a golf club. The assault left the victim with a fractured wrist, ankle swelling, arm and knee lacerations, as well as rib pain. During sentencing proceedings, it was mentioned that Griffin scored in the highest criminal history category because of his prior criminal convictions. Court records show that Griffin was previously convicted of more than 21 crimes, including being convicted in 2005 for his involvement in a separate dog fighting ring. He was sentenced to five years and served approximately two years. He has also previously been convicted of six assault and domestic assault related crimes since 2009. Griffin will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Marshal Service, the USDA-OIG, the Creek County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. The U.S. Marshal Service National Seized Animal Program, the City of Tulsa Animal Services, and the Humane Society of Tulsa assisted in the medical treatment of the dogs and their recovery. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris prosecuted the case.


component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: South African Man Living in Jefferson County Sentenced for Distribution and Possession of Child Pornography ALBANY, NEW YORK – Marcell M. Meyer, age 45, and a citizen of South Africa formerly residing in Sackets Harbor, New York was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for distributing and possessing child pornography announced First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Anthony Patrone, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). As part of his previously entered guilty plea, Meyer admitted to using an internet-based social networking application installed on his cellular telephone to distribute multiple videos of child pornography to another user of the platform who Meyer believed to be a 13-year-old child, but who was actually an undercover HSI agent. Meyer also possessed child pornography on his cellular telephone on the day of his arrest. In addition to the term of imprisonment, United States District Judge, Anthony J. Brindisi, also sentenced Meyer to serve a 5-year term of supervised release which will begin after Meyer is released from prison, at which time Meyer will also be required to register as a sex offender. Meyer was also ordered to pay $21,000 restitution to the victims of his offenses. Upon his release from federal prison Meyer will be immediately eligible for deportation proceedings. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone said: “Our law enforcement partners specialized cyber‑crimes units are dedicated to identifying, tracking, and arresting those who exploit and harm children online. Thanks to their relentless work, and our office’s prosecution, this defendant will serve 12 years in federal prison and will be subject to deportation afterward. We will continue to pursue anyone who preys on children and ensure they face lengthy prison sentences as a result of their crimes.” Acting Special Agent in Charge Patrone stated: “Marcell Meyer’s sentence reflects the gravity of his crimes and the lasting harm caused by those who trade in child sexual abuse material. By distributing graphic abuse videos to someone he believed was a child and keeping this material on his phone, Meyer helped fuel a cycle of exploitation that revictimizes children every time these files are shared. HSI Syracuse will continue to pursue offenders who prey on children online and work with our partners to ensure victims are protected and predators are held accountable.” The case was investigated by HSI Syracuse and HSI Portland, Maine with the assistance from the New York State Police, and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle as a part of Project Safe Childhood. Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Florida Man Arrested for Cyberstalking Capital Region Victims

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Anthony Gagnon, age 23, of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, was arrested on August 4, 2026, for cyberstalking. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement. The criminal complaint alleges that Gagnon sent menacing and threatening communications through social media and text messages to several residents of Saratoga County, New York. These messages included numerous references to one of the victims being kidnapped as well as communications that identified where that victim lives and other personal details. “Cybercriminals hide behind electronic screens, but those who issue violent threats will be swiftly investigated, identified, and arrested,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone. “Thanks to the outstanding work of our partners at the FBI, this defendant was quickly apprehended and as alleged can no longer use the internet as a platform to make threats.” “As alleged in the criminal complaint, Mr. Gagnon sent a series of threatening messages to several victims in Saratoga County. Through swift coordination with our partners on FBI Albany’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) and our colleagues at FBI Jacksonville’s Daytona Beach Resident Agency, he was identified, located, and taken into custody. This arrest should send a clear message that the FBI will not tolerate criminals who hide behind a keyboard while terrorizing our citizens,” said Special Agent in Charge Tremaroli. Gagnon had an initial appearance August 4, 2026, in Orlando, Florida, and was released on conditions. The charge filed against Gagnon carries a maximum term of 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. The FBI is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Rosenthal is prosecuting the case.


title: First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone Statement on Online Safety Following Meta Settlement

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Today’s announcement that Meta has agreed to pay up to $17.1 billion and implement reforms across Facebook and Instagram is an encouraging step forward. For years, children and teens have been harmed by social media platforms that deployed deceptive, addictive, and emotionally manipulative algorithms designed to keep young users online longer, ultimately boosting corporate profits at the expense of children’s well‑being. Rates of chronic social media addiction among youth continue to rise, exposing children and teens to significant online dangers. While digital platforms can be valuable tools for learning and connection, they also create opportunities for predatory individuals to target and exploit vulnerable young people. For parents and caregivers looking for ways to better understand their child’s online activity, there are some simple, practical steps worth considering. Discussing with your child what information they share with others can help ensure sensitive personal details—such as photos, school information, or locations—are not being shared publicly. Keeping profiles private, using non‑identifying usernames or images, limiting personal information, and adjusting privacy settings on all devices, including tablets and smartwatches, are easy ways to strengthen digital safety. The Department of Justice’s flagship child‑safety initiative, Project Safe Childhood, is a nationwide effort to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood brings together federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children online, as well as identify and rescue victims. In an increasingly digital world, it is essential that adults engage children and teens in ongoing, age‑appropriate conversations about online safety. To learn more, visit: https://www.justice.gov/psc . If you believe a child is in immediate danger or need to report a crime, contact your local law enforcement office. For reporting online exploitation, suspicious activity, or to seek additional information, visit CyberTipline.com or call 800‑843‑5678.


title: Final Defendant in Nationwide Marijuana and THC Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Dwight A. Singletary II, aka “Nutt” and “Mike Jones,” age 44, of Fresno, California and Troy, New York, pled guilty August 25, 2026, to leading a nationwide marijuana and THC trafficking organization that shipped thousands of kilograms of marijuana from Fresno to locations throughout the United States, including the Capital Region. Singletary is the 25th and final defendant to plead guilty in the case. Starting in 2016, Singletary and other members of the organization shipped marijuana and THC from a shipping store in Fresno, Fast Pack & Ship, to recipients throughout the United States, including the Capital Region, New York City, and other parts of New York, Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. Fast Pack & Ship was initially owned by Sammy Olague, who sold the store to Nehemiah Fane, aka “Neil,” in June 2018. Singletary helped finance the purchase, and Fane ran the store with James Tyrell Daniels, aka “Red” and “Ghost,” and Ruby Ledesma before transferring it to the mother of Singletary’s children, McKenzie Merrialice Coles, aka “Kenzie,” in April 2020. Coles, who is originally from Troy but lived with Singletary in Fresno, operated Fast Pack & Ship through M.M.M.C. Management, Inc. Singletary, Coles, Fane, Daniels, Olague, Ledesma and other members of the organization all shipped marijuana from Fast Pack & Ship. The packages of marijuana, which were shipped through UPS and FedEx, reflected the names of fake shippers, and the marijuana was concealed in dog food containers and luggage. To avoid detection, the packages of marijuana were often sealed with eBay packing tape. Between April 2017 and June 2022, approximately 1,292 packages containing 7,068 kilograms, or 15,582 pounds, of marijuana were shipped from Fast Pack & Ship to the Capital Region alone. “With this final guilty plea, my office has now brought 25 defendants to justice for their roles in this criminal enterprise,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III. “These individuals operated a large-scale illegal marijuana and THC trafficking scheme, moving their illicit product across the country and into the Capital Region. As if flooding the community with unregulated, illegal drugs weren’t harmful enough, they also sought to launder millions of dollars in illegal profits. Thanks to the collaboration of our law enforcement partners across the country, their scheme was disrupted, and justice has been delivered to all 25 defendants.” ATF New York Special Agent in Charge Bryan DiGirolamo said, “This guilty plea closes the chapter on a sprawling criminal organization that moved thousands of kilograms of marijuana and THC across the country and into communities throughout New York’s Capital Region. This network relied on concealed shipments, knock spots and, in some instances, firearms to facilitate and protect its illegal drug trafficking activities. Holding the 25th and final defendant accountable reflects years of determined investigative work and the strength of the partnerships that brought this organization down. ATF NY Albany is proud to have worked alongside HSI, DEA, the Troy Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York to dismantle this network and hold those responsible accountable.” “This guilty plea marks the final defendant held accountable in a sophisticated, nationwide drug trafficking organization that moved more than 15,000 pounds of marijuana from California into the Capital Region and communities across the country,” stated DEA New York Enforcement Division Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam. “For years, this organization attempted to conceal its criminal enterprise by disguising drug shipments in dog food containers and luggage, using our nation’s commercial shipping system to move thousands of pounds of marijuana, and laundering millions of dollars in drug proceeds through cash couriers, financial transactions and real estate. The DEA and our law enforcement partners have and will always continue to relentlessly pursuit drug trafficking organizations at every level; from its leadership and suppliers to its distributors and those responsible for laundering its profits.” “This investigation is a strong example of the importance of law enforcement agencies working together to address complex criminal activity. Our task force officer’s involvement reflects this department’s commitment to supporting our federal law enforcement partners. We are proud of the work our detective contributed to this investigation. Strong partnerships and interagency cooperation are critical to keeping our communities safe and holding those responsible for criminal activity accountable,” said Troy Chief of Police Daniel DeWolf HSI Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone said, “Dwight Singletary led a coast-to-coast marijuana and THC trafficking organization that, for years, shipped more than 15,000 pounds of marijuana to the Capital Region alone using fake shipper names, dog food containers, luggage, and other methods designed to hide the crime. This investigation exposed the full scope of the operation, from packaging and shipment in Fresno, to street-level ‘knock spot’ sales in New York, to the laundering of millions of dollars in drug proceeds through cash couriers, cashier’s checks, business accounts, real estate, and luxury assets. As the 25th and final defendant, Singletary’s guilty plea marks a decisive end to this organization and demonstrates how sustained collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement partners protects the public from sophisticated criminal networks.” The packages of marijuana were received by numerous members of the organization in the Capital Region, including Coles’ mother, Rosemary Coles; Coles’ cousins, Isiah Ti-Quan Clements, aka “Zay, and LaFay Pearson, aka “Lala”; and Coles’ aunts and uncle, Consanga Harris, aka “Sondy,” June Allyson Osman, aka “Juney,” and Victor Turner. Other recipients in the Capital Region included Lawrence Mumphre, aka “L,” Deandre Caldwell, aka “Dilli,” “Dillinger,” and “Dre,” Tyquan Armstrong, aka “Moose,” Niara Banks, aka “Nie,” Toqwanda Ketchmre, aka “Quannie,” and Jazell Shuler. The recipients were paid between $300 and $400 per package received, and the packages were often picked up by Singletary’s brother, David Singletary, aka “DB,” who managed the organization’s operations in the Capital Region and received packages of marijuana at his apartment in Cohoes. Lateek White and Onisha Smith, who are brother and sister, received packages of marijuana shipped from Fast Pack & Ship in Brooklyn, New York, and their uncle, Earnest Flood, aka “Pop,” received packages of marijuana in Richmond, Virginia. In addition to selling bulk marijuana, Singletary, David Singletary, Mumphrey, and other members of the organization sold marijuana and THC out of “knock spots” in the Capital Region. The “knock spots” advertised various strains and quantities of marijuana and THC “edibles” for sale, with prices, on white boards. To make a purchase, customers knocked on the door, requested a particular strain of marijuana or type of THC edible, and exchanged cash for the marijuana or THC edibles, or both, through a slot in the door. In searching one of the “knock spots” at 2657 5th Avenue, Troy, New York, pursuant to a warrant on January 10, 2022, law enforcement encountered Mumphrey, who ran the day-to-day operations of the “knock spot,” and discovered approximately 29 pounds of marijuana packaged for distribution in several plastic shelves with sticky notes denoting the strain and price of the marijuana; digital scales; a large safe with a bulletproof vest; a dogfood container with strains of marijuana and dollar amounts written on the side; and a box shipped from Fast Pack & Ship to Mumphrey at his home in Albany. A surveillance system with footage from January 5 to 10, 2022, depicted Singletary and David Singletary at the “knock spot” on three days and Mumphrey at the “knock spot” all five days. A total of approximately 280 marijuana sales through the door to the “knock spot” were made over the course of the five days. On June 15, 2022, law enforcement simultaneously executed five search warrants in Fresno and 12 search warrants in the Capital Region. Singletary and Coles owned two adjacent homes at 5636 and 5371 West Acacia Avenue, Fresno, California, and lived together in 5371 West Acacia Avenue. In searching 5636 West Acacia Avenue, which was used by Singletary to store and package marijuana, law enforcement discovered a total of approximately 118 kilograms, or 260 pounds, of marijuana in black plastic bags throughout the house. The home, which was unfurnished besides a couch and television, also contained stacks of unused brown shipping boxes; six spindles of plastic wrap; large bags of packing peanuts; eight rolls of eBay packing tape; digital and commercial scales; plastic bags for vacuum sealing and three vacuum sealers; several packages of locks; and at least five plastic dogfood containers and four pieces of luggage, which were used to ship marijuana. In searching Singletary’s and Coles home at 5371 West Acacia Avenue, law enforcement seized, among other things, over $1.2 million worth of watches, jewelry, and designer bags, belts, and shoes along with a loaded Glock Model 23 .40 caliber pistol. Before purchasing 5636 and 5371 West Acacia Avenue, Singletary and Coles lived in another home in Fresno, where Coles photographed Singletary packaging marijuana for shipment: In addition to purchasing and reselling bulk marijuana, Singletary worked with Daniels to cultivate marijuana on a commercial scale at a warehouse on Van Ness Avenue in Fresno. In searching the warehouse, law enforcement discovered 424 marijuana plants at various stages of maturity in five commercial grow rooms with fans, air conditioning, and grow lights. Outside the warehouse itself, in the front entrance to the building and in an office off the front entrance, law enforcement discovered six plastic bags containing four pounds of processed marijuana buds; two digital scales; a money counter; a plastic dogfood container; luggage; shipping peanuts; and eBay packing tape. Footage from a surveillance system at the warehouse showed Daniels tending to the marijuana plants and bringing supplies into the warehouse with Singletary. In searching David Singletary’s apartment in Cohoes, law enforcement discovered and seized, among other things, 29 vacuum-sealed packages of marijuana weighing approximately 19 kilograms and labeled, among other things, “GMO,” “Mimosa,” “Gary Payton,” “#45,” and “Gumbo 3A,” a dogfood container with ten clear knotted plastic bags each containing approximately one pound of marijuana, a clear plastic bag containing marijuana next to a scale on the kitchen counter, a gun box with 11 rounds of .40 caliber Winchester ammunition in a 12-round magazine, a money counter, a vacuum sealer, jewelry worth over $30,000, and $14,552 in cash. To promote the marijuana trafficking organization, Coles created an Instagram account in the name nutty_packz, and in searching David Singeltary’s apartment, law enforcement discovered marijuana packaging materials with the “Nutty Pack” emblem: In searching Mumphrey’s home in Albany, which he shared with his wife, Latrice Mumphrey, law enforcement discovered a backpack containing two plastic bags of marijuana with “41 Cherries” and “Dulce De Leche” written on the side. A locked room in the basement contained a plastic dogfood container with “41 Cherries $3,600,” “Dulce De Leche $3,800,” and “12 Lows $700” written on the side and with eight bags of marijuana weighing approximately one pound apiece. The locked room also contained a suitcase with four firearms—a Ruger model AR-556 5.56x45mm caliber semiautomatic rifle, 5.56x45mm caliber semiautomatic rifle, Anderson model AM-15 5.56x45mm caliber semiautomatic rifle, and Taurus 9mm caliber pistol—and assorted ammunition. Caldwell’s apartment in Albany contained marijuana, THC edibles, digital scales, boxes from Fast Pack & Ship, $15,941 in cash drug proceeds, and a .380 caliber handgun. Armstrong’s apartment in Rotterdam contained seven vacuum-sealed packages of marijuana weighing 10 pounds; two money counters; and $18,723 in cash. The apartment also contained a loaded .357 revolver, a loaded .22 caliber “ghost gun,” and 125 rounds of .357 ammunition. The search warrants did not deter Singletary, David Singletary, and other members of the organization and they continued to traffic marijuana, including out of the “knock spot” at 2657th Avenue. In searching 2657th Avenue a second time on November 11, 2022, law enforcement discovered prepackaged marijuana, a loaded Taurus G2C 9mm handgun, and paperwork in David Singletary’s name. After the search, Singletary and David Singletary moved the “knock spot” to an apartment next door at 2655 5th Avenue, Troy, New York, which was searched pursuant to warrant on January 4, 2023. A whiteboard offering marijuana for sale was outside the door to 2655 5th Avenue, which had a slot used to exchange marijuana for money. The same day, law enforcement executed a second search warrant at David Singletary’s apartment in Cohoes, which contained approximately 74 pounds of marijuana in vacuum-sealed packages. The marijuana and THC trafficking generated millions of dollars in revenue, which Singletary and other members of the organization laundered through a variety of means. David Singletary routinely gave other members of the organization, including Clements and Kristle Walker, aka “Demii,” locked suitcases containing well over $150,000 in cash marijuana and THC proceeds. Walker and Clements then separately flew from Albany to Fresno, where they delivered the cash to Singletary and Coles. In July 2020, Walker attempted to board a flight from Albany to Fresno with a suitcase containing $179,710 in cash drug proceeds, which was seized by law enforcement. The cash belonged to Singletary, but in seeking return of the cash from the DEA, Walker falsely claimed ownership. Federal law requires financial institutions to complete a currency transaction report for cash transactions over $10,000. At Singletary’s direction, Walker, Clements, Banks, Mumphrey, Latrice Mumphrey, and another member of the organization, Alyssa June White, purchased multiple cashier’s checks in amounts slightly below the reporting threshold for cash transactions of over $10,000, but amounting to over $10,000 in total, oftentimes at different banks and branches on the same day. The cashier’s checks were payable to Singletary; his company, DAS Empire, Inc.; his real estate law firm; a company from which he and Coles purchased real estate; and to a person from whom Singletary and DAS Empire purchased real estate. Singletary, at times through DAS Empire, purchased and renovated several properties in the Capital Region with marijuana proceeds. He used the cashier’s purchased with cash marijuana proceeds to pay for the properties, and paid contractors renovating the properties with cash marijuana proceeds. In 2021, Singletary and Coles used $430,000 and $390,000 in marijuana proceeds to purchase 5363 and 5371 West Acacia, respectively. The purchase price was paid through, among other means, cashier’s checks purchased with marijuana proceeds. To make the marijuana proceeds appear like legitimate business income, members of the organization deposited hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash marijuana proceeds into accounts held by Coles in the name of her company, M.M.M.C. Management, and into business accounts held by Fane, who was previously employed as a banker but fired for money laundering. At Singletary’s directions, members of the organization—including Walker, Clements, and Shuler—sent over $103,000 in money transfers purchased with cash marijuana proceeds in the Capital Region to Fane and others in and around Fresno. Law enforcement forfeited a total of over $2.53 million in cash, vehicles, jewelry, real property, and other assets from Singletary and other members of the organization. Singletary faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison on the two counts to which he pled guilty, conspiring to distribute marijuana and conspiring to commit money laundering; fines of up to $10.25 million; and a term of supervised release of between five years and life. His plea agreement with the government calls for a sentence of 10- to 20-years imprisonment. If the court rejects the plea agreement, Singletary will be permitted to withdraw his plea. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. In addition to Singletary, 24 other defendants have pled guilty. The following defendants pled guilty to the following charges and received the following sentences: Defendant Charge(s) Sentence James Tyrell Daniels, aka “Red” and “Ghost,” age 42, of Fresno Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and (ii) conspiracy to commit money laundering 180 months imprisonment Lawrence Mumphrey, aka “L,” age 47, of Albany Three counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and THC, (ii) possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and (iii) conspiracy to commit money laundering 156 months imprisonment Deandre Caldwell, aka “Dilli,” “Dillinger,” and “Dre,” age 34, of Albany Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and THC, and (ii) possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime 97 months imprisonment Tyquan Armstrong, aka “Moose,” age 47, of Rotterdam Three counts: (i) conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, (ii) possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and (iii) possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime 90 months imprisonment Toqwanda Ketchmore, aka “Quannie,” age 32, of Troy One count: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana 24 months imprisonment Earnest Flood, aka “Pop,” age 68, of Richmond, Virginia Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and (ii) conspiracy to commit money laundering Time served JuneAllyson Osman, aka “Juney,” age 61, of Troy One count: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana Two years’ probation The following defendants pled guilty to the following charges, face the following sentences, and are awaiting sentencing: Defendant Charge(s) Potential Sentence McKenzie Merrialice Coles, aka “Kenzie,” age 39, of Fresno Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and THC, and (ii) conspiracy to commit money laundering At least 10 years and up to life imprisonment (if accepted by the court, the plea agreement calls for sentence of up to 20 years imprisonment) Nehemiah Fane, aka “Neil,” age 44, of Fresno Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and (ii) conspiracy to commit money laundering Maximum sentence of 40 years imprisonment Sammy Olague, age 39, of Fresno One count: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana At least 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment Ruby Ledesma, age 28, of Fresno One count: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana Maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment David Singletary, aka “DB,” age 40, of Cohoes One count: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana At least 10 years and up to life imprisonment (if accepted by the court, plea agreement calls for sentence of at least 10 years and up to 18 years imprisonment) Isiah Ti-Quan Clements, aka “Zay,” age 39, of Troy Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and THC, and (ii) conspiracy to commit money laundering At least 10 years and up to life imprisonment Latrice Mumphrey, age 45, of Albany One count: conspiracy to commit money laundering Maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment Rosemary Coles, age 74, of Troy One count: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and THC At least 10 years and up to life imprisonment Kristle Waler, aka “Demii,” age 42, of Albany Two counts: conspiracy to commit money laundering and false statements Maximum sentence of 25 years imprisonment Niara Banks, aka “Nie,” age 34, of Troy Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana and THC, and (ii) conspiracy to commit money laundering Maximum sentence of 40 years imprisonment Jazell Shuler, age 38, of Troy Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and (ii) conspiracy to commit money laundering Maximum sentence of 40 years imprisonment Victor Turner, age 72, of Troy One count: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana Maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment LaFay Pearson, aka “Lala,” age 25, of Troy One count: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana Maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment Consanga Harris, aka “Sondy,” age 65, of Troy One count: conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana Maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment Alyssa June White, age 33, of Troy One count: conspiracy to commit money laundering Maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment Onisha Smith, age 43, of Brooklyn Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and (ii) conspiracy to commit money laundering Maximum sentence of 40 years imprisonment Lateek White, age 55, of Brooklyn Two counts: (i) conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and (ii) conspiracy to commit money laundering At least 10 years and up to life imprisonment The ATF, DEA, Troy Police Department, and HSI investigated the case, with critical support from U.S. Attorney’s Office Financial Investigator Justus Derx. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cyrus P.W. Rieck, Dustin C. Segovia, and Nicholas Walter are prosecuting the case. 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.


title: Cazenovia Man Sentenced to 70 Months for Wire Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Dean Dellas, age 42, of Cazenovia, New York, was sentenced on August 26, 2026, to 70 months’ imprisonment after previously pleading guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) made the announcement. As part of his prior guilty plea, Dellas admitted that beginning no later than June 2021 through November 2023, he acted as a financial advisor for the investment accounts of clients in the Syracuse area. Dellas fraudulently induced those clients to sign paperwork that authorized Dellas to take advisor fees from their accounts well in excess of what they actually agreed to. For other accounts, Dellas fraudulently induced the clients to sign paperwork granting him trading and withdrawal authority over their accounts. This account-opening paperwork misrepresented Dellas’s relationship to the clients and falsely stated that Dellas received no compensation for providing investment advice. The account-opening documents that Dellas induced the client to sign also falsely stated that the client wanted to engage in high-risk forms of investment, according to the indictment. Dellas further admitted that to conceal the fraud, he took steps to conceal account statements from his clients and at times impersonated clients in communicating with brokerage firms. Dellas admitted that he stole approximately $686,000 from his victims through unauthorized withdrawals and advisor fees. “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of Dellas’s conduct,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarcone . “By manipulating client documents and misusing the authority he was given, Dellas undermined the integrity of the investment process and caused significant financial harm. This outcome underscores the importance of safeguarding investors and ensuring that those who misuse their positions face appropriate consequences, in this case, repaying the stolen funds and serving nearly six years in prison.” “Mr. Dellas’ clients trusted him with their hard-earned money,” said Craig Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albany Field Office . “In return, he devised schemes that allowed him to steal over $680,000 from them. This sentence and order of restitution delivers the justice his victims deserve. While he heads to federal prison for nearly six years, the FBI will continue to aggressively investigate and bring to justice any individuals disguising themselves as a trusted financial advisor to take advantage of Americans.” Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes also ordered Dellas to pay restitution to the victims of the offense, in the amount of $686,797 and imposed a 2-year term of supervised release to follow his release from prison. FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew J. McCrobie and Michael F. Perry prosecuted the case.


title: Illegal Alien with Multiple Federal Convictions Sentenced for Another Illegal Re-Entry into the U.S.

component: USAO - Mississippi, Northern

body_text: GREENVILLE, MS– Fredis Ramos-Serrano, a.k.a. Carlos Roberta Galvez-Jovel, 51, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced today in federal court to 57 months in prison following his conviction for illegal reentry into the United States. Following his arrest by the Blue Mountain Police Department, officers learned that Ramos-Serrano was an illegal alien with no status to be in the United States. He had previously been convicted, under an alias, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi for his role in a methamphetamine conspiracy in 2003. He also had multiple other federal felony convictions, including a previous conviction for illegal reentry. Ramos-Serrano has previously been deported from the United States back to Honduras on two separate occasions following his federal convictions. He has never applied for permission to reenter the United States lawfully. Chief District Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Ramos-Serrano to 57 months imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release in the event that he remains in the country. However, officials with Immigration and Customs Enforcement have placed an immigration detainer on the defendant, which will result, again, in his removal from the United States following the conclusion of his federal sentence. U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “This prosecution resulted from yet another arrest by our hardworking and diligent agents at Homeland Security Investigations. For years, our border was opened and allowed illegal narcotics and criminal aliens to flood into our nation. Illegal aliens who destroy our families, small towns, and communities by distributing meth, and other poisons, will never be tolerated in this district. Blue Mountain Police Department and ICE, through their 287(g) program, shows the power of those partnerships to apprehend criminal aliens that live in our communities and keep our citizens safe. We appreciate their role in this partnership. It is a model for others in this state.” “HSI is committed to identifying and removing individuals who unlawfully reenter the United States after removal and continue to violate our laws,” said HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of repeated immigration violations, particularly when accompanied by felony criminal conduct. When we combine vital partnerships with 287(g) partner Blue Mountain Police Department and other local law enforcement, we create more secure communities in Mississippi and across the U.S.” Blue Mountain Police Chief Chris Joshlin said, “At the Blue Mountain Police Department, our responsibility is to protect and serve everyone in our community. We will continue doing everything within our authority to keep the Town of Blue Mountain safe, regardless of a person’s background, nationality or immigration status. Our priority is public safety and treating every person we encounter with fairness, dignity, and respect.” Assistant U.S. Attorney John Herzog Jr. prosecuted the case.


title: Schererville Woman Sentenced to 190 Months in Prison for Possession of Child Pornography

body_text: SOUTH BEND – Samantha M. Conley, 31 years old, of Schererville, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Conley was sentenced to 190 months in prison, 10 years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment. According to documents in the case, Conley possessed 82 videos depicting child sexual abuse material. “The Defendant’s disturbing pattern of abuse and betrayal of trust is appalling. Her continued illicit actions spiraled into deviancy while she turned her back on a strong support system to explore the darkness of sexual abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred. “Every image and video depicting the sexual abuse of a child represents a real victim whose innocence was violated. Possessing this material fuels the exploitation of children and perpetuates their abuse,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of Conley’s actions and the harm inflicted on this young victim. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to aggressively investigate those who seek out and possess child sexual abuse material.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse and former Assistant United States Attorney Hannah T Jones. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov .


title: Mexican National Sentenced to Time Served in Prison for Immigration Offense

component: USAO - Indiana, Northern

body_text: HAMMOND – Carlos Francisco Dominguez-Culgua, 33 years old, of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to felony reentry of removed alien, announced United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Dominguez-Culgua was sentenced to time served in prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. The supervised release term would go into effect should the Defendant remain in, or return to, the United States within that period following expected removal proceedings. According to documents in the case, Dominguez-Culgua was previously removed from the United States just over a month prior to his illegal reentry on January 24, 2026. “The Defendant has repeatedly violated our Nation’s borders, laws, and sovereignty. He was previously removed from the United States in December 2025 and by his quick return has shown that he did not believe our nation’s laws apply to him. He was wrong. Incarceration was an appropriate consequence of his repeated illegal actions. Upon release, the Defendant needs to return home and not violate our nation’s borders again illegally. Thanks to the combined efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the Hobart Police Department, the Indiana State Police, the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, and Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan, the Defendant has been held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney, Adam Mildred. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Hobart Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.


title: Federal Judge Sentences Man to Six Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing Five Loaded Firearms During High-Speed Chase on Chicago Expressway

component: USAO - Illinois, Northern

body_text: CHICAGO — A felon has been sentenced to six years in federal prison for illegally possessing five loaded firearms during a high-speed chase on the John F. Kennedy Expressway in Chicago. On July 30, 2024, TIMOTHY MCDOWELL was a passenger in a stolen car traveling on the Kennedy Expressway in Chicago. As a police helicopter followed overhead, the car increased its speed to more than 100 miles per hour before exiting the highway and speeding through residential streets. After the vehicle parked in a garage, McDowell ran from pursuing officers and attempted to abandon a backpack he was carrying. He was arrested after a brief chase. Inside his backpack were five loaded handguns, one of which had a defaced serial number while another had a large-capacity magazine attached to it. McDowell had previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses and was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. McDowell, 36, of Chicago, pleaded guilty earlier this year to a federal charge of unlawful possession of a firearm. On Aug. 20, 2026, U.S. District Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman sentenced McDowell to six years in federal prison. The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of Homeland Security Investigations. The Chicago Police Department provided valuable assistance. “The fact that defendant possessed five firearms is itself serious, but the fact that he possessed them with compatriots in a stolen vehicle that was fleeing from police increases the seriousness here,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Schied argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “He was out and up to no good with others, a danger that compounds his possession of dangerous weapons as a multiple convicted felon.”


title: Illegal Alien Felon and Georgia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking over 700 Pounds of Methamphetamine Hidden in Cucumber Shipment

body_text: GAINESVILLE – Andres Jasso, Jr. and Rufino Pineda-Perez, an illegal alien from Mexico and twice-convicted felon, were sentenced to federal prison for their roles in trafficking over 700 pounds of methamphetamine concealed in a tractor-trailer load of cucumbers outside of a Gainesville, Georgia warehouse. “The defendants attempted to conceal an astonishing amount of deadly methamphetamine in a cucumber shipment, but the diligent and strategic efforts of law enforcement partners uncovered their ruse,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “As a result, Pineda-Perez, a twice-convicted and twice-deported felon, and Jasso, Jr. will now serve substantial time in federal prison with no possibility of parole.” “This sentence reflects the seriousness of trafficking methamphetamine and the importance of holding repeat offenders accountable,” said Michael J. Connolly, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “This defendant, a twice-convicted felon, continued to engage in dangerous drug trafficking, going to great lengths to conceal methamphetamine in a shipment of cucumbers. Cases like this demonstrate why strong partnerships among law enforcement agencies are so critical. By working together, sharing information, and pursuing a common mission, we can disrupt drug trafficking organizations and protect our communities.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: On June 30, 2025, DEA agents were surveilling a tractor-trailer parked at a Gainesville warehouse that agents believed contained a large amount of drugs. Agents arrested Jasso, Jr. and Pineda-Perez after seeing them in a sedan parked next to the tractor-trailer. During a search of the tractor-trailer, agents located 20 pallets of boxes containing cucumbers and thousands of individually wrapped packages of methamphetamine. The investigation established that co-conspirators had tasked Jasso, Jr. and Pineda-Perez with offloading the boxes from the tractor-trailer and separating the drugs from the cucumbers. The weight of the methamphetamine exceeded 700 pounds. Pineda-Perez is a citizen and national of Mexico with no legal status in the United States. In 2001, Pineda-Perez was deported and removed from the United States following a felony conviction in Arizona for transporting marijuana. He illegally re-entered the United States thereafter and was encountered by federal agents in March 2014, while transporting nearly one kilogram of cocaine in the Atlanta area. In August 2015, a federal judge sentenced him to six and a half years of imprisonment. Upon completion of his prison sentence, Pineda-Perez was deported for a second time. Earlier today, Rufino Pineda-Perez, 61, of Mexico, was sentenced to 15 years in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. On July 17, 2026, Andres Jasso, Jr., 39, of Brookhaven, Ga., was also sentenced to 15 years in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. On March 11, 2026, Pineda-Perez and Jasso, Jr. pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and Pineda-Perez also pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a previously removed alien. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with valuable assistance provided by the Georgia State Patrol, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney Johnny Baer prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


title: Drug-Dealing Killer Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Firearm Illegally

body_text: ATLANTA – Jesse James Williams, Jr., a 14-time convicted felon who once killed a man over a $10 drug debt, was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison after a jury found him guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm. “Amassing more than a dozen felony convictions, this violent, incorrigible defendant spent decades breaking the law,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Williams’s sentence sends an unmistakable message: repeat offenders who arm themselves and endanger the community will be removed from our streets. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who refuse to respect the law face its full weight.” “Williams has demonstrated time and again that he has no regard for the law or the safety of others. A violent convicted felon with a history of drug trafficking, robbery, and weapons offenses has no place on our streets with a firearm, and this sentence ensures he will be held accountable for his continued criminal conduct,” said Marlo Graham, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to aggressively pursue violent offenders who use firearms to threaten and harm our communities.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and evidence presented in court: On May 29, 2024, a Gwinnett County Police Department officer stopped Williams’s car for speeding. During the stop, officers recovered a stolen pistol and a baggie of crack cocaine in Williams’s waistband. Law enforcement agents later linked the gun to a shooting in Decatur, Georgia that injured a woman. Before the shooting, Williams allegedly warned the victim, “Bitch, I told you not to touch my stuff.” Prior to his 2024 arrest, Williams had amassed more than a dozen felony convictions for crimes including cocaine trafficking, robbery, burglary, and weapon possession. In 2011, Williams was convicted of voluntary manslaughter after killing another man over a $10 drug debt. On August 25, 2026, United States District Judge Steven D. Grimberg sentenced Jesse James Williams Jr., 51, of Decatur, Georgia, to 14 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. On December 18, 2025, a jury found Williams guilty of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, after a four-day trial. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with substantial assistance provided by the Gwinnett County Police Department, the DeKalb Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the Georgia Department of Community Supervision. Assistant United States Attorneys Dash A. Cooper and Phyllis Clerk prosecuted the case. For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


title: Amazon Fraud Defendant Sentenced to More than 16 Years in Federal Prison

component: USAO - Georgia, Northern

body_text: ATLANTA – Brittany Hudson was sentenced to more than 16 years in federal prison today for orchestrating a scheme that netted nearly $10 million from Amazon, laundering the fraudulent proceeds, defrauding a franchising company while out on bond, and forging a federal judge’s signature on fake court documents. “Hudson and her partner engineered a massive fraud scheme against Amazon, stealing nearly $10 million in just a few months,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Hudson then showed utter contempt for the law by forging a federal judge’s signature in a failed effort to defraud another company while out on bond. Today’s significant sentence, which must be served without the possibility of parole, holds her accountable for her crime spree.” “The sentencing in this case brings a brazen fraud operation to its inevitable conclusion - years behind bars for the criminals involved,” said Rob Donovan, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service Atlanta Field Office. “Our office remains steadfast in our commitment to uncover fraud, protect victims, and work with our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office to bring criminals like this to justice.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Brittany Hudson owned a business that contracted with Amazon to deliver packages. Hudson was in a romantic relationship with Kayricka Wortham (a/k/a Kayricka Dupree, a/k/a Kayricka Young), who was an operations manager at the Amazon warehouse in Smyrna, Georgia. Given her position, Wortham had the authority to approve new vendors and vendor invoice payments for Amazon. From January 2022 to June 2022, Hudson and Wortham defrauded Amazon out of nearly $10 million through a scheme involving bogus vendors and invoices. Wortham and Hudson created dozens of fake vendors in Amazon’s vendor system. Wortham and another co-conspirator at Amazon approved the fake vendor profiles, enabling them to submit invoices. Hudson and Wortham then submitted more than 1,000 fictitious invoices for the phony vendors, falsely claiming that the vendors had provided goods and services to Amazon. Wortham approved the invoices, causing Amazon to transfer approximately $9.4 million to bank accounts controlled by Hudson, Wortham, and co-conspirators. Hudson and Wortham used the fraudulent proceeds to purchase expensive real estate and luxury vehicles, including a nearly $1 million home in Smyrna, Georgia, a 2019 Lamborghini Urus, a 2021 Dodge Durango, a 2022 Tesla Model X, a 2018 Porsche Panamera, and a Kawasaki ZX636 motorcycle. In September 2022, Hudson and Wortham were charged in federal court with defrauding Amazon. While on bond, in January 2023, they attempted to defraud a franchising company, resulting in the immediate revocation of their pretrial release. In an effort to enter a franchising agreement to open a hookah lounge in Midtown Atlanta, Hudson and Wortham falsely claimed that their Amazon-related criminal charges had been dismissed. In support of that lie, the two emailed counterfeit court documents that purported to dismiss the charges and contained the forged signatures of former Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy C. Batten, Sr. and Cobb County Magistrate Judge Norman L. Barnett, who was then one of the prosecutors on the case. Hudson also emailed doctored financial statements with inflated account balances to support the franchise deal. Brittany Hudson, 40, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced today to 16 years and three months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $9,469,731.45 of restitution to Amazon. The Court also entered a forfeiture money judgment of $7,859,135.54 and ordered Hudson to forfeit her Smyrna residence and money seized from her bank account as fraudulent proceeds of the Amazon scheme. On March 13, 2026, a jury convicted Hudson of 30 felony offenses, including two counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, seventeen counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, nine counts of money laundering, and one count of forgery of the signature of a federal judge. On June 27, 2023, Kayricka Wortham, 35, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced to 16 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $9,469,731.45 in restitution. Wortham forfeited more than $3 million, the Smyrna home, and the vehicles purchased with fraudulent proceeds. On March 25, 2026, she was sentenced to an additional consecutive year in prison, bringing her total sentence to 17 years, after pleading guilty to forging the signature of a federal judge. This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen H. McClain, Angela Adams, and Nicholas L. Evert prosecuted the case. For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga


title: Life Sentence in Pensacola Federal Murder Case

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

body_text: Pensacola, Florida – Charles Carson-Dowdy, 31, of Mobile, Alabama, was sentenced in federal court to life imprisonment for cyberstalking, interstate domestic violence, murder through use of a firearm, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in relation to the death of Starmichael L. Tucker in Pensacola in early 2025. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My heart goes out to the victim’s family members and friends, who were robbed of Ms. Tucker’s presence in their lives by the depraved actions of this violent thug. We cannot lessen the profound sadness caused by Ms. Tucker’s murder, but thanks to this aggressive prosecution by my office that secured a life sentence for Carson-Dowdy’s heinous crimes, we can guarantee that this criminal will spend the rest of his pathetic life locked behind bars where he belongs.” Court documents reveal that Carson-Dowdy, who resided in Mobile, Alabama, and the victim, Ms. Tucker, who resided in Pensacola, Florida, began dating in or about October 2024. During the dating relationship, Carson-Dowdy used cellular telephones, the internet, and a ridesharing business to engage in a course of conduct with the intent to harass and intimidate the victim. At the end of December 2024, Ms. Tucker flew to California to visit family for the holidays. During her trip, Ms. Tucker and Carson-Dowdy had an escalating series of arguments via text message. On January 1, 2025, as Ms. Tucker traveled back to Florida from California, she and Carson- Dowdy had a conversation via text message during which the victim attempted to end the relationship with Carson-Dowdy. In response, Carson-Dowdy hailed a ride via the Uber ridesharing service to travel from his residence in Mobile, Alabama, to the victim’s residence in Pensacola, Florida, to confront her about their relationship. Despite being a convicted felon prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition, Carson-Dowdy brought a Taurus handgun and an extra loaded magazine with him as he traveled from Alabama to Florida. Upon his arrival in Pensacola, Carson-Dowdy entered Ms. Tucker’s home without her permission. She returned home to discover Carson-Dowdy waiting for her in the apartment. At approximately 8:00 p.m. on January 2, 2025, Ms. Tucker left her apartment, but Carson-Dowdy followed her outside and shot her in the back with his Taurus handgun, causing her to collapse in the parking lot. Carson-Dowdy then walked over to where Ms. Tucker was lying wounded on the ground and shot her approximately ten more times at close range. Carson-Dowdy then entered the victim’s vehicle parked nearby, and deliberately drove the car over Ms. Tucker’s body. He then reversed the car to drive over her body again, and then drove forward running over the victim’s body a third time. Carson-Dowdy then fled from the apartment complex in the victim’s vehicle. Ms. Tucker died from the injuries inflicted by Carson-Dowdy. Carson-Dowdy was ultimately located by law enforcement in the victim’s vehicle in Spanish Fort, Alabama. He was taken into custody, and the Taurus handgun used to murder the victim was found inside the car. “This defendant’s actions took an innocent life and devastated a family,” said ATF Tampa Field Division’s Special Agent in Charge Kirk Howard. “Today’s sentence holds him accountable and hopefully, helps the victim’s family take one step toward closure.” The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the State Attorney’s Office, and the Spanish Fort Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jordane New. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .