title: Total Men’s Primary Care and Dr. Mason Jones Agree to Pay Up to $600,000  in Civil Penalties for Alleged Violations of the Controlled Substances Act

body_text: AUSTIN, Texas – Total MD Physicians Group, P.L.L.C., doing business as Total Men’s Primary Care, and Dr. Mason Jones, a physician registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration to handle controlled substances at several Total Men’s Primary Care clinics in the Austin area, have agreed to a consent judgment requiring them to pay up to $600,000 in civil penalties for violating the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), 21 U.S.C. §§ 801 et seq. The settlement resolves allegations that Total Men’s Primary Care and Dr. Jones violated the CSA by failing to comply with certain recordkeeping requirements and electronically signing and transmitting prescriptions for a Schedule II controlled substance without a doctor/patient relationship. These violations were identified by DEA following onsite inspections of three Total Men’s Primary Care locations in Austin, Bee Cave, and Cedar Park in 2023. In 2024, while DEA’s investigation was pending, Dr. Jones voluntarily retired fourteen certificates of registration affiliated with Total Men’s Primary Care locations in Austin, Hutto, Round Rock, Georgetown, New Braunfels, San Marcos, Kyle, and Cedar Park. He later surrendered for cause four additional DEA certificates of registration. Under the terms of their civil settlement agreement with the United States, Total Men’s Primary Care and Dr. Jones can satisfy their legal obligation under the consent judgment by paying the Government $300,000 within 12 months. “When medical providers violate patient trust and federal law, my Office will hold them accountable through whatever means available,” said U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas Justin R. Simmons. “The American people deserve a healthcare system they can rely on, and we, along with our partners at the DEA, intend to do all we can to ensure its reliability.” “DEA San Antonio Diversion investigators work tirelessly to protect the public from physicians who abuse their trusted privilege,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge for the San Antonio Division Miguel Madrigal. “Reckless and unlawful prescribing practices endanger public health, fuel prescription drug misuse, and undermine the integrity of the medical profession. The DEA will continue holding any medical professionals who violates the law accountable.” DEA’s San Antonio Division Office led the investigation of this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Parnham negotiated the settlement on behalf of the Government. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. ###


title: Illegal Alien Sentenced in Del Rio to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Deadly Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens

component: USAO - Texas, Western

body_text: DEL RIO, Texas – An illegal alien from Mexico was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 15 years in prison for his role in a human smuggling operation that resulted in death, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. According to court documents, on April 17, 2025, Alan Vargas-Gonzalez, 23, of Huetamo, Michoacan, Mexico, was apprehended along with five illegal aliens near Eagle Pass. An investigation revealed that Vargas-Gonzalez was the foot guide of the group of illegal aliens. Agents noted that all the individuals had a backpack with food and/or water, and that Vargas-Gonzalez was the only person not wearing camouflage clothing and the only one that did not have carpet glued to the bottom of his shoes. Further investigation connected Vargas-Gonzalez with a previous smuggling attempt that resulted in the death of a female Guatemalan in March 2025. A forensic examination of Vargas-Gonzalez’s cellphone revealed information that corroborated his involvement in the fatal smuggling event, including conversations with other co-conspirators related to human smuggling. Vargas-Gonzalez was arrested April 17, 2025, and indicted on May 14, 2025. A superseding indictment filed on Oct. 1 charged him with one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens causing serious bodily injury and one count of illegal alien transportation causing serious bodily injury. He pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge on Nov. 17. U.S. District Judge Ernest Gonzalez presided over the case. The U.S. Border Patrol investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Ellis-Dotson prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nallely Duarte handled the sentencing hearing. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. ###


title: 188 New Immigration Cases Added in Western District of Texas This Week

body_text: SAN ANTONIO – Federal prosecutors in the Western District of Texas filed 188 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from July 17 through July 23, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons. Charges were brought against human smugglers and illegal aliens with past convictions for numerous DWIs, violent crimes and sexual abuse, thefts, and multiple prior removals. Among the new cases, Alejandro Flores-Martinez , an illegal alien from Mexico, was arrested by U.S. Border Patrol agents near Eagle Pass after he had previously been deported in September 2025. Flores-Martinez was convicted in 2024 of first-degree sexual abuse in Butler County, Missouri, for which he was sentenced to seven years of confinement. He now faces a federal charge for illegal re-entry. Jose Luis Gutierrez-Laguna , also an illegal alien from Mexico, was arrested by U.S. Border Patrol near Comstock. He was last deported for the sixth time in May 2025. Gutierrez-Laguna was convicted of his second illegal re-entry charge in 2024. He has also been convicted of operating while intoxicated and forgery. In El Paso, illegal alien from Mexico Juan Manuel Tinoco-Oros was arrested near Sierra Blanca, approximately 10 miles east of the Fort Hancock Port of Entry. Tinoco-Oros had been previously convicted of domestic violence and was deported for the third time in November 2025. Raul Medina Gonzalez , an illegal alien from Mexico, was charged in Austin this week. He has been deported from the U.S. eight times and convicted five times for improper entry, the most recent being in 2018. He now faces an illegal re-entry charge. Enrique Alberto Oxlaj-Lopez has been previously removed from the U.S. six times. He is an illegal alien from Guatemala with a prior conviction for illegal re-entry along with convictions for arson, theft and a DWI. Also in Austin, Luis Jaimes-De Paz , an illegal alien from Mexico, faces an illegal re-entry charge. His previous illegal re-entry conviction was in 2010. Jaimes-De Paz has also been convicted of three DWI charges and one failure to ID. He’s been removed from the U.S. three times. Illegal alien from Honduras Gabriel Euceda-Bonilla was arrested in San Antonio by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations on Tuesday. Euceda-Bonilla has previously been convicted of three DUI charges as well as intoxication assault causing brain injury. He is now charged with illegal re-entry. Illegal alien from Mexico Sergio Arturo Delgadillo-Ledesma is also charged with illegal re-entry. San Antonio Police arrested Delgadillo-Ledesma for possession of a controlled substance in March. He was turned over to ICE custody on July 16, the day after his conviction and sentencing. The July conviction was Delgadillo-Ledesma’s second for possession of a controlled substance. He’s also been previously convicted of a DUI and twice for evading arrest. These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including ICE, U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico. These cases are part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: 11 Charged in Homeland Security Task Force Investigation Relating to Aliens Found Dead in a Boxcar Earlier This Year

body_text: DEL RIO, Texas – As part of a Homeland Security Task Force case, a federal grand jury in Del Rio returned an indictment this week charging 11 defendants for their alleged involvement in an attempted alien smuggling operation that resulted in multiple illegal aliens being found dead inside a shipping container in May, announced U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas Justin R. Simmons. According to the indictment, from at least April 2023 through May 12, 2026, the defendants and others operated a human smuggling organization that illegally used cargo trains to smuggle aliens further into the United States after illegally crossing them from Mexico. Each smuggled alien, or their families and friends, paid smugglers in Honduras, Mexico, the United States, and elsewhere between $1,500 and $10,000. Map depicting US-90 and the Union Pacific Railroad system between Del Rio to San Antonio Photo depicting broken seal from the Conex shipping container’s door The indictment alleges that, toward the end of April 2026, the organization began facilitating the smuggling of at least seven aliens from Acuña, Mexico into Del Rio. On or about May 9, after the smugglers illegally crossed the seven aliens from Mexico into the Del Rio area, the organization transported the aliens to an area near the Union Pacific train tracks in Del Rio. From approximately 1:18 p.m. to 1:25 p.m., while a Union Pacific train was stationary, smugglers, using red bolt cutters, allegedly cut the lock off a Conex shipping container’s door, loaded the aliens into the container, and then shut the door. The shipping container was stacked on top of another and had no ventilation or cooling system. Based on the investigation, the recorded outside temperatures for that day ranged from 88 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit. In total, seven aliens were loaded into the container, including one 14-year-old child. It was secured from the outside and could not be opened from the inside. The train then departed Del Rio and traveled east along U.S. highway 90 to San Antonio. Red bolt cutters used to open the Conex shipping container’s door Once the train arrived in San Antonio, smugglers opened the door to the Conex container and discovered the aliens in peril. The smugglers then fled the scene, allegedly leaving one of the deceased aliens near the railroad tracks. Smugglers left the remaining aliens in the shipping container. The next day, the train departed south along its route to Laredo. On May 10, a worker at the Union Pacific Rail Yard in Laredo saw a leg sticking out from a Conex shipping container. Upon inspection, six aliens were discovered deceased in the shipping container. Laredo law enforcement contacted San Antonio agents for assistance. Later, San Antonio law enforcement discovered the seventh alien deceased and abandoned by the railroad tracks in San Antonio. Ultimately, seven aliens died from being in the Conex shipping container—four were Mexican nationals and three were Honduran nationals. One of the aliens was a 14-year-old child. The investigation revealed that at least one alien messaged a loved one, pleading for help. Shipping container opened with deceased smuggled aliens inside. The 11 defendants charged are: Karina Garcia , 37, of Del Rio Edson Alejandro Perez , 18, of Del Rio Seferino Huerta-Casillas , 35, of Mexico Jonas Ulloa-Aguilera , 25, of Honduras Mayra Alejandra Huerta , 32, of Del Rio Maria Norma Neri de Moran , 56, of Mexico Damian Huerta Analucas , 55, of Mexico Rosario Cristal Lopez-Saldana , 26, of Mexico Eric Hernandez , 40, of Eagle Pass Franklin Williams Ayala Aguilera , 30, of Honduras Pascual Raymundo Loarca , 34, of Guatemala Mayra Alejandra Huerta was arrested May 12 in Del Rio and initially charged with one count of harboring illegal aliens. She has remained in federal custody and now faces two charges in today’s indictment. Last week, eight other defendants were arrested over a multi-day HSTF operation across central and south Texas. Two defendants, Karina Garcia and Seferino Huerta-Casillas, remain at large. Karina Garcia, a U.S. Citizen, and Seferino Huerta Casillas, a Mexican national, remain at large All 11 are charged with one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens resulting in death and one count of aiding and abetting transport of illegal aliens resulting in death. If convicted, the defendants will each face up to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Spears, Todd Keagle, and Ashley Ellis-Dotson 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. HSTF comprises agents and officers from FBI; ICE HSI; DEA; ATF; U.S. Border Patrol; USMS; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Department of Transportation; IRS Criminal Investigation; Texas Department of Public Safety; as well as local police departments and sheriff’s offices, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Erie Resident Sentenced to 12.5 Years in Prison for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 150 months in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of possessing child sexual abuse material, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Chief United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Michael Thomas Pritchard, 49, on July 23, 2026. According to information presented to the Court, while on parole for a series of Pennsylvania child exploitation convictions, Pritchard was found to be in possession of hundreds of digital images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, Erie Police Department, and Pennsylvania Department of Corrections for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pritchard. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Illegal Alien Previously Convicted of Murder in Texas is Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Reentry Into the United States

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Western

body_text: OKLAHOMA CITY – JOSE OLALDE-CAMINOREAL , 49, a Mexican national found in Kay County, Oklahoma, has been sentenced to serve 87 months in federal prison for illegal reentry into the United States after two previous deportations, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. According to public records, on August 22, 2024, Olalde was arrested by the Ponca City Police Department for falsely personating another person to create liability. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) determined that Olalde had previously been deported from the United States twice, in 2021 and 2022. Court records also show that Olalde has multiple previous felony convictions in the United States, including a 1999 murder conviction in Travis County, Texas. In that case, Olalde was sentenced to 35 years in prison for strangling a woman to death. In 2021, Olalde was released from prison and deported. On September 17, 2024, Olalde was charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien in the United States. On March 17, 2026, Olalde pleaded guilty (while serving a separate Texas prison sentence) and admitted he reentered the United States after having previously been removed without obtaining permission from the U.S. Government to return. At a sentencing hearing on July 24, 2026, Chief U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Olalde to serve 87 months in federal prison. In announcing the sentence, Judge Palk cited the defendant's significant criminal history, including an arrest for soliciting a prostitute, repeated use of false names and identification documents when interacting with law enforcement, and various convictions, including possessing contraband in prison. Judge Palk also cited the need to protect the public, noting that Olalde illegally returned to the United States twice after the "brutal murder" for which he was convicted. Upon completion of his sentence, Olalde will be deported. This case is the result of an investigation by ICE-ERO, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Ponca City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Hale 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. Reference is made to public filings for additional information.


title: Columbia Man Indicted with Attempted Enticement and Sex Trafficking of a Minor, and Child Pornography Offenses

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Travis R. Moreland, 37, of Columbia, Mo., was indicted by a federal grand jury for attempted enticement and sex trafficking of a minor, as well as child pornography offenses. On Dec. 29, 2025, Moreland allegedly engaged in online communication with an undercover law enforcement officer posing online as a 16-year-old minor. According to court documents, during his conversation with the person he believed to be a minor, Moreland arranged to meet the purported minor to engage in sexual conduct in exchange for $80. Moreland was later arrested on Dec. 29, 2025, after he arrived at an agreed upon location. After the arrest, law enforcement analyzed Moreland’s cellular telephone and located more than 8,000 files depicting Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). The charges contained in the indictment are simply accusations and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty it is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley S. Turner It was investigated by Boone County Sheriff’s Office and the Boone County Cyber Crimes Taskforce. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources.”


title: Lafayette Resident Pleads Guilty to False Claim of U.S. Citizenship in Employment Application

component: Antitrust Division

body_text: LAFAYETTE – On July 23, 2026, Eduardo Perez-Calderon , 34, of Mexico, pled guilty in federal court to False Claim to United States Citizenship. Perez-Calderon faces up to 3 years in federal prison for the charge and is also potentially subject to removal proceedings. According to court documents, on March 26, 2026, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) received information from the Morgan City Police Department about identification documents submitted by an individual seeking employment at a business in Morgan City. The investigation revealed that on January 5, 2026, Perez-Calderon completed a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form I 9, falsely selecting the option that indicated he was a United States citizen. He then signed the document in the name of another individual and provided a false Social Security number. Perez-Calderon admitted that he made these misrepresentations deliberately and with the intent to disobey the law. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. ICE and the Morgan City Police Department investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon with the assistance of Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard. This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26 CR 00163. ### CONTACT: Public Affairs USALAW-News@usdoj.gov United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDLA


title: Bossier City Man Pleads Guilty to Machinegun Possession

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

body_text: SHREVEPORT – On July 23, 2026, Zantravious Brooks , 19, of Bossier City, pled guilty in federal court to Possession of a Machinegun. Brooks faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the charge. According to court documents, on February 19, 2026, Shreveport Police officers and a Caddo Parish Juvenile Probation Officer conducted a compliance check at a Shreveport townhouse. Brooks was present when officers conducted a search with the consent of the resident’s mother, and officers found a loaded Glock Model 19 firearm in a bedroom closet. Brooks admitted to possessing the firearm, which had been modified with an external machinegun conversion device known as a '”Glock switch,” and to having hidden the machinegun in the closet where law enforcement recovered it. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) later examined the weapon and confirmed that the attached device had converted the firearm into a machinegun. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Shreveport Police Department, the Caddo Parish Juvenile Probation Office, and ATF. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart. This case was investigated as a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, community leaders, and other stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. PSN is coordinated by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the 94 federal judicial districts throughout the 50 states and U.S. territories. PSN is customized to account for local violent crime problems and resources. Across all districts, PSN follows four key design elements of successful violent crime reduction initiatives: community engagement, prevention and intervention, focused and strategic enforcement, and accountability. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:26-cr-00226-01. ### Public Affairs United States Attorney’s Office Western District of Louisiana USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla Twitter @USAO_WDLA


title: Robert Scott Froberg Pleads Guilty in 30-Year-Old Cold Case Involving the Kidnapping and Murder of Morgan Violi. Froberg Agreed to a Life Sentence

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: BOWLING GREEN, KY – Robert Scott Froberg, originally from Dayton, Ohio, pled guilty on July 22, 2026, in United States District Court to kidnapping and murdering 7-year-old Morgan Violi on July 24, 1996. U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Chief Michael Delaney of the Bowling Green Police Department, Robertson County, Tennessee Sheriff Mike Van Dyke and Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 8th Judicial Circuit Kori Beck Bumgarner made the announcement. For three decades, despite the tireless efforts of law enforcement, Morgan’s kidnapping and murder remained an unsolved crime. According to the complaint, since the 1990s, the processing of DNA has undergone significant advancements including the creation of the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), a national database that stores DNA profiles for comparison purposes. Due to these known advancements, additional laboratory testing was requested, leading to a breakthrough in the investigation and, ultimately, to the arrest and conviction of Robert Scott Froberg. Robert Scott Froberg, 61, of Dayton, Ohio, was arrested for armed robbery in Alabama on December 27, 1988. On April 3, 1996, Froberg escaped from the custody of the Alabama Department of Corrections. Froberg fled to Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania. On May 20, 1996, Froberg attempted to lure a 7-year-old boy into a treehouse. Fortunately, the young boy ran to tell his mother about the interaction. The young boy’s mother called law enforcement and Froberg was arrested after a short chase. He was taken to the Northumberland County Jail. On July 16, 1996, Froberg again escaped from custody and fled to Dayton, Ohio. On July 23, 1996, Froberg stole a maroon Chevrolet van from behind a residence near where his parents resided. Froberg left Dayton heading toward Huntsville, Alabama. On July 24, 1996, Froberg exited I-65 South at a Bowling Green exit. Froberg drove to the Colony Apartments. Froberg attempted to abduct 7-year-old Morgan Violi’s friend. She was able to escape from Froberg’s grasp. Then, Froberg grabbed Morgan and threw her into the stolen van. Froberg fled with Morgan from Bowling Green on I-65 South. He exited I-65 at the White House, Tennessee exit. Froberg pulled over near a barn off the exit. Froberg strangled Morgan causing her death. Froberg left her body near the barn and fled from the scene. Froberg pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping resulting in death. He is scheduled to be sentenced on November 2, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. in United States District Court in Bowling Green. If the Court accepts the terms of the plea agreement, Froberg will receive a Life sentence. There is no parole in the federal system, so a Life sentence means incarceration until the end of life. United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner stated, “It is hard to envision a more egregious crime than the abduction and murder of a 7-year-old child. This evil act left Morgan’s family devastated and began 30 years of unanswered questions and torturing sadness. This evil act also left the parents in our community wondering if this previously unknown predator would strike again. Whose child would he steal next… This defendant’s depravity forever changed Morgan’s family and Bowling Green. Morgan’s abduction has been an open wound in our community for 30 years. Yesterday, Morgan’s family and our Bowling Green community witnessed this defendant admit his horrors and agree to a Life sentence. I am so thankful that my office, along with our incredible law enforcement partners, played an important role in this guilty plea.” United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner, First Assistant United States Attorney Brian Butler and Assistant United States Attorney Kayla Campbell are prosecuting the case. This case was investigated by the FBI Bowling Green Satellite Office, the Bowling Green Police Department and the Robertson County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Office. The lead investigators are Supervisory Special Agent Will Kurtz of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent Rene Chouinard of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent Eric Strough of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detective David Grimsley of the Bowling Green Police Department and Intelligence Analysist Laura Stump of Federal Bureau of Investigation. ###


title: Federal Grand Jury Indicts 13 for Owensboro Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy Following Homeland Security Task Force Investigation

body_text: Louisville, KY – Following a lengthy investigation by the Louisville Homeland Security Task Force, a federal grand jury in Bowling Green, Kentucky, returned an indictment on July 15, 2026, charging thirteen Owensboro based men and women as part of a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy. All thirteen individuals were arrested this week. U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Todd C. Smith of the DEA Chicago Field Division and Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement. According to the indictment, Michael Mayfield , 68, of Owensboro, Shawn Pendleton , 29, of Owensboro, Andrew Owen , 33, of Owensboro, James Jordan McCarthy , 35, of Owensboro, Brandon Horne , 43, of Owensboro, Rodney Murch , 43, of Owensboro, Timothy Barnes , 67, of Owensboro, Byron Todd Huff , 52, of Owensboro, Brooke Love-Moss , 35, of Owensboro, Gregory Belcher , 65, of Philpot, Jonathan Boone , 41, of Owensboro, Stephan Hill , 63, of Owensboro, and Jeremy Royal , 49, of Owensboro, were all charged with one count of conspiring together and with others to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine from November 2025 through July 14, 2026, in Daviess County, Kentucky, and elsewhere. Additionally, Mayfield was charged with 2 counts of distributing methamphetamine; Owen was charged with 1 count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and Pendleton was charged with 3 counts of distributing methamphetamine and 2 counts of distributing cocaine. On July 22, 2026, Mayfield , Pendleton , Owen , McCarthy , Horne , Belcher , Boone , and Hill made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Huff and Love-Moss are scheduled to make initial appearances on July 23, 2025. Murch and Royal will make initial appearances at a future date. Detention hearings are scheduled to take place before a U.S. Magistrate Judge beginning July 27, 2026. If convicted, each of the defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Unfortunately dope dealers in Daviess County, Kentucky, have not taken heed of previous federal drug trafficking indictments that resulted in substantial sentences. As alleged in the Indictment unsealed today, this drug trafficking organization operated for nearly nine months, distributing methamphetamine onto the streets of Owensboro, until they were taken down in a sweeping law enforcement operation conducted in the early morning hours of July 22. Now, because of tremendous work by the Owensboro Police Department, the Daviess County Sheriff’s Department, and the federal agents comprising Louisville’s Homeland Security Task Force, our Office is positioned to hold each of these defendants accountable for the methamphetamine they allegedly pushed into Daviess County. Neither this office nor or federal, state, or local law enforcement partners will stop until drug traffickers learn that Daviess County is closed for business.” There is no parole in the federal system. This case is being investigated by the DEA Evansville Resident Office, the FBI Owensboro Resident Office, the Owensboro Police Department and the Owensboro-Daviess County Drug Task Force with assistance from IRS-CI, the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, HSI Bowling Green Office, Indiana State Police, Kentucky State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl and Mark Yurchisin are prosecuting the case with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Aaron Cooper. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: St. Thomas Man Arrested for Marijuana Grow Operation

component: USAO - Virgin Islands

body_text: ST. THOMAS – U.S. Attorney Adam F. Sleeper announced that Kenneth Turbe, age 42, was arrested on, July 23, 2026, in St. Thomas, USVI on criminal charges related to a marijuana grow operation on his property. Turbe is charged with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance pursuant to 21 U.S.C §§ 841(a)(1) and 846. According to court documents, Turbe was arrested after agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) obtained search warrants for Turbe’s iCloud account and residence. The iCloud account contained photos of vacuum sealed bags of marijuana, marijuana plants, large black planter pots containing marijuana plants, and bags of marijuana inside a safe. Following Turbe’s arrest, DEA agents seized over 100 suspected marijuana plants, including 40 recently harvested plants. The DEA is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erik C. Tate of the Unites States Attorney’s Office for the District of the Virgin Islands is prosecuting the case. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Illegal Alien from Mexico Sentenced to 60 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking Crimes in the District of Utah

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – An illegal alien from Mexico was sentenced to five years of imprisonment and four years of supervised release after he admitted to bringing heroin and fentanyl into the District of Utah for profit. The sentence, imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Dale A. Kimball comes after Miguel Mario Soto De Santiago, 25, residing illegally in Bluffdale, Utah, pleaded guilty on May 5, 2026, to possession of heroin with intent to distribute. In addition to his term of imprisonment, upon his release, Soto De Santiago will be remanded to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation proceedings. According to court documents and statements made at Soto De Santiago’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, on February 19, 2025, he possessed 5027 grams of fentanyl and 1103 grams of heroin. Soto De Santiago admitted he brought the fentanyl and heroin to Utah for distribution in exchange for money. See prior press release: Mexican National Facing Drug Trafficking Charges. “Anyone who brings heroin, fentanyl, or other dangerous drugs into our community is on a direct path to federal prison — and, in this case, deportation,” said U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak for the District of Utah. “My office maintains zero tolerance for drug traffickers, and we will prosecute these crimes to the fullest extent of the law.” “Every drug trafficker taken off our streets is one less threat to our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Bohls of the Salt Lake City FBI. “This sentencing is a direct result of strong partnerships and a shared commitment to removing dangerous drugs from our streets and protecting the people we serve.” The case was investigated by the Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force (WMDTF), consisting of the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, and the Davis Metro Narcotic Strike Force (DMNSF). The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah 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.


title: Local man charged in fentanyl overdose death

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: McALLEN, Texas – A 28-year-old Mercedes resident has been indicted on charges related to a death linked to the use of fentanyl. Bryan Alexis Cedillo made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Juan F. Alanis, who ordered Cedillo into custody pending further proceedings. At the hearing, the court heard that Cedillo allegedly sold narcotics to another individual that caused death. Information was also presented that alleges Cedillo was still selling narcotics after he was aware of the victim’s passing. The indictment, returned July 21, alleges Cedillo possessed with intent to deliver fentanyl that resulted in death. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 20 years and up to life in federal prison. He could also be ordered to pay a possible $1 million maximum fine. Weslaco Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarina S. DiPiazza is prosecuting the case. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: College Station man sentenced for sexual exploitation of a child after communicating via social media

body_text: HOUSTON – A 26-year-old man has been ordered to federal prison for soliciting sex from a minor. Austin Mixon pleaded guilty Feb. 26. U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett has now sentenced Mixon to 120 months in federal prison. Mixon was further ordered to pay $5,000 in restitution to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking fund and will serve 10 years on supervised release following the completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Mixon will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. Mixon admitted he used Instagram to message the 13-year-old minor victim and persuaded her to meet him for sex in exchange for vape products. The two continued to communicate electronically and arranged to meet at a park near the girl’s apartment because her mother did not allow her out of the house at night. Mixon will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Hileman prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page . For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page .


title: Two Auto Engineers Charged With Insider Trading

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging MICHAEL STAMP and MARCUS PLANK with securities fraud. The charges arise from an alleged insider trading scheme in which STAMP and PLANK used confidential information belonging to their then-employer, Volkswagen Group, concerning a joint venture between Volkswagen and Rivian Automotive, Inc. to make hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal profits. STAMP and PLANK were arrested today and will be presented in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Katherine Polk Failla. “Michael Stamp and Marcus Plank’s alleged exploitation of their employer’s confidential information allowed them to make more than $300,000 in illegal profits,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “When people misuse confidential information for their own financial gain, they undermine the principles that allow our markets to function fairly and efficiently. Insider trading is a crime that New Yorkers want pursued with vigor. Its effects ripple through the financial system, harming ordinary investors and eroding public confidence. Today’s charges underscore the commitment of this Office and our law enforcement partners to protecting the integrity of our markets and holding accountable those who choose to violate the law.” “The case of Michael Stamp and Marcus Plank shows the FBI's commitment to protecting the integrity of our financial markets,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “The co-defendants are alleged to have engaged in insider trading for personal gain, and we will work with our partners to identify those who threaten the United Stated economic system.” According to the allegations contained in the Indictment:(1) Between April and July 2024, STAMP and PLANK engaged in a scheme to trade in the securities of Rivian Automotive, Inc. based on material nonpublic information concerning a multibillion-dollar joint venture between Rivian and Volkswagen Group. STAMP and PLANK were employees of a Volkswagen subsidiary and worked in the United States on temporary assignment form Germany. Through their positions, they gained access to confidential, nonpublic information concerning Volkswagen’s ongoing negotiations with Rivian about a potential joint venture. Despite owing duties of trust and confidence to their employer, STAMP and PLANK began purchasing options and equity positions in Rivian shortly after learning of the joint venture discussions. On June 25, 2025, Rivian and Volkswagen publicly announced their joint venture, and Rivian’s share price rose 23% the following day. STAMP and PLANK then sold their Rivian positions, with STAMP realizing approximately $250,000 in profits, PLANK realizing at least approximately $50,000 in profits, and PLANK’s close family member realizing approximately $12,000 in profits. STAMP and PLANK understood their actions were illegal. For example, eight days prior to the announcement of the joint venture, STAMP searched “statute of limitations insider trading,” and following the announcement PLANK’s close family member searched, in German, “how is insider trading prosecuted?” * * * STAMP, 31, of San Jose, California, and PLANK, 45, of San Jose, California, are each charged with one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; one count of securities fraud under Title 15, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of securities fraud under Title 18, which carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the FBI. Mr. Clayton also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. This prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shiva H. Logarajah and Daniel G. Nessim is in charge of the prosecution. ^ As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: Founder Of Private Equity Firm Pleads Guilty

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced today that JAY LUCAS, the founder and managing partner of Lucas Brand Equity LLC (“LBE”), a private equity fund based in Manhattan, pled guilty to securities fraud, investment adviser fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering in connection with a scheme to raise over $50 million from investors by falsely representing that their money would be invested in early-stage health and wellness companies. Instead, LUCAS diverted much of that money to cover personal expenses, promote unrelated ventures, and make Ponzi-like payments to earlier investors. LUCAS pled guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robyn F. Tarnofsky. “Lucas lied to investors to induce them into investing millions of dollars in private equity funds that he created, promising to invest their money in emerging companies in the health and wellness space,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “In reality, Lucas used much of the money to pay for personal expenses and ventures entirely unrelated to the funds, and to make Ponzi-like payments to other investors. Today’s plea reflects the continued commitment of this Office and our law enforcement partners to holding accountable investment advisers who abuse their investors’ trust to illegally enrich themselves.” As alleged in the Indictment: LUCAS is the founder and managing partner of LBE and three private funds: Lucas Brand Equity LP (“Fund One”), L.B. Equity Emerging Growth LP (“Fund Two”), and L.B. Equity Wellness Growth L.P. (“Fund Three”). Since 2017, LUCAS has defrauded investors by, among other things, systematically misappropriating their funds. LUCAS told investors that LBE’s “core strategy is to invest in these small to mid-size emerging brands, provide value added services to differentiate them and catalyze growth to a sufficient scale for exit.” LUCAS raised over $50 million from investors and, instead of using the money as he promised, spent much of it on personal expenses, including alimony, rent, a vanity newspaper project in his hometown, and political consultants. He also used new investor money to pay earlier investors in Ponzi-like fashion, enriching himself while starving the Funds and portfolio companies of capital. In addition, LUCAS funneled investor money to Immunocologie, a luxury skincare business run by LUCAS’s wife, without disclosing that conflict of interest. Much of the money for Immunocologie was then spent on trips, social events, and other unprofitable ventures. Moreover, LUCAS arranged for LBE, not the Funds, to take majority ownership interest in Immunocologie, giving himself and not his clients an equity interest in the business. LUCAS’s misconduct left the Funds chronically undercapitalized and unable to cover basic fund expenses, including salaries for LBE employees. Internally, employees continued to express frustration about LUCAS’s misuse of investor money, writing that LUCAS’s spending was “not spending on LBE,” was “literally fraudulent,” and was “a huge betrayal of investor trust and most likely illegal.” * * * LUCAS, 71, of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, pled guilty to one count of securities fraud, one count of wire fraud, and one count of money laundering, each of which carries a maximum prison term of 20 years, and one count of investment adviser fraud, which carries a maximum prison term of five years. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge. Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mr. Clayton also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for its assistance and cooperation in the investigation. This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam S. Hobson and David J. Robles are in charge of the prosecution.


title: United States Attorney Weinhoeft Announces Federal Court Victory Over Unconstitutional Illinois Sanctuary State Policy

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – United States Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft today announced that the United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois has ruled in favor of the United States in its lawsuit against the State of Illinois, Governor J.B. Pritzker, and multiple state entities. The Court denied the State’s motion to dismiss and granted the United States’ cross-motion for summary judgment declaring that Illinois’ in-state tuition rules for public universities and community colleges, the RISE Act, and the Illinois DREAM Act are “unconstitutional and invalid” under the Supremacy Clause as applied to aliens not lawfully present. “Illinois sought to incentivize illegal immigration on the taxpayer’s dime by treating illegal aliens better than U.S. citizens living in other states, in clear violation of federal law,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “This ruling enforces the statute Congress wrote and stops the State from putting illegal aliens ahead of American citizens.” Federal law is clear. Under 8 U.S.C. § 1623(a), a state may not grant postsecondary education benefits to illegal aliens on the basis of residence in that state unless it makes the exact same benefit available to every United States citizen and national, without regard to where they live. Illinois chose to give preferential treatment based on residence to people here illegally. It did not extend that same treatment to American citizens who live outside Illinois. That preference is illegal. In September 2025 , the Department of Justice filed suit to stop these policies. The Court held oral argument on May 5, 2026. It has now permanently enjoined the State and the named university and college boards from enforcing the challenged provisions against aliens not lawfully present. The injunction is stayed for 14 days to permit the defendants to seek a stay pending appeal. The case was brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Division.


title: Two Southeast Iowa Men Indicted on Federal Charges Related to a Multi-Million Dollar Ponzi Scheme

body_text: DES MOINES, Iowa – A federal grand jury in Des Moines returned a 16-count indictment in May 2026 charging offenses related to a Ponzi scheme involving dozens of victims and millions of dollars of loss to the victims. As alleged in the Indictment, Chad Michael Boal, 58 of Burlington, and Cory Duane Richards, 52 of West Burlington, solicited investments under the promise of high returns and low risk. Boal and Richards operated their scheme through various business entities they termed as “unincorporated organized self-supporting humanitarian foundations,” operating within the Southern District of Iowa, including: Golden Bar Foundation, F8511 Foundation, New Life 314 Foundation, True North Foundation, and Silver Bar Foundation. The Indictment alleges that Boal and Richards used investor funds for their own personal use and benefit. Boal and Richards made their initial court appearances in May 2026. They are both charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and Boal is additionally charged with three counts of wire fraud and 12 counts of money laundering over $10,000. Conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud count is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Each money laundering count is punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Trial is set for April 26, 2027. United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Iowa Insurance Division’s Fraud Bureau are investigating this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph H. Lubben. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Redfield Man Sentenced to More than 14 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun Charges

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DES MOINES, Iowa – A Redfield man was sentenced on July 16, 2026 to 173 months in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. According to public court documents, Gideon Lee Corbett, 34, was encountered by the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office in August 2025. Inside the vehicle Corbett drove, law enforcement found nearly 40 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded, chambered pistol. Corbett was on parole for 2021 convictions from the Iowa District Court for Guthrie County, during which Corbett also possessed methamphetamine and a loaded firearm. After completing his term of imprisonment, Corbett will be required to serve a four-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Dallas County Sheriff Adam Infante said “I want to commend the outstanding work of our Patrol Division and Criminal Investigations Division for their efforts in arresting and thoroughly investigating Gideon Corbett. Their work resulted in a convicted felon being held accountable while removing methamphetamine and a stolen firearm from our community. This case is a great example of the strong partnerships we have with our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.” United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force and the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.


title: Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Fentanyl

body_text: COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced on July 21, 2026, to 16 years in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Daniel Thomas Coldewey, 33, distributed counterfeit pills containing fentanyl in the Council Bluffs area for nearly five years. On April 14, 2025, Coldewey sold 12 pills containing fentanyl to Victim #1. Victim #1 used one of the pills in the business parking lot where the victim met Coldewey and collapsed. A concerned citizen administered CPR and called emergency services, who were able to revive Victim #1. After completing his term of imprisonment, Coldewey will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney David C. Waterman of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force investigated the case.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Filed 122 Border-Related Cases This Week

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: SAN DIEGO – Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of California filed 122 border-related cases this week, including charges of bringing in aliens for financial gain, reentering the U.S. after deportation, and importation of controlled substances. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California is the fourth-busiest federal district, largely due to a high volume of border-related crimes. This district, encompassing San Diego and Imperial counties, shares a 140-mile border with Mexico. It includes the San Ysidro Port of Entry, the world’s busiest land border crossing, connecting San Diego (America’s eighth largest city) and Tijuana (Mexico’s second largest city). In addition to reactive border-related crimes, the Southern District of California also prosecutes a significant number of proactive cases related to terrorism, organized crime, drugs, white-collar fraud, violent crime, cybercrime, human trafficking and national security. Recent developments in those and other significant areas of prosecution can be found here . A sample of border-related arrests this week: On July 19, Marcos Chavez-Nieto, a Mexican citizen, was arrested and charged with Deported Alien found in the U.S. According to a complaint, Border Patrol agents encountered Chavez entering the United States illegally in the mountains east of the Otay Mesa Port of Entry, after having been ordered removed from the United States in 2020. On July 20, Rosario Lopez Gamez and Jose Manuel Aguero Garcia, Mexican nationals, were arrested and charged with Attempted Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain. According to a complaint, Lopez and Aguero were the captains of a smuggling vessel that was intercepted by the U.S. Coast Guard about six miles off the coast of Point Loma. The five undocumented aliens aboard the vessel included Jeremy Marin Avilez, who was charged with Attempted Reentry after Deportation. He was previously deported in 2024 from Texas. On July 21, Marly Soledad Cruz Guardado, a United States citizen, was arrested and charged with Importation of a Controlled Substance. According to a complaint, Customs and Border Protection officers found more than 133 pounds of methamphetamine and almost nine pounds of cocaine concealed inside the doors, dashboard, glove compartment, firewall and quarter panels of her Volkswagen Tiguan as she applied for entry into the United States at the San Ysidro Port of Entry. The immigration cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the support and assistance of state and local law enforcement partners. Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Fallbrook Woman Sentenced to Prison for Multi-Year Fraud Against Customers of Her Porsche Restoration and Resale Business

body_text: SAN DIEGO – Fallbrook business owner Andrea Nicole Doherty was sentenced in federal court today to 21 months in prison for defrauding customers of her former Porsche restoration and resale business and pocketing more than $827,000. “She took customers for a ride. Today, justice brought the trip to an end,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. "Ms. Doherty’s long-running fraud was a deliberate scheme that exploited her customers’ trust and left her victims with significant financial losses,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily of the FBI San Diego Field Office. “The FBI will relentlessly pursue anyone who chooses deception over lawful business practices through close coordination with investigative partners, such as the California Department of Motor Vehicles – Criminal Investigation, who worked this case side by side with FBI agents. Today’s sentence demonstrates that if you defraud consumers, you will be found, investigated, and held fully accountable.” In her plea agreement, Doherty, 38, admitted that she took over CPR Classic from her father after his death in 2021. Doherty did business as CPR Classic, which was never registered as a corporation or a limited liability company, restoring classic Porsches and selling them on consignment from its storefront in Fallbrook. In December, Doherty pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud, relating to three specific vehicles sold on consignment by the defendant through CPR Classic. During 2022 and 2023, Doherty sold a 1973 Porsche 911E Targa to two different buyers, accepting payment from both without informing or paying the seller. The seller eventually transferred the vehicle’s title after receiving a check from Doherty, which bounced when he attempted to cash it. In February 2023, Doherty admitted that she agreed to sell a 1972 Porsche 911S for its owner. She found a buyer the next day who wired her $280,000 within a week. Although this buyer received the vehicle, Doherty did not transfer legal title and admitted that she had not used the wired funds to pay the seller. Instead, in October 2023, Doherty sold the vehicle again to another buyer, who wired her $275,000, part of which she used to pay the seller, who then transferred title to the October 2023 buyer, unaware of the February 2023 sale. Also in 2023, Doherty admitted that she sold a 1983 Porsche 930T Slantnose on consignment for $130,000, without telling (or paying) the owner. To complete the sale, Doherty forged the seller’s signature on the transfer of title document. More than a year later, this buyer contacted the vehicle’s owner, who then learned that his car had been sold and delivered to the buyer despite still being listed as available for sale on the CPR Classic website. CPR Classic’s vehicle dealer license was suspended by the California Department of Motor Vehicles in September 2024, and it ceased operations soon thereafter. As a part of her plea agreement, Doherty agreed to pay restitution not only to her five victims but also to more than 50 additional former CPR Classic customers. By the time of her sentencing, she had agreed to make restitution to additional former customers who came forward after her guilty plea. At the sentencing hearing this afternoon, U.S. District Judge Andrew G. Schopler ordered Doherty to pay restitution to 66 individuals in the total amount of $9,951,763.04. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey D. Hill. DEFENDANT Case Number 25cr4683-AGS Andrea Nicole Doherty Age: 38 Fallbrook, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Wire Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1343 (three counts) Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and a $250,000 fine per count INVESTIGATING AGENCIES Federal Bureau of Investigation California Department of Motor Vehicles – Criminal Investigations


title: Richland County Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison  for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — Davante Jamar Moore, 34, of Columbia, has been sentenced to more than four years in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm. Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on March 29, 2024, officers with the Columbia Police Department (CPD) conducted a lawful traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Moore. Moore was the driver and sole occupant. During the stop, a CPD K9 alerted to the scent of narcotics. When officers searched the vehicle, they located a yellow backpack with a plastic bag containing marijuana, various bags, a scale, container with white powder inside, and a loaded firearm. Moore is prohibited from possessing firearms based upon previous convictions for strong arm robbery and assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Moore to 57 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities . This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case. ###


title: Charleston Felon Arrested for Illegal Ammunition Possession Following Violent Fourth of July Block Party

body_text: CHARLESTON, S.C. —According to a criminal complaint filed in federal court, Dejuan Ravenel, 21, of Charleston, has been charged with being a felon in possession of ammunition. According to court documents, on July 4, 2026, North Charleston Police officers responded to a large disturbance on Spruill Avenue. While NCPD officers and officers from assisting law enforcement agencies were attempting to disperse the crowd and restore order, several individuals, including juveniles, became combative and physically assaulted responding officers. While one officer was being violently assaulted by multiple juveniles, their department-issued taser and two firearm magazines, each containing 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition, became dislodged and unsecured from their duty holster. Following the assault, law enforcement was unable to locate the officer’s taser or loaded firearm magazines. Investigators reviewed body worn camera and surveillance footage and identified Ravenel taking the taser and magazines. Officers arrested Ravenel and during a search of his home located the taser and magazines. Ravenel has a previous felony conviction and is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law. At the time of the crime, Ravenel was on probation for a previous conviction and out on bonds for possession of stolen vehicle, possession of stolen gun, financial transaction card theft, and receiving stolen goods from a December 2024 incident and burglary 2 nd degree from September 2025. “Federal investigators, assisted by SLED task force officers, immediately assisted with this multi-agency investigation and found the appropriate charge to bring against Ravenel, whose actions as convicted felon were a violation of federal law,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners will resolutely support our local law enforcement in keeping our communities safe.” Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities . Ravenel faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison, a fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release. The case was investigated by FBI Columbia Field Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the North Charleston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carra Henderson is prosecuting the case. All charges in the criminal complaint are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Three Postal Employees Plead Guilty in Federal Mail Theft Case

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE –Three U.S. Postal Service employees pleaded guilty today in federal court in Rhode Island for their roles in a mail‑theft scheme at the Providence U.S. Mail Processing and Distribution Center. Fernando Camacho, 31, of Providence, Angel Rivera, 30, of Providence, and Cyril Murray, 46, of Pawtucke t each pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to steal mail and theft of U.S. Mail by a postal employee. They are scheduled to be sentenced on October 29, 2026. The sentences imposed will be determined by a federal judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. According to court documents, Camacho, Rivera, Murray, and several co-conspirators participated in a scheme that operated between early 2023 and early 2024. As part of this conspiracy, the group of postal service employees sorted through the mail and removed brightly colored envelopes that they believed to contain cash, checks, or gift cards. They concealed those envelopes in backpacks and removed them from the facility to later distribute amongst the group. Camacho admitted that during his participation in the scheme, between $40,000 and $95,000 in cash, gift cards, and checks were stolen. Rivera admitted that during his participation in the scheme, between $95,000 and $150,000 in cash, gift cards, and checks were stolen. Murray, a supervisor at the mail distribution center, admitted that during his participation in the scheme, between $95,000 and $150,000 in cash, gift cards, and checks were stolen. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, with assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Providence and Smithfield Police Departments.


title: Former Naval Undersea Warfare Center Employee Sentenced for Making Threats

body_text: PROVIDENCE – A former employee of the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) in Middletown, Rhode Island, has been sentenced in U.S. District Court for transmitting threats in interstate commerce. Luis Sanchez Pardella, 38, of Newport was sentenced on July 23, 2026, by U.S. District Court Judge Melissa R. DuBose to time served plus an additional 14 days, to be followed by six months in a residential reentry center, two years of supervised release, and no contact with the victim. According to court documents, between July 2022 and February 2023, Pardella made numerous, and at times threatening, telephone calls to at least eight of his former colleagues at NUWC. In one instance, Pardella left a voicemail stating, “I will kill you and your wife when I see you on the street.” Additionally, between December 2022 and February 2023, Pardella made multiple threatening telephone calls to the Portsmouth, Rhode Island, Police Department, stating that an officer and his wife “will be going to jail,” that “the Portsmouth Police Department is corrupt,” and, in reference to the officer’s wife, “write down (name redacted) is dead… the wife of one of your cops is dead.” “These targeted and deeply disturbing threats are not just words — they are calculated attempts to instill fear in public servants and their families,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles C. Calenda. “No one who dedicates their career to serving their community should be subjected to this kind of harassment and intimidation. Today’s sentencing reflects our commitment to ensuring that individuals who terrorize others through threats of violence are held fully accountable.” “No one should be subjected to repeated harassment, threats, and intimidation for simply doing their jobs, especially public servants, but that’s exactly what happened when Luis Sanchez Pardella unleashed his vitriolic words on his former colleagues,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “His actions instilled genuine fear in the victims he targeted, disrupting their lives, and eroding their sense of security. While today’s sentence holds him accountable for his crimes, the FBI will continue working with our law enforcement partners to ensure others who engage in this kind of egregious behavior are also brought to justice.” The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul F. Daly, Jr. The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Portsmouth, Middletown, Newport, and Providence Police Departments, and the Federal Air Marshal Service.


component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: Rochester Man Indicted for Production, Distribution and Possession of Child Sex Abuse Materials CONCORD – A Rochester man was indicted this week for production, distribution, and possession of child sex abuse materials (CSAM), U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Jeremy Brooks, 33, was indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of production of CSAM involving two different minor victims, one count of distribution of CSAM, and one count of possession of CSAM. Brooks is currently detained in state custody on related assault charges and will make an initial appearance in federal court on July 28 at 2:30pm. The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Each charge of production of CSAM carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum prison term of 30 years. The charge of CSAM distribution carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum prison term of 20 years. The charge of CSAM possession carries a maximum prison term of 20 years. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Homeland Security Investigations, the Rochester Police Department and the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force are leading the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting the case. The case is 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 better 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: Cuyahoga County Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison for Downloading and Distributing Child Pornography

body_text: CLEVELAND – A Cuyahoga County man was sentenced to federal prison for committing crimes involving Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM). Anthony C. Hayes Jr., 44, of Maple Heights, Ohio, was sentenced to 108 months (9 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge J. Philip Calabrese, after pleading guilty in April to Receipt and Distribution of Visual Depictions of Real Minors Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct. He was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release after imprisonment. According to court documents and evidence presented in court, Hayes was identified during an investigation into suspected illegal downloads of child pornography via multiple peer-to-peer file sharing programs. Investigators found that for nearly a year, Hayes was actively sharing CSAM with others through peer-to-peer programs. During a search warrant executed at Hayes’ residence, his devices were seized and analyzed. Investigators determined that more than 3,000 CSAM files were located on his computer. Much of the illegal content he shared were videos depicting the rape and torture of children as young as four years old. Several videos showed children being sexually abused for more than an hour. The investigation leading to the indictment was led by the FBI Cleveland Field Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer J. King led the prosecution for the Northern District of Ohio. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country and marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/PSC . To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org , or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


title: Akron Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Prison For Child Pornography Offenses

body_text: CLEVELAND – A Summit County man was sentenced to federal prison for receiving, distributing, and possessing materials that depicted the sexual abuse of children. Brandon Dolly, 23, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced to 151 months (12.58 years) in prison by U.S. District Judge Christopher A. Boyko, after pleading guilty in March to Receipt and Distribution of Visual Depictions of Real Minors Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct and Possession of Child Pornography, also known as Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM). Dolly was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release after imprisonment and is required to register as a sex offender. In addition, he was ordered to pay $46,500 in restitution to victims and $15,200 in special assessments. Court documents show that in January 2025, FBI agents began an investigation into various social media accounts that were suspected of trading CSAM. Brandon Dolly was then identified. A search warrant was executed at his residence in Akron and resulted in the seizure of several electronic devices. Upon further forensic examination, investigators determined that Dolly’s devices contained approximately 29,788 child sexual abuse images and that he had been actively receiving and distributing CSAM from about October 2023 through March 2025. The case was investigated by the FBI Akron Resident Agency and the Akron Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Dangelo for the Northern District Ohio led the prosecution. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative is led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country and marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit justice.gov/PSC . To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org , or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


title: Cartel Member Who Trafficked Victims From Mexico to Chicagoland Into Forced Labor Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison

component: USAO - Illinois, Northern

body_text: CHICAGO — A woman who schemed to smuggle individuals from Mexico to Highland Park, Illinois and then forced them to work multiple jobs while turning over their salaries to her has been sentenced to 108 months in prison. GLADYS IBANEZ-OLEA, 37, served as a mid-level member of the Juarez Cartel. From September 2022 to February 2024, Ibanez-Olea engaged in a human trafficking scheme: she would recruit victims in Mexico, arrange for them to be smuggled them into the United States, and then harbor them in her home in Highland Park, Illinois. Ibanez-Olea then forced the victims to work, took any income they earned to pay off debts she claimed the victims owed, and effectively held the victims in captivity under harsh conditions as she continued to demand they pay her. In February 2026, Ibanez-Olea pleaded guilty to federal charges of illegally bringing unauthorized aliens into the United States and of forcing individuals to work by means of serious harm or abuse and threats of serious harm or abuse. In support of its 114-month sentencing recommendation, the government argued such a sentence was warranted based on evidence of Ibanez-Olea’s cruel treatment of her victims, threats she made to victims that she would kill their families and sell them into slavery, and evidence showing she was a willing participant in the Juarez Cartel’s scheme. On July 21, 2026, U.S. District Judge Robert W. Gettleman sentenced Ibanez-Olea to 108 months in prison, finding the sentence was appropriate given the aggravating facts raised by the government. Ibanez-Olea’s sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of Homeland Security Investigations, and John Idleburg, Lake County Sheriff. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elie Zenner. “[D]efendant used her role as a recruiter in the cartel to create a cadre of indentured servants whose entire salaries belonged to defendant,” AUSA Zenner argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “She took advantage of extremely vulnerable victims—women and children who were desperate to come to America and found themselves trapped in a cycle of debt, threats, and mistreatment." “Gladys Ibanez-Olea preyed upon and exploited her victims for personal gain, deserving every day of her 108-month prison sentence,” said Homeland Security Investigations Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. “HSI will continue to relentlessly pursue and dismantle criminal organizations that engage in human trafficking.”


title: Sioux City Man Sentenced to 6 Years in Federal Prison For Second Illegal Firearm Possession

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: Yoni Duenas, age 28, from Sioux City, was sentenced on July 23, 2026, to 6 years in federal prison after an April 7, 2026, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon and drug user. On January 2, 2026, just before midnight, a Lyon County Sheriff’s Deputy initiated a traffic stop for an equipment violation on a vehicle being driven by Duenas. Duenas was impaired, even losing consciousness during field sobriety tests. Inside the car, there was an overpowering odor of marijuana, a female passenger, a 4-year-old child, a 1-year-old child, marijuana, methamphetamine, and a loaded handgun. Duenas’ criminal history includes three state convictions for possession of controlled substances – methamphetamine, and five criminal use or possession of a firearm offenses including a pervious federal felony conviction where defendant possessed multiple firearms on different occasions. After serving his first federal sentence, Duenas was required to serve a federal term of supervise release. He failed that term of supervision, was revoked, and sent back to federal prison three times. Just 38 days after completing that federal sentence, Duenas had rearmed and was arrested by the Lyon County Sherriff’s Office. Duenas was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 72 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Duenas is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was investigated by Lyon County, Iowa Sheriff’s Department and the United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 26-04007. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Illegal Alien, Convicted Felon, and Austell Man Face Federal Charges Following Tri-County Narcotics Operations

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: ATLANTA – An illegal alien from Mexico, a convicted felon, and an Austell man appeared in federal court to answer criminal complaints charging them with narcotics offenses following operations across metro Atlanta that resulted in the seizure of more than 280 pounds of methamphetamine, over four pounds of fentanyl, and two illegally possessed firearms. “Due to quick actions and diligent work of law enforcement across the region, the operations of these three alleged drug traffickers have been dismantled,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “My office stands committed to prosecute—to the fullest extent of the law—illegal aliens, felons, and others who poison and endanger our communities.” “Drug traffickers continue to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other illicit drugs, which pose a significant threat to public safety,” said Jae W. Chung, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “These federal charges reflect our unwavering commitment to protect the public and disrupt the criminal organizations responsible for this deadly trade. We will continue working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to stop fentanyl and other dangerous drugs at every level of distribution.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the criminal complaints, and other information presented in court: On July 21, 2026, DEA agents arrested Silvano Mendoza-Valencia in Morrow, Georgia, after he allegedly sold approximately two pounds of methamphetamine to a drug customer. Following his arrest, agents searched his residence and located approximately 85 pounds of methamphetamine and two pounds of fentanyl in his bedroom. The investigation further revealed that Mendoza-Valencia is allegedly an illegal alien from Mexico. On July 22, 2026, DEA agents stopped Christian Garcia-Esparza in Austell, Georgia, after he allegedly sold more than six pounds of methamphetamine to a drug customer. Agents searched Garcia-Esparza’s car and located an additional ten pounds of methamphetamine on the floorboard and in a gift bag. Thereafter, agents searched his residence and located approximately 100 pounds of methamphetamine scattered throughout the residence and backyard. That same day, DEA agents searched Robert Louis Burr’s College Park, Georgia apartment and found Burr next to a kitchen drawer containing two pounds of fentanyl. In the living room, agents allegedly found approximately 30 pounds of methamphetamine in a luggage case, 20 pounds of methamphetamine in a trash bag, and two firearms, including a FN57 semiautomatic pistol loaded with armor-piercing ammunition. Burr was previously convicted of multiple felony drug trafficking and weapons offenses and thus was not legally permitted to possess a firearm. Earlier this week, Silvano Mendoza-Valencia, 40, of Mexico, and Robert Louis Burr, 45, of College Park, Georgia, appeared in federal court on separate criminal complaints charging them with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Today, Christian Garcia-Esparza, 20, of Austell, Georgia, will appear in federal court on a criminal complaint charging him with the same offenses. All three defendants are presently detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals. Members of the public are reminded that the criminal complaints contain only charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. These cases are being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with valuable assistance provided by the Alpharetta Police Department, Cobb County Police Department, Clayton County Police Department, Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office, Heard County Sheriff’s Office, Hiram Police Department, Marietta-Cobb-Smyrna Narcotics Unit, Marietta Police Department, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Roswell Police Department, Sandy Springs Police Department, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. 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. Assistant United States Attorney Steve A. Hsieh is prosecuting the cases. 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: Federal Jury Convicts Michigan Man for Failing to Register as a Sex Offender in Georgia

component: USAO - Georgia, Northern

body_text: ATLANTA – After a trial in federal court, a jury convicted Nicholas Anthony for failing to register as a sex offender while living in Georgia after absconding from Michigan. “Dangerous sex offenders like Anthony who refuse to register with law enforcement as required by law cannot hide in our community,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “They will be found, arrested, and face the full prosecutorial resources of my office.” “This conviction is a result of diligent investigative work by dedicated Deputy U.S. Marshals who support our Sex Offender Investigative Initiative here in North Georgia,” said Acting U.S. Marshal Stephen G. Serrao. “Working with state and local police and coordinating with the United States Attorney’s Office, we were able to locate, apprehend, and successfully prosecute this convicted sex offender who posed a potential threat to our community.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: In 2011, Nicholas Anthony was arrested by police officers in Warren, Michigan, after engaging in sexual contact with a then-15-year-old child. In March 2015, Anthony pled no contest to criminal sexual conduct assault with intent to commit sex penetration based on the 2011 incident. The sentencing court ordered Anthony to register as a sex offender and comply with all conditions of sex offender registration, including a lifelong requirement to verify his address and residency status quarterly with the Michigan State Police. Anthony complied with his registration requirements until August 2016 but not thereafter. In 2025, Deputy U.S. Marshals located Anthony after he was reported to be residing in a Doraville, Georgia hotel despite not having notified Michigan authorities that he had left the state. Hotel staff confirmed that Anthony was staying at the hotel and provided records showing that he had resided there since at least December 2024. Deputy U.S. Marshals then arrested Anthony after confirming that he had never registered as a sex offender in the State of Georgia. On July 22, 2026, a federal jury convicted Nicholas Anthony, 41, of Pontiac, Michigan, of failing to register as a sex offender in violation of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act. Sentencing is scheduled for October 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., before United States District Judge Tiffany R. Johnson. This case is being investigated by the United States Marshals Service, the Michigan State Police Sex Offender Registry Unit, and the Oakland County, Michigan, Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Robert B. Shapiro, Laurel Milam, and Leanne Marek are prosecuting the case. This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In February 2006, the Attorney General launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices around the country, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. 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 .