title: Nine Members of Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced the last of nine co-defendants for charges related to an Orlando Drug Trafficking Organization. Each of the defendants previously pleaded guilty. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. See details below: Name (Age, Residence) Charges Sentencing Date Sentence Imposed Jonnathon Enrique Perez-Colon (38, Davenport) Drug trafficking conspiracy; possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking; conspiracy to commit money laundering 5/27/2026 25 years Shaquille Omy Carino-Maysonet (27, Orlando) Drug trafficking conspiracy; possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking 4/14/2026 20 years Alberto Gabriel Velez-Concepcion (31, Orlando) Drug trafficking conspiracy; possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking 7/8/2026 17 years and 7 months Omar Echebalier Lugo-Villalobos (31, Orlando) Drug trafficking conspiracy; possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking 5/6/2026 16 years and 3 months Jose Miguel Quinones-Echevarria (35, Orlando) Drug trafficking conspiracy; possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking 4/14/2026 15 years Yamauris Gabriel Sanchez (29, Orlando) Drug trafficking conspiracy; possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking; conspiracy to commit money laundering 6/3/2026 12 years and 3 months Neizliann Rivera-Rivera (27, Orlando) Conspiracy to commit money laundering 5/27/2026 8 years Yailyn Nicaury Galva-Zapata (24, Azalea Park) Maintaining a drug-involved premises 8/19/2026 5 years Janitza Marie Rojas-Ramos (38, Davenport) Conspiracy to commit money laundering 6/3/2026 Time served and 3 years of supervised release According to court documents, these individuals were part of a Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) known as the “6’s,” that operated in the City of Orlando. The DTO was led by Jonnathan Enrique Perez-Colon, a/k/a “Chuy,” and used three residential properties to weigh and package dealer packs of cocaine and fentanyl in small baggies, which were later delivered to lower-level drug dealers located in various distribution areas. Specifically, members of this DTO would “cut” and pre-package these narcotics in “packs.” These “packs” contained several dozens of small baggies containing cocaine, fentanyl, or a mix of fentanyl and cocaine called “hot shots” that provided drug users with a half-stimulant (“up”) and a half-depressant (“down”) effect. Each narcotic was packaged in a specific-colored small baggie. Once ready for delivery, some members of the DTO—who were also responsible for the DTO’s operations at the residential properties—would deliver these packs to the DTO’s street-level dealers to be sold to customers at the distribution areas. Throughout their investigation in 2022 and 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Orlando Police Department (OPD) identified the residential properties and the distribution areas where the 6s sold their narcotics. Investigators also identified the leader of the DTO as Jonnathan Perez-Colon, who also stored and packaged narcotics at a residence maintained by Neizliann Rivera-Rivera. Other DTO members who operated and resided at the stash houses were identified as Omar Lugo-Villalobos (a/k/a “Musol”), Yamauris Sanchez, Jose Quinones-Echevarria (a/k/a “Flako”), Yailyn Galva-Zapata and Shaquille Carino Maysonet (a/k/a “Shaq”). Law enforcement also identified the DTO members who operated the distribution locations where the narcotics were sold to customers, including Quinones-Echevarria and Alberto Velez-Concepcion (a/k/a “Gordo”). The investigation also revealed that Perez Colon resided in Davenport with Janitza Marie Rojas-Ramos, who laundered proceeds of the DTO for Perez-Colon through several different financial institutions. On January 6, 2023, the DEA and OPD executed multiple simultaneous search warrants at the residential stash houses and distribution points. Agents seized over 1,200 individual baggies containing cocaine and/or fentanyl. They also recovered a larger amount of cocaine and fentanyl being used to resupply the dealers, which the DTO attempted to flush down the toilet as agents made forcible entry into one of the stash houses: Above: 368 grams of fentanyl being packaged at one of the stash houses Above: 366 grams of fentanyl and cocaine and 215 grams of methamphetamine, which Sanchez attempted to flush when DEA and OPD executed the warrant In total, agents seized more than 2,000 grams of cocaine, over 800 grams of fentanyl, and at least 215 grams of methamphetamine. Additionally, agents recovered a “kilo press” used to press kilogram bricks of narcotics, two Glock pistols, two Smith & Wesson handguns, two rifles, and $15,720 in drug proceeds, all of which were ordered forfeited by the court. In addition to the narcotics investigation, agents from the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation investigated the financial transactions related to the DTO and determined that Perez Colon, Sanchez, Rojas Ramos, and Rivera-Rivera each knowingly and willfully agreed to launder drug proceeds. The IRS identified more than $225,000 in laundered funds, and over $50,000 in wire transfers to individuals in the Dominican Republic used to pay for drugs. “Members of this drug trafficking organization distributed dangerous drugs such as fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine throughout the City of Orlando,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “The diligent pursuit and hard work by our local and federal law enforcement partners have brought these illegal activities to an end, and the defendants to justice.” “This drug trafficking organization operated with complete impunity, distributing dangerous substances in Central Florida,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, DEA Tampa Field Division. “The amount of fentanyl we seized could potentially contain 800,000 deadly doses. Orlando communities will be safer with these criminals off the streets.” “Drug traffickers may move product, but they always leave a financial trail—one that our IRS-CI Special Agents are uniquely trained to uncover,” said Ron Loecker, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation, Florida Field Office. “This case showcases how powerful it is when IRS-CI’s investigative efforts join forces with federal, state, and local partners.” This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Orlando Police Department; and the Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation, Florida Field Office, Financial Crimes Task Force, which is comprised of the St. Cloud Police Department, the Kissimmee Police Department, the Winter Park Police Department, the Casselberry Police Department, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael P. Felicetta, Dana E. Hill, Michael Sartoian, and Noah P. Dorman. Assistant United States Attorney Nicole M. Andrejko is handling the forfeiture. 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 Region 20 (Tampa) comprises agents and officers from multiple law enforcement agencies with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.


title: Hyattsville Resident Pleads Guilty to Participating in COVID-Relief Fraud Scheme

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: Greenbelt, Maryland – A Maryland woman pled guilty in federal court, today, for her role in a scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $2.3 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds. Carmen Hernandez, 49, of Hyattsville, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with the scheme. This prosecution is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge John T. Perez, Federal Reserve Board Office of Inspector General (FRB-OIG). The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act — a federal law enacted in March 2020 — provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. It authorized up to $659 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for employee retention and certain business expenses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which was administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). The business must use PPP loan proceeds on payroll costs, mortgage interest, rent, and utilities. According to her guilty plea, in 2014, Hernandez and her co-conspirators opened a tax-preparation business, Integrated Multi Services Inc. (IMS), in Silver Spring, Maryland, that they registered under Hernandez’s name. Beginning in May 2020, and continuing until at least May 2023, Hernandez and her co-conspirators knowingly and willfully engaged in a scheme to fraudulently obtain PPP loans guaranteed by the SBA. As part of the scheme, Hernandez solicited IMS clients and others to use IMS’s services to apply for PPP loans. Hernandez also instructed PPP-loan applicants about what documents they needed to provide IMS in support of their PPP-loan applications. One of Hernandez’s co-conspirators submitted PPP loan applications that contained false information and fabricated supporting documents, including tax documents and business records to obtain larger loans for their clients. In some cases, the PPP-loan applications listed businesses that did not exist in any legitimate capacity. Hernandez and her co-conspirators then charged borrowers kickbacks based on a percentage of the funds received. In total, Hernandez and her co-conspirators caused the submission of at least 120 fraudulent PPP-loan applications on behalf of at least 80 PPP loan borrowers, resulting in at least $2.3 million in fraudulent PPP loans. Additionally, as she admitted in her guilty plea, Hernandez caused the submission of two false PPP-loan applications for herself. These loans, submitted in June 2020, and March 2021, contained multiple material representations and were supported by fabricated tax documents. As a result of these fraudulent PPP-loan applications, Hernandez obtained $37,224 in PPP funds that she was not eligible to receive. Hernandez is facing up to 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and FRB-OIG for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bijon A. Mostoufi and Alex P. Treiger who are prosecuting the case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud . # # #


title: Former Prince George’s County Police Officer Sentenced in Connection With Insurance Fraud Scheme

body_text: Greenbelt, Maryland – A former Prince George’s County police officer received a federal-prison sentence for his role in an auto-insurance fraud scheme. Judge Lydia Griggsby sentenced Michael Anthony Owen, Jr., 37, of Accokeek, Maryland, to six months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, with the first six months served on home detention, for the falsification of records in connection with the scam. Judge Griggsby also ordered Owen to pay $17,585 to the victim of one of his insurance fraud schemes. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Chief George Nader, Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD). According to court documents, between August 2018 and February 2020, Owen and Jaron Earl Taylor, 32, of Ft. Washington, Maryland, a former Anne Arundel County Police Department officer, conspired with fellow police officers to engage in mail and wire fraud. Taylor and Owen, along with officers Candace Tyler, 39, of Bowie, Maryland, Conrad D’Haiti, 56, of La Plata, Maryland, Davion Percy, 40, of Suitland, Maryland, and others, devised a scheme for insurance companies to pay out the remaining financing costs of unwanted vehicles. Members of the conspiracy reported fictitious losses to insurers to obtain money or avoid paying off vehicles that were worth less than the amount owed on them. The co-conspirators used their statuses as police officers to assist each other’s claims by writing false police reports. Then co-conspirators submitted fictitious police reports to insurers to validate the claim. The false police reports were intended to impede, obstruct, or influence subsequent investigations of the false insurance claims. In August 2018, Owen and Taylor staged the theft of Taylor’s Chevrolet Tahoe. After Taylor filed a fraudulent police report, he and Owen stripped the vehicle and drove it deep into the woods of a Maryland State Highway property near Largo. Taylor then made a false claim to the United Services Automobile Association (USAA) for the loss, for which USAA paid out a total of $38,670. Then in January 2020, Owen assisted D’Haiti in avoiding payment on the loan balance of a Jaguar XKR. In cooperation with D’Haiti and Percy, Owen devised a scheme to fake the vehicle’s theft. On January 4, D’Haiti parked his Jaguar behind Marlow Heights Shopping Center where Percy worked as police chief. D’Haiti then paid Percy $350 to arrange for another co-conspirator to tow the vehicle and extensively vandalize it for the purpose of creating a total insurance loss. Tyler subsequently filed the fictitious police report that D’Haiti used to substantiate his claim against Liberty Mutual Insurance. In February 2020, Liberty Mutual paid the Jaguar’s lienholder, Navy Federal Credit Union, $17,585, on the false claim. Additionally, in January 2020, Owen and Taylor assisted with disposing of an Infiniti sedan to help a co-conspirator avoid making further payments on the vehicle while on extended overseas duty. The co-conspirator gave Taylor $1,000 via CashApp to stage the theft. Taylor then forwarded the money to Owen who filed a false police report with PGPD, stating the vehicle was stolen. But Owen, Taylor, and others moved the car to the top floor of a Camp Springs, Maryland, apartment-complex parking garage. The co-conspirators attempted to conceal the car’s identity by removing the vehicle’s license plates and replacing them with different ones registered to another vehicle. The owner and co-conspirator filed a claim with GEICO that was eventually denied on grounds of fraud. In connection with this scheme, in June 2026, a federal jury found Percy guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud in connection with the auto-insurance fraud scheme. Then in July 2026, Judge Griggsby sentenced Taylor, 32, to three years of probation, with the first five months served on home detention, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Judge Griggsby also ordered Taylor to pay $38,670 in restitution to the United States Automobile Association. Additionally, Tyler pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and D’Haiti, 56, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Percy’s sentencing is scheduled for Friday, October 16, at 10 a.m. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and PGPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Baldwin who is prosecuting the case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit justice.gov/usao-md . # # #


title: Baltimore Man Sentenced for Drug-Trafficking and Firearm Possession Charges

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – A Baltimore man received a federal-prison sentence, today, for drug-trafficking and firearm crimes, stemming from a local drug-trafficking investigation. U.S. District Judge Stephanie A. Gallagher sentenced Dwone Bryant, 29, to five years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances. Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD). According to evidence presented at trial, on November 6, 2023, law-enforcement agents used a surveillance camera to monitor the 200 block of North Eutaw Street near the Lexington Market metro and bus stops. During the surveillance, agents observed Bryant sitting on a bench at the bus stop. While at the bus stop, Bryant engaged in a hand-to-hand drug transaction. During the transaction, Bryant sold 10 buprenorphine strips (commonly referred to as Suboxone) in exchange for $50. Law enforcement arrested Bryant and recovered a handgun, loaded with nine rounds of live ammunition; 16 additional buprenorphine strips; a schedule III controlled substance; 11 pills containing methamphetamine; a schedule II controlled substance; a small baggie of suspected marijuana; and $166.75. Bryant is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition due to multiple prior drug-related felonies. 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. U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Levin who is prosecuting this federal case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md . # # #


title: Sex Offender From Dracut Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography and Firearm Offenses

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A registered sex offender from Dracut pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Tyler Bullock, 30, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun scheduled sentencing for Dec. 2, 2026. Bullock was arrested and charged in November 2025 . Bullock was identified as an individual who had, on several occasions, sent money to an India-based network in exchange for CSAM. During a search of Bullock’s residence, Bullock admitted to soliciting and paying for CSAM. A forensic review of Bullock’s devices revealed videos and photographs depicting both real and AI-generated CSAM. During the search of the residence, a Ruger P85 9mm pistol loaded with a magazine that contained several rounds of ammunition as well as a knife bearing the Schutztaffel lightning bolts and a swastika were located in a small safe under a rug in a bedroom. According to court documents, the pistol was reported stolen in transit from New Hampshire to Arizona. A copy of Mein Kampf and an additional 42 rounds of ammunition were also located in the same bedroom. Additionally, according to the charging documents, a partially assembled rifle was located in an upstairs bedroom along with numerous WWII-era German military medals, patches and memorabilia containing Nazi symbolism. Bullock is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition as a result of a 2016 conviction for the Purchase or Possession of Child Pornography in Lowell District Court. The charge of possession child pornography after a prior offense provides for a sentence of no less than 10 years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and William Ferrari, Deputy Assistant Director of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service Office of Investigations made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexandra W. Amrhein and Eric L. Hawkins of the Major Crimes Unit are prosecuting the case.


title: Massachusetts Man Charged With Distributing Synthetic Opioids Resulting in Death

body_text: BOSTON – A Rockland, Mass. man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly operating an online drug trafficking business that distributed potent synthetic opioids to customers across the country through the U.S. mail, including a shipment that allegedly resulted in the overdose death of a woman in Las Vegas in April 2025. Jaden Zion Andre, 23, was indicted on one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance analogue resulting in death; three counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance analogue; and four counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. The defendant will appear in federal court in Boston on Aug. 25, 2026. He is currently in state custody on unrelated charges. According to the charging documents, Andre advertised and sold highly potent synthetic opioids and controlled substance analogues through online accounts and forums – including a Telegram channel called “MontanaSnacksLLC,” a Proton Mail account called “SnackSeason” as well as on Reddit pages. Customers allegedly communicated directly with Andre through those accounts to request samples, place orders and arrange payment and shipping. It is alleged that Andre then disguised the drugs inside ordinary snack packaging – including bags of cheese balls, chips, popcorn, rice crisps and Pirate’s Booty – and mailed the packages from post offices throughout Massachusetts to customers nationwide. In April 2025, a package allegedly shipped through MontanaSnacksLLC was delivered to a woman in Las Vegas who had requested a narcotics sample; she was found dead later that day, and a substance recovered from her bedroom subsequently tested positive for N-pyrrolidino ethylene isotonitazene, an analogue of a Schedule I controlled substance. According to the charging documents, Andre’s trafficking operation continued through May 2026, with investigators connecting additional packages from MontanaSnacksLLC or SnackSeason to overdose death investigations in Florida, Pennsylvania, and Georgia. Those deaths remain under investigation. Numerous other alleged drug shipments were intercepted or purchased during the investigation, including four packages mailed on May 26, 2026, each containing a controlled substance concealed inside sealed bags of Pirate’s Booty. A subsequent search allegedly recovered electronic records linking Andre to the operation, including USPS shipping labels, customer and tracking information, cryptocurrency-related records and photographs of suspected synthetic opioids bearing the “SnackSeason” name. The charge of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance analogue resulting in death provides for a sentence of no less than 20 years and up to life in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. The charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and a controlled substance analogue each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. 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 United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jeffrey Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Justin Page, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department; United States Postal Inspection Service, Las Vegas and Pittsburgh Field Offices; Federal Bureau of Investigation, Las Vegas Division; Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (Florida); Pennsylvania State Police; Butler City Police Department (Pennsylvania); Richmond Hill Police Department (Georgia); and the Massachusetts State Police. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Robinson of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case. This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Boston Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America . HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations , and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood. The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.


title: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Distributing Fentanyl

body_text: BOSTON – A Dominican national, unlawfully residing in Lawrence Mass., pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to drug charges after serving a federal prison sentence and being deported in 2023. Angel Martinez, a/k/a Aneudy Rios, 56, pleaded guilty to distribution of and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing on Nov. 19, 2026. In October 2024 , Martinez was indicted by a federal grand jury. Martinez is currently on supervised release for 2019 federal drug distribution charges that resulted in 60 months in prison. After serving his sentence, Martinez was deported from the United States. In September 2024, Martinez unlawfully returned to the United States and sold fentanyl to a cooperating witness in Haverhill, Mass. which was captured on video. The charge of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Boston Field Office made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by North Andover Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip C. Cheng of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.


title: Chinese National Charged with Voter Fraud in Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Chinese national residing in Andover, Mass. was arrested today for submitting a fraudulent voter registration and ballot in the 2024 presidential election in the name of another Chinese national. The defendant also allegedly submitted two fraudulent immigration forms on behalf of the victim, a Chinese national, and his wife, resulting in the confiscation of their Green Cards and causing them to enter into removal proceedings. Yupeng Sun, 33, was charged with one count of fraudulent voter registration and one count of fraudulent voting. Sun will appear in federal court in Boston for an initial appearance today at 2:00 p.m. According to court filings, on Oct. 10, 2024, Sun allegedly submitted an online voter registration through the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website impersonating another Chinese national residing in Massachusetts with legal permanent resident (“LPR”) status. On Oct. 31, 2024, Sun allegedly continued to impersonate the other Chinese national and submitted an early voting ballot at Malden City Hall for the 2024 U.S. presidential election. After registering to vote and voting, Sun allegedly submitted several anonymous tips in April and May 2026 to Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) stating that the victim “illegally voted in the 2024 U.S. presidential election” and noting that “[h]e is not a U.S. citizen but a permanent resident.” It is further alleged that Sun impersonated the same Chinese national and his Chinese national wife in fraudulent forms submitted to USCIS in April 2024 requesting to abandon their LPR status. When the couple returned from an international trip in June 2024, they were subjected to secondary inspection at Logan Airport in Boston, had their Green Cards confiscated, and were placed into removal proceedings allegedly as a result of Sun’s submission of fraudulent forms. The charges of fraudulent registration and fraudulent voting each provide for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. 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. United States Attorney Leah Foley and Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Valuable assistance in the investigation was provided by the Lexington Police Department and the Andover Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Nagelberg of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. sun_-_complaint.pdf


title: Marine to serve prison time for child pornography

component: USAO - Kansas

body_text: WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 121 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to crimes related child sexual abuse material (CSAM). According to court documents, Gavin Onuffer, 28, of Haysville pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a cybertip concerning CSAM activity from an IP address connected to Onuffer’s home. While executing a search warrant on Onuffer’s cellphone, law enforcement found CSAM images depicting prepubescent girls subjected to sexual conduct. “People who take pleasure in viewing, creating, or distributing images of little children being sexually exploited are a danger to our society and belong behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “We ask the public that if you know someone who engages in this type of behavior to please make a report to law enforcement.” The Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) and Wichita Police Department investigated the case. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . ###


title: Kansas man sentenced for drug and firearm possession

body_text: KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man who led law enforcement on a high-speed chase across state lines was sentenced to 132 months in prison for illegal drug and firearms possession. According to court documents, Marquis V. Bridgeman, 28, of Mission pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a machine gun and one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. In December 2024, Bridgeman committed a drive by shooting in Kansas City, Kansas, involving another driver. The other driver wasn’t injured. The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) traced the license plate to an apartment in Mission, Kansas, where they spotted the vehicle used in the shooting. Investigators saw Bridgeman exit the apartment and drive away in another vehicle. When a trooper attempted to stop Bridgeman, he led a high-speed chase across the state line and into Kansas City, Missouri. Eventually, law enforcement used tactical intervention to disable the vehicle and took Bridgeman into custody. Inside the vehicle Bridgeman was driving during the chase, officers found keys to the other vehicle and two firearms, one of which was a Glock with a Glock-switch making it function as a machine gun. By comparing the casings recovered from the drive by shooting, investigators determined the Glock to be the weapon fired at the victim. Law enforcement searched the vehicle used in the drive by shooting and found a pistol and a bag with 140 grams in fentanyl. Inside Bridgeman’s apartment troopers found six firearms, approximately 98 grams of cocaine, 1,396 fentanyl pills, and approximately $50,000 in cash. “While drug dealers with guns always cause grave concern, we are further alarmed seeing more criminals with firearms that are illegally converted into machine guns capable of firing more rounds and causing more destruction within a short time,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Some people apparently think these illegal machine gun conversion devices are fun to collect and use; however, they are likely committing federal crimes without being properly licensed and could end up spending a good amount of time in federal prison.” The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel prosecuted the case. ###


title: Ken Sorenson Takes Oath as Senate-Confirmed United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii

component: USAO - Hawaii

body_text: HONOLULU – Ken Sorenson took the oath of office as the United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii on August 18, 2026, following his confirmation by the United States Senate and the signing of his commission by the President. Before his confirmation, United States Attorney Sorenson served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for 39 years, including 30 years in Hawaii, leading investigations and prosecutions into notable espionage, public corruption, murder, racketeering, drug trafficking, complex fraud, terrorism, and environmental cases. He began serving as Hawaii’s Acting United States Attorney in January 2025 and was appointed by the United States District Court in March 2026 to continue to serve as Hawaii’s United States Attorney pending his confirmation before the United States Senate. “It was an honor and privilege to serve the people of Hawaii as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for three decades. To be selected to continue to lead the federal law enforcement community as Hawaii’s chief federal law enforcement official is a mandate and mission I embrace,” said United States Attorney Ken Sorenson. “While the Office I lead is small in numbers, we are proud of the overwhelming positive influence we exert every day to promote the safety and welfare of Hawaii’s citizens by taking violent criminals, child predators, drug traffickers, fraudsters, spies, racketeers, corrupt public officials, and other criminals off of the streets. I pledge to continue to aggressively protect Hawaii with the outstanding assistance of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners and the exceptional Assistant U.S. Attorneys and staff in my office, whose skill, dedication, and commitment to public service make our good work possible every day.”


title: Milwaukee Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking and Arson Offense

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on August 18, 2026, Bobby McNeil (age 46) was sentenced to a total of 30 years’ imprisonment. McNeil was convicted at trial of five felony counts: Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud, or Coercion; Arson in Furtherance of a Federal Felony; Arson of a Building/Rental Property; Interstate Transportation for the Purpose of Prostitution; and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. The evidence presented at trial established that between 2021 and 2022, McNeil used force, threats of force, fraud, and coercion to compel an adult female victim to engage in commercial sex acts on the south side of Milwaukee. Further evidence showed that McNeil committed a retaliatory act of arson by throwing a Molotov cocktail into the home of another adult who attempted to help the trafficking victim escape from McNeil. Following his term of imprisonment, McNeil will also spend five years on supervised release. He was also ordered to pay restitution. At the sentencing McNeil, United States District Court Judge Lynn Adelman stated that McNeil’s abuse of the victim was “extreme and borderline sadistic.” Judge Adelman also stated that McNeil’s prior record is “rife with violence, especially against women” and that the sentence “is necessary to protect the public from [McNeil’s] violent and predatory behavior.” “McNeil is a dangerous and violent individual who preyed upon and exploited another human being for his own profit. His utter cruelty and willingness to use violence to control his victim make clear that he poses a serious danger to the community” said Attorney Schimel. “The 30-year sentence is well deserved, and the appropriate place for McNeil is in federal prison.” “ATF’s investigative team brought certified fire investigation and firearms expertise to this case, helping hold McNeil accountable for weaponizing fire as retaliation and illegally possessing a firearm,” said ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Olson, of the St. Paul Field Division. “Thirty years in federal prison is a significant sentence that reflects the severity of his crimes and the danger he posed to the community. We appreciate the dedication and partnership of the Milwaukee Police Department, FBI, and U.S. Attorney’s Office in achieving justice in this case.” "The FBI worked alongside our partners to provide investigative tools which assisted in the conviction and lengthy sentencing of Bobby McNeil who terrorized his victims,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Alan Karr. "The FBI is committed to pursuing justice for victims of human trafficking through our continued collaboration with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners.” “Today’s sentence holds a violent and predatory individual accountable for his actions and brings justice to the victim,” said Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman. “No one should have to endure the abuse and exploitation suffered in this case. I am proud of the dedication and collaboration of our law enforcement partners in holding McNeil accountable and working to keep our community safe.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Milwaukee Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Abbey Marzick and Porchia Lewand prosecuted the case. # # # For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero (414) 297-1700 Follow us on X


title: ‘764’ Extremist Group Member Sentenced For Production Of Child Pornography And Distribution Of Animal Crushing Videos

body_text: KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On August 19, 2026, Kyle William Spitze, 27, of Friendsville, TN was sentenced today to 77 years in prison for production of child sexual exploitation material (CSAM), abetting the distribution of animal crushing videos, and possessing and accessing with the intent to view CSAM. Should he be released from prison, he will be subject to supervised release for life and required to register with state sex offender registries and comply with special sex offender conditions. “The Department has pledged to take out online predator networks and today’s sentence is one step toward justice for the families and children harmed by 764,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “These types of crimes are the worst of the worst: preying on vulnerable children in the name of a violent and twisted ideology. Federal law enforcement will not stop until nihilistic violent extremist groups and their depraved members are identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” “Today’s sentencing sends a strong message that this FBI and our Department of Justice partners will relentlessly hold accountable any individual who preys on children,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “As we’ve made clear from the beginning: this FBI is laser focused on identifying, locating, and arresting any participants in Nihilistic Violent Extremist networks – and we have dedicated personnel across all 50 states working on these high priority investigations. We arrested 500% more NVE offenders with our partners last year for a reason – because we have a renewed mission to bring these predators to justice, and that’s exactly what we’ll do. I want to thank our FBI Nashville Field Office and the Knoxville Resident Agency who pursued this case and succeeded in bringing justice to the victims and their families.” “Spitze is one of the original members of the nihilistic violent extremist groups ‘Harm Nation’ and ‘764,’ and was committed to bringing about the downfall of society through terrorism, specifically by targeting children and other vulnerable people and extorting them to engage in criminal sexual conduct, self-harm, and mass casualty events,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg. “Today’s sentence of 77 years, the longest federal sentence ever imposed on a nihilistic violent extremist, sends a strong message that civil society will not tolerate such depravity. The National Security Division will work tirelessly with our law-enforcement partners to identify and prosecute these predators and keep our children safe from this new form of terrorism.” “This sentence reflects the abhorrent nature of the defendant’s crimes, which targeted impressionable children and caused unimaginable harm,” said U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III for the Eastern District of Tennessee. “NVE members and leaders are a threat to our communities, and our office is committed to prosecuting those individuals to the fullest extent.” “Employing and pressuring children, among the most vulnerable members of our society, to produce sexually explicit and harmful material is unconscionable,” said Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “The FBI, alongside our local, state, and federal partners, will relentlessly pursue those associated with Nihilistic Violent Extremism networks who target and exploit children. We will use every lawful tool available to disrupt and dismantle these networks, prevent the spread of their depraved ideology, and protect children from further harm.” According to court-filed documents, Spitze, also known as “Crimhn,” “Criminal,” and “Criminaloli,” was a member of the Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) group “764,” and an administrator of the 764 network “HarmNation.” NVE groups such as 764 and HarmNation use online social media platforms to produce and distribute extreme gore media and child sexual abuse material depicting vulnerable, juvenile populations; often conducting group, coordinated extortion of under-aged victims to comply with the groups’ depraved and perverse demands. In December of 2023, the FBI started looking into tips that HarmNation members were distributing child sexual abuse material. Spitze was identified as one of those members and found to have hosted a social media channel where he uploaded images and videos of nude minor girls who had self-mutilated with cuts and gashes, with variations of Spitze’s “Crim” or “Criminal” monikers written in blood on themselves or carved into their bodies. The channel also hosted images of animal mutilation, with a variation of “Crim” written in the images. In February of 2024, investigators obtained a search warrant for Spitze’s cellphone, which contained similar images and videos, particularly of two minor victims, one of which had written “crim” on her chest scrawled in her own blood. The minor victim later admitted to FBI that she was threatened by Spitze to produce the images for him to upload on a separate social media channel. Spitze admitted to investigators that he had a terrorist motive in committing his crimes. Spitze pleaded guilty to two counts of production of child sexual exploitation material, one count of abetting the distribution of animal crushing videos, and one count of possessing and accessing with the intent to view child sexual exploitation material. The FBI Knoxville Resident Agency investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Kolman for the Eastern District of Tennessee prosecuted the case. Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly for the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section provided assistance. The Justice Department remains vigilant against the threat of Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) networks like 764 that operate within the United States and around the globe. NVEs often target vulnerable individuals, including minors, using social media platforms to share CSAM and gore material, and groom victims toward committing acts of violence. Victims are often extorted, coerced, compelled, and blackmailed into complying with NVE demands, including self-mutilation, online and in-person sexual acts, harm to animals, sexual exploitation of siblings and others, acts of violence, threats of violence, suicide, and murder. For more information on how to protect children and others, read about the online risks here: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/parents-and-caregivers-protecting-your-kids and the FBI’s March 2025 public service announcement. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), 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 Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC 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 PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click the tab "resources.” ###


title: Illegal Alien Arrested With Over 100 Pounds of Meth and Loaded Gun Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Demetrio Lagunes-Xocua, 32, a Mexican national illegally in the United States, was sentenced this week to 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release by United States District Judge Nitza I. Quiñones Alejandro for his participation in a drug trafficking operation in which he transported a significant amount of methamphetamine across the country for distribution in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The defendant was charged by indictment in May 2025 with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a firearm by an alien. In April of this year, Lagunes-Xocua pleaded guilty to both charges. As detailed in court filings and statements, on April 20, 2024, in Upper Uwchlan Township, Chester County, the defendant was found to be driving a tractor trailer containing more than 100 pounds of methamphetamine and a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol. Lagunes-Xocua subsequently admitted that he was driving from Colorado to Pennsylvania to deliver the load of drugs. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Pennsylvania State Police, and Chester County Detectives and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lindsey Mills.


title: City Man Pleads Guilty to Gunpoint Carjacking, Assaulting Correctional Officers and Possessing Contraband at Federal Detention Center Philadelphia

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Basir Blow, 26, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, entered a plea of guilty before United States District Judge Nitza I. Quiñones Alejandro on Tuesday to charges in two cases: a violent 2025 carjacking and a physical assault on correctional officers earlier this year. As detailed in court filings, the defendant pleaded guilty to one count of carjacking and one count of brandishing a firearm during or in relation to a crime of violence, arising from an April 3, 2025, carjacking in West Philadelphia in which he pistol-whipped the victim with a loaded handgun and stole their 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Shortly after the victim called 911 to report the crime, a marked Philadelphia Police Department (“PPD”) unit observed a Jeep in the area consistent with the description of the carjacked vehicle. As police followed the Jeep and attempted to pull the vehicle over, Blow drove the Jeep at a high rate of speed, disregarding the PPD car’s lights and sirens. At the intersection of Girard and Lancaster Avenues, approximately two and a half miles away from the carjacking scene, the defendant crashed the Jeep into a pole and was taken into custody. In the second case, Blow admitted to assaulting two correctional officers with a dangerous weapon, inflicting bodily injury, while the officers were performing their official duties at the Federal Detention Center Philadelphia (“FDC Philadelphia”), where Blow was detained pending resolution of the carjacking matter. In addition to the two assault counts, Blow pleaded guilty to possessing a prohibited object intended to be used as a dangerous weapon while a federal inmate, possessing a prohibited cell phone while a federal inmate, and knowingly destroying a cellular phone with the intent to impede, obstruct, and influence the investigation and proper administration of a matter within the jurisdiction of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. As detailed in court filings and statements, on March 24 of this year, at approximately 8:24 p.m., a correctional officer at FDC Philadelphia was conducting routine cell checks when he observed the defendant and his cellmate using a contraband cell phone. After the correctional officer ordered the inmates to surrender the phone, both inmates refused and Blow’s cellmate approached the officer and told him that the officer was not going to get the phone. FDC surveillance footage shows that the defendant’s cellmate then used his body to prevent the officer from reaching the defendant. This allowed Blow to evade the officer, break the cell phone, and walk into the common area next to his cell. FDC surveillance footage then shows that, after the officer pursued the defendant into the common area and continued his attempts to take the cell phone, Blow punched the officer in the head and upper body numerous times before taking the officer’s pepper spray and spraying the officer in the face at close proximity. As a second correctional officer came to assist, Blow sprayed that officer in the face as well. Additional officers then arrived on the scene and were able to subdue the defendant. The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on December 21. He faces a maximum possible term of 66 years in prison and three years of supervised release in the FDC Philadelphia case, which was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Fischer. Blow faces a maximum possible term of life imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum of seven years in prison, and five years of supervised release in the carjacking case, which was investigated by the Philadelphia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meghan A. Farley.


title: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty To Unlawful Reentry

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Eastern

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Pedro Ramos Hernandez, a/k/a Pedro Espiridi Ramos-Hernandez, a/k/a Pedro Espiidio Ramos-Hernandez, a/k/a Pedro Ramos, a/k/a Pedro Aernandez Ramos, a/k/a Pedro Espiridion Ramos, a/k/a Pedro Espiridion Ramos Hernandez, a/k/a Aeronandez Ramos, a/k/a P. Espiridion Ramos-Hernandez, a/k/a Pedro E. Ramos-Hernandez, age 63, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than two years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00. The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division and the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office. The Indictment alleged that on July 10, 2026, Hernandez, an alien, was found in the United States without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States after having been previously removed on October 17, 2013, April 12, 2013, September 6, 2012, January 12, 2005, and July 5, 2000. The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Hernandez will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Knutson represented the United States.


title: Baltimore Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Murder During a Violent Drug-Related Robbery in Queens

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Marcus Pittman, also known as “Nacho” and “Cheese,” was sentenced by United States District Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto to 27 years in prison for causing death through use of a firearm, in connection with his participation in an armed robbery and kidnapping of two marijuana dealers in Queens, New York, during which Marcus Pittman murdered one of the dealers. Marcus Pittman pleaded guilty to the charge in December 2025. Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the sentence. “Today, the defendant was held accountable for an execution-style, drug-related killing that he carried out in our community,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Marcus Pittman was the trigger man of a robbery crew that traveled to our district for the purpose of kidnapping and robbing marijuana dealers. His sentence affirms that gun violence will be severely punished.” “Marcus Pittman's drug-related violence took a life, and this kind of criminal conduct will never be tolerated,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle. “The FBI is resolute in pursuing those responsible for this type of harm in our communities. We will continue to dismantle the networks that fuel this brutality and ensure individuals who commit these acts are brought to justice.” “As the defendants’ pleas confirm, Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants traveled across state lines to carry out a violent robbery, kidnapped two marijuana dealers, and murdered one of them in cold blood,” stated NYPD Commissioner Tisch. “Today’s sentencing is yet another reminder that the NYPD will continue to find, stop, and hold accountable those who drive violence in our city. I thank our investigators and law enforcement partners at the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York for their diligent work on this case." As set forth in the government’s sentencing memorandum, prior court filings, and statements during the sentencing, during the night of July 24, 2024 and into July 25, 2024, Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants carried out a violent armed robbery and kidnapping plot that resulted in the defendant shooting and killing John Doe #1 inside of a U-Haul van in Bayside, Queens. Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants drove from Maryland to New York City for the purpose of robbing John Doe #1 and John Doe #2, who were both drug dealers. Once in New York, co-defendants Jerome Waters and William Barnett met with John Doe #1 and John Doe #2 at a stash house in Queens under the guise of purchasing marijuana. Moments later, Waters and Barnett pulled out their weapons and held up John Doe #1 and John Doe #2. They brought Marcus Pittman and his brother Delonta Pittman into the stash house to assist in the robbery and kidnapping. While in the stash house, Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants restrained John Doe #1 and John Doe #2 with zip ties and forced them outside and into the back of a Jeep and a U-Haul van. At the same time, Marcus Pittman and his co-defendants stole approximately 30 pounds of marijuana from the stash house. Marcus Pittman’s co-defendants drove John Doe #1 and John Doe #2, who were still restrained, through Queens at gunpoint, demanding drugs and money. Co-defendant Jalon Garrett held a gun to John Doe #2 in one vehicle while Marcus Pittman held John Doe #1 at gunpoint in the back of a U-Haul van. Soon thereafter, while in the Bayside section of Queens, Marcus Pittman and John Doe #1 fought in the in the rear compartment of the U-Haul van. Marcus Pittman shot the victim multiple times, killing him. After the shooting, the defendants returned to Maryland. When John Doe #1’s body was later found by first responders, he still had a zip tie binding one of his hands and was surrounded by bags of marijuana. For their roles in the crime, Delonta Pittman was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment; Waters to 240 months’ imprisonment; and Garrett to 156 months’ imprisonment. Barnett is awaiting sentencing. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. As part of the program, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement and their local communities to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Amir and Chand Edwards-Balfour are in charge of the prosecution. Defendant: MARCUS PITTMAN (also known as “Nacho” and “Cheese”) Age: 31 Baltimore, Maryland Additional Defendants: DELONTA PITTMAN (also known as “D Lo”) Age: 32 Baltimore, Maryland JEROME WATERS (also known as “the Engineer” and “Rome”) Age: 24 Baltimore, Maryland WILLIAM BARNETT Age: 28 Baltimore, Maryland JALON LENNY GARRETT Age: 21 Baltimore, Maryland E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-413 (S-2) (KAM)


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Welcomes Three Newly Sworn Assistant United States Attorneys

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: United States Attorney Ellis Boyle administered the oath of office to three Assistant United States Attorneys who will serve in the Eastern District of North Carolina. Covering 44 counties from the Triangle to the coast, the Eastern District handles a broad range of federal criminal and civil matters, partnering closely with local communities and law enforcement agencies. The newly appointed prosecutors will help uphold the rule of law, protect constitutional rights, and strengthen public trust across this diverse and expansive district.


title: Poplar Bluff Woman Caught with Gun, Meth Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: CAPE GIRARDEAU – A convicted felon from Poplar Bluff, Missouri who was caught with a gun after selling methamphetamine to investigators was sentenced Wednesday to 40 months in prison. On Dec. 3, 2025, the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force and the Butler County Sheriff’s Department conducted a court-approved search of the home of Dorothy Mae Neeley. Neeley had recently sold a small amount of meth to someone working with the Task Force. She was arrested on an unrelated warrant and turned over about 5 grams of a mixture containing meth, according to her plea agreement. She also told investigators that she had a firearm in her bedroom, and they found a disassembled sawed-off shotgun. Neeley is a convicted felon, having been imprisoned four times, and is thus barred from possessing a firearm. Neeley, 50, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau in May to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force and the Butler County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Willis prosecuted the case.


title: Fast Food Employee Admits Shooting at Customer During St. Louis Dispute

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

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A convicted felon on Wednesday admitted exchanging gunfire with a customer of the St. Louis fast food restaurant where he worked. Tony Robinson, 28, of St. Louis, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He admitted that on Dec. 17, 2025, he got into an argument with a customer of the fast-food restaurant where he was working. After a manager intervened, Robinson walked away from the drive-thru window and put his headset on the counter. The customer was standing outside, looking through the window of the dining room. Robinson then walked outside with a hand in his pocket. The customer backed up and opened fire. Robinson pulled a gun from his pocket and returned fire. Both men continued shooting as they fled. The customer ran away and Robinson went back inside before firing through the window of the restaurant’s dining room. Robinson ran from the restaurant into a nearby church and hid his gun in a stairwell. When St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers found Robinson, he initially lied and said he threw his gun into a sewer. Officers found his gun, a .45-caliber Glock pistol. Police interviewed the customer, who also said he was acting in self-defense. Officers found four .45-caliber cartridge casings and nine 9mm casings. There were bullet holes in the windshield and hood of the customer’s car and in the restaurant window. Robinson is scheduled to be sentenced on November 19. He faces up to 15 years in prison. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.


title: Local High School Teacher Sentenced to 33 Years for Sex Trafficking 16-Year-Old Girl from Mississippi to New Orleans

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that AARON TEROD JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 38, from New Orleans, was sentenced today to 33 years imprisonment before United States District Judge Lance M. Africk. On December 10, 2025, a jury unanimously found JOHNSON guilty of both Sex Trafficking of a Minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1591(a)(1) and 1591(b)(2); and Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Prostitution, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b). According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, JOHNSON , a New Orleans schoolteacher, learned on social media that a 16-year-old girl had run away in February 2024. The next day, JOHNSON found and saved a screenshot of her social media page on his cellular phone. The day after she was reported missing again, in March of 2024, JOHNSON contacted the victim and learned that she was stranded in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Late on the evening of March 14, 2024, JOHNSON drove from his home in New Orleans to Vicksburg, picked up the victim and her friend at 1:30 a.m., and immediately returned to New Orleans using backroads. In the vehicle, JOHNSON told the victim that he would not hurt her because he was a teacher and she was the age of his students. On the ride back, JOHNSON offered the victim alcohol and marijuana. According to the court documents, the victim and her friend believed JOHNSON would take them to the house of their acquaintance. Instead, JOHNSON brought the minor to his apartment in New Orleans, where he had sex with her in exchange for $200. Shortly thereafter, JOHNSON told the victim that she had to have sex with him again for free or he would kick her out. JOHNSON pressured the victim by, among other things, reminding her that he had taken a risk in going to pick her up. When the victim refused, JOHNSON made the victim, and her friend stand outside in the rain. Over the next two weeks, JOHNSON continued to contact the victim, even after she blocked his phone number. On one occasion, JOHNSON went to a home where the victim was staying and had sex with the victim in exchange for $100 in cash. On another occasion, JOHNSON learned that the victim was hungry and offered to take her to get seafood. When they arrived at the restaurant, JOHNSON asked the victim what she would do in exchange for food. Evidence introduced at trial also showed that JOHNSON attempted to pay another minor female for sex in March and April 2024. Even after this juvenile disclosed via text message that she was fifteen years old, JOHNSON continued to pursue her. United States District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced JOHNSON to 33 years in prison, to be followed by a life-time term of supervised release. The Court also ordered that JOHNSON participate in the sex offender registration and notification program. “Today’s sentencing confirms that AARON TEROD JOHNSON , has been held accountable for his atrocious actions,” stated U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. “As an educator, JOHNSON violated the trust bestowed upon him to protect children; instead he preyed upon a 16-year-old runaway. Human trafficking is a horrific crime that often occurs in the shadows and is commonly underreported. However, due to the courage of the victim of this crime, as evidenced by her cooperation with law enforcement, this ugly, heinous crime was fully exposed. Thanks to the extensive and productive collaboration by our exceptional, dedicated and tenacious prosecution team, Homeland Security Investigations partners, and Victim Assistance specialists, JOHNSON has received his just and deserved punishment.” “As a schoolteacher at the time of his crimes, JOHNSON knew how vulnerable children are and chose to use that knowledge to exploit a runaway minor instead of protecting her,” said Matt Wright, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations – New Orleans. “That kind of calculated abuse of a position of trust is among the most egregious conduct we see in human trafficking and child exploitation cases. While no sentence can undo the trauma he inflicted, I am proud of the tireless commitment of our special agents and law enforcement partners who worked to ensure this predator was brought to justice.” U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, the United States Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives in investigating this matter. This case was prosecuted by Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force Leader, AUSA Maria M. Carboni. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . Updated 8/22/2026 * * *


title: Tennessee Man Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting Two U.S. Postal Employees

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—George Elliot Gibson, III, will spend the next 48 months in federal prison for assault with the intent to rob two United States Postal employees. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down today by United States District Judge D. P. Marshall, Jr. On September 11, 2024, a federal grand jury indicted Gibson, 28, of Bartlett, Tennessee, in a seven-count Indictment with two counts of assault of a United States Postal employee, one count of attempted robbery of United States property, one count of assaulting and impeding a United States Postal employee, and one count of unlawful possession of a postal key. On March 10, 2026, Gibson pleaded guilty to two counts of assault with the intent to rob a United States Postal employee. In addition to the 48-month sentence, Judge Marshall also sentenced Gibson to serve two years’ supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. An investigation revealed that on June 11, 2022, Gibson pulled alongside a United States Postal mail carrier that sitting in the Postal vehicle while delivering mail in North Little Rock. Gibson demanded the mail carrier give him the drop box key, but the mail carrier refused and drove off. Gibson encountered the mail carrier on a different route later that day and demanded the key once again, and this time Gibson brandished a firearm at the mail carrier. Later that same day, Gibson approached a different mail carrier who was delivering mail to an apartment complex in North Little Rock. When Gibson approached the mail carrier, he was holding a black rifle in his right hand and demanded the mail carrier immediately give him the postal key. After initially refusing, the mail carrier eventually gave the postal key to Gibson. Following the robbery, law enforcement officers from the North Little Rock Police Department conducted a traffic stop and arrested Gibson. At the time of his arrest, officers located on the floorboard of the vehicle the air rifle that resembled an AR-15 rifle that was used in the robbery. Gibson later admitted to having what appeared to be a firearm during the first attempted robbery and during the robbery of the postal key. This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service with assistance from the North Little Rock Police Department. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Arkansas. # # # This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available on-line at http://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: North Carolina Man Indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine

component: USAO - Delaware

body_text: WILMINGTON, Del. (August 19, 2026) – A federal grand jury has returned a one-count indictment charging a North Carolina man with possession with intent to distribute cocaine two kilograms of cocaine. According to the indictment, James F. Pyrtle, 55, possessed approximately two kilograms of cocaine—a distribution level quantity—in the trunk area of his vehicle while driving near Concord Pike. Also present in Pyrtle’s vehicle were several thousand dollars in cash that returned a positive hit for the presence of narcotics. Pyrtle is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B)(ii)(II). If convicted, Pyrtle faces a mandatory minimum of five years in prison and maximum penalty of forty years. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. “Stopping significant quantities of illegal drugs from reaching Delaware neighborhoods is a top priority for our office,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “Thanks to the diligent work of the Delaware State Police, two kilograms of cocaine were prevented from entering our communities. We will continue working alongside our state and local partners to pursue and prosecute those who bring illegal drugs across our borders.” This drug seizure again demonstrates law enforcement’s commitment to holding drug dealers accountable and protecting our communities. Cocaine and other dangerous substances continue to affect too many lives,” said Colonel William D. Crotty, Delaware State Police Superintendent. “It is through strong partnerships and investigative efforts that we continue to make strides in this fight. The Delaware State Police continues to collaborate with our federal and local allies to disrupt the flow of lethal drugs and prevent them from reaching our communities.” U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Delaware State Police Superintendent, Colonel William D. Crotty, made the announcement. Delaware State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney M. David Tamubssi Jr. is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-110. The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: District Couple Arrested and Charged in Homeland Security Task Force Takedown for Trafficking Fentanyl and Crack Cocaine

body_text: WASHINGTON -- Katie Shameka Williams, 33, and Kenneth Darnell Smith Jr., 32, both of the District of Columbia, were arrested yesterday after being charged in an indictment in connection with running an alleged fentanyl trafficking operation from their apartment in the District’s Congress Heights neighborhood, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “These charges reflect this office’s aggressive commitment to dismantling violent drug networks, removing dangerous traffickers from our streets, and keeping our communities safe,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “We will no longer tolerate lawlessness in our nation’s capital, and this takedown builds on the more than 3,200 drug-related arrests made as part of President Trump’s federal surge to make Washington D.C., safe and beautiful.” The indictment charges Williams and Smith with conspiracy to distribute forty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base or crack cocaine. Both defendants are being held at the D.C. Correctional Facility and have made their first appearance before a magistrate judge. According to filed documents, the FBI Washington Field Office Safe Streets Task Force launched an investigation in March 2026 into an alleged narcotics distribution operation based on the 1600 block of Savannah Street SE. It is alleged that over several months in 2026, law enforcement documented at least nine instances of crack cocaine and fentanyl being distributed from that location. In total, those instances involved more than 40 grams of fentanyl and distribution amounts of crack cocaine. On Aug. 18, 2026, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at the apartment building and arrested Williams and Smith. During the search, three children were present in the apartment. Inside the residence, agents recovered substantial quantities of suspected controlled substances, including numerous separately packaged quantities of suspected fentanyl (in pill and powdered form) with an approximate gross weight of 322 grams; a rifle and three loaded handguns; a drum magazine and multiple additional firearm magazines; ammunition; and $1,931 in cash. Photo of evidence seized from the Savannah Street SE apartment. Photo of the bag of seized suspected fentanyl pills. This case is being investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department. Additional assistance was provided by the Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force. The matter is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia’s Violent Crime and Narcotics Trafficking Section. 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 Washington D.C. comprises agents and officers from numerous federal agencies with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia The charges contained in an indictment are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 26cr195 Follow us on X , Instagram , and YouTube Or at https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc


title: Previously Deported British Citizen Who Illegally Reentered U.S. is Sentenced

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOHN O’ROURKE, also known as JOHN CASEY, 27, a citizen of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford for unlawfully reentering the United States. According to court documents and statements made in court, O’Rourke has used several other aliases including “John O’Rouke,” “Michael Casey,” “John Joyce,” “Robert Davanzo,” “David Collins,” and “James McCormack.” On October 7, 2024, U.S. Border Patrol apprehended O’Rourke, under an alias, and four other individuals near Fort Covington, New York, close to Canadian border. An investigation revealed that O’Rourke did not have legal status in the United States and, on October 15, 2024, he was removed by foot from New York to Canada. O’Rourke subsequently unlawfully reentered the U.S. On February 18, 2025, O’Rourke was arrested under the name John Casey in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and charged with state offenses including evading responsibility and breach of peace. On March 2, 2026, O’Rourke was arrested under the name John Casey in Pleasonton, California, on an arrest warrant issued by a judge in Torrington, Connecticut, charging O’Rourke with larceny in the first degree, making home improvements without a valid home improvement certificate, and mispresenting or impersonating a registered contractor. O’Rourke also has a pending state case in Danbury, Connecticut for larceny. Additional investigation revealed that O’Rourke has pending cases stemming from arrests under various aliases in Suffolk County, New York, in November 2023; Everett, Washington, in September 2025; Linden, New Jersey, in December 2025; and Snohomish County, Washington, in January 2026. He also is being sought by law enforcement in Surrey, England. O’Rourke has been detained in state custody since his arrest on March 2, 2026. On May 14, 2026, he pleaded guilty in federal court to unlawful reentry of a removed alien. O’Rourke’s pending state cases in Danbury, Torrington, and Bridgeport are expected to be resolved next month. Judge Oliver sentenced O’Rourke to 10 days of federal imprisonment consecutive to his state sentences, after which he will be transferred to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody and removed to the United Kingdom. This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neeraj. N. Patel and Michael S. Deel. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Easton Man Sentenced to 39 Months in Federal Prison for Threatening Fairfield Police Officers

body_text: David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced that RAYMOND NEUBERGER, 42, of Easton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to 39 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for threatening Fairfield Police officers. Judge Williams also ordered Neuberger to pay a $15,000 fine. According to court documents and statements made in Court, on April 24, 2025, Neuberger sent text messages to an individual in which he threatened to kill Fairfield Police officers. Later, Neuberger stopped his vehicle in the middle of Post Road in Fairfield and screamed profanities and made an obscene gesture at a Fairfield Police officer. He then drove to the Fairfield Police Department, encountered the same police officer, and again yelled profanities and made an obscene gesture. After these incidents, Neuberger continued to make threats in calls to the Fairfield County Regional Dispatch Center and to the Fairfield Police. Neuberger then sent several threatening text messages to another individual, including messages stating “I’m going to kill all the Fairfield cops,” “Tell Fairfield PD I’m close to snapping,” and “I’m armed.” Neuberger also put a threatening letter in the mailbox of a neighbor who is an FBI special agent. The letter stated, “BACK THE BUREAU OFF BEFORE ITS TOO LATE – Ray Neuberger.” “Threatening police officers and federal agents who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe is intolerable behavior, and this sentence is warranted,” said U.S. Attorney Sullivan. “Our office will continue to act swiftly to protect those who serve and uphold public safety.” “Today’s sentencing holds Raymond Neuberger accountable for his criminal conduct and reflects the serious consequences of his actions,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge P.J. O’Brien. “This outcome is the result of the dedicated work of the investigators, prosecutors, and law enforcement partners who remained committed to pursuing justice. The FBI will continue to work alongside our partners who remain committed to investigating those who commit serious crimes, and ensure that victims and their families are not forgotten in the pursuit of justice.” Neuberger was arrested on related state charges on April 29, 2025. On December 18, 2025, he pleaded guilty in federal court to transmitting interstate communications containing a threat to injure. Neuberger, who had been released on bond, was remanded to custody at the conclusion of today’s court proceeding. This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fairfield Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Konstantin Lantsman.


title: Springfield Felon Sentenced to 70 months in Prison for Possession of a Firearm

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A Springfield, Illinois, man, Kevin Gladney, 33, was sentenced on August 18, 2026, to 70 months imprisonment for possessing a firearm as a felon, to be followed by three years of supervised release. According to court documents and statements in court, in February 2022, Gladney possessed a stolen .45 caliber semi-automatic firearm, which included a shoulder brace, among other modifications; that firearm and a drum magazine were loaded with 29 rounds of ammunition. The firearm was recovered after Gladney threw it from the car he was driving as he fled from police before ultimately crashing his vehicle. Gladney’s DNA was located on the firearm by forensic scientists with the Illinois State Police. Also at the hearing, U.S. District Judge Sue E. Myerscough found that Gladney was eligible for an obstruction of justice sentencing enhancement due to his flight from police during the traffic stop that led to his arrest. Judge Myerscough noted that Gladney’s reckless driving and flight from police placed police officers and the public at risk. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Gladney in July 2023, and he was arrested in Texas in July 2024. He has remained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service since his arrest. He pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long in April 2026. The statutory penalties for possession of a firearm by a felon are up to 15 years’ imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. The Springfield Police Department investigated the case, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Seberger represented the government in the prosecution.


title: Pair from Galesburg Sentenced for Trafficking in  Methamphetamine and Marijuana

body_text: ROCK ISLAND, Ill. – Two individuals from Galesburg, Illinois, Jordan Eskridge, 31, and Breana Crider, 28, were sentenced on August 12, 2026, for conspiring to traffic in and trafficking in methamphetamine and marijuana, and Eskridge was also sentenced for possessing a firearm as a felon. Eskridge was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release. Crider was sentenced to 121 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release. At the sentencing hearing before U.S. District Judge Sara Darrow, the evidence showed that Eskridge and Crider conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana. During the law enforcement investigation, officers located 3,821 grams of methamphetamine and 497.8 grams of marijuana, along with two firearms. At the time, Eskridge was prohibited from possessing firearms due to multiple prior felony convictions. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Eskridge and Crider in May 2025. Eskridge has remained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service since his arrest that month. Crider was released on bond with conditions in June 2025 but was later arrested and taken into custody in April 2026 due to violation of conditions. Eskridge and Crider each pleaded guilty to two counts involving conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine and marijuana and possession with intent to distribute both substances. Eskridge also pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a felon. The statutory penalties for possessing 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and conspiring to distribute or possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine are 10 years to life imprisonment, followed by at least five years of supervised release, and a potential fine of up to $10 million dollars. The statutory penalties for possessing less than 50 kilograms of marijuana with intent to distribute and conspiring to distribute or possess with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana are not more than 5 years’ imprisonment, followed by at least two years of supervised release, and a potential fine of up to $250,000 dollars. The statutory penalties for possessing a firearm as a felon are up to 15 years of imprisonment, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine. Members of the Galesburg Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Searle represented the government in the prosecution. The case against Eskridge and Crider is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.