title: Evansville Pedophile to Spend 15 Years in Federal Prison After Victim Discovers Hidden Bathroom Camera

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: EVANSVILLE- Jason Donald Brenton, 51, of Evansville, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to two counts of production and attempted production of sexually explicit material involving minors. According to court documents, on November 3, 2023, a 19-year-old female victim reported to the Evansville Police Department that she had discovered a hidden camera in her bathroom. She removed the Micro SD card from the device and viewed the files, finding videos of herself fully nude. The recordings had been made over the course of several years while she was a minor. The victim identified Brenton as the perpetrator, confronted him, and he admitted to the conduct. Detectives executed a search of Brenton’s cell phone, laptop, and the Micro SD card. Investigators recovered more than 100 videos and 60 images of the victim in the nude, as well as sexually explicit images and videos of the victim’s underage boyfriend. The FBI and Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman. “This defendant violated the privacy and trust of vulnerable victims in the most egregious way, and today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of his crimes. We are grateful to the investigators and prosecutors who worked swiftly to uncover the truth and ensure accountability, but I especially want to commend the victim for her remarkable courage in coming forward and confronting the offender,” said Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “I urge our community to remain vigilant; if you see signs of abuse or exploitation, report it. Your awareness and willingness to speak up can protect children and help prevent future crimes.” "Hidden cameras, secret recordings, and other forms of covert exploitation are not victimless acts—they are calculated crimes that rob children of their privacy, dignity, and sense of security," said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O'Malley. "The FBI remains committed to identifying those who prey on children, standing with victims, and ensuring offenders are held accountable for these devastating crimes." U.S. Attorney Wheeler thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Scott Kemper, who prosecuted this case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood , a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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. If you are a victim of child sexual exploitation, please contact your local police department. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found on our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/project-safe-childhood ###


title: West Park Man Sentenced to More Than 26 Years in Federal Prison for Kidnapping and Carjacking Hired Driver at Gunpoint

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – A West Park man was sentenced to 319 months in federal prison for kidnapping a hired driver at gunpoint and forcing the victim to drive him and his associates away from the scene of a shooting. U.S. District Judge K. Michael Moore imposed the sentence on Bakari Jahiem Dixson, 24, of West Park, following a jury trial conviction on one count of kidnapping, one count of carjacking, and one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. “After shooting a woman multiple times, Bakari Jahiem Dixson turned a hired driver into his getaway driver at gunpoint and threatened to kill him if he did not comply,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones. “This was a terrifying act of violence that showed complete disregard for human life. The more than 26-year sentence imposed holds Dixson accountable and protects the public from a dangerous armed offender.” According to court records and evidence presented at trial, on Aug. 2, 2025, Dixson hired a chauffeur service in Fort Lauderdale. While waiting for transportation, the driver witnessed an altercation involving Dixson which culminated in Dixson shooting a woman multiple times. Immediately after the shooting, Dixson and several associates entered the victim’s vehicle. Brandishing a firearm, Dixson ordered the driver to “drive or be killed.” Fearing for his life, the driver complied and drove Dixson and the others from Fort Lauderdale to West Park before dropping them off at Dixson’s residence. Eleven days later, Dixson was arrested in Omaha, Nebraska. U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and Special Agent in Charge Jason Stankiewicz of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Division, made the announcement. The ATF Miami Field Office investigated the case with substantial assistance from the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camille Smith and Justin McCormack prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 25-cr-60281. ###


title: Miami Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Exploiting Child in Cuba and Transporting CSAM

body_text: MIAMI – A Miami man who solicited sexually explicit videos and images from a 14-year-old child in Cuba and amassed hundreds of files depicting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) has been sentenced to 27 years in federal prison. U.S. District Judge K. Michael Moore sentenced Ariel Espinosa, 63, of Miami, to 324 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to attempted production and transportation of CSAM. “Ariel Espinosa knew his victim was only 14 years old, yet he repeatedly paid and directed the child to create sexually explicit material for his gratification,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones. “His conduct was calculated, exploitative, and profoundly cruel. This 27-year sentence holds him accountable and sends a clear message that those who prey on children, whether here or abroad, will face severe consequences.” According to court records, Espinosa arrived at Miami International Airport on Aug. 24, 2025, on a flight from Holguin, Cuba. During a secondary inspection, law enforcement officers conducted a cursory search of Espinosa’s cellphone and discovered hundreds of images and videos depicting CSAM. Law enforcement also uncovered communications between Espinosa and a 14-year-old minor in Cuba. Despite knowing the victim was underage, Espinosa repeatedly solicited sexually explicit videos from the victim and directed the victim to create CSAM, often in exchange for electronic payments. U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami made the announcement. HSI Miami investigated the case with assistance from the HSI Caribbean Regional Attaché Office and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Montes prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 25-cr-20403. ###


title: Convicted Felon Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for $50 Million Real Estate Fraud Scheme

body_text: MIAMI – A convicted felon has been sentenced to federal prison for his leading role in a real estate fraud scheme that raised over $50 million from investors. U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez sentenced Jean Joseph, also known as “Jon,” 55, of Boca Raton, to 240 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to wire fraud. A restitution hearing is set for September 4. Janalie Camille Bingham, his 44-year-old wife and accomplice who also goes by Janalie Camille Joseph, was sentenced to 48 months for her part in the crime. “Jean Joseph was already serving a federal prison sentence for wire fraud when he continued directing another massive investment scheme from behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones. “He lied about the company’s assets, diverted millions of dollars into speculative trading and personal expenses, and used new investor money to pay earlier investors. This 20-year sentence delivers serious accountability for an unrepentant fraudster who repeatedly abused the trust of his victims.” According to court documents, Joseph and Bingham formed Wells Real Estate Investment, LLC in or around 2017 and operated the company together, with Bingham serving as the Chief Executive Officer. Beginning in approximately 2019, Joseph and Bingham concealed Joseph’s involvement in the business after he became a convicted felon. Despite beginning to serve a prison sentence in June 2020 in an unrelated wire fraud case (19-cr-20177), Joseph continued to direct aspects of the scheme from prison. Earlier, in October 2019, Joseph and Bingham opened a bank account in the name of Wells Real Estate, with Bingham as the sole authorized signer due to Joseph’s pending criminal prosecution. Joseph nevertheless directed transactions in the account, including while incarcerated. From approximately 2019 through 2024, Joseph and Bingham solicited investors to purchase promissory notes issued by Wells Real Estate. They falsely represented that investor funds would be used to acquire and improve residential and commercial real estate and that the notes were backed by valuable real estate holdings. In reality, only a small portion of investor funds was used for real estate. Instead, Joseph diverted approximately $28 million into speculative equities trading. Joseph and Bingham also falsely claimed that the investment notes were secured by a real estate portfolio purportedly worth as much as $450 million. In truth, neither Wells Real Estate nor the defendants owned sufficient real estate assets to secure the investments. Joseph and Bingham further misled investors by claiming that Wells Real Estate did not pay commissions on note sales. In fact, the company paid up to 15% in commissions, distributing approximately $8 million in investor funds to sales personnel. To sustain the scheme, the defendants used funds from newer investors to make more than $8 million in Ponzi-style payments to earlier investors, without disclosing the source of those payments. They also used more than $2 million in investor funds for personal expenses, including a down payment on a $1.95 million home that they used as their primary residence. Shortly after purchasing the home through a limited liability company, the property was transferred into Bingham’s name. U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement. FBI Miami is investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office appreciates the assistance of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which previously brought a civil action against Joseph and Bingham. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eli S. Rubin and Roger Cruz are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Grosnoff is handling asset forfeiture. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 25-cr-20483. ###


title: Clarendon County Armed Drug Dealer Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun Offenses

component: USAO - South Carolina

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — Everett Sabb, 37, of Summerton, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Sabb was a supplier of cocaine, crack, and marijuana in the Clarendon County area. On at least one occasion, he traveled to California to meet with potential drug suppliers on behalf of his coconspirator. Law enforcement discovered Sabb with firearms or ammunition on two occasions. Sabb was prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to his prior state felony convictions, which included convictions for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base, Distribution of Cocaine Base with the Proximality of a School or Park, and Unlawful Carrying of a Pistol. United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson Jr. sentenced Anderson to 240 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 4-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elle E. Klein is prosecuting the case.


title: United States Attorney's Office Joining Law Enforcement, Community Partners, and Residents for National Night Out Events in Rhode Island

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: Providence – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island will join law enforcement partners, residents, and communities across the state on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in celebration of National Night Out . “National Night Out provides an important opportunity to connect with the residents we serve and strengthen relationships that are essential to public safety,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda. “We are proud to join our law enforcement and community partners across Rhode Island and to continue working together to make our neighborhoods stronger.” National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions of people take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August. National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization. Personnel from the U.S. Attorney’s Office will participate in National Night Out events hosted by Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN) partner agencies in communities across Rhode Island. The events bring together law enforcement and an array of our community partners, consisting of school personnel, Substance Use Prevention Coalitions, Family Care Community Partnership, Family Services RI, PSN Strategic Committee members, and an array of social service agencies. U.S. Attorney’s Office personnel plan to visit the following National Night Out events: Pawtucket Police Department 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Payne Park 225 West Avenue, Pawtucket Central Falls Police Department 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Jenks Park/Veterans Memorial Park 416 Hunt Street, Central Falls Providence Police Department 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Joslin Park 40 Florence Street, Providence Woonsocket Police Department 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. World War II Memorial Park Social Street, Woonsocket For more information, visit https://natw.org/


title: Rhode Island Woman Pleads Guilty to  Operating Unlicensed Money Transmitting Business

body_text: PROVIDENCE – On July 30, 2026, a Rhode Island woman pleaded guilty in federal court to operating an unlicensed money transmitting business that moved funds between individuals in the United States and foreign countries. Bukky Olukoga, 52, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., to operating an unlicensed money transmitting business. She is scheduled to be sentenced on October 27, 2026. The sentence imposed will be determined by a federal district court judge after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. According to court documents, Olukoga owned and controlled Grace’s Property Investment LLC, a Rhode Island entity that used her prior and current residential addresses as business locations. Using bank accounts held in her name and in the name of Grace’s Property, Olukoga opened and maintained accounts at multiple financial institutions, including Santander Bank, Washington Trust, Citizens Bank, TD Bank, and Bank of America. She also created and used peer‑to‑peer mobile payment accounts, including Cash App and Zelle. Between at least February 16, 2020, and April 17, 2022, Olukoga received funds from third parties through cash, money orders, deposits, and electronic transfers into accounts under her control. She then transferred those funds to bank accounts held by individuals and entities overseas, including recipients in Nigeria and China. Olukoga received a fee for transfers she made on behalf of third parties. Olukoga did not possess the licenses required to operate a money transmitting business at the state or federal level. As part of her plea agreement, Olukoga agreed to forfeit approximately $203,969 in assets involved in or derived from the offense, including U.S. currency and funds seized from bank and investment accounts. This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Denise M. Barton. The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).


title: Providence Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Trafficking

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: PROVIDENCE – A Providence man who worked as a drug runner for a transnational narcotics trafficking organization pleaded guilty today in federal court in Rhode Island to methamphetamine and fentanyl charges. Kyle Lemay, 20, pleaded guilty conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Lemay is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3, 2026. The sentence imposed by a federal district judge will be based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. According to court documents, Lemay worked as a runner for a transnational narcotics trafficking organization operating out of the Dominican Republic. During the investigation, agents seized more than fourteen pounds of crystal methamphetamine and 275 grams of fentanyl from Lemay’s Providence residence. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie M. White. The matter was investigated by the DEA Providence District Office with assistance from the Newport Police Department and Providence Police Department. 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 effort to dismantle criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in the United States and abroad. The HSTF places particular emphasis on crimes involving children and employs all available tools to identify, investigate, prosecute, and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Providence includes agents and officers from the DEA Providence District Office, the Newport Police Department, and the Providence Police Department, with prosecution led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island.


title: New Federal Charges Filed Against Two Defendants in Providence-Area Gang Racketeering Case; Arraignments Completed for All Arrested Defendants

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

body_text: PROVIDENCE, R.I . – First Assistant United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda and Thomas A. Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Boston Field Division, in partnership with Providence Police Chief Colonel Oscar L. Perez, announce additional federal charges against two defendants related to the ongoing investigation into alleged criminal activities committed by members and associates of East Side/Congress gang and affiliated Providence-area street gangs. Arraignments have now been completed for all defendants arrested in connection with the racketeering indictment. Nineteen defendants were ordered detained pending trial, two were released on bond, and four defendants remain at large, Jose Bautista, Marcus McClain, Marlon McClain, and Randy Winfield. Federal, state, and local law enforcement partners continue efforts to locate and apprehend the remaining defendants. On July 22, 2026, additional charges were filed against defendants Dele Souza and Keshawn Jones for narcotics and firearms offenses. Both Souza and Jones were previously named in the June 17, 2026 racketeering indictment charging twenty-three associates and members of The Enterprise. Three additional individuals were charged with related offenses. According to court documents, the Enterprise operated in Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, and elsewhere since at least 2013. Prosecutors allege that members and associates advanced the Enterprise’s interests through acts of violence, narcotics trafficking, firearms offenses, fraud schemes, and other criminal conduct. The indictment further alleges that the distribution of controlled substances, including fentanyl, cocaine, cocaine base, and Percocet, served as a significant source of income for the Enterprise. Court documents also describe alleged violent crimes committed by members and associates, including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, assault with intent to commit murder, robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, firearms offenses, narcotics trafficking, wire fraud, and other financial crimes involving fraud against unemployment insurance programs, COVID 19 relief programs, tax filings, and other federal benefit programs. “For more than a decade, members and associates of this enterprise used violence, firearms, narcotics trafficking, and fraud to strengthen their influence, enrich themselves, and retaliate against rivals,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Charles C. Calenda. “The charges in this case allege a pattern of criminal conduct that reached into neighborhoods, businesses, government programs, and communities throughout Rhode Island. This indictment reflects years of work conducted by the ATF, the Providence Police Department, and our law enforcement partners to dismantle an organization that prosecutors allege relied on fear, intimidation, and criminal activity to maintain its power.” “ These arrests represent a significant victory for the City of Providence in the culmination of a long-term effort to identify, investigate, and dismantle the network of violent criminal activity perpetrated by the East Side gang and its affiliates,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Thomas A. Greco. “This case highlights the experience and expertise of ATF agents in investigating complex and violent criminal organizations. Working with the Providence Police Department and other law enforcement partners, agents identified incidents of violence, conducted witness interviews, and used crime gun intelligence tools such as the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) to analyze evidence and hold violent criminals accountable. ATF remains firmly committed to working with our law enforcement partners to build safer, stronger communities.” “ This indictment is the result of years of dedicated work by the Providence Police Department and our law enforcement partners to address violence, drug trafficking, and organized criminal activity that has impacted our neighborhoods," said Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez. "This case demonstrates our shared commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting the safety of our residents. We remain committed to working with our community and our partners to reduce violence and strengthen public safety throughout Providence.” “These arrests have made the cities and streets of Rhode Island a safer place,” said Thomas Demeo, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office. “Organized street gangs have preyed on the Providence area for far too long. From drug trafficking, to robberies, extortion, and various frauds, these groups have been a stain on society and only act to further their own self-interests at enormous costs to their own communities. Their violent acts of retaliation and retribution have shattered lives and broken families across the region. IRS-CI is proud to, and will continue to work closely with our Federal, State, and Local law enforcement partners to ensure that those who seek to do harm to communities across New England see their day in court.” New Charges Against Dele Souza Federal agents executed an arrest warrant for Dele Souza on June 17, 2026. During the arrest and subsequent consent search of Souza’s residence, investigators recovered a loaded Glock .40 caliber pistol and quantities of fentanyl and cocaine. Souza was charged with additional offenses including: Felon in possession of a firearm Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl/cocaine New Charges Against Keshawn Jones On the same day, investigators executed arrest and search warrants for Keshawn Jones. Agents recovered approximately 65.59 grams of cocaine from the residence. Jones was charged with additional federal narcotics offenses. The defendants charged in the indictment are as follows: *Not yet in custody (1) JAMES ADAMS a/k/a “Money Man,” a/k/a “DopieDeniro,” a/k/a “Man” * (2) JOSE BAUTISTA a/k/a “JJ” (3) JEMEL BLYDEN a/k/a “Mel,” a/k/a “Jemel Waite” (4) JAMON BROWN a/k/a/ “Sheek” (5) KEVEND CASTILLO a/k/a “Kev” (6) RYAN DACRUZ a/k/a “Lil Ry,” a/k/a “Cryan” (7) LATRELLE FISHER a/k/a “Trelle” (8) TERRANCE FISHER a/k/a “Baby Moondo,” a/k/a “Doodoo” (9) NELSON GOMES GONCALVES a/k/a “Nelly” (10) AYSHA GONZALEZ a/k/a “Easha,” a/k/a “Veronica” a/k/a “GetThatMoney” (11) KESHAWN JONES a/k/a “Kemoney” (12) JORDAN KOMHLAN a/k/a “Drowze” (13) TYREESE McCANTS a/k/a “Reese” * (14) MARCUS McCLAIN a/k/a “Petey,” a/k/a “Pistol Pete” * (15) MARLON McCLAIN a/k/a “Marl,” a/k/a “Cuzzy” (16) DARIO MERCADO a/k/a “Jose” (17) ROMEO MERCADO a/k/a “Romey” (18) SCOTT MONROE a/k/a “Skizz,” a/k/a “Sleezy” (19) ISAIAH ORTIZ a/k/a “Loso” (20) DENZEL RICHARDSON a/k/a “Deezy,” a/k/a “Richie Rebel” (21) GARY RUSPUS a/k/a “Lil G” (22) JEFFREY SIMS a/k/a “Jeffery Sims” a/k/a “Smoove,” a/k/a “Smooth” (23) DELE SOUZA a/k/a “Deydey” (24) MARK VARELA (25) KELVIN VILORIO * (26) RANDY WINFIELD, a/k/a “Hardbody” The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John P. McAdams, Paul F. Daly, Jr., and Special Assistant United States Attorney John M. Moreira. The matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Providence Police Department, the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, IRS Criminal Investigation, HSTF, and numerous additional federal, state, and local law enforcement partners including the U.S. Marshal’s Service, Rhode Island Department of Corrections, Rhode Island State Police, Central Falls Police Department, Cranston Police Department, East Providence Police Department, Pawtucket Police Department, Warwick Police Department, West Warwick Police Department, Woonsocket Police Department, Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit - Plymouth County, Shrewsbury (MA) Police Department, Worcester County (MA) District Attorney’s Office Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, U.S. Attorney’s Office Eastern District of Virginia. The charges contained in the indictments and complaints are allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Additional information will be provided at the appropriate time. The investigation into this case is ongoing


title: Barrington Christian Academy Teacher Charged with Federal Offenses

body_text: Providence — A Barrington Christian Academy teacher and athletics coach was arrested and appeared in federal court in Rhode Island today on federal charges stemming from an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Sean Cassidy, 53, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, appeared before U.S. District Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan and is charged by criminal complaint with coercion and enticement of a minor and false impersonation of a federal employee. According to an affidavit filed in support of the complaint, the investigation began on May 29, 2026, after the parent of a 14‑year‑old Barrington Christian Academy student reported concerns about an inappropriate relationship between Cassidy—a physical education teacher and athletics coach—and his daughter. On May 30, 2026, the Rhode Island ICAC Task Force initiated an investigation, later joined by HSI. As described in the affidavit, investigators interviewed the minor and several other witnesses; executed search warrants on Cassidy’s residence, vehicle, workspace, electronic devices, and online accounts; and conducted forensic review of communications and digital evidence. The affidavit alleges that beginning no later than December 2025, Cassidy cultivated a relationship of trust with the minor through his roles as her coach and teacher, engaged in extended private communications with her using personal email accounts, and falsely claimed to be an agent with a covert Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) program. The affidavit further alleges that Cassidy used multiple online platforms—email, messaging services, and encrypted accounts—to engage in communications with the minor under various fictitious identities and directed her to engage in acts, including taking partially nude photographs of herself, that he told her were part of the FBI “training program.” Cassidy was previously arrested on June 1 and July 17, 2026, on related Rhode Island state charges. The federal investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are continuing to review evidence and evaluate reports of Cassidy’s contacts with additional minors. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Denise Barton. The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with assistance from local law enforcement partners. A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.


title: Yamhill County Photographer Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—A Carlton, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for 8 counts of production of child sexual abuse material announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. Robert Koester, 59, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison and lifetime supervised release. “Koester’s crimes against children are among the worst this district has seen. His violent abuse of these girls created scars they will carry their entire lives, and the images of that abuse will haunt them. I hope today’s sentence brings a measure of justice and healing for the victims. I am grateful for the work of the many investigative agencies that worked tirelessly to bring this terror against these teens to an end. The sentence of 40 years provides safety to Oregon and California and is emblematic of the violent crimes he committed.” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon “Today’s sentence underscores how seriously the FBI and our partners take crimes against children,” said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “Koester used his role as a photographer to gain the trust of young people who were simply looking for a chance to pursue their dreams, and he exploited that trust. The courage these victims showed in coming forward made this outcome possible, and we stand with them as they continue to heal. We’re grateful for the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon in bringing this case to the finish line. What happened here caused real harm, and there is no place for this behavior in our community.” According to court documents, Koester used his professional position as a photographer to meet and earn the trust of teenage girls who were pursuing careers in modeling. He exploited that trust by drugging, molesting, strangling, and raping the victims. He recorded much of this abuse and sold the child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to others. Koester was a professional photographer who took photographs of aspiring models and did photography work for modeling agencies. Over the course of four years, from early 2015 through late 2018, Koester lured numerous teenage girls to his residence and other locations across California and Oregon. He enticed the girls with the promise of a career in the fashion industry through his modeling agency, Frank Model Management. He encouraged them to travel to his residence in Oregon, even paying for their flights. The children would stay in his residence for multiple days and participate in photo shoots. During this time, Koester offered the victims alcohol and drugs, including marijuana and cocaine. He coerced them to do nude photo shoots by first showing them images of naked models, then convincing them to remove their clothes. He photographed the victims in revealing positions, sometimes using hidden cameras to capture more explicit angles without the victims’ knowledge. Koester further used GHB and other intoxicants to drug the girls, rendering them unconscious. He then abused the unconscious children sexually and physically and recorded the assaults. Koester often became violent in these assaults, strangling and slapping the girls. After the drugged assaults, he left the victims to wake up alone. Some of the victims were also coerced into engaging in sexual acts with him while awake. He recorded this abuse as well. Koester maintained a large collection of this self-produced CSAM, which included thousands of images. Koester was in his late forties and early fifties when these crimes occurred, and the girls were as young as fifteen. Multiple children reported that Koester showed them the images of their own abuse and laugh while displaying the images of the abusive acts to them. In addition to criminally prosecuting Koester, the U.S. Attorney’s Office forfeited his Oregon residence in a civil forfeiture case, netting $750,000 in the sale. The criminal case also forfeited a large amount of photographic and digital equipment. On November 13, 2018, Koester was arrested by California authorities. Koester has pleaded guilty to related conduct in San Diego, California, and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Koester also pleaded guilty to related conduct in Yamhill County, Oregon, and was sentenced to 50 years in prison. He will serve those sentences concurrently with the federal sentence imposed today. On July 16, 2019, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 6-count indictment charging Koester with production of child sexual abuse material. On August 19, 2020, Oregon adopted, from the District of Southern California, a 2-count information charging Koester with production of child sexual abuse material. On March 10, 2026, Koester pleaded guilty to all 8 counts of production of child sexual abuse material in the two federal cases. This case was investigated by FBI San Diego, FBI Portland, Carlsbad Police Department, and Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gary Sussman, Kate Rochat, Mira Chernick, and Julia Jarett. This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov . Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org .


title: Umatilla County Man Sentenced in Armed Casino Robbery

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—A Umatilla County man was sentenced to federal prison today for interference with commerce by robbery, felon in possession of a firearm with an armed career criminal enhancement, and attempt to commit murder. Javier Vigil, 55, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison and 5 years’ supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $2,040.71 in restitution to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation. “Vigil gambled and lost when he chose to rob this casino with a gun. His violent actions endangered innocent employees, patrons, and a law enforcement officer. He deserved and received the full consequences under federal law. Our tribal communities are incredibly important to me, and I will use every available federal resource to protect them and pursue justice on their behalf. I am also extremely grateful to the law enforcement officer, who risked his life that day to stop this defendant from harming anyone else.” Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney According to court documents, on August 17, 2022, Javier Vigil went to the Wildhorse Resort and Casino on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, in Pendleton, Oregon and passed a note demanding $1,000,000 from the cash cage teller. He then drew a pistol and pointed it at the teller. While the tellers gathered cash, he made threatening statements. After he received over $69,000, he walked out of the casino. Upon seeing a tribal police officer Vigil raised his firearm and shot at the officer. Vigil and the officer exchanged gunfire, which resulted in Vigil being shot and falling to the ground. Vigil was then arrested on federal charges for this crime. A bystander outside the casino was also injured from a stray bullet. Investigators learned that Vigil acquired the firearm around August 3, 2022, about two weeks prior to the robbery and shooting. On December 19, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 6-count superseding indictment charging Vigil with interference with commerce by robbery, two counts of use and carry of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, felon in possession of a firearm with an armed career criminal enhancement, attempt to commit murder, and assault with a dangerous weapon. On April 7, 2026, on the second day of trial, Vigil pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery, felon in possession of a firearm with an armed career criminal enhancement, and attempt to commit murder. This case was investigated by the FBI and the Umatilla Tribal Police Department, with the assistance of ATF, the Hermiston Police Department, the Pendleton Police Department, Oregon State Police, Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office, and Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cassady Adams and Arin Heinz prosecuted the case.


title: United States Attorney's Office Joining Law Enforcement, Community Leaders and Residents for National Night Out Events in New Jersey

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, NJ – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey will join their law enforcement partners, neighbors, and communities for National Night Out events in Jersey City, Newark, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Verona, Cedar Grove, Fairview, Rahway, South Orange, Mansfield, Trenton, Haddon Township, Mount Olive, Salem and Wall across the District of New Jersey. “National Night Out reminds us that the foundation of effective public safety strategies are the partnerships between neighbors, law enforcement, and the community coming together. Safe communities are built through relationships, respect, and neighbors looking out for one another. We honor law enforcement who courageously serve on the front lines of public safety and welcome the opportunity to work alongside our communities to prevent crime, support victims, and help neighborhoods thrive throughout New Jersey.” - U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions of people take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country. National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization. Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe. For more information, visit https://natw.org/ . ###


title: Operations Manager of Wholesale Drug Distributor Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Role in Scheme to Buy Nearly $50m of Prescription Medications Under False Pretenses and Resell Them for Profit

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A North Jersey man was sentenced on July 29, 2026, to 30 months’ imprisonment for conspiring with doctors and others to purchase nearly $50 million worth of oncology and ophthalmology medications, under false pretenses, and then reselling these medications for profit, United States Attorney Robert Frazer announced. Frank Incognito, 46, of Englishtown, New Jersey, previously pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton to an information charging him with conspiring to unlawfully resell various medications, including oncology and ophthalmology medications, that previously had been purchased by a healthcare entity. These medications had been purchased through the medical licenses and offices of various doctors, with the express representation and on the condition that the medications would be used to treat the doctors’ own patients. In actuality, these medications were not used to treat the doctors’ patients; instead, the medications were resold by Incognito and/or his coconspirators for profit. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: For several years, Incognito worked as an operations manager of a wholesale drug distributor located in Sewaren, New Jersey. Incognito conspired with others, including multiple doctors, to obtain expensive prescription medications that Incognito and his coconspirators otherwise would not be able to obtain on their own. These medications were “straw-purchased” through the doctors’ medical practices, and then Incognito and his co-conspirators illegally transferred and resold those medications. Primarily, these medications were cold-chain biologic infusion medications that typically are used to treat cancers, macular degeneration, and autoimmune diseases. In purchasing the drugs, Incognito and his coconspirators made numerous false and misleading representations to the pharmaceutical manufacturers and authorized distributors, including that the doctors were purchasing the drugs to treat their own patients, and that the drugs would not be resold or redistributed to others. In actuality, none of the drugs were administered to any of the doctors’ own patients but were ultimately sold to customers for a profit. The scheme in which Incognito participated ran from approximately June 2012 through January 2019. During this time, Incognito conspired with others to buy and sell more than $47.7 million worth of the prescription drugs. Incognito is the third defendant who has been sentenced in connection with this fraudulent scheme, in addition to doctors Anise Kachadourian and Joel Lerner. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations New York Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Fernando McMillan, and special agents of U.S. Attorney’s Office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Maltese, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph McFarlane and Sara Aliabadi of the U.S Attorney’s Office in Camden. ### Defense Counsel: Rocco Cipparone, Esq.


title: Maryland Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for His Role in Commercial Burglary Ring in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A Maryland man was sentenced to 60 months in prison for conspiring to transport stolen property from burglarized consignment shops across multiple states, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. Dominique Hayes, 30, of Capitol Heights, Maryland, was sentenced to 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Esther Salas in Newark federal court on July 29, 2026. Hayes was also ordered to pay restitution of $2,167,688 to victims of the offense. This followed Hayes’s guilty plea on November 18, 2025 to one count of conspiracy to receive stolen property. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Hayes was part of a commercial burglary ring that committed at least 18 burglaries in multiple states between March 2024 and November of 2024, including in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. On several dates, Hayes and his co-conspirators targeted consignment shops, broke in using sledgehammers and other objects in the middle of the night, destroyed windows, doors, and other property in the shops, stole dozens of designer handbags and other items from each shop, and transported the stolen goods across state lines where they were sold or otherwise disposed of. Hayes and his co-conspirators burglarized some of the consignment shops on more than one occasion. As a result, the consignment shop victims collectively lost more than $2 million in valuable property. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited officers of Homeland Security Investigations-Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked the New Jersey State Police, Delaware State Police, Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Philadelphia Police Department, Prince George’s County Police Department, Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Cape May Police Department, Cherry Hill Police Department, Colts Neck Police Department, Englewood Police Department, Guilderland Police Department, Haddonfield Police Department, Livingston Police Department, Manalapan Police Department, Margate Police Department, Millburn Police Department, Montclair Police Department, North Castle Police Department, Roxbury Police Department, Saratoga Springs Police Department, Springfield Police Department, Tenafly Police Department, Warren Police Department, and Watchung Police Department for their assistance. Anyone who believes they may be a victim, or has information about the theft group or burglaries, is asked to call 1-866-DHS-2-ICE, or call a local field office. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly M. Lyons of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark. ### Defense counsel: Bruce S. Rosen, Esq., Hackensack, New Jersey.


title: Hunterdon County Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Videos and Images of Child Sexual Abuse

body_text: TRENTON, N.J. – A Hunterdon County man admitted to possessing videos and images of child sexual abuse, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced. David Tuytjens, 70, of Tewksbury Township, New Jersey, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp in Trenton federal court to a one-count Indictment charging him with possession of child pornography. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: In December 2024, officers from the New Jersey State Parole Board visited Tuytjens’ residence and discovered various electronic devices, including a 64 gigabyte MicroSD storage card. Officers conducted their visit because Tuytjens is prohibited from possessing, among other things, Internet-capable devices as an individual under Community Supervision for Life due to a prior State conviction for aggravated sexual assault. The storage card contained at least 800 images and 30 video files containing child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). The CSAM included images depicting prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, images portraying sadistic or masochistic conduct, and sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler. Due to Tuytjens’ prior convictions, including a federal conviction for possession of child pornography, the charge of possession of child pornography carries a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. The charge also carries with it a maximum $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for January 12, 2027. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited special agents of the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in the Newark Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy in Newark, the U.S. Probation Office, District of New Jersey, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Joseph A. DaGrossa, the New Jersey State Parole Board, under the direction of Chairman Samuel J. Plumeri, Jr., and the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Renée M. Robeson, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea. 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 Justice.gov/PSC . The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Garelick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton. ### Defense counsel: Carlos Diaz-Cobo, Esq. tuytjens.indictment.pdf


title: Chinese Manufacturing Subsidiary Settles Paycheck Protection Program Loan Fraud Allegations for Over $5 Million

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A South Carolina corporation entered into a settlement agreement with the United States resolving allegations that the company violated the False Claims Act by applying for and receiving a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for which the company was not eligible, U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced today. According to the contentions of the United States in the settlement agreement: China Jushi USA Corp. (China Jushi USA) is a South Carolina corporation with a place of business in Columbia, South Carolina. China Jushi USA is a subsidiary of China Jushi Corp., a Chinese company that manufactures and sells fiberglass products. During the period of July 27, 2020 to June 21, 2021, China Jushi USA applied for and received a PPP loan and loan forgiveness totaling $3,590,007 (including interest). The United States contends that China Jushi USA falsely certified eligibility to receive this first-draw PPP loan and loan forgiveness totaling $3,590,007 (including interest). The United States contends that China Jushi USA knowingly made false statements, or caused false statements to be made, when it certified in its PPP loan application that it was eligible for a PPP loan. At the time of its loan application, China Jushi USA was not eligible to participate in the PPP because, inclusive of affiliates’ employees, China Jushi USA exceeded applicable size standards. In addition, because of China Jushi USA’s false statements on its loan application, the United States paid $35,581 in lender processing fees associated with the first-draw loan for which China Jushi USA was ineligible. In accordance with the terms of the settlement agreement, China Jushi USA paid the United States $5,075,823. The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties, called relators, to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the government’s recovery. In this matter, the relator is receiving $507,582 as the share in the recovery. U.S. Attorney Frazer credited the Small Business Administration (SBA)’s Office of General Counsel for their assistance in this matter. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan J. Pappy of the Health Care Fraud and Opioids Enforcement Unit in Newark, with assistance from Trial Attorney Denise Grugan of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . The qui tam case is captioned US ex rel. Aidan Forsyth v. China Jushi USA Corp., 24-cv-09959 (D.N.J.). The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. ### Counsel for China Jushi USA Corp.: John J. Pease III, Esq., Steven Strauss, Esq., Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP. Relator’s counsel: Eric H. Jaso, Esq., Spiro, Harrison & Nelson LLP. chinajushiusa.agreement.pdf


title: Two Men Plead Guilty for Roles in Drug Trafficking Operation

body_text: CONCORD – Two individuals pleaded guilty in federal court today for their participation in a drug trafficking organization that brought cocaine and fentanyl into New Hampshire, United States Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Jose Cordero Ortiz, 40, of Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts pleaded guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Drug. He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 9, 2026. Jhonattan A. Jimemenz, 39, of Boston, Massachusetts pleaded guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Drug. He is scheduled to be sentenced on November 12, 2026. The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. 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. According to documents and statements made in court, the leader of the organization, Juan Ramon Soto Baez, 55, was sentenced on July 1, 2025 to 100 months in prison with 3 years of supervised release for his role in the drug trafficking operation. The organization was run like a business, operating “dispatch” telephone lines where customers could call in to order narcotics. Soto Baez, or a trusted member of the conspiracy working for him, would take customer orders on the phone, and then Soto Baez would either deliver the order himself or send a runner to conduct the drug sale at an arranged meeting location. In addition to Soto Baez, Ortiz, and Jimenez, more than 10 others have been convicted as part of this operation. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cesar Vega is prosecuting the case. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.


title: Milton Man Sentenced to More Than Eight Years in Prison for Role in Cross-State Drug Trafficking Conspiracy

body_text: CONCORD – A Milton man was sentenced in federal court to 100 months in prison with four years of supervised release for one count of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, in a case brought by New Hampshire’s Homeland Security Task Force. Jacob D. King, age 42, was sentenced by U.S District Court Judge Joseph Laplante yesterday. According to the charging documents and statements made in court, King purchased over $60,000 worth of methamphetamine and fentanyl from a Massachusetts-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) between November 2023 and December 2023. A New Hampshire state investigation led to a search warrant of King’s Milton residence in January of 2024 resulting in the seizure of a weapon, fentanyl, methamphetamine, other drugs, $8,000 cash and multiple cellphones. Investigators discovered messages that revealed King’s transactions with the Massachusetts-based DTO. Investigators learned that King travelled to Massachusetts, and that at least one member of the trafficking conspiracy appeared to visit King’s Milton home, to exchange cash for large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine. “Those like Mr. King who traffic in dangerous illicit drugs that bring grave harm to New Hampshire communities will face serious criminal consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan. “We will continue to work with federal and state law enforcement partners to disrupt these trafficking networks and put those who run their illegal operations behind bars.” “This sentence sends a clear message: anyone who traffics methamphetamine and fentanyl across state lines and profits from the harm they cause will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, New England Field Division. “These deadly drugs devastate families and communities, and DEA remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify, investigate and dismantle the criminal networks responsible for bringing these dangerous substances into our neighborhoods.” The Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. The Hudson Police Department, the Bedford Police Department, the Nashua Police Department, the Manchester Police Department, the Laconia Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, the Strafford County Sheriff’s Department, and Paralegal Specialist Hayley Orlando provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cesar Vega and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles V. DeJoie III prosecuted this case. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.


title: Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Large Quantities of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl in New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – A Massachusetts man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to a drug trafficking conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan announces. Roberto Ramon-Avalo, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, specifically methamphetamine and fentanyl. U.S. District Court Chief Judge Samantha D. Elliott scheduled Avalo’s sentencing for November 9, 2026. According to the court documents and statements made in court, beginning in early 2024, the DEA began an investigation into an unknown individual who was selling multiple-ounce quantities of methamphetamine in the Rochester, New Hampshire area. During the investigation, two DEA cooperating sources (or “CS”) communicated with another individual to purchase methamphetamine and fentanyl. Each time, Avalo traveled to New Hampshire to deliver the drugs at the agreed upon price. In December 2025, DEA obtained a search warrant for a suspected drug house in Boston that Avalo and another individual were using to conduct their drug trafficking activity. In the residence, DEA found items used to package and mix narcotics and approximately 5 pounds of methamphetamine and other controlled substances. After Avalo’s arrest, DEA found more controlled substances in a drug hide built into the dash of his car, including more than 200 grams of methamphetamine and more than 700 grams of fentanyl. The charge of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance carries a sentence of up to 20 years’ incarceration, not less than 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1,000,000. 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 Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this case. The Portsmouth Police Department, Somersworth Police Department, and the New Hampshire State Police provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew T. Hunter and Charles DeJoie are prosecuting the case. This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Hampshire comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, IRS, DEA, ATF, USMS, and DSS with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.


title: Macy, Nebraska Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Abusive Sexual Contact

body_text: United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Tyrece D. Thomas, 25, of Macy, Nebraska, was sentenced on July 30, 2026, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for one count of Abusive Sexual Contact. United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Thomas to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Thomas’s release from prison, he will begin a five-year term of supervised release. On June 8, 2020, while Victim 1 was walking home on the Omaha Nation Indian Reservation, an unknown male, later identified as Thomas, struck her in the head and took her cell phone. Thomas offered to return Victim 1’s cell phone if she had sex with him. When Victim 1 refused and attempted to walk away, Thomas struck Victim 1 again. Victim 1 fell to the ground and Thomas sexually assaulted her. Victim 1 did not know Thomas. Victim 1 went to the hospital after the assault and underwent a Sexual Assault Nurse Examination (SANE), during which a SANE nurse collected forensic evidence from Victim 1’s body. Victim 1’s SANE kit was sent to the FBI Laboratory. An FBI forensic scientist identified unknown, male DNA on swabs collected from Victim 1 during her SANE exam. The FBI submitted the male DNA to the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) but received no potential matches at the time. On October 4, 2024, the FBI Laboratory notified local FBI agents that a routine CODIS search yielded a possible DNA match between the male DNA collected from Victim 1 and a federal arrestee, Tyrece D. Thomas. The FBI obtained a search warrant and obtained a known sample of Thomas’s DNA. The FBI laboratory confirmed the male DNA collected during Victim 1’s SANE exam was, in fact, Tyrece D. Thomas’s DNA. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Omaha Nation Law Enforcement Services.


title: Flatwoods Woman Sentenced for Meth Trafficking Through U.S. Mail

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Braxton County woman was sentenced today for her role in a methamphetamine trafficking scheme that relied on the U.S. Mail to move large quantities of drugs into West Virginia, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced. Kelly Marie Myers, 56, was sentenced to 12 months in prison. According to court documents, the investigation began when U.S. Postal Inspection Service personnel in Charleston, West Virginia, intercepted a suspicious USPS Priority Mail parcel. Inspectors obtained a federal search warrant later that day and discovered approximately 890 grams of methamphetamine inside. The package had been mailed from Moreno Valley, California, and was addressed to “K. Myers” at a Flatwoods residence. Investigators removed the methamphetamine and made the parcel available for pickup at the Flatwoods Post Office. Postal Inspectors and local law enforcement kept watch as the parcel was retrieved, ultimately leading to Myers. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated. Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.


title: Man charged with wire fraud, aggravated identity theft in solar panel loan scheme

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: Dallas — A federal grand jury indicted a Dallas man July 31 for allegedly orchestrating a fraudulent scheme involving solar panel sales and illicitly obtaining homeowner loans announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould. Andres Jesus Linares‑Rea, 27, was charged in a four‑count indictment with two counts of wire fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft. According to the indictment, Linares‑Rea contracted with solar engineering, procurement and construction companies (“Solar EPC contractors”) that marketed and installed rooftop solar panels. He sold solar systems door‑to‑door and assisted customers in securing financing through a fintech lender. The indictment alleges that between September 2022 and December 2024, Linares‑Rea devised a scheme to fraudulently obtain loans in the names of unsuspecting homeowners. In several instances, he allegedly submitted loan applications and electronically signed loan agreements without the customers’ knowledge or consent and added co‑borrowers without their authorization. Linares‑Rea allegedly misled homeowners by falsely claiming the solar panels were “free” due to government subsidies or the homeowners’ financial status. In at least one case, he is accused of obtaining a loan for a solar panel installation despite the homeowner repeatedly stating he did not want solar panels. Once the fraudulent loans were funded, the lending company transferred loan proceeds to Solar EPC contractors, who then paid Linares‑Rea commissions inflated by these unauthorized transactions. The indictment lists specific interstate wire transfers made in support of the scheme, including a $71,754.79 transfer on November 19, 2023, to fund a loan allegedly obtained without Victim 1’s consent, and a $57,173.25 transfer on March 14, 2023, for a loan allegedly obtained without Victim 2’s consent. Linares‑Rea is also charged with two counts of aggravated identity theft for allegedly using Victim 1’s and Victim 2’s electronic signatures without lawful authority in connection with the wire fraud scheme. If convicted, Linares‑Rea faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each of the wire fraud counts and two years on each of the aggravated identity theft counts. The indictment also includes a notice of criminal forfeiture. The FBI Dallas Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marty Basu and Elise Aldendifer from the Fraud section are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Justice Served: Homeland Security Task Force Dismantles Mississippi Delta Drug Trafficking Organization

body_text: GREENVILLE, MS – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary announced that law enforcement agencies came together in the Northern District of Mississippi to bring down a drug trafficking organization. Multiple offenders were arrested, 25 pounds of methamphetamine was seized, along with over 4,000 pills containing fentanyl. U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary stated, “We live in a wonderful state and a wonderful country. Old fashioned patriotism should never be criticized. Normal love of country does not make one a zealous super-patriot, it makes one an American. Oh yea, and we still live with heroes in our midst. Law enforcement officers are engaged in a constant and primitive struggle to protect our communities and children. An aspect of this struggle concerns the scourge of drug trafficking organizations (DTOs). DTOs entice our children with the false promise of camaraderie and easy money. The result is destroyed lives and broken communities. The DEA, United States Marshal Service, and Grenada Police Department recently concluded a multi-year investigation into such a DTO, responsible for trafficking in fentanyl and methamphetamine, all while committing firearm crimes. State and federal officers engaged in the dangerous work of dismantling this organization, which involved the unfortunately familiar Vice Lord and Gangster Disciple gangs. The Marshals apprehended a fugitive in California. Our officers are heroes, and we as patriots applaud their dedication.” Chief United States District Court Judge, Honorable Debra M. Brown ordered the following: Chauncey Young was sentenced to 46 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl with an additional three years supervised release. Courasier Young was sentenced to 151 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine in addition to three years supervised release. Antonio Harley was sentenced to 18 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing fluorofentanyl in addition to three years supervised release. Jerrica Nahwooksy was sentenced to 21 months on the charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture of substance containing fentanyl in addition to three years supervised release. Aleatha Pullen was sentenced to 70 months on the charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture of substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine in addition to three years supervised release. Jesse Coleman was sentenced to 48 months on the charge of aiding and abetting the use of a communication facility in committing, causing and facilitating a felony in addition to one-year supervised release Johnathan Sanders was sentenced to 21 months on the charge of conspiracy to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine in addition to three years on supervised release. Kevin Golliday was sentenced to 44 months on the charge of aiding and abetting the use of communication facility in causing or facilitating the commission of a felony in addition to one year on supervised release. Marcus Jones was sentenced to 120 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in addition to five years of supervised release. James Pruitt was sentenced to 44 months on the charge of conspiracy to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and fentanyl in addition to three years of supervised release. Erik Love was sentenced to 92 months for the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine in addition to three years of supervised release. Christopher Caffey was sentenced to 200 months for the charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in addition to five years of supervised release. “Through the Homeland Security Task Force, law enforcement stood united to dismantle a dangerous drug network operating in the Mississippi Delta. Taking 25 pounds of methamphetamine and thousands of fentanyl pills off the streets saved lives. The DEA and our partners will not let armed gangs poison our communities; if you deal lethal drugs in Mississippi, we will find you and hold you accountable,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott. “The Mississippi Department of Public Safety is proud to stand alongside our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in our shared mission to protect the people of Mississippi," stated Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. "Public safety is strongest when agencies work together, share information, and coordinate resources to hold offenders accountable and prevent crime before it impacts our communities. We are grateful for the leadership at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the dedication of every partner committed to making our neighborhoods safer for the families we serve.” Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chad Doleac prosecuted the case. This operation and conviction 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 tin 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 Jackson comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ICE ERO, CBP, CBP OFO, CBP USBP, CBP AMO, CGIS, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS and with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.


title: Northern District of Indiana U.S. Attorney’s Office Supports Community Events During National Night Out

component: USAO - Indiana, Northern

body_text: HAMMOND, SOUTH BEND, FORT WAYNE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana supports and encourages community organizers, neighbors, and law enforcement partners to participate in National Night Out events on August 4, 2026, in each of the branches in Northwest Indiana, South Bend and Fort Wayne. “National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country. We are proud to support those leaders who are committed to helping make our communities a safer place to live, work, and play,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred. National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the United States Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization. “Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe,” said U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Below is a list of National Night Out Events happening today in the Northern District of Indiana all hosted by local participating law enforcement agencies. Scheduled Events: NATW’s National Night Out at the Pavilion Wolf Lake Memorial Park 2324 Calumet Ave. Hammond, IN 46320 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. CST St. Joseph County Police National Night Out Memorial Park 302 W Michigan St, New Carlisle, IN 46552 5:30 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. EST South Bend Police Department National Night Out 701 W. Sample Street, South Bend, IN 46601 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. EST Fort Wayne Police Department National Night Out Memorial Park 2301 Maumee Ave. Fort Wayne, IN 46803 5:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. For more information, visit https://natw.org/ .


title: Sioux City Woman Pleads Guilty to Meth Distribution Conspiracy

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: Kristie Williams, 36, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on August 4, 2026, in federal court in Sioux City. Williams pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, one count of distributing methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a protected location, and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a protected location. At the plea hearing, Williams admitted her involvement in a conspiracy from January 2025 through November 2025 that distributed more than three pounds of methamphetamine. On at least three occasions Williams distributed and helped another distribute a total of over 184 grams of pure methamphetamine to individuals cooperating with law enforcement. In October 2025, officers executed a search warrant at Williams’ residence and seized over 12 grams of pure methamphetamine. Williams intended to distribute some or all of this methamphetamine to other persons. These distributions occurred within 1,000 feet of Fairmount City Park and Cecillia City Park in Sioux City. Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Williams remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. She faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least eight years of supervised release following any imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 25-4063. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Felon Sent Back to Prison for Possessing a Gun

body_text: A convicted felon who illegally possessed a gun was sentenced yesterday to five years in federal prison. Miykael Jolliff, age 20, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 19, 2026, guilty plea to being a felon in possession of a firearm. At the guilty plea, Jolliff admitted he possessed a gun after being previously convicted of felony offenses. In 2025, Jolliff was convicted of intimidation with a dangerous weapon and possession with intent to deliver marijuana. Jolliff was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Jolliff was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. 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. Jolliff is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa C. Williams and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force. The task force is composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cedar Rapids Police Department. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 25-CR-0079.


title: Tallahassee Postal Employee Indicted for Theft of Mail

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Napeaches Shouetta Blair, 43, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of theft of mail by a postal employee. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges. Blair appeared in federal court for her arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for September 8, 2026, before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor in Tallahassee, Florida. Blair faces a maximum of five years’ imprisonment on each count. This case was jointly investigated by the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney Emma Schwan is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Jackson County Postal Employee Pleads Guilty to Delay or Destruction of Mail

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Stacy Michelle Braxton, 39, of Marianna, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of delay or destruction of mail. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our citizens must be able to rely upon the mail to be delivered quickly, securely, and efficiently, and this postal carrier’s reprehensible violation of the public trust placed in her to fulfill that duty deserves serious punishment. I applaud the excellent work of the USPS Inspector General to identify, investigate, and hold accountable this criminal behavior by a postal carrier.” Court documents reveal that the defendant was a rural mail carrier for the Greenwood Post Office in Jackson County, Florida. In February 2026, law enforcement recovered 498 pieces of mail from the defendant’s mail route that were discarded in a burn barrel in Marianna, Florida. The defendant admitted to investigators that she attempted to discard and burn the mail from her route rather than delivering the mail to the designated recipients. Braxton faces up to five years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for September 16, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker. The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Emma Schwan is prosecuting the case. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Missoula man pleads guilty to drug, gun charges following high-speed chase

body_text: MISSOULA – A Missoula man who trafficked significant amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Wynton Ryan Magee, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Magee faces a mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life in prison for the drug offense and a consecutive mandatory minimum of five years up to life in prison for the firearm. U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided and will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Oct. 30, 2026. Magee was detained pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents that Magee was traveling to Washington to buy fentanyl that he planned to sell in the Missoula area, and that he was doing it while armed. Law enforcement had learned from multiple sources that Magee was dealing methamphetamine and fentanyl, and that at one point he traded drugs for a handgun. In January 2026, agents learned Magee had rented a motel room for Patrick Allen, who was also dealing fentanyl in the Missoula area. Allen pleaded guilty to drugs and firearm charges earlier this year and was sentenced last week to 10 years in prison . In February 2026, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Magee’s hotel room and found scales, plastic baggies, and other items associated with drug distribution. Agents also found a handgun. Magee admitted to traveling to Washington to buy fentanyl powder that he distributed in the Missoula area. Two months later, Magee was returning to Montana from a drug run to Washington when law enforcement on I-90 attempted to pull him over. Rather than stop, Magee led officers on a high-speed chase through a Missoula neighborhood that ended when he crashed his car. In the vehicle, law enforcement found illicit drugs, needles, and other items indicative of drug trafficking. One of the occupants in the car confirmed Magee had purchased 2 ounces of fentanyl in Washington. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.


title: Man operating trafficking ring from California prison pleads guilty to drug charges

body_text: BILLINGS – An inmate who was running a drug ring from inside a California state prison admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Dion Andre Davis II, 39, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Davis faces 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine, at least five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Kathleen S. Lane presided and will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Dec. 2, 2026. Davis remained incarcerated pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents that Davis was head of a large-scale, multistate narcotics trafficking organization, which he operated from his prison cell using contraband mobile phones. Law enforcement learned in June 2023 that Christina Hill and Nathan Wilnau were selling illicit drugs in Billings. Hill was a local leader in the operation and was sending money to a source in California, who then sent packages of fentanyl and methamphetamine to Billings and to Cody, Wyoming. Hill was sentenced last month to 15 years in prison on drug possession and money laundering charges. Wilnau was sentenced in June to 11 years in prison on meth possession charges. During the investigation, law enforcement discovered images on Hill’s phone of FedEx receipts for packages mailed from California and pictures of large sums of cash corresponding to the dates on the FedEx receipts. Also found on Hill’s phone were images of text conversations with Davis where she ordered $72,500 worth of fentanyl and $96,000 worth of methamphetamine. A search warrant on Davis’s phones found messages to a handful of associates, including Hill, directing the distribution of drugs, which would be shipped or delivered to Wyoming and Montana. Davis demanded payments, discussed shipments, instructed his associates on how to evade law enforcement, and complained about drug debts. Davis’s contraband phones were confiscated in April 2024 and he was subsequently charged. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The DEA and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.


title: United States Attorney’s Office Joining Law Enforcement, Community Leaders and Residents for National Night Out Events

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania will join their law enforcement partners, neighbors, and communities for National Night Out Events in cities across the state. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions of people take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country. National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization. Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe. For more information, visit https://natw.org/. Below is a list of National Night Out Events that the U.S. Attorney’s Office will be attending, all hosted by local participating law enforcement agencies. Scheduled Events: Swatara Township Police Department National Night Out Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Vanatta Park Scranton Police Department National Night Out Against Crime Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Scranton High School Plains Township Police Department National Night Out Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Birchwood Park # # #