title: Homeland Security Task Force Investigation leads to eight-year sentence for leader of trafficking organization

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – The 32-year-old leader of a drug trafficking organization that preyed, in part, on those living unhoused in “The Jungle” and in the Seattle Chinatown International District was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to eight years in prison, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd. Daniel Ibarra Loera, an illegal alien, living in Kent, Washington, was identified as a leader of a drug trafficking ring in a wiretap investigation in 2024-2025. The wiretap revealed Ibarra Loera was selling pound quantities of cocaine and fentanyl as well. When law enforcement searched his residence in May 2025, they seized six firearms and ballistic vests that Ibarra Loera admits were used to protect his drug trafficking enterprise. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Tana Lin said, “You were the source of a significant amount of cocaine and fentanyl to some of the most vulnerable in our community. I hope you recognize that what you did contributed to the suffering of a lot of people.” “Driven by greed, this defendant trafficked both cocaine and fentanyl to some of the most vulnerable in our community while possessing firearms and after entering this country illegally,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd. “Our office only learned of his immigration status because he was caught trafficking large quantities of drugs. Now he appropriately faces a lengthy prison sentence and removal to Mexico.” According to records filed in the case, in 2023, after incidents of drug trafficking-related violence in and around homeless encampments in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District and the greenbelt adjacent to Interstate-5, commonly known as the “Jungle,” the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) and the Seattle Police Department (“SPD”) began a narcotics trafficking investigation into individuals distributing controlled substances in these areas. Ibarra Loera was identified as a source of supply of both cocaine and fentanyl for street level dealers. On May 29, 2025, law enforcement executed 16 search warrants in Federal Way, Vancouver, Everett, Pacific, Tukwila, Kent, Issaquah, Seattle, Woodlake California and Beaverton, Oregon. Investigators seized more than seven kilograms of cocaine, 18 kilograms of methamphetamine, more than 57,000 fentanyl pills, and 17 firearms. They also seized more than $353,000 in cash. Investigators searched Ibarra Loera’s home and a storage unit seizing guns, drugs and luxury cars that Ibarra Loera bought and sold to launder his drug proceeds. Investigators seized a 2023 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, a 2017 Cadillac CTS-V, a 2010 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and a 2018 Audi RS3 Quattro. On May 5, 2026, Ibarra Loera pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. “As a leader of this drug trafficking organization, Mr. Ibarra Loera supplied kilogram quantities of cocaine to distributors including, irresponsibly, to people he barely knew,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “Ultimately, the poison he supplied reached some of the most vulnerable members of the Seattle community. Mr. Ibarra Loera also possessed multiple firearms to protect the proceeds of the trafficking. The FBI and our partners will continue to combat drug trafficking and violent crime in Seattle and across the state of Washington.” “Mr. Ibarra Loera and his co-conspirators trafficked deadly drugs to some of Seattle’s most vulnerable living in homeless encampments in the Chinatown International District,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division, “DEA, along with our federal, state, and local partners, is working to stop those who profit from poisoning our community. Fentanyl Free America is DEA’s unwavering commitment to protect the United States from synthetic opioids by disrupting the fentanyl supply chain, reducing its availability, and saving American lives.” Asking for a nine-year prison sentence, Assistant United States Attorney Casey Conzatti told the court Ibarra Loera dealt “deadly, addictive and destructive substances… cocaine is one of the top three deadly substances.” The investigation was led by the FBI, Seattle Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with significant assistance from the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program (HIDTA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Washington National Guard Counterdrug Program. Investigators also worked with the Oregon State Police and Clark County, Washington Sheriff’s Office. This investigation 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 Seattle comprises agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), The United States Marshals Service (USMS), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the United States Secret Service (USSS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey Conzatti and Brian Wynne.


title: Illegal Alien from Mexico Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug, Immigration Charges

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: HARRISONBURG, Va. – An illegal alien from Mexico, who had been removed from the United States on at least two previous occasions before illegally reentering the country, pled guilty recently to distributing thousands of grams of methamphetamine and violating the immigration laws of the United States. Miguel Alberto Sandoval Arellano, 41, a citizen of Mexico living illegally in Marshall, Virginia, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possessing with the intent to distribute and distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and one count of reentering the United States after having previously been removed, with an aggravated felony conviction before removal. According to court documents, Arellano conspired with others to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in and around Clarke County from approximately 2024 and 2025. Specifically, Arellano made drug sales to confidential sources working with the Northwest Virginia Regional Drug and Gang Task Force. During multiple transactions, Arellano provided the confidential source with methamphetamine ranging in weight between 725 grams and 1,485 grams. In all, Arellano made at least five sales to the confidential source. As a result of these transactions, task force members obtained a search warrant for a farm property in Clarke County operated by Arellano. In a barn on the property, investigators located 4,631 grams of pure methamphetamine. A second search warrant was executed at Arellano’s home in Marshall, Virginia. Investigators recovered $15,495 in cash. Some of that cash was identified as being the same money given to the confidential source to be used to purchase drugs from Arellano. In addition, Arellano admitted he worked for an individual in Mexico who sent him methamphetamine to distribute. Arellano would then wire the proceeds back to Mexico at the individual’s direction. Further investigation revealed that in 2012, Arellano was federally convicted in the District of New Jersey for possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine. He ultimately served 37 months in federal prison. Following that sentence, and on at least two other occasions, Arellano was removed from the United States – once in 2013 and again in 2015. Following both removals, he unlawfully returned to the United States. First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci made the announcement. The case is being investigated by the Northwest Virginia Regional Drug and Gang Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration Winchester Resident Office. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Endres is prosecuting the case for the United States.


title: Memphis Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Smuggling Methamphetamine in Luggage at Memphis Airport

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Memphis, TN – Lonnie Moore, Jr., 38 , has been sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today. According to information presented in court, on August 22, 2025, Memphis Airport police officers intercepted luggage that belonged to Moore, who had just landed at the Memphis International Airport from Los Angeles, California. A police K9 indicated the luggage contained narcotics; therefore, officers seized the luggage. Police discovered that the luggage contained a large clear vacuumed-sealed bag containing 12 individual wrapped bags of a green leafy substance, which weighed a total of 13.10 lbs. This green leafy substance tested positive for marijuana. Additionally, there was another large clear vacuumed-sealed bag containing 2 individual wrapped bags of a hard crystal-like substance, which weighed a total of 9.10 lbs. This substance tested positive, and was later confirmed by a laboratory, for methamphetamine. On April 15, 2026, Moore pled guilty as charged. Moore has prior convictions in Mississippi for possession of cocaine and methamphetamine. On September 3, 2026, the Honorable United States District Judge Brian C. Lea sentenced Moore to 144 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of federal supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: “Drug smugglers who use domestic air travel to traffick meth threaten not only the critical infrastructure of the Memphis International Airport, but also the public safety of our citizens. The message is clear: our law enforcement partners will catch you, and we will convict and punish you for importing poison into West Tennessee.” “This case should serve as a warning to would-be drug traffickers everywhere… find a new line of work; the DEA and our law enforcement partners will find you and bring you to justice”, said DEA Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott. “Mr. Moore will serve a twelve-year prison sentence for his crimes, time that he could have spent as a productive member of society. Instead, he chose criminal behavior and the punishment that goes along with it.” This case was investigated by the Memphis International Airport Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant United States Attorney Greg Wagner prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States government. ### For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov . Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.


title: Dyer County Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Illegal Possession and Discharge of a Firearm

body_text: Jackson, TN – A federal judge has sentenced Timothy Adams, 55 , of Dyersburg, Tennessee, to 15 years in federal prison for unlawful possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today. According to information presented in court, on February 2, 2024, Dyer County deputies responded to a 9-1-1 hang up call. Upon arrival, they encountered Adams hiding behind a shed. It was determined through the investigation that Adams picked up a .38 revolver from the house and fired one round into the headboard near another occupant of the residence during a domestic violence incident. Officers confirmed the bullet hole in the headboard and recovered one spent shell casing from the .38 revolver. On January 22, 2025, Adams pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Due to his extensive prior criminal conviction history which includes prior violent and serious drug offenses, the Court determined that Adams qualified as an Armed Career Criminal (ACC) and was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under the Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA), resulting in enhanced mandatory minimum sentencing penalties. On August 19, 2026, United States District Judge J. Daniel Breen sentenced Adams to 180 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, “Adams’ prior conviction history demonstrates his disrespect for the law, and his lifestyle of lawlessness has finally caught up with him. He has devoted most of his life to repeated criminal conduct, and now the federal system will do what should have been done a long time ago – impose a real consequence that will prevent him from victimizing anyone else for years to come." United States Attorney Dunavant thanked Assistant United States Attorney Hillary Parham, who prosecuted this case in conjunction with Assistant District Attorney General Andrew Hays, of the Tennessee District Attorney’s Office for the 29 th Judicial District, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. ### For more information, please contact our Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov . Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.


title: West Mifflin Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Firearm Violations

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of drug trafficking and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Tyree Saunders, 21, pleaded guilty to three counts before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy. In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that that an undercover officer made a purchase of various controlled substances, including crack cocaine, directly from the defendant. Based on that and other information, the Federal Bureau of Investigation obtained authority to intercept Saunders’ communications, which revealed that Saunders was regularly selling crack cocaine and used a firearm to threaten a co-conspirator. The investigators obtained a warrant to search the defendant’s home, where authorities found crack cocaine and a firearm. Judge Hardy scheduled sentencing for January 13, 2027. The law provides for a total maximum sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $2,250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Saunders.


title: Sharon Resident Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Trafficking and Firearm Charges

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Sharon, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating narcotics and firearm laws, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Jiemaliahl Cleveland, 27, pleaded guilty to two counts before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on December 23, 2025, Cleveland possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl and also possessed a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for January 6, 2027. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $1,250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States. The Mercer County Drug Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Cleveland.


title: Two Pittsford men plead guilty for their roles in stolen cooking oil scheme

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Guodeng Chen, and Didi Huang, both of Pittsford, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr to transportation of stolen goods in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. On April 8, 2022, Chen and Huang caused 45,000 pounds of stolen, used cooking oil to be shipped from the Western District of New York to a refinery located in Erie, Pennsylvania. Chen and Huang received $29,433.60 for this shipment. On April 28, 2022, Chen and Huang caused another 45,000 pounds of stolen used cooking oil to be shipped from the Western District of New York to a refinery located in Erie, Pennsylvania. Chen and Huang received $30,618.00 for this shipment. The defendants knew there was a high probability that the cooking oil was stolen. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Anthony Patrone, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, and the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Anthony Licari, Special Agent-In-Charge, Midwestern Region. Sentencing for defendant Chen is scheduled on December 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. and sentencing for defendant Huang is scheduled for December 15, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., both before Judge Geraci. # # # #


title: Convicted felon pleads guilty to drug and gun charges

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Martino Carter, 39, of Sloan, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession with intent to distribute marijuana and being felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, which carry a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. On June 5, 2025, the Buffalo Police Department, ATF and FBI executed a search warrant at Carter’s Jackson Avenue residence in Sloan, during which they seized two loaded pistols and approximately 25 pounds of suspected marijuana. Carter was convicted of felony charges in January 2010, in Erie County Court, and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt I. Kass. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Police Commissioner Erika Shields, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan DiGirolamo, and the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Allen D. Davis, II. Sentencing is scheduled for January 19, 2027, before Judge Vilardo. # # # #


title: Buffalo man going to prison for his role in narcotics conspiracy

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Bryan Gutierrez, 27, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of narcotics conspiracy, was sentenced to serve 80 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. Between December 2024 and April 2025, Gutierrez conspired with co-defendant Antonio Rivera-Perez and others to sell fentanyl. In February, March, and April of 2025, investigators conducted controlled purchases of fentanyl from Gutierrez. On April 22, 2025, a search warrant was executed at the Langfield Drive residence of co-defendant Rivera-Perez, during which law enforcement seized approximately 1,072 grams of powder cocaine, 198 grams of crack cocaine, and 190 grams of fentanyl, a firearm, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and approximately $3,500 in cash. Antonio Rivera-Perez was previously convicted and sentenced to serve 60 months in prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett Fitzsimmons and Katerina Powers. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam, New York Field Division. # # # #


title: Armed Drug Distributor Sentenced to 141 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – An armed drug distributor who sold methamphetamine and fentanyl in Catawba County was sentenced to 141 months in prison yesterday, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Steven Tyler Philbeck, 35, was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release. According to court documents and the sentencing hearing, in January 2025, law enforcement began conducting an investigation into Philbeck for distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl in Catawba County. Between January and February 2025, an individual cooperating with law enforcement purchased fentanyl and methamphetamine from Philbeck on multiple occasions. Most of the drug buys took place at or near a hotel in Hickory, North Carolina, and during most of those encounters Philbeck was armed. On February 26, 2025, law enforcement conducted surveillance at a hotel where Philbeck was staying and observed him carrying bags from a hotel room to his vehicle. Philbeck then traveled to a storage unit in Hickory. Law enforcement made contact with Philbeck and searched his vehicle, where they found 43 grams of methamphetamine, a Glock pistol, a magazine loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition, and a 12-gauge shotgun. Philbeck also had more than $9,350 in cash. From Philbeck’s storage unit and hotel room, law enforcement seized a loaded Glock firearm, large amounts of drug paraphernalia, small bags commonly used to package narcotics for distribution, and small bags containing methamphetamine and fentanyl. In July 2025, Philbeck pleaded guilty to distributing methamphetamine. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation to a federal facility. This investigation was led by the Hickory Police Department as part of the Catawba Valley Crime Task Force . Assistant U.S. Attorney Erik Lindahl of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.


title: Columbia Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Firearm Offense

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Columbia, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction. Semaj Reshod Clark, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to 120 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Clark had previously pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, admitting that he possessed a Taurus, model G3, 9 mm semi-automatic handgun in Boone County on Aug. 10, 2025. According to government filings, Clark was found in possession of the firearm after an individual called law enforcement, reporting that Clark was at the individual’s home and was refusing to leave. When officers arrived, Clark fled on foot before being located and arrested with a loaded firearm in his pocket. Clark has prior felony convictions and was not permitted to possess a firearm. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Kummerer. It was investigated by the Columbia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.


title: Columbia Business Owner Sentenced for Fraud Scheme

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Rocheport, Mo., woman who founded and operated Moresource, Inc. in Columbia, Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for wire fraud and failure to collect or pay over taxes. Kathryn L. Cunningham, 66, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to two concurrent sentences of 18 months’ imprisonment. Cunningham had previously pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, and one count of failure to collect or pay over taxes. Her sentence on these two counts will be followed by three years of supervised release, and includes a $200 special assessment, as well as order of restitution in an amount to be determined by the court. According to the plea agreement filed in the case, Cunningham’s company, Moresource, contracted with clients to calculate and disburse payroll and income taxes for the clients’ employees. Moresource would collect funds from its clients for payroll and related expenses and maintain them in an account. Moresource was also responsible for generating related tax forms for its clients. Because this payroll account functioned like an escrow account, collecting money from clients before they were due, the account should never have been in a shortage. By January 2020, however, Moresource owed approximately $1.377 million in payroll taxes on behalf of its clients, despite having less than $400,000 in funds available in its payroll account. Ultimately, investigation revealed that Cunningham had taken funds from Moresource’s operating account and used the funds for personal expenses, had borrowed money from at least two lenders to cover shortfalls and had paid for these loans through Moresource account funds, and had obtained an SBA-guaranteed loan and an SBA line of credit to fund Moresource’s operations and payroll account. Cunningham had also requested that clients make early payments of payroll deposits in order to replace funds that she had embezzled, blaming the shortage on another client’s cash flow issues. Meanwhile, Cunningham had also stopped filing timely and accurate IRS Forms 941 and stopped making regular payments to the IRS for employment taxes owed by the clients. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Kummerer. It was investigated by the FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigations.


title: Butler, Missouri Bank Vice President and Former Pastor Pleads Guilty to Financial Fraud Involving an Alleged Cattle-Buying Scheme

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Butler, Mo., man has pleaded guilty to fraud charges. Craig Johnson, 45, of Butler, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr. to multiple federal charges. This plea is one of many federal fraud cases pursued under the leadership of President Donald Trump and through the establishment of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. According to information presented in court, Johnson was hired at Community First Bank in 2022 as a Vice President and Loan Officer. While Johnson was employed with Community First Bank, Johnson was also a pastor with a church in El Dorado Springs, Mo. until he was removed in 2025. Beginning in at least 2024, Johnson began to request “investments” from various individuals for the purpose of buying cattle which would be later sold for profit. The deal varied from person to person but involved Johnson purchasing cattle and selling the cattle for a profit within a short time frame. Johnson told individuals he needed help investing and requested they pay him funds. Johnson worked with some of the “investors” to take out a loan at Community First Bank through Johnson and give the proceeds to Johnson. Johnson did not tell anyone at Community First Bank that he was benefiting from the loan proceeds. Johnson did not use the funds to purchase cattle but instead deposited the funds in an investment account where he repeatedly traded in small-capitalization and micro-cap securities ultimately losing all the funds. Johnson served as loan officer for approximately 29 loans and lines of credit at Community First Bank totaling approximately $4,476,156.22. After receiving the victims’ funds, Johnson did not use the funds for proposed cattle sales. Instead, he used the victims’ funds to invest in high-risk stocks via his personal investment account. To further and conceal his scheme, Johnson used some of the victim’s funds to pay earlier investors in the scheme. At various times between April 2024 and until Johnson’s termination in February 2026, Johnson used his position as a loan officer and/or his status in the community to defraud individuals and a financial institution of at least $9,395,882.22. Johnson used his position at Community First Bank to obtain loans using the identity of other people. In February 2026, at least three loans were created in various individuals’ names where they were not aware of or approved by these people. The three loans were created to pay off other loans Johnson created in the name of another person. On Aug. 5, 2024, Johnson completed an application for a loan for $1,447,000 through a financial institution in Jefferson City, Mo. The purpose of the loan was to purchase cow and calf pairs and refinance two loans. On Aug. 13, 2024, the loan was approved for $1,447,150. Of the loan proceeds, $46,809.93 was used to pay off a loan at a bank. $198,714.46 was used to pay off another loan at a bank and $1,201,475.61 was provided in a check to Johnson and was supposed to be used to purchase 400 head of cattle. On Aug. 14, 2024, the loan proceeds ($1,201,475.61) were deposited into a bank account. After the funds were deposited, there was not a large purchase of cattle as agreed upon in the loan. The funds instead were used to repay investors and for personal use. On Aug. 7, 2025, Johnson completed an application for another loan for $1,500,000 through another financial institution. The purpose of the loan was to purchase 550 cow and calf pairs. On Aug. 13, 2025, the loan proceeds ($1,500,000) were deposited into Johnson’s account. Between Aug. 15, 2025, and Aug. 19, 2025, Johnson transferred $1,450,000 into his investment account. On Aug. 19, 2025, Johnson completed an application for a third loan for $900,000. The purpose of the of the loan was to purchase 300 cow and calf pairs. The loan was approved for $900,150. The loan proceeds ($900,000) were deposited into Johnson’s bank account. Johnson transferred $900,000 into his personal investment account. After receiving the loan proceeds for the second and third loans, Johnson provided a bill of sale dated Aug. 30, 2025, to a financial institution. The bill of sale appeared to show that Johnson purchased 850 cow and calf pairs for $2,825,000 from a livestock company in Evanston, Utah. The company did not sell 850 cow and calf pairs to Johnson in August 2025. The owner of the company stated the name on the bill of sale appeared to be his, but the signature was not. Johnson did not use the combined funds from the three loans ($3,601,475.61) to purchase cattle as stated on the loan documentation but instead transferred the funds to his personal investment account and to make payments to previous victims who believed Johnson made good on their cattle deals. Under federal statutes, Johnson is subject to the following sentences: Wire Fraud - up to 20 years in federal prison without parole Bank Fraud - up to 30 years in federal prison without parole Aggravated Identity Theft – a mandatory sentence of two years in federal prison consecutive to any other sentence False Statement to a Financial Institution - up to 30 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. National Fraud Enforcement Division On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.


title: Arizona Man Charged with Enticing and Transporting a Minor to Kentucky to Engage in Illegal Sexual Conduct

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Arizona., man was indicted by a federal grand jury with charges related to enticement of a minor. Dustin A. Hill, 22, of Florence, Ariz., was charged with attempted enticement of a minor, travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, transportation of a minor to engage in sexual activity, and transfer of obscene material to a minor. Hill had his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo. The indictment alleges that between September 6 and Sept. 20, 2025, Hill, using a means of interstate commerce, attempted to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. Hill traveled from the State of Arizona to the state of Missouri and then transported the minor from Missouri to the state of Kentucky with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. The indictment further alleges that Hill transferred obscene materials to the minor. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. It was investigated by Atchison, Missouri Sheriff’s Department, the Evansville, Indiana Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."


title: Former Marine and New Iberia Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Terrorism Conspiracy

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: LAFAYETTE – On September 8, 2026, Micah James Legnon , 29, of New Iberia, pled guilty in federal court to Conspiracy to Provide Material Support to Terrorists, in violation of Title 18, Section 2339A(a)(1) of the United States Code. His sentencing and the plea agreement’s formal acceptance before United States District Court Judge David C. Joseph is scheduled for December 11, 2026, at 2pm. “Today’s guilty plea reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s actions and our Office’s commitment to stopping terroristic threats in their tracks—before they can cause harm,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We are committed to protecting Louisiana citizens from these dangerous actors, and, along with our state and federal law enforcement partners, will hold accountable those who support vicious acts of terrorism and endanger innocent lives.” “As we know in Louisiana from terrible experience, the threat from home-grown terrorists is real,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) New Orleans Field Office. “The FBI is extremely grateful for the quick and decisive actions of our partners at the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office to interdict this threat and to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its determination and resolve to prosecute this case. FBI New Orleans is working closely every day with our partners here in Louisiana and across the world to keep the people of this state free from terrorist violence.” According to court documents, Legnon is a former U.S. Marine and former New Iberia police officer. In early 2025, Legnon joined the “Order of the Black Lotus,” a faction of the Turtle Island Liberation Front. Court filings describe the group as a radical, anti-government faction that used encrypted messaging to coordinate plans for explosive attacks. Members also discussed ways to build improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and use them in a specific, planned attack on a logistics facility in California. Digital communication records showed that Legnon joined the group with full understanding of its purpose and agreed to use his military tactical experience to advance the planned attack. Throughout 2025, he talked with members about making IEDs and saved a photo of an explosive device with instructions on his phone. Legnon also offered to train others in urban tactics, target accuracy, and combat shooting. To this end, he downloaded and stored extensive combat-related guides, including material related to close-range combat, land navigation, patrolling, ambush tactics, and demolition. Legnon was further found to have kept assault rifles, SWAT and sniper training manuals, and other combat-related items at his home. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. The case was investigated by the FBI with valuable assistance from the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Nickel, with assistance from Executive Assistant Joanne-Henry Mills and Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon. This case is part of the nationwide National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 initiative, which is a White House-directed, interagency effort to integrate federal, state, and local partners in protecting First Amendment rights while targeting individuals and organizations engaged in political violence and is led by the investigative and prosecutorial Joint Task Force Vanguard. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26-CR-00198. ### CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla X: @USAO_WDLA Facebook: USAO_WDLA Cara Alexander: (337) 262-6704


title: U.S. Virgin Islands Man Sentenced For Making Interstate Threats and Stalking

component: USAO - Vermont

body_text: RUTLAND – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on September 8, 2026, Todd Hoyte, 55, of Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 36 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Judge Lanthier scheduled a hearing on December 3, 2026, to determine any restitution that Hoyte owes as part of his sentence. Previously, Hoyte pleaded guilty to making interstate threats and cyberstalking. According to court records, between July 29, 2024, and September 25, 2024, in a campaign of harassment, intimidation, and threats, Hoyte, while living in the U.S. Virgin Islands, placed more than 10 cellphone calls to Vermont, during which he left voicemails for Grand Isle County State’s Attorney Douglas DiSabito. These voicemails included a threat on DiSabito’s life as well as insults, slurs, and derogatory language against DiSabito. At the time, DiSabito was prosecuting Hoyte for a criminal offense. In pleading guilty, Hoyte admitted that he made communications to harass and intimidate DiSabito as well as for the purpose of issuing a threat and with knowledge that the communications would be viewed as a threat to DiSabito. First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the investigatory efforts of the FBI and thanked the U.S. Marshals Service for their assistance. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Hoyte was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.


title: U.S. Attorney Moore Capito Commends Law Enforcement Partners After 59 Arrested During “Operation Coal Country”

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: *** Video of the press conference is available on the YouTube channel of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYa0R7zLolo . *** CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Moore Capito joined with U.S. Marshal Jack Chambers, West Virginia State Police Colonel James Mitchell, and other law enforcement partners today to announce the success of “Operation Coal Country.” The multi-week enforcement initiative targeted noncompliant sex offenders, individuals wanted for sex crimes, violent fugitives, and other wanted individuals throughout the Southern District of West Virginia. The 59 individuals arrested during the operation, which began August 13, 2026, and concluded last week, include 16 convicted sex offenders wanted on registration violations and 10 individuals charged with new sex offenses. The West Virginia State Police conducted over 380 compliance checks of registered sex offenders as part of Operation Coal Country. “Each arrest resulting from these targeted enforcement operations protects our communities and makes them safer,” said United States Attorney Moore Capito. “The success of this operation continues the momentum we’ve created through dedicated, collaborative, and aggressive efforts with our law enforcement partners.” Those arrested during Operation Coal Country include Clinton G. McNeely, 31, of Lyburn. A federal grand jury indicted McNeely on August 18, 2026, on three counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, two counts of receipt or attempted receipt of child pornography, one count of possession of child pornography, and one count of production of obscene material. McNeely was arrested on August 20, 2026. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Two convicted sex offenders were indicted as part of Operation Coal Country after allegedly violating the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). Part of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006, SORNA provides a comprehensive set of minimum standards for sex offender registration and notification in the United States. SORNA seeks to strengthen the nationwide network of sex offender registration and notification programs, in part by requiring registered sex offenders to register and keep their registration current in each jurisdiction in which they reside, work, or go to school. Among the other individuals arrested during Operation Coal Country, five face federal drug charges, three allegedly violated federal supervised release, and two allegedly violated terms of their federal pretrial release. Operation Coal Country focused heavily on sex offender compliance and fugitive apprehension throughout the West Virginia State Police Troop 5 area of Boone, Cabell, Lincoln, Logan, Mingo, and Wayne counties. Several of those arrested face charges in additional counties within the Southern District of West Virginia. Those arrested also include a fugitive wanted for murder in Florida who was captured in Dunbar, and a suspect in the sexual abuse of a female juvenile family member in Parkersburg who was arrested in Arizona. Participating law enforcement also found a missing child after an alleged parental abduction in Wood County. The operation brought together federal, state, and local law enforcement resources in a coordinated effort to locate and apprehend fugitives while also conducting enforcement activities involving registered sex offenders. Investigators worked to identify registered sex offenders who were not complying with state and federal registration requirements and to locate individuals wanted for crimes involving sexual offenses. Officers also seized 75.1 grams of fentanyl, 1.54 kilograms of methamphetamine, 33.3 grams of cocaine, approximately $6,000, one firearm, and assorted ammunition. “The success of Operation Coal Country demonstrates what can be accomplished when federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies combine their resources toward a common mission,” said U.S. Marshal Jack Chambers. “Fifty-nine arrests over the course of this operation means 59 wanted individuals were located and taken into custody. More importantly, this operation placed a significant emphasis on protecting our communities from individuals who have committed sex offenses or failed to comply with their registration requirements. The U.S. Marshals Service and West Virginia State Police will continue working together to investigate noncompliant sex offenders and apprehend dangerous fugitives throughout southern West Virginia.” “When law enforcement works together, criminals have fewer places to hide,” said Colonel James Mitchell, superintendent of the West Virginia State Police. “Operation Coal Country shows the power of a coordinated, proactive approach to protecting our communities and holding offenders accountable. The West Virginia State Police is proud to stand with the U.S. Marshals Service and our law enforcement partners in doing everything we can to keep the people of West Virginia safe.” The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Southern District of West Virginia Cops United Felony Fugitive Enforcement Division (CUFFED) Task Force and the West Virginia State Police (WVSP) led Operation Coal Country in partnership with numerous other law enforcement organizations: U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) WVSP Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force WVSP Sex Offender Registry West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Parole Services Fayette County Sheriff’s Office Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office Logan County Sheriff’s Office Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Putnam County Sheriff’s Office Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office Barboursville Police Department Beckley Police Department Fayetteville Police Department Huntington Police Department Kenova Police Department Lewisburg Police Department Parkersburg Police Department Princeton Police Department St. Albans Police Department South Charleston Police Department USMS Florida/Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force USMS Arizona WANTED Violent Offender Task Force A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. ###


title: Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun Crime

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Alphonso LeSean Johnson, 36, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty today to possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 8, 2025, Johnson possessed a Taurus model G3C 9mm pistol in Parkersburg. Federal law prohibits a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Johnson knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior convictions for domestic violence against a female victim who had cohabitated with and who was similarly situated as a spouse in Marietta, Ohio, Municipal Court on February 20, 2019, and for infliction of injury on a parent or child against K.D., with whom he shared a child in common, in Superior Court of California, County of Sacramento, on March 16, 2010. Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced on December 7, 2026, and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Wood County Sheriff's Office, and the Parkersburg Police Department. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys D. Keith Randolph and JC MacCallum are prosecuting the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:26-cr-58. ###


title: Kanawha County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug Crime

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Jason Anthony Barrett, 47, of South Charleston, was sentenced today to eight years and four months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine and quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and cocaine base, also known as “crack.” According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 27, 2025, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Barrett’s South Charleston residence and seized 432.5 grams of methamphetamine, 25.2 grams of cocaine, 11.4 grams of crack, and 13.68 grams of fentanyl. As part of his guilty plea, Barrett admitted that he possessed the seized controlled substances and intended to distribute them to others. Barrett further admitted that he sold 55.73 grams of methamphetamine on May 8, 2025, and 2.82 grams of fentanyl and 3.34 grams of crack on May 19, 2025, that both transactions occurred at his residence, and that he sold the controlled substances to a confidential informant. Barrett has a criminal history that includes four prior convictions for domestic battery and prior convictions for possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance-cocaine and attempted escape. Barrett is among more than a dozen individuals indicted by a federal grand jury following an investigation of drug trafficking in the Charleston area. Nine defendants pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy that distributed fentanyl and methamphetamine between June 2024 and May 2025. Barrett is among five defendants who pleaded guilty in separate cases that resulted from the same federal investigation. United States Attorney Moore Capito made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), and the Charleston Police Department. MDENT is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department, and the South Charleston Police Department. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America , a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-189. ###


title: Second cocaine trafficker receives prison sentence in Homeland Security Task Force investigation

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 29-year-old woman has been sentenced for possession with intent to deliver cocaine. Laura Janette Gonzalez pleaded guilty Sept. 21, 2025. U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered Gonzalez to serve 25 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. The investigation began in early 2024 when authorities identified Edgar Alejandro Villarreal, a/k/a Fresa, as a large-scale cocaine trafficker coordinating the smuggling, transportation, and distribution of multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine from Mexico into the United States. During surveillance operations April 16, 2024, law enforcement observed Gonzalez and others arrive at a Weslaco parking lot in a Chevrolet Equinox to deliver narcotics. After spotting authorities, they fled. Authorities conducted a traffic stop resulted in the discovery of a gift-wrapped box containing approximately 8.8 kilograms of cocaine. The investigation revealed Villarreal and Edith Gonzalez, Laura Janette Gonzalez’s sister, coordinated the shipment that Laura Janette Gonzalez was to deliver. Both Villarreal, 38, Brownsville, and Edith Gonzalez, 45, Donna, pleaded guilty. Edith Gonzalez received a 78-month-term, while Villarreal is scheduled to be sentenced Oct 21. Laura Gonzalez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. This operation 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 U.S. law enforcement toward 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 South Texas/Houston comprises agents and officers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations; FBI; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; U.S. Marshals Service; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Department of Transportation; IRS Criminal Investigation; Interpol/Department of State; and Naval Criminal Investigative Service with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas leading the prosecution. Brownsville Police Department also assisted in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Oscar Ponce prosecuted the case.


title: Immigration attorney arrested in alleged fraud scheme

body_text: HOUSTON – A 44-year-old Houston woman has been charged with mail fraud and false statements in relation to her job as an immigration attorney. Authorities have now taken Alla Nowowiejski into custody. She made her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard Bennett at 2 p.m. today. According to the indictment, Nowowiejski accepted payments from clients to assist them with establishing or adjusting their work status and applying for work visas. However, she allegedly never submitted the applications or only submitted them in part. The indictment further alleges Nowowiejski provided clients with false documents or reference numbers associated with active immigration cases unrelated to her clients. She allegedly used the documents and reference number to make the clients believe immigration authorities were processing their applications. If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in federal prison, and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. The Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Service – OIG conducted the investigation with assistance of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service and the Harris County Constable’s Office - Precinct 1. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Carter is prosecuting the case. The Department of Justice has created the National Fraud Enforcement Division . The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste and abuse within federal benefit programs. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: Two Individuals Charged In Multimillion-Dollar Mortgage Modification Scheme

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., announced today an Indictment charging ARMANDO SOLIS BARRON, a/k/a “Solomon,” and DOMINIC AHIGA, a/k/a “Michael Grinnell,” a/k/a “Josh Weinstein,” with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud for their scheme to defraud clients of their mortgage modification business of millions of dollars in fees. BARRON and AHIGA were previously arrested and presented in the Central District of California and are expected to be arraigned on the Indictment this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew E. Krause. “This Office is committed to rooting out fraud in all of its forms, and we will work tirelessly to prosecute frauds targeting vulnerable victims,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “Armando Solis Barron and Dominic Ahiga allegedly preyed upon financially struggling homeowners who got behind on their mortgages by charging them monthly fees and leading them to believe much of their past-due balances would be forgiven, causing a number of those customers’ homes to go into foreclosure.” “Armando Solis Barron and Dominic Ahiga’s alleged fraud scheme involved taking money from people who sought assistance with their mortgages,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr. “This scheme hurt hundreds of vulnerable people financially. The FBI will continue to prioritize complex financial fraud investigations to protect the public from anyone who takes advantage of consumers.” According to the Indictment:(1) From at least in or about June 2018 through at least in or about September 2022, in the Southern District of New York and elsewhere, BARRON and AHIGA, together with others, defrauded clients of their mortgage modification business and the clients’ mortgage lenders. BARRON, AHIGA, and others operated their mortgage modification business under different names, including Green Equitable Solutions, d/b/a Academy Home Services; South West Consulting Enterprises, Inc. d/b/a Home Matters USA; Apex Consulting & Associates Inc., d/b/a Golden Home Services America; and Infocom Entertainment Ltd., d/b/a Atlantic Pacific Service (collectively, the “Company”). BARRON, AHIGA, and others solicited homeowners who were struggling to make monthly payments on their mortgages and promised to have the homeowners’ interest rates and monthly payments reduced in exchange for monthly fees. BARRON, AHIGA, and others induced the Company’s clients to accept their services and to continue to pay the monthly fees by lying about, among other matters, the amount of time that the mortgage modification process would take and the nature of the fees that the clients were paying for mortgage modification services. The defendants and others also directed clients to stop making monthly mortgage payments to their lenders and to pay the Company monthly fees instead. The conspirators falsely told clients that their lenders would forgive their arrearages and, in many instances, that part of their monthly payments to the Company would go to pay down the balances of their mortgage loans. BARRON, AHIGA, and others also defrauded the clients’ lenders by making material misrepresentations and by engaging in fraudulent practices to cause the lenders to modify the clients’ mortgages, including by creating and submitting fabricated bank statements so that the Company’s clients appeared to meet the lenders’ criteria for a modification. Clients of the mortgage modification business operated by BARRON, AHIGA, and others paid over approximately $15 million for mortgage modification services, and a number of those clients’ homes went into foreclosure. * * * SOLIS BARRON, 63, of La Habra Heights, California, and AHIGA, 56, of Los Angeles, California, are both charged with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI. This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David A. Markewitz and James McMahon are in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ^ As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described therein should be treated as an allegation.


title: Owner Of Physical Rehabilitation Company Sentenced To 38 Months In Prison For $20 Million Fraud On Health Benefit Programs

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced today that NOSSON SKLAR, a/k/a “Nathan Sklar,” was sentenced to 38 months in prison for engaging in a scheme to defraud health benefit programs through the submission of more than $20 million in fraudulent claims. “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of this crime and our Office’s commitment to safeguarding affordable health care from fraud for all New Yorkers,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “Nosson Sklar spent years bilking health care benefit programs of millions of dollars and will now spend serious time in prison for his conduct.” According to the charging instruments, other public filings, and statements in public court proceedings: SKLAR was the owner and chief executive officer of a company that operated a series of physical rehabilitation facilities around New York City (the “Rehabilitation Company”). Between at least January 2020 and in or about July 2024, SKLAR submitted or caused others to submit more than $20 million in claims for medical services to various health care benefit programs, asserting that those services were rendered by a physician who worked with the Rehabilitation Company (“Victim-1”). But that was false. Victim-1 did not provide those services, did not work with the Rehabilitation Company during that time, and did not authorize SKLAR to submit bills in his name. In or about July 2024, Victim-1 spoke with SKLAR on at least two occasions about the fraudulent bills. During those conversations, SKLAR admitted that he had committed “fraud” by billing under Victim-1’s name, and that he did it “because [of] the money.” Between at least in or about January 2020 and in or about July 2024, SKLAR caused more than $20 million in claims to be submitted to three separate health benefit programs (the “Health Plans”), which listed Victim-1 as having been the rendering provider for the Rehabilitation Company. Approximately $12.4 million of those claims were eventually paid by the Health Plans. * * * In addition to the prison term, SKLAR, 56, of New York, New York, was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to forfeit $12,440,000 and to pay Victim-1’s legal expenses. Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General and Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jorja N. Knauer and David A. Markewitz are in charge of the prosecution.


title: International Stock Manipulator Sentenced To 27 Months

body_text: United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced that JULIUS CSURGO was sentenced to 27 months in prison for manipulating 19 different “penny stocks” in a pump-and-dump scheme designed to fraudulently inflate the value of CSURGO’s own shares in those companies. CSURGO pled guilty on May 27, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Ronnie Abrams, who imposed the sentence on September 4, 2026. “This sentencing reflects a clear and unambiguous message: those who manipulate our markets and defraud investors will not escape justice,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “Julius Csurgo manipulated U.S. financial markets, exploited shell companies, and engaged in deceitful promotions to enrich himself at the expense of unsuspecting investors. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure our markets remain fair, transparent, and trustworthy.” According to the Superseding Information, public filings, and statements made in court proceedings: CSURGO, a Canadian-Hungarian citizen, orchestrated multiple “pump-and-dump” schemes along with his -co-conspirators. In his guilty plea, CSURGO admitted to securities fraud involving nineteen issuers. His sophisticated scheme involved gaining controlling interest of unrestricted stock, then concealing ownership by distributing shares among nominee entities through a Swiss corporation called Blacklight, S.A. While maintaining behind-the-scenes control over the shares and significant influence over company management, CSURGO and his co-conspirators funded promotional campaigns without disclosing their controlling interest or intent to sell. They took deliberate steps to hide that nominee entities were funding these promotions. During or shortly after generating market interest, CSURGO sold large percentages of holdings and collected the proceeds through the elaborate network of nominee entities he controlled, which he also used to distribute proceeds to his co-conspirators. * * * In addition to his prison term, CSURGO, 71, of Toronto, Canada, was sentenced to one year of supervised release and ordered to forfeit approximately $9,610,409.95. Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He further thanked the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs of the Department’s Criminal Division, as well as authorities in Canada. Mr. McDonald also thanked the Securities and Exchange Commission, which separately initiated civil proceedings against CSURGO. The case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Richman, Samuel Rothschild, and Matthew R. Shahabian are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Felon in possession of a firearm sentenced to nine years in prison

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

body_text: SAVANNAH, Georgia: An Ellabell man has been sentenced to federal prison following a firearms related plea agreement. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Chief Judge R. Stan Baker and announced by Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. Torrence Veal , 37, of Ellabell, Georgia, was sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. There is no parole in the federal system. Under federal law, it is prohibited for previously convicted felons to possess firearms or ammunition. According to court documents and testimony, Veal was found in possession of a Glock, Model 48, 9 mm pistol in Chatham County in December 2024. Police officers with the Chatham County Police Department responded to a shooting at a Motel 6 in Savannah where officers learned that an altercation between Veal and an employee of the motel had occurred. After the initial altercation, Veal left and later returned, located the employee in the parking lot and fired the weapon multiple times in the employee’s direction. Veal then discarded the firearm before fleeing the scene. A Chatham County firearm detection K-9 officer was dispatched to the location and a search of the area resulted in the firearm being discovered in a nearby gutter. Investigators later determined the firearm was stolen. Veal’s lengthy criminal history includes prior convictions for aggravated assault. “This significant sentence is a reminder that illegally possessing a firearm is a serious offense,” said U.S. Attorney Heap. “Illegally possessed firearms are a threat to neighborhoods far and wide; and those who endanger the public will face the consequences for their crimes.” “Within minutes of this crime occurring, Chatham County Police Department patrol officers, detectives, and forensic specialists were on the scene to interview witnesses and gather the crucial evidence needed to make an arrest,” said Chatham County Police Chief Jeff Hadley. “We are proud to partner with federal authorities in bringing repeat offenders to justice and keeping the streets of our county safe for everyone.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Chatham County Police Department assisted in the investigation of this case and was prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorney Makeia R. Jonese


title: Florida Enforcement Leaders Hold Inaugural Meeting of the Florida Anti-fraud Task Force to Enhance Federal-State Cooperation to Detect, Investigate, and Prosecute Fraud

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – Today, Florida United States Attorneys Jason A. Reding Quiñones, Gregory W. Kehoe, and John “Jack” P. Heekin, and Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier convened the inaugural meeting of the Florida Anti-fraud Task Force (“FATF”), a federal-state task force formed with a mandate to eliminate fraud within federal government benefit programs in Florida. “President Trump has made clear that protecting American taxpayers from fraud is an enforcement priority, and under the leadership of Attorney General Todd Blanche and Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald, the Justice Department is building an aggressive, data-driven strategy to do just that,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “The Florida Anti-fraud Task Force puts that strategy into action by bringing federal and state prosecutors, investigators, inspectors general, and data together to identify fraud faster, prosecute those responsible, and recover stolen taxpayer dollars. Florida is once again leading the way, and we intend for this partnership to serve as a model for fighting fraud across the country.” “The Middle District of Florida is committed to protecting taxpayer-funded programs from fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “Our dedicated staff and law enforcement partners will work zealously with the members of the Florida Anti-Fraud Task Force to investigate crimes, enforce the law, and prosecute those who commit fraud against our federal programs.” “Thanks to the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Todd Blanche, the Department of Justice is committed to fulfilling the fiduciary duty we owe U.S. taxpayers to safeguard their money against fraud, waste, and abuse,” said U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, John “Jack” P. Heekin. “My district is aggressively pursuing frauds both large and small, and we are restoring the zero-tolerance threshold for crime that our citizens deserve.” “The USDA Office of Inspector General is committed to partnering with federal, state, and local agencies to combat fraud in USDA programs that impact our communities,” said USDA Inspector General John Walk. “Leveraging resources across agencies at every level of government is key. I am proud to participate in the Inaugural Florida Anti-Fraud Task Force meeting which ensures strong collaboration going forward to fight fraud and hold those responsible who steal from Floridians and American taxpayers.” The FATF is a first-of-its-kind task force that answers the call by Justice Department leaders and Florida citizens to build a model of federal-state cooperation to prevent and detect, investigate, and prosecute government program fraud and recover stolen taxpayer dollars. The meeting builds on the Justice Department’s recent announcement of the launch of the Fraud Division’s National Fraud Detection Center (NFDC), a prosecutor-led, multi-agency team designed to investigate the most harmful actors defrauding federal government programs, including illicit actors overseas and those operating fraud schemes across federal programs. The NFDC will bring together law enforcement agencies and analytical capabilities to generate criminal leads to drive more impactful prosecutions and enhance fraud-fighting results for the American people. The NFDC solves for a lack of cross-program visibility that has long hindered efforts to deter fraud on taxpayer-funded programs and has enabled some fraud actors to further perpetrate schemes across multiple taxpayer-funded programs without detection. The NFDC closes this gap by bringing partners across federal and state government together to break down silos and work collaboratively in a whole-of-government approach to eliminate fraud. The NFDC’s success relies directly on the collaborative strength of partners across state and federal government. To that end, in July, the State of Florida’s Secretary of State and CFO joined several other southern states and entered into data sharing agreements with the Fraud Division and NFDC that provide access to publicly available corporate registration and public benefits payment data held by these state agencies, data which will help enforcers proactively identify connections and patterns across both business entities and public benefits payment activity. And, in August, the Fraud Division and NFDC announced data sharing agreements with fifteen federal agencies. FATF will use leads generated by the NFDC to drive more impactful prosecutions and enhance fraud-fighting results for Floridians. FATF will also leverage the relationships, tools, and resources of other well-established and highly-effective anti-fraud task forces operating in Florida, including the Florida IG Council and the Florida Strike Force, a joint effort among the Fraud Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Southern and Middle Districts of Florida, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, FBI, and the Florida Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Federal and State Partners Represented at the FATF Meeting: Federal Prosecutors : U.S. Department of Justice, National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida. Federal Agencies : FBI, U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, Customs and Border Protection, Department of Education Office of Inspector General, Environmental Protection Agency Office of Inspector General, Export-Import Bank of the United States Office of Inspector General, FDIC OIG, FHFA Office of Inspector General, Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General, General Services Administration Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, IRS Criminal Investigations, Department of Justice Office of Inspector General, Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Amtrak Florida Prosecutors : Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, Statewide Prosecutor Brad McVay, Associate Deputy Attorney General and Medicaid Fraud Control Unit Director Kathleen Von Hoene. Florida State and Local Agencies and Law Enforcement : Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida Department of Financial Services, Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), Miami-Dade Office of Inspector General, City of Miami, Palm Beach County Office of Inspector General, and Broward Sheriff’s Office. ###


title: Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Kidnapping his Estranged Wife

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: SAN DIEGO – Chad Oso of La Mesa was sentenced in federal court today to 121 months in prison for kidnapping his estranged wife and violently tearing her away from their two young children, who were left home alone as he forced their mother into his vehicle and drove away. Oso was convicted of kidnapping by a federal jury in March. According to evidence presented at the trial, Oso showed up at the victim’s La Mesa home on September 17, 2024, unannounced and uninvited. Oso made demands of the victim, but she rejected them. Oso became increasingly aggressive, escalating the confrontation to the point where the victim left the apartment in an attempt to alert a nearby neighbor. Oso chased after her, beat her, dragged her down the stairs to the garage of the apartment complex and forced her into the hatchback area of his Toyota RAV4. He then drove the victim away from her home against her will, away from her children who were left alone with the door to their home wide open. Oso then drove around La Mesa, refusing to let the victim go while she desperately tried to escape. The victim banged on the back window of the hatchback area of the RAV4 and screamed for help so loudly and desperately that members of the community saw her, were alarmed and called 911. Police responded to the victim’s apartment complex, called Oso and told him to bring the victim home. But Oso did not bring the victim home. Instead, he drove the victim, against her will into Mexico, to leave her in the “desert.” Once in Mexico, the victim stuck her hand out of the car window and pleaded for help from Mexican Customs Officials, who then directed the car back to the United States Border. There Customs and Border Protection officers rescued the victim and arrested Oso. The victim suffered injuries to her face, head, chin, arms, hands, and legs as a result of Oso beating her, dragging her and forcing her into his car. “Violently ripping a mother away from her young children is an unconscionable act of violence and cruelty,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “We will always stand with victims and fight for justice on their behalf.” “Today’s sentencing underscores the extreme violence the defendant was willing to inflict and the grave danger his actions posed to the victim,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily of the FBI San Diego Field Office. “We commend the citizens who reported what they witnessed and thank our partners at the La Mesa Police Department and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Their quick actions directly contributed to the victim’s safe recovery and return to her children. The FBI remains committed to pursuing justice for victims of violent crime and working with all of our law enforcement partners to continue reducing violent crime in our community.” “This case is a stark reminder of how quickly domestic violence can escalate into life-threatening violence,” said La Mesa Police Chief Ray Sweeney. “We are grateful to the members of the La Mesa community who recognized the danger and immediately called 911. Their actions, together with the response of law enforcement and the outstanding work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, helped bring this terrifying ordeal to an end and hold the defendant accountable.” “CBP officers acted quickly and decisively to protect the victim and take the defendant into custody,” said Sidney Aki, Director of Field Operations for CBP’s San Diego Field Office. “I am proud of their swift response and grateful for the coordination among our federal, local, and international law enforcement partners, whose collective efforts helped bring this dangerous situation to an end.” This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Sherwood and Evangeline Dech. Anyone who needs assistance can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline . Free and confidential help is available 24/7 at 800-799-SAFE (7233)or text START to 88788 DEFENDANT Case Number 24cr2134-RBM Chad Oso Age: 55 La Mesa, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Kidnapping (18 U.S.C. §1201) Maximum penalty: Life in prison and a $250,000 fine INVESTIGATING AGENCIES Federal Bureau of Investigation La Mesa Police Department U.S. Customs and Border Protection


title: Former Navy Civilian Employee Sentenced to 72 Months for Bribery and Tax Fraud Schemes

body_text: SAN DIEGO – James Soriano, a former public official at the Naval Information Warfare Center in San Diego, was sentenced in federal court today to 72 months in prison for accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes. According to his plea agreement, Soriano admitted he accepted bribes from defense contractors in the form of lavish meals, employment opportunities for family members and friends, and tickets to premier sporting events. In exchange, he used his position to help the contractors secure and maintain hundreds of millions of dollars in government contracts. Soriano also admitted to filing false tax returns in connection with the bribes he received. U.S. District Judge Todd W. Robinson ordered Soriano to forfeit $209,527.51 and pay $18,722.40 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. According to Soriano’s plea agreement, the defense contractors – acting through their presidents, officers, and employees – gave various things of value to Soriano, including dinners at Ruth’s Chris, Island Prime, and Fogo de Chão; tickets to the 2018 MLB All-Star Game, 2018 World Series, and 2019 Superbowl; and jobs for Soriano’s family and friends, including Soriano’s wife and Soriano’s family friend, Liberty Gutierrez, who gave Soriano $2,000 a month in cash from her salary at one of the companies working under a defense contract. In return, Soriano took official action to aid his benefactors, such as allowing defense contractors to draft government documents in competitive and non-competitive procurements, submitting those documents as part of the procurement process, and advocating for their selection as defense contractors. Soriano also willfully failed to disclose the cash payments he received from Gutierrez on his federal tax returns. According to Soriano’s plea agreement, from approximately March 2016 through at least October 2019, Soriano and a coworker, Dawnell Parker, received bribes from Philip Flores, the president and CEO of Intellipeak Solutions, Inc., a defense contractor headquartered in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Soriano also admitted that from approximately May 2015 through at least October 2019, he separately received bribes from another defense contractor, with offices in San Diego and Stafford, Virginia, who gave him things of value, such as expensive dinners, a job for his wife, and rounds of golf at a private country club. Further, according to Soriano’s plea agreement, from approximately June 2014 through at least October 2019, Soriano received bribes from Russell Thurston, the Vice President of Cambridge International Systems, Inc., a defense contractor headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. In return for these bribes, Soriano used various methods to steer contracts to these defense contractors and kept his contracting activities hidden from the Naval Information Warfare Center. “Corruption in federal procurement undermines fair competition and cheats law-abiding businesses,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “This is a strong sentence that proves corrupt officials will be held accountable.” “The sentencing of Mr. Soriano should serve as a deterrent to anyone seeking to enrich themselves through fraudulent contracting practices,” said John E. Helsing, Special Agent-in-Charge for the Department of War Office of Inspector General Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office. “This type of criminal behavior undermines the Department or War’s procurement system and erodes public trust. DCIS will continue to work aggressively with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute public corruption affecting America’s Warfighters.” “Mr. Soriano abused his position of trust to benefit favored contractors and undermine the integrity of the procurement process,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Brian Merkal of the NCIS Economic Crimes Field Office. “This sentencing reinforces our unwavering commitment to holding public officials accountable when they betray the public trust for personal gain.” “This case shows how greed and corruption drive people to exploit public systems for personal gain,” said Darren Lian, Special Agent in Charge with IRS Criminal Investigation’s Los Angeles Field Office. “IRS‑CI’s financial expertise allows us to cut through even the most complex schemes, follow the money, and hold those who betray the public trust accountable.” “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message: Those who abuse their authority for personal gain will be discovered and held accountable,” said Marcus L. Sykes, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Misusing federal funds, including through financial kickbacks, undermines the integrity of our programs and erodes public trust. HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners are committed to safeguarding HHS programs and the people they serve.” This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick C. Swan. DEFENDANT Case Numbers 23-cr-2282-TWR-1 and 24-cr-341-TWR-1 James Soriano Age: 65 Las Vegas, NV SUMMARY OF CHARGES Conspiracy to Commit Bribery - Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371 Maximum penalties (per count): Five years in prison; $250,000 fine False Statements in Tax Returns – Title 26, U.S.C., Section 7206(1) Maximum penalties: Three years in prison; $100,000 fine INVESTIGATING AGENCIES Defense Criminal Investigative Service Naval Criminal Investigative Service Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General If you have information regarding fraud, waste, or abuse relating to Department of Defense personnel or operations, please contact the DoD Hotline at 800-424-9098. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division ('Fraud Division'). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.


title: Rapid City Man Sentenced to Over 10 Years in Federal Prison  for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in Western South Dakota  and on the Pine Ridge Reservation

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that United States District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced an Arizona man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on August 31, 2026. Gaylen Holy Rock, 40, was sentenced to 10 years and one month in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Holy Rock was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in April 2025. He pleaded guilty on March 2, 2026. Beginning in 2023, Holy Rock worked with others to distribute methamphetamine within the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. He received methamphetamine from co-conspirators in the Rapid City, South Dakota, area and was responsible for distributing over 500 grams of methamphetamine during his involvement in the conspiracy. “Working together, law enforcement agencies across South Dakota are doing everything we can to eliminate the scourge of methamphetamine and other illicit drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “This defendant chose to victimize the communities of the Pine Ridge Reservation. He will now spend the next decade in federal prison, which should provide plenty of time to contemplate the wisdom of that decision.” 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The investigation was conducted by the Badlands Safe Trails Task Force. The Task Force is comprised of agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case. Holy Rock was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving his sentence.


title: Nebraska Man Sentenced to Over 5 Years in Federal Prison  for Assaulting a Federal Officer

body_text: RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that United States District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Norfolk, Nebraska, man convicted of Assault on a Federal Officer. The sentencing took place on August 31, 2026. Cody Dittman, 36, was sentenced to five years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Dittman was indicted for Assault on a Federal Officer by a federal grand jury in May 2025. He pleaded guilty on May 20, 2026. On May 2, 2025, Dittman refused to pull over after officers with the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety attempted a traffic stop. Dittman led law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit throughout the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, ultimately leaving Pine Ridge and entering Fall River County. During the pursuit, Dittman swerved his vehicle directly towards law enforcement officers deploying spike strips as they attempted to end the pursuit. The investigation was conducted by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the South Dakota DCI, the Fall River County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Marshal Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case. Dittman was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service to begin serving his sentence.


title: Mexican National Sentenced to Federal Prison  for Assaulting a Federal Officer

body_text: RAPID CITY – U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Mexican man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer. The sentencing took place on August 31, 2026. Eriberto Gonzalez-Ginez, 23, was sentenced to eight months in federal prison and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Gonzalez-Ginez will also be deported back to Mexico upon completion of his sentence. Gonzalez-Ginez was indicted for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer by a federal grand jury in March 2026. He pleaded guilty on May 28, 2026. On February 2, 2026, federal law enforcement officials with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, conducted a targeted enforcement operation regarding illegal immigration at a Rapid City residence. Gonzalez-Ginez is an illegal alien unlawfully present in the United States. Gonzalez-Ginez was in the driver’s seat of a pickup truck with a trailer hitched to its rear at the residence. When federal agents activated their emergency lights and sirens on their vehicles, Gonzalez-Ginez quickly put the truck in reverse, ramming into a federal agent’s duty vehicle. Gonzalez-Ginez kept his truck in reverse, pushing the federal agent’s vehicle back approximately ten feet. Gonzalez-Ginez then fled on foot, escaping authorities. Federal agents tracked his position again at the end of the month, where he unsuccessfully attempted to flee. “This was outrageous and recklessly dangerous conduct by this lawless individual,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removable Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.