title: September Federal Grand Jury 2026-A Indictments Announced

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: United States Attorney Christopher J. Nassar today announced the results of the September Federal Grand Jury 2026-A Indictments. The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence. Dorryien Laron Adams. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Adams, 20, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of a felony. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Augustus Forster is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-325 Alexander Blanchard. Robbery in Indian Country (Count 1 & 3); Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony in Indian Country (Count 2); Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (Count 4). Blanchard, AGE, of Broken Arrow and a member of the Ponca Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma, is charged with taking property of value by force, violence, and intimidation from the victim and in front of a minor child. He assaulted a minor child with intent to commit a felony and knowingly brandished a firearm during a crime of violence. The Tulsa Police Department is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Flynn is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-326 Maddox Isaiah Cummings. False Statement to Acquire a Firearm. Cummings, 21, of Las Vegas, Nevada, is charged with attempting to purchase a firearm while claiming that he was not currently under indictment and had never been convicted of a felony, when in fact those statements were false. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Dowdell is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-338 Jacob Kyle Davis. Coercion and Enticement of a Minor Child. Davis, 45, of Tahlequah, is charged with knowingly attempting to persuade and entice a minor child to engage in sexually explicit activity. The FBI and the United Keetoowah Band Lighthorse Tribal Police are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Ihler is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-327 Ana Yuridia Garcia Dominguez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Garcia Dominguez, 41, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in 2005. Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Osborn is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-328 Bermain Hernandez Mendez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Hernandez Mendez, 37, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in 2013 and twice in 2014. Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jorge Diaz-Guma is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-339 Oscar Anibal Hernandez Ramos. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Hernandez Ramos, 31, a Guatemalan national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in 2015 and 2016. Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Keller is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-332 Eliakin Hernandez Santiago. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Hernandez Santiago, 30, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in 2024. Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jorge Diaz-Guma is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-333 Devion Ronte Long. Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country; Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding in Indian Country (Misdemeanor). Long, 25, of Tulsa and a member of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, is charged with assaulting the victim in Feb. 2026, which resulted in serious bodily injury. He is additionally charged with assaulting and wounding the victim in Mar. 2026. The FBI, the Owasso Police Department, and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Kelly is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-331 Jesus Eden Lopez Guerreo. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Lopez Guerro, 42, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in 2023. Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Trevion Freeman is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-330 Joshua Breyden Perales. Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct; Possession of Child Pornography. Perales, 24, of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, is charged with attempting to coerce and entice a person he believed was under 18 years old to engage in sexually explicit conduct. He is additionally charged with traveling from Arkansas to Tulsa to engage in illicit sexual conduct. Additionally, Perales is charged with knowingly possessing images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children under 12 years old. Homeland Security Investigations and the Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies, with assistance from the Siloam Springs Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-340 Oscar Manuel Sanchez Garcia. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Sanchez Garcia, 37, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in 2012. Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Keller is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-329 Abraham James Yahv Simmers, II. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Destruction of Property Within Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Simmers, 22, of Tulsa and a member of the Muscogee Creek Nation, is charged with assaulting the victim with a firearm and with intent to do bodily injury. He maliciously and willfully destroyed and damaged real property belonging to the victim. Further, Simmers is charged with discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jolly is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-341 Christopher Ryan Stafford. Kidnapping in Indian Country; Assault of a Spouse, Intimate Partner, and Dating Partner by Strangling in Indian Country; Witness Tampering by Use and Threat of Physical Force. Stafford, 33, of Tulsa and a member of the Muscogee Creek Nation, is charged with unlawfully seizing and confining the victim against her will and strangling her. He knowingly used physical force and threats to prevent the victim from communicating with law enforcement or the judge in federal proceedings. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blithe Cravens is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-334 Ramiro Vergara Urquiza. Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of Firearms; Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien; Drug Conspiracy; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (superseding). Vergara Urquiza, 52, a Mexican national, is charged with possessing a firearm, knowing he was unlawfully residing in the United States. He is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after previously being removed in March 2023. Vergara Urquiza is charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and knowingly maintaining a home for the purpose of drug distribution. Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-142 Slayton Derek Vincent. Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. Vincent, 28, of Locust Grove, is charged with possessing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children under 12 years old. Homeland Security Investigations and the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-335 Camille Jordan Winchester; Torrey Leann Cantrell; Shawn Richard Christie. Production of Child Pornography (Counts 1 & 4); Possession of Child Pornography (Count 2); Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country (Count 3); Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country (Count 5); Child Neglect in Indian Country (Count 6) (second superseding). Winchester, 36, of Mounds and a member of the Cherokee Nation, and Cantrell, 33, of Mounds, are charged with using a minor child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of child sexual abuse material. Additionally, Winchester is charged with possessing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children and knowingly engaging in a sexually explicit act with a child under 12 years old. Cantrell is additionally charged with engaging in a sexual act with a minor child under 12 years old. Christie, 36, of Mounds and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with willfully neglecting the health, safety, and welfare of a minor child. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia Hockenbury is prosecuting the case. 26-CR-183


title: Oklahoma Pastor Pleads Guilty to Diverting Church Funds and Failing to Pay Taxes

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – An Information was unsealed today, and former Senior Pastor Keith Rydell Mayes, Sr., 63, of Tulsa, pleaded guilty to Bank Fraud and Tax Evasion. Mayes was hired as Senior Pastor of the historic Tulsa-based church, Vernon AME Church, in October 2021. Mayes was responsible for various church functions, including overseeing church finances and managing church donations, collections, and disbursements of funds. Shortly after joining the church, Mayes opened a new account at the bank titled, “Administrative Expenses.” He was the only authorized signer on the bank account and used his personal residence as the mailing address. Mayes then solicited, obtained, and deposited voluntary donations by others, including church members and charitable organizations, into the Administrative Expenses account. In one instance, a church donor and the donor’s financial advisor contacted Mayes regarding a stock donation to the Church. After the conversation, Mayes opened a new brokerage account in the Church's name to enable receipt of the intended donation. Court documents show that Mayes received $365,000 in stock transfers from that donor in 2021 and 2022. Mayes then liquidated the proceeds, deposited the funds into the Church’s bank account, and embezzled most of the proceeds for his personal use. From at least March 2022 through at least November 2025, Mayes embezzled more than $504,000. Court documents show that he used the money to support his gambling habits, pay personal expenses, and to purchase firearms. Mayes did not report this illegal income to the Internal Revenue Service, leaving him owing more than $205,000 in unpaid taxes. The plea agreement filed today shows that Mayes agreed to forfeit the firearms and ammunition purchased with the fraudulent funds, and to repay $504,313.88 for all of his embezzlement activities, including $205,765.60 to the Internal Revenue Service. After Mayes's appearance in court today, the judge released him on bond, where he is supervised by the United States Probation and Pretrial Service. A federal district court judge will schedule Mayes’ sentencing hearing for a later date. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Division are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David D. Whipple is prosecuting the case.


title: Couple from Commerce Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Second Degree Murder and Child Neglect

body_text: TULSA, Okla. – A Commerce couple was sentenced to life imprisonment for the second degree murder of a two-year-old and several counts of child neglect, announced U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar. U.S. District Judge John D. Russell ordered Daniel Allen Ash, 34, and his girlfriend, Amber Dawn Murphy, 32, a member of the Cherokee Nation, to serve life imprisonment for Second Degree Murder in Indian Country and four counts of Child Neglect in Indian Country. “This is a heartbreaking case involving a level of suffering no child should ever endure, especially from their own parents,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar. “The neglect this young victim endured from a truly callous mother and father is hard to comprehend. These parents’ life sentences reflect not only the depravity and heartlessness of their actions, but our unwavering commitment to ensuring that children who cannot speak for themselves receive justice. Because of the relentless dedication of investigators, medical specialists, and prosecutors, the truth was uncovered in full and accountability for Ash and Murphy was achieved. While nothing can erase the tragedy of this young life lost, we remain steadfast in our mission to protect vulnerable children and to ensure that those who harm them are brought to justice and punished to the fullest extent of the law.” Beginning in September 2024, court records and sentencing testimony revealed that Ash and Murphy were investigated after their two-year-old died. The toddler was severely malnourished, emaciated, and weighed only 17 pounds. A medical expert testified at sentencing that the toddler was so severely dehydrated that medical professionals could not collect a urine sample. Medical professionals who attempted to treat the toddler believed that his appearance was from chronic starvation. Marshals with the Quapaw Nation discovered that Ash and Murphy were the sole providers for the toddler and three additional children, ages 10, 4, and 3. During sentencing, prosecutors explained that Ash knew something was wrong with the toddler and called Murphy while she was at work. Instead of taking the toddler to the doctor, Ash drove to his friend’s house. All of the children remained in an unair-conditioned vehicle, while Ash spent the next two hours updating his gaming console. When Ash returned to the vehicle, the toddler appeared to be lifeless, and Ash got his friend. His friend saw the toddler and told Ash to go to the hospital. Instead of going to the hospital, he drove to pick up Murphy from work, and they went home. Prosecutors said that Murphy called a friend after the toddler was making alarming noises, and then Ash and Murphy took the child to the hospital. Law enforcement spoke with the surviving children and discovered that the 10-year-old was the primary caregiver for all of the children. She was responsible for feeding, changing diapers, and watching the children. When investigators visited the home, they found it unsuitable for anyone to live in. The home was extremely cluttered, filled with trash, covered in feces, spoiled food, and insect and rodent activity throughout. When the medical expert testified during sentencing, he described that all four of the children were neglected in every way possible. According to his testimony, he believes the three surviving children will struggle and be impacted forever by the neglect and loss they suffered. During the investigation, medical professionals treated the surviving children, and they are now in the custody of caregivers who are working with medical professionals to care for their needs. Ash and Murphy will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The Quapaw Nation Marshal Service and the Bureau of Indian Affairs were the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alicia Hockenbury, Valeria Luster, and Kate Brandon prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, local, and tribal resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC .


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Announcing Enforcement Surge That Exceeded $245 Million in Covid-Related Loan Fraud

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: CHICAGO — Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, today announced a criminal indictment and a guilty plea as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration, and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). From June 12, 2026, to Sept. 1, 2026, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning more than 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million in intended loss to American taxpayers. Consistent with the Administration’s priorities to identify, investigate, and prosecute criminal fraud in the federal government entitlement and benefit programs, the Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office for the past year and a half has been taking a fresh look at Covid-related fraud. “Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications—but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” “This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.” “When individuals exploit government programs for personal gain, they do more than steal taxpayer dollars—they undermine public trust and divert resources from the people who need them the most,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros. “Prosecuting Covid‑related fraud is an important way to preserve the integrity of government assistance programs and ensure that relief funds reach their intended recipients. The Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to holding accountable those who sought to profit from the pandemic, protecting both taxpayers and the vital institutions that support our communities.” “Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and Covid EIDL activity,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic. With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.” “Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.” In the Northern District of Illinois, COSETTE DEAL, 37, of Oak Park, Ill., was indicted on federal wire fraud charges. The indictment accuses Deal of submitting fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of businesses purportedly owned and operated by Deal and others, including purported sole proprietorships in the performing arts. The applications contained materially false statements and misrepresentations concerning, among other things, the purported entities’ number of employees, gross income, payroll, and existence of ongoing operations, the indictment states. Deal allegedly caused a loss of at least approximately $440,000. Deal has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is awaiting trial. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward A. Liva, Jr. of the Northern District of Illinois is prosecuting the case. The public is reminded that an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. Deal is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. In another case in the Northern District of Illinois, WILLIAM FREDERICK REED, of Hazel Crest, Ill., pleaded guilty to false statement and tax offenses. Reed admitted in a plea agreement that he submitted fraudulent PPP loans on behalf of his sole proprietorship, Off Duty Security. Among other things, Reed falsified his business’s payroll numbers, gross receipts, and net profits so that the business would appear as eligible to receive PPP loans, even though Reed knew it would otherwise not have been eligible. Reed caused a loss of $17,584. Reed’s sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Hayley Altabef and Elie Zenner of the Northern District of Illinois are prosecuting the case. On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement 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. In the Northern District of Illinois, Assistant U.S. Attorney Vincenza Tomlinson serves as District Fraud Counsel for the Fraud Division.


title: Financial Advisor Sentenced to Federal Prison for Defrauding Elderly Client

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ATLANTA – Ejiroghene O. Okuma, a financial adviser who defrauded an elderly client out of nearly $10 million, was sentenced to more than seven years in federal prison for wire fraud. “Under the guise of acting as a financial adviser, Okuma abused the trust placed in him by an elderly client,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “His sentence should send a clear message to fiduciaries who may be tempted to steal: we will seek lengthy prison sentences to punish those who exploit vulnerable citizens to line their own pockets.” “Okuma betrayed the trust of an elderly client and exploited his position as a financial adviser to steal nearly $10 million for his own personal benefit,” said Marlo Graham, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “He used his access and authority to systematically drain his victim’s accounts while funneling the stolen money into lavish purchases and other personal expenses. The FBI will aggressively pursue financial predators who exploit their positions of trust and prey on vulnerable victims.” According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Okuma was an investment adviser who received complete access to the brokerage account of an elderly client (“Victim-1”) in 2016. In February 2022, Okuma was appointed to administer the estate of Victim-1’s sister. The next month, Okuma began embezzling from Victim-1 by falsely representing that the sister’s estate required funds. Believing Okuma’s lies, Victim-1 permitted Okuma to transfer $500,000 from a brokerage account to a bank account purportedly held for the estate. Without Victim-1’s knowledge, Okuma then transferred those funds to a bank account in the name of his wife’s company. Later, in June 2022, Okuma stole approximately $400,000 by transferring (i) funds he deceived Victim-1 into paying as part of administering the sister’s estate and (ii) proceeds from the sale of the sister’s residence. After embezzling nearly $1 million from Victim-1 through lies about Victim-1’s sister’s estate, Okuma set up fraudulent accounts to steal millions more from Victim-1. In February 2023, Okuma opened an unauthorized brokerage account in the name of a revocable trust involving Victim-1. On the same day that Okuma opened the fraudulent brokerage account, he opened a bank account in his own name and added himself as a custodian to an existing bank account in Victim-1’s name, giving himself the ability to withdraw funds without Victim-1’s approval. Within days, Okuma began draining Victim-1’s brokerage accounts. By the end of February 2023, Okuma had transferred approximately $9 million of Victim-1’s funds to the fraudulently opened brokerage account without Victim-1’s knowledge. Between August 2023 and March 2025, Okuma moved that money to other accounts he controlled and used it to, among other things, purchase a $5.2 million residence in Vinings, Georgia, purchase an approximately $1.4 million beach club membership, and donate approximately $340,000 to his church. On September 11, 2026, Ejiroghene O. Okuma, 44, of Smyrna, Georgia, was sentenced to seven years, four months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. Restitution will be decided at a hearing that will be scheduled at a later date. Okuma was convicted of one count of wire fraud after pleading guilty on March 17, 2026. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with valuable assistance from the Securities and Exchange Commission. For more information about the Department of Justice’s efforts to help older Americans and to combat elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation and fraud, please visit https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice . The Department provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.gov . Assistant United States Attorney Samir Kaushal and former Assistant United States Attorney Alex R. Sistla prosecuted the case. For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


title: Perry Man Sent Back to Federal Prison for Second Drug Trafficking Conviction

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: Tallahassee, Florida – Nicholas Michael Freeman, 48, of Perry, Florida, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine, cocaine, and cocaine base. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This repeat offender clearly did not learn his lesson from his prior stint in federal prison, so my office has sent him back behind bars to ensure he can’t continue to peddle deadly drugs on our streets. We will continue to aggressively prosecute any and all drug dealers operating in the Northern District of Florida to deliver on the promise of Operation Take Back America that our citizens deserve to live in safe, drug-free communities.” Court documents reflect that a Perry Police Department officer speaking with a group of individuals around a burn barrel observed the defendant manipulating a plastic baggie commonly used for street sales of narcotics, containing what the officer believed to be a pill. The officer handcuffed the defendant removed the baggie from his pocket and determined that it actually contained a piece of crack cocaine. The defendant was arrested and officers searched the fanny pack he had been wearing, finding 57 small baggies containing methamphetamine, 99 small baggies containing crack and powder cocaine, and 25 small baggies and nine large sandwich style bags containing synthetic cannabinoids. “Freeman has been engaged in serious criminal activity for more than three decades, with a lengthy history that includes convictions for lewd assault/sexual battery involving a victim under 16, cocaine sale and distribution offenses, and other drug-related crimes,” said Perry Police Department Chief James N. Cruse Jr. “This case is another example of the outstanding work performed every day by Perry Police Department officers. The patrol officer involved recognized what he was observing, acted lawfully and professionally, and conducted a thorough investigation that directly led to Freeman’s arrest and subsequent federal conviction. I commend the officer and all personnel involved for their attention to detail and commitment to protecting our community.” The defendant’s federal sentence will begin after he serves a 30-month state sentence for violation of probation. This is the second time the defendant has been sentenced to federal prison. The defendant was previously convicted in 2013 of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base and sentenced to 84 months in federal prison. “This repeat offender continues to traffic illicit and dangerous substances in Florida Pan Handle communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “This area is a point of emphasis for our agents, which is reflected in the number of criminals we’ve brought to justice.” The case involved an investigation by the Perry Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys James A. McCain and Eric W. Welch. 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. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Northern District of Florida Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in COVID-era Loan Fraud

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: Joint national takedown: 40 U.S. Attorney’s Offices, along with 20 federal and state investigative agencies, participate in two-month enforcement surge. Pensacola, Florida – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida today announced an indictment as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The Northern District of Florida was a key participant in this surge effort. From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers. U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin said: “The Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division is answering the call to action issued by President Donald J. Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance to fulfill the fiduciary duty owed to the U.S taxpayer by our federal government. As evidenced by this indictment, my office is committed to zealously prosecuting frauds of all sizes through both criminal and civil enforcement as we restore the zero-tolerance threshold for fraud, waste, and abuse within federal programs.” “Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications— but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” “This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.” “Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.” “Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.” In the Northern District of Florida, U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin announced that Ray Pearson has been charged with PPP-related fraud involving approximately $20,142.00 in alleged losses. As alleged in the indictment, the defendant submitted falsified 2019 tax information that materially misrepresented the gross income of a construction business in order to fraudulently obtain and attempt to obtain a loan from the Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment and forfeiture of assets. This case is being investigated by the United States Air Force, Office of Special Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica S. Etherton and Walter E. Narramore. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. 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. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Miramar Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Child Exploitation Charges

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: Gainesville, Florida – Arthur Young, 23, of Miramar, Florida pleaded guilty in federal court to the sexual exploitation of children, producing child pornography, and possession of child pornography. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the plea today. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our children face unprecedented threats online from sexual predators seeking to sexually exploit and victimize them. It is vitally important for parents to be aware of those threats and what their kids are doing online to prevent them from being victimized. Keeping our kids safe, both online and in our communities, is a top priority for my office, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute these crimes to ensure predators, like this defendant, are locked away behind bars where they belong.” Court documents reflect that between at least May 2024 and September 2024, the defendant communicated with a twelve-year-old child he met online. The defendant initiated multiple live video calls with her and, during these calls, used, induced, and persuaded her to engage in sexually explicit conduct. After the minor’s family reported the defendant’s misconduct to law enforcement, the subsequent investigation revealed that the defendant communicated online with over thirty other minors across multiple social media platforms. Law enforcement also recovered numerous files of child pornography on the defendant’s electronic devices. Young faces a minimum term of fifteen years’ imprisonment, a maximum term of fifty years’ imprisonment, and a lifetime on supervised release. Sentencing is scheduled before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor, in Gainesville, Florida on November 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. The case was jointly investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Gainesville Police Department, and the Westminster (Colorado) Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC . The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Six Gainesville Men Indicted for Dog Fighting Offenses

body_text: Gainesville, Florida – Taurean Jaquan Servance, 24, Jarrett Abram Servance, 45, Jarrett Abram Servance Jr., 25, Terry Lajace Lee, 44, Christopher Eugene Thompson, 56, and Clinton Thomas, 43, all of Gainesville, Florida, have been indicted in federal court for conspiracy to violate the Animal Welfare Act. In addition, Thompson has been indicted on 13 counts of possession of fighting dogs; Thomas has been indicted on 12 counts of possession of fighting dogs; Taurean Servance and Jarrett Servance Jr. have been indicted on 11 counts of possession of fighting dogs; and Jarrett Servance has been indicted on 6 counts of possession of fighting dogs. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges. Jury trial for all defendants is scheduled for October 21, 2026, before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor in Gainesville, Florida. The penalty for each count charged is a maximum of 5 years’ imprisonment. The case was jointly investigated by the United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, the Gainesville Police Department, Alachua County Sherriff’s Office, and Alachua County Animal Resources. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl .


title: Wolf Point woman sentenced to more than 11 years for her part in beating a man to death

body_text: GREAT FALLS – A Wolf Point woman, who was part of group that beat a man to death last year, was sentenced today to 11 years and four months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said. Abrianne Lillian Deserly, 26, pleaded guilty in August 2026 to voluntary manslaughter. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that Deserly was part of group that beat a man to death in an abandoned house on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. The victim was found dead on Feb. 26, 2025, on the second floor of a house in Wolf Point, described by area residents as a local “flop house” where people occasionally went to drink and sleep. Investigators found that Deserly and others, after a night of drinking, had gone in the house in the early morning hours of Feb. 26 and found the victim asleep on the second floor. With Deserly were Calvin Florin Lester, 37, and Dillon Demery Wetsit, 41. Lester was sentenced on Sept. 3 to nearly 11 years in prison for his role in the man’s death. Wetsit pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in June; he will be sentenced on Oct. 15. The assault happened after an argument broke out and Deserly, along with Lester and Wetsit, began to hit the victim. Things escalated and they beat him severely. A witness described seeing Deserly kick the victim in the face. At one point, the victim was placed in a chokehold while other members of the group hit him. A medical examination showed the victim died from “homicidal violence” with neck compression and blunt injuries to the head. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Fort Peck Tribes Criminal Investigation and FBI conducted the investigation.


title: Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Transporting Illegal Alien

component: USAO - Maine

body_text: BANGOR, Maine: A Florida man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to transporting an illegal alien. According to court records, in September 2023, the U.S. Border Patrol learned that a woman had been seen walking from Canada into the United States at the international border near Lowelltown — a remoted, wooded area in Franklin County with a history of smuggling activity. At the same time, a black SUV was seen heading towards the woman’s location. A short time later, U.S. Border Patrol agents pulled over the SUV. Agents identified the driver as John Boniello , 40, and the female passenger as a French citizen who did not have legal status in the U.S. Boniello admitted that he had traveled from Florida to Maine to pick up the woman and that he knew she could not legally enter the U.S. Boniello faces up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The U.S. Border Patrol investigated the case. ###


title: Brentwood Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for $6.9 Million Health Care Fraud Scheme

component: Office of the Inspector General

body_text: NASHVILLE – Helen Boerman, 48, of Brentwood, Tennessee, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for defrauding Medicare and other government health care programs out of nearly $7 million, announced United States Attorney Braden H. Boucek for the Middle District of Tennessee. Chief United States District Judge William L. Campbell, Jr. imposed the 42-month prison sentence on September 10, 2026, followed by one year of supervised release. Boerman was also ordered to pay $6,970,583.50 in restitution and a $100 special assessment. “Health care fraud is theft from American taxpayers and from programs intended to serve people who need them,” said United States Attorney Braden H. Boucek. “This defendant exploited those programs for millions of dollars through years of fraudulent billing. Today’s sentence holds her accountable and sends a clear message that those who steal taxpayer dollars will face serious consequences.” According to court documents, over a period of approximately three-and-a-half years, Boerman, an optometric physician, used her practice, Brentwood Eye Care, to submit false claims to Medicare. As an enrolled provider, Boerman submitted claims seeking reimbursement for dates of service where patients did not in fact receive services and for wound care products that she had not actually purchased or used because she split wound care products intended for single use. For example, in May 2022, Boerman, through Brentwood Eye Care, submitted Medicare claims on behalf of two beneficiaries for the placement of wound care products on May 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, and 27, even though appointment records showed the patients had appointments only on May 20, 24, and 27. Boerman directed Brentwood Eye Care staff to create false records for the other dates to support services fraudulently billed to Medicare. In addition to the fraudulent Medicare claims, Boerman made false claims between March 2020 and October 2024 to TennCare, Tennessee’s Medicaid agency, and the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (“FEHBP”). As part of her guilty plea, Boerman admitted that during the course of her criminal conduct she submitted approximately $11 million in false Medicare, TennCare, and FEHBP claims and received approximately $6.9 million. The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Bogni prosecuted the case. #####


title: Homeland Security Task Force Operation Leads To Three Luzerne County Men Convicted Of Drug Trafficking Offenses

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jerrod Curtis, age 42, Paul Daniel Chavis, a/k/a “Payne,” age 56, and Reneard Harris, age 68, all of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, were convicted on September 10, 2026, for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and other drug trafficking offenses following a two-week trial before United States District Judge Joseph F. Saporito, Jr. According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, Curtis operated a drug-trafficking organization from his barbershop in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Between February of 2024 through June of 2024, he and the other defendants conspired to distribute large amounts of controlled substances, including cocaine, cocaine base, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. The jury further found that defendants committed the following criminal offenses during the course of the conspiracy: On January 22, 2025, Chavis distributed and possessed with intent to distribute five grams and more of actual methamphetamine; On April 15, 2025, Chavis distributed and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine; On April 19, 2025, Curtis and Harris used a communication facility to facilitate the commission of a drug trafficking crime; and On April 30, 2025, and May 26, 2025, Curtis used a communication facility to facilitate the commission of a drug trafficking crime. During the investigation, DEA and other law enforcement agents recovered over 10 kilograms of fentanyl from members of the conspiracy as well as large quantities of other controlled substances. 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 towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF comprises agents and officers from Drug Enforcement Administration, the Wilkes-Barre City Police Department, the Wilkes-Barre Township Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James M. Buchanan and Anthony Williamson prosecuted the case. In this case, the maximum penalty is life imprisonment. A sentence following the finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. # # #


title: Winter Garden Woman Sentenced to 30 Months for COVID Relief Fraud and Failure to File Tax Returns

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Orlando, Florida – Verlynn Horne has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Julie S. Sneed to two years and six months in federal prison for wire fraud and willful failure to file tax returns. Horne pleaded guilty on April 7, 2026. As part of her sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $2,517,930, the proceeds of the wire fraud scheme and for Horne’s real property located in Winter Garden. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, between June and August 2020, Horne fraudulently applied for and obtained COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans on behalf of non-operational businesses she controlled, which received $337,915. She also helped prepare and submit fraudulent COVID-19 loan applications on behalf of at least 35 other entities and individuals, who received $4,476,437. In exchange for her services, Horne received a portion of the other individuals’ loan proceeds. As a result of her scheme, Horne received $2,517,930 and used a portion of those funds to purchase a residence in Winter Garden. Despite receiving COVID-19 loan funds, Horne failed to file federal tax returns for herself or her businesses for the years 2020 and 2021. For those two years, she owed $766,707.20 to the Internal Revenue Service. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Diane S. Hu and Megan Testerman. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole M. Andrejko. 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: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in Surge Takedown Exceeding  $245 Million in COVID-era Loan Fraud

body_text: Tampa – U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces criminal charges, pleadings, and sentencings as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)and its Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. The Middle District of Florida was a key participant in this surge effort. From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to America taxpayers. “Middle District of Florida prosecutors, investigators, and law enforcement partners are part of an integrated team dedicated to protecting our citizens and their hard-earned dollars from criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “When individuals set out to deliberately defraud government programs for personal gain and profit, they compromise the solvency of programs and services designed to provide critical assistance to legitimate businesses and individuals in times of need. This criminal activity will not be tolerated.” “Pandemic load relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns – not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications – but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” “This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relieve programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast ever day – standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners – to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.” “Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.” “Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.” The following cases are being prosecuted in the Middle District of Florida as part of the national surge: Jared Eakes (34, Jacksonville) pleaded guilty to wire fraud and bank fraud and was sentenced to six years and six months in federal prison. He was also ordered to forfeit $7,340,742.20 and pay restitution to victims in the total amount of $5,101,200.92. According to court documents, between January 2019 and February 2020, Eakes portrayed himself as an investment advisor and stole approximately $2.7 million from victim investors’ retirement and investment accounts by withdrawing the funds in cash, using investor funds to pay personal expenses, transferring investor funds to a Las Vegas-based casino company, and by engaging in unauthorized options trading in a personal brokerage account. Additionally, between March 2020 and November 2021, Eakes fraudulently obtained four PPP loans totaling $4,752,270 for different shell companies he controlled, including two of the entities involved in the scheme to defraud investors. Once he obtained the PPP loans, Eakes used the funds to engage in options trading or withdrew them in cash. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Clint J. Locke. Shawn Michael Simmerer (50, Winter Haven) was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. Simmerer and his co-conspirator, Seth Downes (31, Portland, MI), submitted fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of multiple companies, including Simmerer’s “leadership training” company, claiming nonexistent employees, payroll, and falsified tax records. They obtained more than $344,000 in PPP loan proceeds and later secured forgiveness of those loans using additional false documentation. Simmerer also filed fraudulent tax returns seeking COVID-related Employee Retention Credits and Sick and Family Leave Credits, ultimately obtaining more than $680,000 in IRS refunds. Simmerer was ordered to forfeit $334,300 and pay more than $1 million in restitution. Downes received three years of probation and was ordered to forfeit $194,000 and pay more than $195,000 in restitution. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Richard Varadan and Noah P. Dorman. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Andrejko. Michael Harvey (43, Tampa) has been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. According to court documents, between March and June 2020, Harvey engaged in a scheme to fraudulently obtain a PPP loan for himself and EIDL loans for his company from the SBA. Harvey caused PPP and EIDL applications to be submitted that overstated gross monthly payroll, gross monthly income, gross annual revenues, and the number of employees. These misstatements, and others, fraudulently induced the SBA and PPP lenders to fund the loans. Harvey obtained $679,487 in proceeds from his illegal scheme, which he used for his own personal enrichment, including the purchase of a home in Tampa. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ross Roberts. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky. Earlisha Louis (45, Newnan, GA) and her husband Somoza Louis (46, Newnan, GA) were sentenced to 37 months and 24 months of imprisonment, respectively, for their roles in attempting to steal more than $2 million in COVID relief funds. Additionally, the court entered a final order of forfeiture for their residence. According to court records, the Louises filed over 22 fraudulent loan applications for businesses they claimed to own and operate during the COVID pandemic. However, every application they submitted contained false information regarding the number of employees, payroll costs, and business operating expenses. Instead of using the funds for their intended purpose, the Louises spent the majority of the funds gambling at casinos and towards the purchase of a new house. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney James Muench. Rashard Hutcherson (32 Wimauma), Chevell Hallback (55, Plant City), and Antonio Tinsley (47, Riverview) were each sentenced to probation for fraudulently receiving a PPP loan in the amount of $20,832. According to court records, Hutcherson, Hallback, and Tinsley were United States Postal Service employees at the time they submitted a false PPP loan application claiming to be a sole proprietor of a business. However, none of them actually owned the businesses they claimed on their applications and they spent all of the funds on personal expenses. These cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer. The forfeiture for each case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky. Neil Bryant (46, Winter Haven) pleaded guilty to fraudulently receiving a $52,500 EIDL for his business BOE Entertainment. Bryant’s application fraudulently claimed that BOE was a legitimate business with 12 employees, and that he would use the funds to keep his business open during the pandemic. Bryant spent the funds on paying off a car loan, paying for dental procedures, purchasing jewelry, and cash withdrawals. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky. Raymond Carvil (61, Miami) pleaded guilty to fraudulently receiving a PPP loan in the amount of $97,500. According to court records, Carvil, with the help of others, submitted a fraudulent application for his business E & S Security. His application not only included false information, but also altered bank statements to make it appear his business was profitable. Once Carvil received his loan, he kicked back a portion of the funds to the co-conspirator that had helped him submit the application. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky. Edward Malone (52, Jacksonville) has been charged with two counts of wire fraud affecting a financial institution. If convicted, he faces up to 30 years in federal prison on each count. According to court documents, Malone completed fake rental agreements in order to obtain money from the federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), a program designed to help struggling renters pay their rent during the COVID pandemic. Malone allegedly filled out nine fraudulent landlord applications directly, or through his company Rags II Riches Consulting Inc., which resulted in payment of approximately $54,100 in ERAP funds. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Clint J. Locke. Marcus Eichelberger (47, Jacksonville), formerly a church pastor, pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud and aiding and abetting wire fraud. According to court records, between March 2021 and February 2022, Eichelberger directed another individual, who was a congregant at Eichelberger’s church, to fraudulently complete and submit applications for PPP loans, purportedly on behalf of a catering business that did not exist. Eichelberger, in conjunction with the other individual, then fraudulently applied for forgiveness of the loans causing $49,999 in loss. Eichelberger and the individual retained the proceeds for their personal use. In addition, Eichelberger, in conjunction with another former church congregant, fraudulently applied for an EIDL, resulting in another $129,900 in loss. Eichelberger used the second congregant’s information to fraudulently apply for an additional EIDL to which he was not entitled, leading to another $129,900 in loss. In total, Eichelberger’s actions resulted in over $300,000 in loss. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelli Swaney. The assert forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Clint Locke. Justin Burns (36, formerly of Jacksonville) pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aiding and abetting wire fraud. Burns, in conjunction with another individual, fraudulently applied for an EIDL and an EIDL advance, purportedly on behalf of a business which did not exist. Ultimately, the EIDL was charged off by the SBA due to non-repayment, resulting in a total loss of $129,900. Burns and the individual retained the proceeds for their personal use. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelli Swaney. The assert forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Clint Locke. The Middle District of Florida worked with the following law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the Surge: the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Secret Service, the Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General, the Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General, the City of Jacksonville Office of Inspector General, and the Tampa Police Department. 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. An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Report Fraud: Contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), or online at TIPS.FBI.GOV . If you are reporting cyber-enabled crime, to include online scams, email hoaxes, or other internet-enabled crimes, please submit a tip to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.GOV .


title: Former Attorney Pleads Guilty in Real Estate Fraud Scheme

body_text: Orlando, FL – Michael Saracco (40, Cocoa) has pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison per count. Sentencing has been set for December 2, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, Saracco is a former attorney who owned Driftwood Title located in Cocoa and All Florida Property Solutions (AFPS). Saracco maintained various Driftwood escrow accounts. Between August 2019 and July 2025, Saracco defrauded private lending companies, financial institutions, and title insurance underwriters. Saracco’s participation and acts in furtherance of the scheme to defraud included, but were not limited to the following: (i) soliciting private lenders and funding companies for loans secured by properties Saracco purported to own or planned to purchase; (ii) falsely representing to these private lenders and funding companies that these properties were not encumbered; (iii) conducting real estate closings of the loan transactions and representing to the lenders that he recorded the mortgage documents in the appropriate county clerk’s office as represented; (iv) failing to record the corresponding mortgage documents granted by private lenders; (v) seeking subsequent loans from private lenders without disclosing the existence of pre-existing private lender mortgages on his properties on the real estate settlement statements; (vi) arranging for the properties to be sold, which caused financial institutions, to fund loans via interstate wire funds transfers to buyers through Driftwood escrow accounts, without knowledge of the unrecorded mortgages granted in favor of the private lenders, which netted Saracco hundreds of thousands of dollars in seller proceeds; (vii) submitting closing disclosures that did not accurately disclose the existing encumbrances; (viii) submitting closing disclosures to the mortgage lenders through interstate wires, which listed certain encumbrances to be paid off, but were not paid off; (ix) diverting proceeds from the mortgage lenders meant to pay off liens to himself through AFPS; and (x) issuing Title Commitments falsely stating that Driftwood had issued title insurance policies backed by title insurance underwriters, when in fact no such polices had been issued. This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor. On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of 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.


title: Las Vegas Man Pleads Guilty to Anabolic Steroid Trafficking and Firearm Charges

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Las Vegas man, formerly of Northborough, Mass., pleaded guilty on Sept. 10, 2026 in federal court in Worcester for conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute large quantities of anabolic steroids and methamphetamine. The defendant also pleaded guilty to firearms charges. Mark Taslakian, 52, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute schedule III anabolic steroids, one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and anabolic steroids, and one count of being a felon in possession of seven firearms. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for Jan. 11, 2027. According to court documents, Taslakian and others formulated a plan to order multi-kilogram quantities of raw steroid powders from China which they then synthesized into injectable and oral products. Taslakian came up with the idea of marketing/distributing their own brand name of anabolic steroids under the pseudonym “Nex-Gen Pharma.” During a search of Taslakian’s former residence in Northborough, over $500K in cash, a gold bar, jewelry, significant quantities of anabolic steroids and methamphetamine, packaging materials, ledgers and seven firearms in a basement safe were seized. The charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute schedule III anabolic steroids provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, at least two years of supervised release and a fine of up to $500,000. The charge of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and anabolic steroids provides for a sentence of no less than five years up to 40 years in prison, at least four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $5million. The charge of felon in possession of a firearm provides a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Justin Page, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial E. Bennett of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.


title: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Reentry

body_text: BOSTON – An Ecuadorian national unlawfully residing in Milford, Mass. pleaded guilty on Sept. 8, 2026 in federal court in Worcester to illegally reentering the United States after deportation. The defendant was previously deported from the United States and arrested four times for driving under the influence in Massachusetts. Luis Rolando Clavijo Tacuri, 31, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for Oct. 20, 2026. Tacuri was charged in August 2026 . Tacuri was first encountered by immigration officials in October 2015, while he was incarcerated on charges of operating under the influence in Holliston, Mass. At the time, it was Tacuri’s third operating under the influence offense. Tacuri was subsequently placed into removal proceedings and deported to Ecuador in December 2016. Sometime after his removal, Tacuri illegally reentered the United States. On May 27, 2024, Tacuri was arrested in Milford, Mass., for allegedly operating under the influence. The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to two years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and David T. Wesling, Acting Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O’Shea of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.


title: The USAO-KS Joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in COVID-Era Loan Takedown Exceeding $245 Million in Fraud

body_text: KANSAS CITY, KAN. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office – District of Kansas (USAO-KS) today announced indictments as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration, and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). USAO-KS was a key participant in this surge effort. From June 12 to September 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million in intended loss to American taxpayers. “Over the years we have convicted schemers who illegally secured PPP loans then went on shopping sprees on the federal government’s dime, but we’re not done. The Justice Department has a very long memory, and the statute of limitations has been extended for this type of fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “To those who lied on applications and haven’t yet had the law show up at your door, don’t be surprised when we come knocking with an arrest warrant in hand.” “Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications— but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” In the District of Kansas, U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser announced that four defendants, including a husband and wife, have been charged with PPP-related fraud involving approximately $182,000 in alleged losses. According to the indictments: • Greg Wegenka, 74, of Wakarusa, is accused of providing false IRS documents to receive a PPP loan for a small business then allegedly using loan proceeds for impermissible purposes. Loss: $29,000 Maximum Sentence If Convicted: 20 years in prison • Laurie Wegenka, 66, of Wakarusa, is accused of applying for and receiving PPP loans for a small business using false IRS forms. Loss: $115,000 Maximum Sentence If Convicted: 20 years in prison • Vanesha Whisonant, 25, of Kansas City, Kansas, is accused of receiving a PPP loan for a home-based business after allegedly filing an application with false information about the number of employees and payroll. Loss: $18,000 Maximum Sentence If Convicted: 20 years in prison • Dominic Williams, 35, of Kansas City, Kansas, is accused of receiving a PPP by falsely claiming to be a sole proprietor business with $100K in proceeds and allegedly submitting false bank statements to receive loans and to receive loan forgiveness. Loss: $20,832 Maximum Sentence If Convicted: 20 years in prison These case are being investigated by the Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General (SBA- OIG) and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Oakley. 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. An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Three Methamphetamine Traffickers Sentenced to Federal Prison

body_text: BOISE – U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced the results of three separate drug trafficking prosecutions in Southern Idaho. Christopher Lee Hatcher, 68, of California, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Hatcher to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. According to court records, Hatcher transported several pounds of methamphetamine from California to Idaho for distribution. In a separate case, Ricky Dee Sedlacek, 63, of Caldwell, Idaho, was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine. According to court records, Sedlacek sold more than a quarter pound of methamphetamine over multiple transactions in Oregon and Idaho. Investigators contacted Sedlacek during a traffic stop as he was on his way back from Oregon to pick up a supply of drugs. Investigators found a pound of methamphetamine in his possession, which he had tried to conceal during the traffic stop. In a third case, Steven Lyle Ressler, 52, of Pendleton, Oregon, was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to court records, investigators became aware that Ressler was selling drugs in Oregon and the Treasure Valley. Investigators intercepted Ressler as he crossed the border from Oregon to Idaho. During the traffic stop, investigators located approximately a pound of methamphetamine in Ressler’s vehicle. U.S. District Judge Davd C. Nye also ordered both Ressler and Sedlacek to serve four years of supervised release following each of their respective prison sentences. U.S. Attorney Davis commended the collaborative effort of the federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to disrupt drug trafficking organizations that threaten the safety of our community. The cases involving Sedlacek and Ressler were investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the City County Narcotics Unit, the Idaho State Police Department, the Oregon High Desert Drug Task Force, and the Oregon State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted the cases. These investigations were supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, which is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. The case involving Hatcher was investigated by the Idaho State Police, Owyhee County Sherriff’s Office, and Boise Police Department, with assistance from the Owyhee County Prosecutor’s Office and the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Kelsey Manweiler, who was a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership, Canyon County Prosecutor’s Office, and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth. The Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force is comprised of federal, state, and local agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; United States Postal Inspector Services; Department of Homeland Security Investigations; Caldwell Police Department; Canyon County Sheriff’s Office; and the Idaho Department of Correction – Probation and Parole. ###


title: Defendant Sought More than $4.6M in Fraudulent Refunds from IRS

body_text: An Illinois woman was sentenced this week to 27 months in prison for her role in a conspiracy to fraudulently obtain tax refunds by submitting false tax returns and fictitious financial instruments to the IRS. “Monika Skinger engaged in a wide-ranging tax fraud scheme that flooded the IRS with fictitious financial instruments, including fraudulent checks,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Skinger attempted to take millions in refunds she had no right to receive. As we did in this case, the Department of Justice will continue to unmask fraudulent actors and swiftly bring them to justice.” According to court documents and statements made in court, Monika Skinger conspired with others to submit false individual and trust tax returns that claimed millions in refunds they were not entitled to receive. To induce the IRS to accept the false refund claims, Skinger personally submitted at least 16 fictitious financial instruments — such as checks, money orders, and payment vouchers — on behalf of herself and others. She also filed at least four false individual income tax returns for herself and at least two false trust tax returns. In total, Skinger sought $4.6 million in refunds from the IRS and received more than $1.2 million in fraudulent proceeds. Skinger pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Court Judge Amanda Brailsford for the District of Idaho ordered Skinger to serve three years of supervised release and pay $303,672.44 in restitution to the United States. Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division and U.S. Attorney Bart Davis for the District of Idaho made the announcement. IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case. Trial Attorney David F. Scollan of the National Fraud Enforcement Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittney Campbell for the District of Idaho are prosecuting the case. 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: Manassas man sentenced to over two years in prison for $3.5M fraud scheme

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Manassas man was sentenced on Sept. 11 to two years and nine months in prison for orchestrating a multi-year fraud scheme that defrauded approximately 100 victims of more than $3.5 million. According to court documents, Alexander A. Olave, 35, operated AO Elite, a company that falsely advertised a “done-for-you” e-commerce business model, claiming the company had built hundreds of online storefronts that generated $112 million in revenue for clients, and could produce guaranteed profit margins. None of these representations were true. Olave also falsely bolstered AO Elite’s credibility by directing prospective customers to a testimonial video that had been filmed for an unrelated company. Olave collected up-front fees from victims who sought to launch online businesses, in exchange for his promise to build and maintain their e-commerce storefronts. Victims never received the storefronts they were promised. Olave used customer funds to pay himself a salary and to lease luxury homes and vehicles. When victims inquired about the progress of their storefronts, Olave made false representations to delay refunds and conceal the fraud. After AO Elite ceased operations, Olave created two additional companies using the same fraudulent business model. Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jeffrey L. Tyler, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal Division, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Trenga. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McManigal prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-CR-102.


title: Eastern District of Virginia joins DOJ Fraud Division, SBA, and SBA OIG in surge takedown exceeding $245M in COVID-era loan fraud

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA) today announced two prosecutions as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and the SBA Office of Inspector General targeting fraud in the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). EDVA was a key participant in this surge effort. From June 12 to Sept. 1, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 160 criminal defendants, including approximately 80 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $245 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers. “Pandemic loan relief was meant to keep American small businesses alive during government lockdowns—not line the pockets of fraudsters,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The defendants charged during our summer surge allegedly fabricated businesses, submitted false payroll and revenue claims, stole identities, and concealed foreign ties on their applications— but they will now be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” “As the federal government was providing vital assistance to businesses impacted by a global pandemic, scammers and thieves cynically exploited that lifeline to enrich themselves,” said Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for EDVA. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to prosecute these economic parasites and recover the taxpayer funding intended to buoy small businesses in a time of crisis.” “This summer surge shows what is possible when dedicated public servants across the country work together with a single purpose,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Our mission is clear: protect taxpayer funds, safeguard the integrity of federal relief programs, and deliver justice to those who exploited them. We will remain steadfast every day—standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners—to identify fraud, pursue those responsible, and restore confidence in the programs meant to help American small businesses thrive.” “Today’s announcement represents the largest-ever action against perpetrators of SBA fraud, with 870,000 suspended borrowers tied to $39 billion in suspected fraudulent PPP and COVID EIDL activity. In partnership with Vice President Vance and the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, we’re putting fraudsters on notice: the federal government will no longer turn a blind eye to those who stole from taxpayers and exploited programs designed to sustain small businesses during the pandemic,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “With demand letters going out to suspected fraudsters, we’re also sending a clear message that they must repay their debts or face Treasury collections and possible federal law enforcement. Under this Administration, the free ride is over. We are restoring accountability, recovering taxpayer dollars, and protecting SBA programs for the legitimate small businesses they were created to serve.” “Operation No Doze brings a focused and coordinated approach to pursuing fraud in SBA’s pandemic relief programs,” said SBA Inspector General William Kirk. “By concentrating our investigative resources and working closely with SBA and our law enforcement partners, we are strengthening our ability to identify fraud, recover taxpayer funds, and hold accountable those who exploited programs created to help small businesses in a time of extraordinary need. This initiative makes clear that the passage of time does not diminish our commitment to accountability.” In EDVA, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Stamos announced that three defendants were sentenced for PPP-related fraud involving approximately $2,125,000 in losses. According to court documents, Karen J. DeMatteo, 65, of Gainesville, and her business partner, Tae Young Q. Jang, 65, of Nokesville, took out over 15 PPP and EIDL loans for entities they previously owned. Some of the applicant entities were dormant and no longer conducted business at the time of the applications. Jang and DeMatteo inflated the number of employees, payroll costs, and gross revenues associated with each applicant entity. Moreover, Jang and DeMatteo reported different payroll and revenue amounts for the applicant entities on different loan applications. Jang and DeMatteo then spent the PPP and EIDL funds for inappropriate uses, including buying cryptocurrency, houses, and a car. On Aug. 6, DeMatteo was sentenced to two years and six months in prison. On Aug. 27, Jang was sentenced to a year and five months in prison. This case was investigated by the U.S. Agency for International Development. Between May 2020 and March 2021, Sheila Bynum-Coleman fraudulently sought and obtained more than $225,000 in loan proceeds from the Paycheck Protection Program on behalf of eight purported business entities. Bynum-Coleman used those funds for personal purposes, including paying off the mortgage on her residence, purchasing luxury clothing, and paying off her personal credit cards. Bynum-Coleman also defrauded the Virginia Employment Commission, submitting fraudulent applications for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance funds, obtaining more than $17,000 of unemployment compensation benefits. On July 27, Bynum-Coleman was sentenced to two years in prison. This case was investigated by the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General. On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement 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. An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.