title: Final Defendants Convicted in Macon’s Operation Mobile Order Sentenced

body_text: MACON, Ga. – The final two defendants involved in an armed drug trafficking network affiliated with a criminal street gang were sentenced to federal prison because of Operation Mobile Order, an investigation led by the FBI and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, which resulted in the seizure of dozens of firearms, including a machine gun. “This heavily armed drug trafficking organization was a major threat in Macon, and our region is now safer because every member has been brought to justice,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “Targeting dangerous criminal organizations like those dismantled in Operation Mobile Order remains a top priority for our office and law enforcement partners at every level. These offenders have been held accountable for the harm they caused to our community.” “Operation Mobile Order dismantled a violent drug trafficking organization that treated a Macon neighborhood like a retail storefront for cocaine, backed by an arsenal of firearms,” said Robert Gibbs, Supervisory Senior Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta’s Macon office. “This investigation shows the FBI’s commitment to targeting criminal networks that fuel addiction, violence, and fear in our communities. We will continue to work shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners to make Central Georgia a safer place to live.” “Operation Mobile Order represents the best in local and federal law enforcement partnerships,” said Bibb County Sheriff David Davis. “Together, FBI agents and Bibb County Sheriff’s Office investigators worked tirelessly to bring this cadre of criminals to justice. Our community is much better off with these peddlers of poison off our streets.” The following defendants were sentenced today, on September 3: Eddie Reese, 54, of Atlanta, was sentenced to serve 200 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on June 18, 2025. Alton Oliver, aka “Alo,” aka “Lo,” 43, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on Jan. 8. The following defendant was sentenced on August 10: Tanya Card, 51, of Macon, was sentenced to serve six months in prison after she pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base on Dec. 2, 2025. The following defendant was sentenced on June 4: Roddreckious Williams, 33, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 151 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of cocaine base and one count of distribution of cocaine on Jan. 21. The following defendants were sentenced on May 19: Roosevelt Cole, aka “Froball,” 52, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 170 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on Jan. 6. Marvin Huff, aka “Black,” 50, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 125 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on Jan. 8. Trayvon Simmons, aka “Abo,” 29, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 70 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on Jan. 6. The following defendant was sentenced to prison on April 2: Antonyo Daniels, aka “Tony,” 31, of Warner Robins, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 250 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on Jan. 8. The following defendants were sentenced to prison on March 2: Devonta Jackson, 31, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 155 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on Dec. 2, 2025. Laderion Jacobs, aka “Johnny,” aka “Johnny Cain,” 30, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 100 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on Dec. 2, 2025. Ladarrious King, 31, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 70 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on Dec. 2, 2025. The following defendant was sentenced to prison on Feb. 5: Leroy Mintz, aka “Booman,” 29, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 132 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on Nov. 20, 2025. U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell is presiding over the case. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents and statements in court, in 2022 and 2023, the FBI conducted Operation Mobile Order, a Macon-centered investigation targeting an armed drug trafficking organization led by Reese. Many members of the organization are validated Blue Band Gang (BBG) members who affiliate with the Crips criminal organization. During the investigation, the FBI ran nine controlled purchases of cocaine and crack cocaine and intercepted phone calls and text messages, detailing transactions involving kilograms of cocaine from an Atlanta supplier. The main drug distribution site, also known as a trap house, was located on Richard Street in Macon. This busy location functioned similarly to a restaurant, with members of the organization assigned shifts to distribute drugs. Recorded calls captured Reese discussing drug overdoses in the community, claiming that if the drugs causing those overdoses had come from his Richard Street operation, “everyone in Macon would be dead.” The FBI executed 11 federal search warrants in Macon, Warner Robins, and Atlanta on Nov. 20, 2023, including at the Richard Street trap house, seizing cocaine, 26 firearms, a ballistic vest, and $93,247. One of the locations searched included Oliver’s home on Williamson Road in Macon. There, agents found a machine gun plus five firearms. In addition, agents found quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine at Oliver’s. The ballistic vest belonged to Daniels. 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 FBI and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. U.S. Attorney Will Keyes prosecuted the case for the Government.


title: Tampa Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison and Ordered to Pay Over $700,000 to the Internal Revenue Service

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, FL – Mahmoud Mehdi has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington to three years and ten months in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and making and subscribing a false tax return. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $137,931.33, the proceeds of his criminal conduct, and ordered Mehdi to pay restitution in the amount of $732,521.18. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, beginning in January 2019, and continuing through December 2022, Mehdi conspired with others to commit wire fraud by knowingly causing the electronic submission of fraudulent forms to the IRS. The tax returns contained fabricated figures for gambling winnings and losses, as well as for federal tax withholding amounts (based on the fake gambling winnings). The false tax returns requested substantial refunds from the IRS that the taxpayers were not legally entitled to receive. The total intended tax loss from Mehdi’s conduct was $1,401,587.88. The actual tax loss was $732,521.18, which was paid by the IRS to taxpayers, including Mehdi, either as tax refunds or credits applied to prior debts. “Tax fraud isn’t just a numbers game—it’s a crime that harms every honest taxpayer,” said Charles Miller, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation, Florida Field Office. “This sentencing reinforces that those who cheat the system will be held accountable.” This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Samantha Newman, Brooke Padgett and Jennifer Peresie. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne C. Nebesky.


title: Polk County Woman Admits to Smuggling Methamphetamine into Federal Prison for Her Inmate Husband

body_text: Ocala, Florida – Samantha Calvente (44, Winter Haven) has pleaded guilty to possession of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. She faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to the court records, on August 21, 2022, Calvente went to the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (“FCC Coleman”) in Sumter Countyto visit her husband, R.C, who was an inmate at the facility. As Calvente entered the prison, she told correctional officers that she did not have any prohibited items on her person, including narcotics. When Calvente entered the visitation room, however, staff observed her retrieving an unknown object from her waistband and placing it between her legs. Correctional officers promptly escorted Calvente out of the visitation room. Before a search could take place, Calvente handed the officers an object wrapped in a black latex material that contained over 24 grams of methamphetamine. Calvente then admitted that she had introduced contraband into prison facilities for her husband on prior occasions. This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Watson and Anthony C. Marek.


title: Homeland Security Task Force Yields 30 Year Prison Sentence for Colombian Drug Trafficking Organization Leader

body_text: Tampa, FL – Celso Navarro Diaz (65, Colombia) has been sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington to 30 years in federal prison for conspiring to traffic more than five kilograms of cocaine on vessels subject to the jurisdiction of the United States and conspiring to import more than five kilograms of cocaine into the United States. A federal jury found Navarro Diaz guilty on January 30, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to testimony and evidence presented during the five-day trial, Navarro Diaz was the head of an organization in Colombia that transported cocaine and marijuana from the Pacific coast of Colombia to Costa Rica. Over a two-year period, Panamanian, Colombian, and U.S. Coast Guard authorities interdicted four of his organization’s vessels. The investigation revealed that Navarro Diaz discussed the smuggling operations in heavily coded language and had talked about the seizures in coded language after three of the events. The cocaine was intended to be smuggled from Costa Rica through Central America and Mexico prior to importation into the United States. Navarro Diaz was previously convicted of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States and pleaded guilty to that offense in 2010, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Colombian National Police. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and Judicial Attaché Office in Bogotá worked with the Government of Colombia to secure the arrest and September 2024 extradition from Colombia of Navarro Diaz. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Region 20 (Tampa) comprises agents and officers from multiple law enforcement agencies with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.


title: Guyanese National Sentenced in Mortgage Fraud Scheme

body_text: Tampa, FL – Kenneth Blair (54, Clermont) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge John L. Badalamenti to 30 months in federal prison for bank fraud. Blair pleaded guilty on May 15, 2024. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $15,475, the proceeds of the charged criminal conduct. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court documents, from as early as August 2020, and continuing through July 2021, in the Middle District of Florida and elsewhere, Blair and others devised a scheme to defraud financial institutions by making materially false and fraudulent representations. Blair’s role in the bank fraud scheme included preparing and submitting fictitious and fraudulent paystubs for his clients in the names of companies to show fabricated income from employers as well as altered bank statements showing vastly overstated account balances. This caused the mortgage lenders to approve and fund mortgage loans for otherwise unqualified borrowers in exchange for undisclosed payments to Blair from his clients. The fraudulent mortgage loans were subsequently purchased and guaranteed by government-sponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, as well as the Federal Housing Administration. This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Blain Goff. 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: Federal Inmate Pleads Guilty Plea to Possessing Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute

body_text: Ocala, Florida – Christopher Carl Brown (43, of Mississippi) has pleaded guilty to possession of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. Brown faces a minimum sentence of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court records, in 2025, Brown was an inmate in the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (“FCC Coleman”) where he was serving a sentence for conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. On July 3, 2025, a Federal Bureau of Prisons correctional officer discovered Brown in possession of a sock containing a pill bottle. Inside the bottle were four plastic bags containing over 10 grams of methamphetamine. These drugs were intended for distribution inside FCC Coleman. This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah Watson and Angela Palacios.


title: Armed Drug Trafficker with Machinegun Sentenced to 60 Years in Federal Prison

body_text: Tampa, Florida – Michael Devante Curry (31, Tampa) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle to 60 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a machinegun in furtherance of drug trafficking, and two counts of possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. A federal jury found Curry guilty on May 29, 2026. The court also ordered Curry to forfeit the firearms and assorted rounds of ammunition used in the commission of the offense. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to the evidence presented at trial, from at least January through June 2025, Curry conspired with others to possess methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana. On June 1, 2025, officers from the Tampa Police Department executed a search warrant at a residence and found Curry hiding in a kitchen cabinet with fentanyl in his pocket and more than $3,000 in cash. Ultimately, officers located nine firearms, including one equipped with a machinegun conversion device that rendered it a fully automatic weapon. They also seized methamphetamine, crack cocaine, oxycodone pills, an assortment of ammunition, a bullet proof vest, and firearm accessories, including drum magazines. Agents seized multiple cellphones attributed to Curry and later obtained warrants to search these devices and Curry’s iCloud account. Contained within these records were extensive messages in which Curry discussed distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana within the Tampa area from January through June 2025. In addition, Curry was documented in photographs and videos possessing multiple firearms, some of which were equipped with machinegun conversion devices. Prior to the offense, Curry had an extensive criminal history, including felony convictions for possession of cocaine, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and fleeing and eluding law enforcement officers. This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christian Adkins, James C. Preston, and Jeff Chang. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.


title: Webster Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Dealing Firearms and Possessing a Machinegun

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Webster, Mass. man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Worcester to illegally dealing firearms, including 3D-printed firearms and components, and possessing a machinegun. Anthony Pietrowski, a/k/a “AJ,” 24, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful dealing in firearms without a license and one count of unlawful possession of a machinegun. United States District Judge Margaret Guzman scheduled sentencing for Dec. 7, 2026. Pietrowski was arrested and charged in January 2026 and subsequently released on conditions following a detention hearing. Between August and October 2025, Pietrowski repeatedly sold privately made firearms and firearm components during four transactions in Webster. Among the items Pietrowski sold were a 3D-printed Glock-style pistol, multiple 3D-printed pistol frames and a machinegun conversion device designed for use with a Glock-style pistol. Pietrowski had never applied for or received a federal license to manufacture or deal firearms. During the first transaction, Pietrowski described the firearm he sold as a custom build with a 3D-printed frame and discussed how he obtained components and assembled privately made firearms. Pietrowski also offered to supply additional frames and discussed future firearm sales. Over the following months, Pietrowski sold additional 3D-printed frames and another privately made pistol. In August 2025, Pietrowski sold a privately made pistol together with a machinegun conversion device, which constitutes a machinegun under federal law. Pietrowski later sold six additional 3D-printed pistol frames in October 2025. The charge of unlawful dealing in firearms without a license provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of unlawful possession of a machinegun provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by United States Postal Inspection Service; Massachusetts State Police; and the Webster, Worcester and Warwick (RI) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary B. Stendig of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Boston is comprised of agents and officers from HSI, FBI, DEA, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS, DOL-OIG and DSS, as well as several state and local law enforcement agencies, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.


title: Massachusetts Woman Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud in Connection With $10 Million Ponzi Scheme

body_text: BOSTON – A Massachusetts woman pleaded guilty today in federal court in Springfield, Mass., to her execution of an approximately $10 million Ponzi scheme involving over 200 victims. Barbara A. Hirshfield, 83, of Lexington, Mass. pleaded guilty to five counts of wire fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for Jan. 7, 2026. Hirshfield was charged in July 2026 . Hirshfield owned and operated Ideal Financial Services, Inc. (Ideal) in West Springfield, Mass., as well as Ideal Financial Holdings (Ideal Holdings). Ideal purported to operate a motor vehicle and small loan business and raised money from investors by selling promissory notes that guaranteed investors high rates of returns. Investors were led to believe that their money would be used to fund Ideal’s lending business and that the returns on their investments would be generated from borrowers’ loan payments. In 2012, the Massachusetts Division of Banks (MDB) became concerned about Ideal’s finances and required Ideal to cease soliciting and accepting outside investment funds to finance its business. Hirshfield did not disclose to investors that the MDB had required Ideal to cease fundraising. Instead, Hirshfield continued to raise outside funds through the sale of promissory notes. In 2014, after MDB remained concerned about Ideal’s finances, the MDB revoked Ideal’s licenses to issue motor vehicle and small loans – effectively preventing the company from continuing the lending business, its primary source of revenue. Hirshfield did not disclose to investors that the MDB had revoked Ideal’s licenses, nor did she disclose that Ideal was no longer generating revenue by issuing loans. Instead, Hirshfield continued to solicit investments through the sale of promissory notes. By at least 2019, Ideal was generating little to no revenue from lending and instead relied almost entirely on money raised from new investments. Rather than disclosing the company’s financial condition, Hirshfield continued marketing promissory notes. Hirshfield used money obtained from new investments to make interest and principal payments owed to earlier investors, operating Ideal as a Ponzi scheme. Hirshfield continued operating the Ponzi scheme until approximately June 2025, when she was no longer able to make interest payments or repay the principal owed on outstanding promissory notes. In late 2024, Ideal failed to make promised interest payments to investors. Rather than disclose the company’s true financial condition, Hirshfield blamed payment delays on banking issues, fraud, data breaches and stolen or lost checks, while continuing to solicit additional investments through emails offering increasingly high rates of return. The scheme resulted in losses of approximately $10,930,940 to approximately 204 victims. More than 25 victims suffered substantial financial hardship as a result of the fraud. The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts Securities Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven H. Breslow of the Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case.


title: Marlborough Man Indicted by Federal Grand Jury for Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Minor

body_text: BOSTON – A Marlborough man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Worcester for allegedly attempting to pay $150 to have sex with a purported 15-year-old minor. James Gill, 39, of Marlborough, was indicted on one count of Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Minor. Gill was previously arrested and charged by criminal complaint in July 2026 . An arraignment date has not yet been scheduled by the Court. According to the charging documents, Gill allegedly responded to an advertisement posted by undercover law enforcement on a website commonly used to advertise commercial sex. During subsequent text messages and a phone call with an undercover agent posing as the sister of a purported 15-year-old girl, the agent stated that the minor was available to engage in commercial sex acts. Gill allegedly agreed to pay $150 to have sex with the minor and stated that he intended to video record the sexual encounter. It is further alleged that Gill requested photographs of the purported minor and sent a nude photograph of himself to be shown to her. Gill was arrested upon his arrival at a prearranged hotel to meet the purported minor. The charge of attempted sex trafficking of a child provides for a sentence of no less than 10 years and up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. If you or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking, please contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov . United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Worcester Police Chief Paul B. Saucier made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen M. Noto of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Illegal Alien Sentenced to Prison for SNAP and Social Security Fraud

body_text: BOSTON – A Dominican national unlawfully residing in Boston was sentenced yesterday for stealing SNAP benefits and unlawfully using a U.S. citizen’s Social Security number. Victor Suazo Reynoso, 69, was sentenced by Chief Judge Denise J. Casper to one year and one day in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. Reynoso was also ordered to pay $18,434 in restitution to the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance and $54,931 to MassHealth. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In May 2026 , the defendant pleaded guilty to illegal acquisition of supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) benefits and false representation of a Social Security number. Reynoso was charged and arrested in March 2026. Reynoso used the name, birthdate and Social Security number of a United States citizen to apply for and receive a Massachusetts driver’s license and more than $18,000 in SNAP benefits and $54,000 in MassHealth benefits. SNAP is a federal program administered by the states that provides funds for low-income individuals and families to purchase food. MassHealth is a federal and state program that provides medical benefits to low-income individuals. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Tobin of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case. On March 26, 2026 , United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced the creation of the Benefit & Voter Fraud Team, a district-wide initiative established in response to the rampant fraud being uncovered across Massachusetts Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected benefit fraud in Massachusetts by calling 1-855-SCAM-MA-1 (855-722-6621). On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division . The Fraud Division is 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: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Selling Firearm and Fentanyl to Undercover Law Enforcement

body_text: BOSTON – An illegal alien from the Dominican Republic, who is an associate of the D Street Projects gang in the South Boston area, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to selling a firearm and fentanyl to an undercover law enforcement agent. Junior Martinez-Perello, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun scheduled sentencing for Jan. 6, 2027. In July 2025 , Martinez-Perello was arrested and charged. In May 2025, Martinez-Perello communicated with undercover law enforcement about selling 100 grams of fentanyl and a firearm. On May 30, 2025, Martinez-Perello agreed to meet in Boston for a drug and gun deal. Martinez-Perello informed the undercover agent that he would always have firearms available and not to be concerned about purchasing firearms from him, and that he would be able to obtain and distribute half-kilogram quantities of fentanyl in the near future. During the controlled purchase, Martinez-Perello explained how the safety feature worked on the firearm. At one point during the sale, Martinez-Perello pointed the loaded firearm towards the ground, manipulated the firearm in a fashion that was consistent with rendering the firearm safe and attempting to remove the live ammunition from the firearm. During this process, Martinez-Perello disengaged the safety mechanism on the firearm and fired one round into the floor. The charge of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood .


title: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Chinese National for Voter Fraud in Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A federal grand jury has indicted a Chinese national residing in Andover, Mass., on charges stemming from an alleged scheme to use another Chinese national’s identity to register to vote and cast a ballot in the 2024 presidential election. The defendant was previously arrested and charged by criminal complaint in August. Yupeng Sun, 33, was indicted on one count of fraudulent voter registration and one count of fraudulent voting. Sun was previously arrested and charged by criminal complaint on Aug. 19, 2026 and subsequently released on conditions. He will be arraigned in federal court in Boston at a later date. According to court filings , on Oct. 10, 2024, Sun submitted an online voter registration through the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website impersonating another Chinese national residing in Massachusetts with legal permanent resident (LPR) status. On Oct. 31, 2024, Sun allegedly continued to impersonate the other Chinese national and submitted an early voting ballot at Malden City Hall for the 2024 U.S. presidential election. After registering to vote and voting, Sun allegedly submitted several anonymous tips in April and May 2026 to Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stating that the victim “illegally voted in the 2024 U.S. presidential election” and noting that “[h]e is not a U.S. citizen but a permanent resident.” It is further alleged that Sun impersonated the same Chinese national and his Chinese national wife in fraudulent forms submitted to USCIS in April 2024 requesting to abandon their LPR status. When the couple returned from an international trip in June 2024, they were subjected to secondary inspection at Logan Airport in Boston, had their Green Cards confiscated, and were placed into removal proceedings allegedly as a result of Sun’s submission of fraudulent forms. The charges of fraudulent registration and fraudulent voting each provide for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah Foley and Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Valuable assistance in the investigation was provided by the Lexington Police Department and the Andover Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Nagelberg of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Convicted Drug Dealer Arrested for Selling Fentanyl While on Federal Supervised Release

body_text: BOSTON – A Randolph, Mass. man has been arrested for distribution of fentanyl while on supervised release for a prior federal drug conviction. Christian Collins, 24, was charged by criminal complaint with distribution of and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. The defendant remains in federal custody following a detention hearing that took place this afternoon. According to the charging documents, Collins allegedly sold fentanyl to a cooperating witness six times between July and August 2026. Collins is currently on supervised release for a prior federal drug trafficking conviction involving fentanyl, for which Collins was sentenced to in 2021 to five years in prison and four years of supervised release. The charge of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Randolph, Holbrook, East Bridgewater, Taunton, Fall River, Acushnet, Rochester, Brockton, Boston, Stoughton, Quincy, Ashland and Abington Police Departments; Plymouth County and Suffolk County Sheriff’s Departments; and Massachusetts Department of Correction. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Cutshall of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Venezuelans convicted of jackpotting a Kansas ATM face deportation

component: USAO - Kansas

body_text: TOPEKA, KAN – Two Venezuelan nationals face possible deportation after completing prison sentences for stealing thousands of dollars from an automated teller machine (ATM) through jackpotting. Jackpotting involves installing malware into an ATM to force it to dispense money. According to court documents, Luinder Daniel Cordova-Castellano, 20, and Jheison Alexander Lara-Sira, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of bank larceny. Each defendant was sentenced to time served, but as part of their plea agreements, they waived their ability to contest should an immigration judge issue a final order of removal in accordance with the Immigration and Nationality Act. In December 2025, Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call about suspicious activity at a bank in Manhattan. After driving up to an ATM, a witness reported seeing a man run away from the ATM then flee in a dark colored Toyota Prius. Deputies spotted the vehicle and followed it to a business where they approached the occupants, Cordova-Castellano and Lara-Sira. The smell of marijuana gave deputies probable cause search of the vehicle. Inside of a backpack, law enforcement found approximately $15,000 in cash. Deputies located a laptop, keyboard, cables, tools, and a wireless hotspot in the vehicle. While executing a search warrant on Cordova-Castellano’s cellphone, law enforcement found chat conversations in Spanish about ATMs and photos of ATMs. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division doesn’t directly take part in deportation hearings. However, when we are prosecuting non-citizens for federal criminal offenses, we are cognizant of when their conduct merits prompt removal from our country, saving the taxpayer the cost of incarceration,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “By offering plea agreements that include restrictions on appealing removal orders, we are helping to expedite the process of extracting convicted felons from within our borders and minimizing the expense of their prison stay.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag prosecuted the case. This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. ###


title: Maui Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Robbery

component: USAO - Hawaii

body_text: HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Justin Nelson, 43, of Kihei, Maui, appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Wes Reber Porter and entered a plea of guilty to bank robbery. Sentencing is set for December 18, 2026 before Senior U.S. District Judge Helen Gillmor. According to court records, on August 27, 2025, Nelson entered a First Hawaiian Bank branch in Kihei, carrying a white bag and a black airsoft pistol that appeared to be a real handgun. Nelson approached the bank tellers, pointed the pistol at one of the bank tellers, and demanded cash. Believing the pistol was a real handgun, the tellers gave Nelson $4,885. Shortly thereafter, Maui Police Department officers located Nelson and arrested him. At the time of his arrest, Nelson had some of the stolen cash and the black airsoft pistol. Nelson faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and a period of supervised release of up to three years. The FBI is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregg Paris Yates is prosecuting the case.


title: Hanapepe Man Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison Following Jury Conviction for Producing, Receiving, and Possessing Child Pornography

body_text: HONOLULU – United States Attorney Ken Sorenson announced that Roger Biggs, 40, of Hanapepe, Hawaii, was sentenced on September 3, 2026, by Chief United States District Judge Derrick K. Watson to 540 months in federal prison for the production, receipt, and possession of child pornography, followed by 20 years of supervised release. Biggs was also required to pay $123,300 in fines, assessments, and restitution. Biggs was previously convicted in a federal jury trial in May 2026. Following an extensive FBI investigation, evidence presented at his trial proved Biggs was a serial, self-described “groomer” who targeted children, many of whom were mentally vulnerable. Biggs contacted these children through direct message communications on social media platforms, sending thousands of messages to his victims. In one such message, he admitted to his victim: “i [sic] prey on vulnerable children.” Biggs groomed the children by sending them photographs of himself, gifts, and money and by engaging in sexually explicit communications with them. He then convinced at least one child to produce and send him images and videos of the child involved in sexually explicit conduct. Among his many victims were two 14-year-olds on the U.S. mainland, one of whom Biggs traveled to meet in person. Biggs was also convicted of possessing child pornography on his cellular phone, including at least one image of a prepubescent minor under the age of 12. At sentencing, Chief Judge Watson characterized Biggs’s conduct as abhorrent, disgusting, and criminal. Before issuing his 45-year sentence, Chief Judge Watson also highlighted Biggs’s inappropriate post-trial communication with a minor victim while incarcerated and awaiting sentencing, as well as his complete lack of remorse for his criminal activity. “Roger Biggs earned every year of today’s 45-year sentence with his repugnant, sick, and depraved conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “As we have repeatedly said, we will never waver in our commitment to protect Hawaii’s children. Our message remains simple and clear: we will doggedly pursue child predators like Biggs, and they will face the full force of a federal prosecution and a punishing sentence for preying upon our young and most vulnerable citizens.” “Mr. Biggs spent years grooming and exploiting children, and not even a conviction stopped him from continuing to harass his victims,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “Today’s outcome is a testament to the tireless work of our special agents and federal partners. Let this serve as a message to those who exploit our children: the FBI will find you, and we will use every resource available to bring justice to your doorstep.” The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Margaret C. Nammar and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Heidi Turner prosecuted 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 .


title: Richmond man sentenced to 10 years in prison for distributing child sexual abuse material

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). According to court documents, on May 22, 2025, Randon Alexander Sprinkle, 31, used a dating app to contact another user who purportedly was the father of a nine-year-old son, but in actuality was an undercover agent with the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. Sprinkle immediately invited the user to communicate via the Telegram app. After alluding to a sexual interest in minors, Sprinkle sent a video depicting two adults sexually abusing a minor. Sprinkle then expressed his interest in travelling to Washington, D.C., to meet the other user and sexually abuse his purported nine-year-old son. On Oct. 16, 2025, FBI agents searched Sprinkle’s residence in Richmond and seized two laptop computers and a cellphone. Sprinkle’s cellphone contained 43 CSAM files and one of the laptops contained two additional files. The files included depictions of the abuse of toddler-aged children. Theophani K. Stamos, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Ian Kaufmann, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ellen Hubbard Theisen and Janet Jin Ah Lee 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 the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . 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. 3:26-cr-2.


title: City Man Sentenced to Nine and a Half Years in Prison for Armed Carjacking in Southwest Philadelphia

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

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Nasir Warlow, 21, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 114 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release by United States District Judge Joel H. Slomsky for committing a gunpoint carjacking in 2024. The defendant was charged by indictment in March 2025 and pleaded guilty this February to one count of carjacking and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. As detailed in court filings and statements, on September 3, 2024, at approximately 5:08 a.m., Warlow and two accomplices, all wearing masks and dressed in black, approached a man parking his silver 2017 Nissan Sentra on the 6700 block of Woodland Avenue. Warlow came up to the driver’s side, pointed a firearm at the victim, and ordered him out of the car, as the two accomplices approached from the passenger side. The three carjackers then entered the vehicle and fled northbound on 68th Street. Police officers saw the men traveling in the stolen Nissan near Cobbs Creek Parkway and Baltimore Avenue and initiated a pursuit. The chase ended when Warlow crashed into the front porch of a residence on the 300 block of Horton Street, causing significant damage to both the home and the vehicle. This case was investigated by the Philadelphia Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sandra Urban.


title: Pottawatomie County Resident Pleads Guilty To Illegally Possessing Firearm And Ammunition

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Codey Farrow, a/k/a Codey Michael Locklear Farrow, age 29, of McLoud, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, punishable by up to fifteen years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The Indictment charged Farrow with knowingly possessing one .40 S&W caliber, semi-automatic pistol and 9 rounds of .40 S&W caliber ammunition on March 26, 2026, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, after having been previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year imprisonment. The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Honorable Jason A. Roberston, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Farrow will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin Knutson represented the United States.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Participates in its First H.O.P.E. Event

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina took part in its first H.O.P.E. outreach event in support of International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, 2026. U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle took the recommendation of the dedicated victim’s advocates to update the H.E.A.T. program to the H ealing O pioid P revention E ducation (H.O.P.E.) program. H.O.P.E. focuses on reducing the harm heroin and opiate abuse inflicted on North Carolina families by increasing community awareness of the epidemic. During the event, staff from the Eastern District actively engaged with the public to explain how heroin and opiate abuse continue to harm North Carolina families and communities. They spoke with attendees about the severity of the epidemic, shared firsthand knowledge from their work across the district, and emphasized the importance of community awareness and prevention. In addition to these conversations, staff members distributed valuable resources, connected individuals with supportive services, and offered guidance to those seeking help for themselves or loved ones. Their efforts ensured that community members left the event better informed, better equipped, and more empowered to confront the challenges posed by opioid abuse. The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to supporting families and communities affected by opioids and individuals seeking treatment. For more information or assistance with the H.O.P.E. Program, please contact our office at USANCE-VictimAssista@usa.doj.gov .


title: Jury Convicts Sean Alfortish for Role in Staged Collision Scheme

component: Criminal - Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section

body_text: New Orleans – Today, U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that a jury returned a verdict of guilty for Sean Alfortish (“Alfortish”), convicting him of his role in a years-long scheme to defraud trucking and insurance companies. Specifically, Sean Alfortish was found guilty of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, two counts of mail fraud, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering. The jury did not reach a verdict on charges against Alfortish and codefendant Leon Parker (“Parker”) relating to the murder of Cornelius Garrison, III (“Garrison”), a cooperating witness for the FBI. Chief U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter declared a mistrial on those counts. Alfortish was also convicted on one count of obstruction of justice and one count of witness tampering relating to Garrison. Specifically, Alfortish was convicted of offering to move Garrison out of the country and offering him $500,000 to take the fall for the staged wrecks scheme. Alfortish was found not guilty on two counts alleging that he had paid an inmate in St. Charles Parish Jail to lie under oath. In total, Alfortish faces a total statutory sentence of 90 years. Parker previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy and two counts of mail fraud. He faces a total statutory sentence of 60 years. “Today’s verdict is an important step towards justice for the victims of this scheme,” said U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. “Alfortish and Parker exploited the courts to benefit themselves and their confederates. The jury’s verdict demonstrates the dedication of the Department of Justice to preserving the integrity of our justice system.” “The FBI and U.S. Attorney's Office worked hundreds of hours to make sure justice would be done for Mr. Garrison and his family, and for the people of Louisiana,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “We will continue our work to expose criminal wrongdoing, undeterred.” This verdict was the result of countless hours of hard work by the investigators, support teams, and prosecutors assigned to this case. The dedication to duty and cooperation between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Department of Justice Criminal Division, and FBI New Orleans, paved the way for today’s successful outcome. U.S. Attorney Courcelle, and the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section of the Criminal Division, U.S. Department of Justice, would like to acknowledge the tremendous work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police with this matter, and extend their thanks for the assistance of the United States Marshals Service, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Payne, Senior Litigation Counsel; Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division and Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit; Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman; and U.S. Department of Justice Trial Attorneys J. Ryan McLaren and Samir Paul, of the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section.


title: Jury Convicts Orleans Parish Man of Brandishing a Firearm During a Carjacking

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LA – On September 1, 2026, DEVON FRITH , (“FRITH”) , age 27, of New Orleans, was found guilty of carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, following a two-day jury trial before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Sentencing is scheduled for December 3, 2026. This is the second federal conviction for carjacking the United States government has obtained from FRITH . Evidence presented at trial showed that on June 4, 2022, on the Westbank of New Orleans, FRITH brandished a firearm and stole a motor scooter. Approximately ten months later, FRITH brandished a weapon and stole a motor vehicle from another victim. FRITH later pleaded guilty to the second carjacking. FRITH was convicted in Count 1 for carjacking, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2119(1). At sentencing for Count 1, FRITH faces up to 15 years in jail. Count 2 was using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii). At sentencing for Count 2, FRITH faces a mandatory minimum 7 years, up to life in prison, which must be run consecutive to Count 1. United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Mike Trummel and David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. ***


title: Roseville Man Charged with Defrauding Employer of over $2.3 Million

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Christopher William Edward Abplanalp, 38, of Roseville, was charged Wednesday with wire fraud in a scheme to enrich himself with his employer’s money, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, between February 2023 and July 2025, working as an Executive Manager at a Placer County business, Abplanalp stole more than $2.3 million, most of which he then spent gambling. In executing the scheme, he diverted money from the business’s account with an online payment processing system to his own personal account, or to various other friends or acquaintances. Abplanalp also repeatedly charged a client’s credit card for items the client never ordered and for invoices that did not exist, then transferred those proceeds to himself. Additionally, he instructed clients to tender payments directly to him and told vendors to issue rebates and refunds to his personal account, rather than the business. To conceal his theft, Abplanalp altered, deleted, or made false entries to the business’s accounting software. Abplanalp is scheduled for an initial appearance and arraignment on Sept. 8, 2026, at 2 p.m., before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremy D. Peterson. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation with assistance from IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dhruv M. Sharma is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Abplanalp faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Illegal Alien from India Charged with Wholesale Drug Distribution from a Round Table Pizza Restaurant in Tulare County

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury today returned an indictment against Kawal Preet Singh, 50, an Indian national unlawfully present in the United States, charging him with distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, Singh sold wholesale quantities of methamphetamine from a Round Table Pizza restaurant he operated in Dinuba, while armed with illegal firearms. According to court documents, an investigation into Indian Organized Crime in the Central Valley identified Singh as a subject of the investigation. On Aug. 18, 2026, federal agents searched Singh’s home and business and seized more than 40 pounds of methamphetamine as well as three firearms and more than $10,000 in cash. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert L. Veneman‑Hughes is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Singh faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, for drug trafficking and a mandatory minimum of five years in prison consecutive to any other sentence up to life in prison for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The Central Valley HSTF is composed of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Marshals Service, and IRS Criminal Investigation with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.


title: Illegal Alien Gang Member Charged with Possessing Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in Fresno County

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury today returned an indictment against Joaquin “Rascal” Aranda, 40, a Mexican national illegally residing in Sanger, charging him with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced. According to court documents, in October 2025, an investigation began into the Sureño criminal street gang operating in Fresno County. Investigators identified Aranda as a high-ranking Reedley Sureño gang member and conducted three undercover purchases of methamphetamine from him between January and May 2026. On May 28, 2026, agents executed a search warrant at Aranda’s residence and recovered more methamphetamine along with digital scales, spoons, and baggies. In total, Aranda was found with 297.52 grams of methamphetamine throughout the investigation. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation, with assistance from the Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC), the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert L. Veneman‑Hughes is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Aranda faces a mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of 40 years in prison, and a $5 million fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. The Central Valley HSTF is composed of agents and officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Marshals Service, and IRS Criminal Investigation with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.


title: Wilmington Man Arrested on Child Pornography Charges  Involving an 11-Year-Old

body_text: WILMINGTON, Del. – Federal agents arrested a Wilmington man on August 21, 2026, on charges of production of child pornography, attempted receipt of child pornography, and transfer of obscene material to a minor in connection with the FBI’s Summer Heat 2.0 initiative. According to court documents, Vincent Valdivieso, 22, exchanged text messages with an 11-year-old victim in which he lied about his own age, repeatedly requested sexually explicit photographs, and attempted to arrange an in-person meeting with the victim. Over FaceTime and at Valdivieso’s direction, the victim engaged in sexually explicit conduct while Valdivieso masturbated. Valdivieso is charged in a criminal complaint with production of child pornography and attempting to produce child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2251(a) and (e); attempted receipt of child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2252(a)(2) and (b); and transfer of obscene material to a minor, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1470. If convicted, Valdivieso faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace made the announcement. The FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Street Task Force and Delaware State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Claudia L. Pare is prosecuting the case. The FBI launched “Summer Heat” for the second year in a row, targeting violent crime on a nationwide scale. It launched this multi-pronged offensive to crush violent crime. By surging resources alongside federal, state, and local partners, executing federal warrants on violent criminals and fugitives, and dismantling violent gangs nationwide, the FBI seeks to aggressively restore safety in communities across the country. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 26-mj-442. The charges contained in the criminal complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Dover Airman Arrested for Transporting 15-Year-Old from Pennsylvania to Delaware for Illicit Sexual Conduct

body_text: WILMINGTON, Del. – A Dover airman made his initial appearance in federal court on September 3, 2026, on charges of coercion and enticement, transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and travel with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. According to court documents, Dylan Williams, 27, exchanged text messages with a 15-year-old victim and engaged in sexually charged conversations. Through conversations, Williams learned the victim’s age and acknowledged her youth. Nevertheless, Williams arranged to drive several hours to pick up the minor from her home in Falls Township, Pennsylvania, and take her back to Dover, Delaware, where he had sex with her. Williams is charged in a criminal complaint with coercion and enticement, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b); transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2423(a); and travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2423(b). If convicted, Williams faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace made the announcement. The FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case with assistance from Falls Township Police Department, Dover Police Department, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Claudia L. Pare 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 26-mj-448. The charges contained in the criminal complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: U.S. and UK Launch First-of-Its-Kind Joint Alliance to Dismantle Global Scam Centers

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, together with the Crown Prosecution Service of England & Wales and the National Crime Agency of the United Kingdom announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Scam Center Strike Force and its United Kingdom counterparts. The MOU is the first-of-its kind related to international cooperation on disabling scam centers committing cryptocurrency and cyber-enabled investment fraud (CIF) and other schemes, which are ravaging the American people of approximately $10 billion in losses per year. "The United Kingdom is one of our oldest allies and partners. We've stood side by side to bring down global threats in multiple wars, and today we commit to stand together in the war on transnational organized crime, " said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. "Together we will disable the Chinese TOC networks that are operating these scam compounds and depriving our citizens of their hard earned funds, all while using human-trafficked labor to increase their profit. Standing together, we are invincible.” At an event earlier today, hosted at the residence of Sir Christian Turner KCMG, His Majesty’s Ambassador to the United States, U.S. Attorney Pirro was joined by Crown Prosecutor for England and Wales Stephen Parkinson and National Crime Agency Director General Graeme Biggar, who signed the MOU along with Pirro on behalf of their respective agencies. Under the terms of the MOU, each will conduct parallel investigation into common targets, share information targeting of organized crime syndicates, discuss which jurisdictions to bring specific cases of common interest, and generally prioritize cases on this threat to achieve mutual results. Both the UK and US counterparts had already identified significant cases of overlap, and committed to joining forces for an in-person disruption event with private industry partners, hosted by the National Crime Agency in London in early October. The MOU and joint efforts mark a new phase of international partnerships for the Scam Center Strike Force, which seeks to maximize impact by building a coalition of like-minded prosecution and investigative teams. ********************************************** About the Scam Center Strike Force The Scam Center Strike Force was officially launched by U.S. Attorney Pirro in November 2025 to address the growing threat posed by Chinese organized crime syndicates operating scam centers primarily in Southeast Asia. The Strike Force targets cryptocurrency investment fraud, cyber-enabled fraud, human trafficking, and money laundering operations that have cost American victims billions of dollars. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), cyber-enabled fraud schemes were responsible for almost 85% of all losses reported to IC3 in 2025. Within that category, CIF schemes have continued to grow, and the IC3 calculated the reported losses from CIF scams rose, from $4.57 billion in 2023, to $8.65 billion in 2025, an increase of 89%. [1] These figures, largely based on losses reported by victims, likely significantly under-represent the true loss amounts incurred by Americans, since most fraud victims do not report to IC3, if at all. On March 6, 2026, President Trump signed an Executive Order directing the Administration to prioritize cybercrime, fraud, and predatory schemes draining American families of their life savings. Through the Executive Order, President Trump is unleashing every available tool to stop foreign-backed criminal networks that exploit vulnerable Americans through cyber-enabled fraud. The Scam Center Strike Force is a critical node in executing the mission outlined in the President’s Order. Founded by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, the Strike Force has been joined it its work by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Secret Service, Justice Department’s Criminal Division, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations-DC, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Districts of Alaska, Rhode Island, Hawaii, and Western Washington. The Strike Force works in collaboration with other agencies, including the Treasury and State Departments. The Strike Force works in strategic partnership with private industry and calls on all U.S. businesses to take more proactive steps to protect users from scam operations. The Scam Center Strike Force will use every tool available to help secure Main Street Americans from these scams. With its interagency and public partners, it will educate Americans on how to identify these scams, prevent generational wealth from flowing from America into the pockets of Chinese organized crime, and work with unwavering focus to return stolen funds to victims. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen P. Seifert for the District of Columbia directs the Strike Force.


title: Largo, Maryland Man Sentenced in D.C. to Nine Years in Prison for Transportation of Child Pornography

body_text: WASHINGTON – Marshall Day, 40, of Largo, Maryland, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 108 months in federal prison in connection with his possession of six videos on his cell phone that depicted child sexual abuse, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Day, aka “KingDaddy89” and “Mike LeRoy,” pleaded March 12, 2026, before Judge Jia M. Cobb to one count of transportation of child pornography. In addition to the 108-month prison sentence, Judge Cobb ordered Day to serve 10 years of supervised release and to register as a sex offender. According to court documents, on Oct. 8, 2025, Day logged into a fetish website and attempted to arrange a sexual encounter. One of the people with whom Day exchanged messages asked Day if he was “into taboo” because he had a “girl in his life.” Day replied that he was “very much into taboo” and had “no hard limits.” As the chat continued, the individual explained that he had a nine-year-old daughter and “when we play its more like a game.” After further text messages, on October 9, Day exchanged phone numbers with the person and arranged to meet in the District’s Chinatown neighborhood so that he could sexually abuse the purported girl. On October 10, Day arrived at the prearranged meeting spot. A man sitting nearby asked Day if he was “Mike.” When Day indicated that he was, law enforcement from the FBI and Metropolitan Police Department’s Child Exploitation Task Force arrested him. While traveling from Maryland to the District, Day had his cell phone in his possession. In the phone’s download folder, Day had stored six videos depicting child sex abuse that he had downloaded during the previous two days and a pair of still images of child pornography he had downloaded earlier that year. Day acknowledged that he had no legal justification for having the files on his phone as he traveled from Maryland into the District that day. This case was investigated by FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard Kelley. It was brought as part of the Department of Justice's Project Safe Childhood initiative. In February 2006, the Attorney General created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney's Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . 25cr343 Follow us on X , Instagram , and YouTube Or at https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc


title: United States Attorney Peter McNeilly Encourages Schools, Youth Organizations to Partner with DOJ on Online Child Exploitation Prevention

component: USAO - Colorado

body_text: DENVER - United States Attorney Peter McNeilly is encouraging Colorado schools, youth-serving organizations, athletic programs, and other community groups to take advantage of free training and prevention resources available through the Department of Justice to help protect children from online sexual exploitation and abuse. The call comes as the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) launches an expanded effort to engage schools and other organizations in preventing online exploitation of children. In a recent open letter , Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva encouraged organizations that work with children to partner with the Department on prevention and education efforts and highlighted resources available to help communities address emerging threats, including online grooming, sextortion, sadistic online exploitation, and the misuse of artificial intelligence to create sexually explicit deepfake images of children. “Protecting children in online environments and teaching them to navigate threats on their own are critical parts of fostering healthy development in today’s society,” said United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Peter McNeilly. “To be effective, adults who teach, coach, mentor, and care for our kids need to understand online exploitation, what warnings signs to look for, and what to do when a child is at risk. We want to be a resource for our communities to help young people remain safe online.” Training can be arranged virtually or in person, depending on the needs of the organization. The Department of Justice’s CEOS provides free prevention programming to schools and other organizations through in-person presentations and webinars and can help connect organizations with prevention experts. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado can also help connect Colorado organizations with Assistant U.S. Attorneys and federal agents with experience investigating and prosecuting online child exploitation and related offenses who can provide education and outreach in their areas of expertise. Organizations interested in arranging prevention programming or learning more about available resources can contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado at USACO.PublicAffairs@usdoj.gov. Prevention resources are also available through the Department of Justice's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section Prevention webpage .


title: Denver Man Pleads Guilty To Murder Of Fellow Inmate, Multiple Armed Robberies Of Metro Area Businesses

body_text: DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Ely Michael Delmastro, 50, of Denver, pleaded guilty today to one count of murder in the first degree, and eight counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence in eight armed robberies. According to the plea agreements and facts established in court, Delmastro was being held at the Englewood Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) in September 2025 when he killed fellow inmate ‘M.T.’ with a homemade metal weapon sharpened into a knife. At the time of the murder, Delmastro was being held at FCI Englewood on charges related to the armed robberies of eight metro area businesses that occurred during July and August of 2024. Delmastro also pleaded guilty to those armed robberies today. Delmastro faces a minimum sentence of life in prison for the murder charge, and 56 years to life in prison for the armed robbery charges. Sentencing is scheduled for December 11. United States District Judge Philp A. Brimmer presided over the hearing. The FBI Denver Field Office handled the investigation. The Violent Crimes Section of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado handled the prosecution. Case Numbers: 26-cr-187-PAB; 24-cr-274-PAB


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois Warns Public About Phone Spoofing Scam

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois is alerting the public to recent reports of fraudulent phone calls in which scammers spoof official office telephone numbers in an attempt to deceive and defraud individuals. These callers may claim to be employees of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, use the names of real staff members, and pressure individuals with threats or demands for payment. The U.S. Attorney’s Office does not request money, personal financial information, or sensitive identifying details over the phone. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains steadfast in protecting the public and ensuring individuals are not exploited through impersonation schemes. These scams succeed by casting doubt and fear into their victims, pressuring them to reveal information they would otherwise keep secure. We will not allow these tactics to undermine the trust and safety of our communities,” said United States Attorney Gregory M. Gilmore. “My office will never stop working to safeguard the citizens of the Central District of Illinois.” If you receive a suspicious call: Document the name and details the caller provides. Hang up immediately and Call the U.S. Attorney’s Office directly using the publicly listed numbers. State that you may have been a target of a spoofing scam and ask to speak with the individual by name to verify whether the call was legitimate. Anyone who believes they have been targeted by this scam is encouraged to report the incident to the FBI at https://www.fbi.gov/tips or 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)


title: Westlake Man Arrested on Federal Indictment Charging Him with Threatening President Trump’s Life and Cyberstalking His Lawyer

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A resident of the Westlake neighborhood of Los Angeles and one-time podcaster was arrested today on a three-count federal grand jury indictment charging him with threatening to kill President Donald Trump and cyberstalking and harassing President Trump’s personal lawyer and that lawyer’s family. Benjamin Azariah Southworth, 40, was arrested this morning and is expected to make his initial appearance and be arraigned this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. Southworth is charged with one count of threats against the President, one count of cyberstalking, and one count of harassing telephone calls in interstate communications. “As threats against President Trump’s life escalate, the Department of Justice will respond with the full force of the law,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “We will hold perpetrators of violent threats accountable, and anyone who makes these threats online will not be allowed to hide behind their screens.” “There is zero tolerance for political violence, especially for threats directed at the President,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “Threatening an elected official with violence is a serious offense, and you will be arrested and charged as Mr. Southworth found out this morning.” “The U.S. Secret Service has zero tolerance for threats against the President of the United States,” said Armando Marquez, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The safety and security of those we protect is our highest priority, and we are committed to ensuring that anyone who threatens that – whether online or otherwise – will face justice. We are grateful for the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California for their partnership and thorough work in this case.” “Cyberstalking and threats of murder are not considered mere political rhetoric under the law, but are serious criminal offenses that lead to prosecution, as today’s arrest highlights,” said Patrick Grandy, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI, working with our partners at the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, will ensure that threats and harassment against the President and others are addressed before threats turn to violence.” According to the indictment that a federal grand jury returned on Wednesday, from January 2026 to May 2026, Southworth used social media accounts on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok as well as a website to publicly express his hatred toward President Trump and the President’s supporters. Southworth used these online platforms to publicly engage in and encourage the abuse and harassment of the President and to threaten violence against the President. On April 7, 2026, Southworth posted a video on his Instagram account that contained a series of threats against President Trump, including, “I have been vocal in calling for the execution of Donald Trump” and “This government is illegitimate and out of control. It’s time for course correction. Kill Donald Trump.” Three months earlier, Southworth published a post on his TikTok account listing the home address of a Victim 1 – an attorney who had been President Trump’s personal lawyer – along with a photograph of Victim 1 and another photograph of Victim 1’s residence. In the same posted, Southworth stated, “No peace for traitors.” From January 2026 to May 2026, Southworth left a series of abusive messages online and over voicemail to Victim 2, who is Victim 1’s son, and made harassing telephone calls to Victim 3, who is Victim 1’s wife. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. If convicted, Southworth would face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for threatening the President, a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for cyberstalking, and a statutory maximum sentence of two years in federal prison for telephonic harassment. The United States Secret Service and the FBI are investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney William Kanellis of the Domestic Security and Immigration Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.


title: California Man Indicted and Detained for Multi-Million Dollar Covid-19 Loan and Commercial Loan Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – On Monday, Rodney Rosenstein, 58, of Huntington Beach, California, was ordered detained pending trial for his involvement in multiple fraud schemes. Earlier this month, a federal grand jury in Tucson returned an indictment against Rosenstein for Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud and Conspiracy to Commit False Statements to Influence a Financial Institution. The indictment alleges that Rosenstein and other co-conspirators obtained approximately $2.9 million from 15 fraudulent loans under the Paycheck Protection Program’s Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security Act, known as the CARES Act. Rosenstein and his co-conspirators obtained such loans using fake employment tax and W-2 forms. The co-conspirators also submitted fraudulent payroll documentation and other false statements to receive loan forgiveness. According to the indictment, Rosenstein and his co-conspirators obtained another $35 million in loans by using fake “rent roll” documents and other false statements in a commercial loan fraud scheme. A conviction for Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. A conviction for Conspiracy to Commit False Statement to Influence a Financial Institution carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The FBI Phoenix Division’s Tucson office, IRS-Criminal Investigation, and Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. CASE NUMBER: 26-CR-04213-TUC-RM RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-151_Rosenstein # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Seven Charged in $57M Tax Refund Fraud Scheme

component: National Fraud Enforcement Division

body_text: A superseding indictment was unsealed yesterday charging an Idaho man and woman and five non-Idaho residents with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, making false claims and money laundering. The conspirators allegedly prepared and submitted false tax returns and fictitious financial instruments to the IRS. “As alleged, this group of fraudsters participated in a $57 million tax fraud scheme, filing over 100 fictitious instruments and ultimately receiving more than $8 million in taxpayer dollars from the IRS,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. “The Fraud Division will continue working vigorously to investigate and prosecute tax fraud schemes like these across the country. Fraudsters should never be allowed to rip off the United States of America.” According to the superseding indictment, from 2023 through 2024, Andrea and Kent Shannon of Kuna, Idaho, Monika Skinger of Chicago, Illinois, Sherita Chandler of Port St. Lucie, Florida, Saule Moshkanova of Roseville, California, Tiffany Nichols of Suwanee, Georgia, and Stacey Rice of Manteca, California, along with unindicted conspirators, allegedly conspired to commit wire fraud by assisting one another in fraudulently claiming refunds in amounts totaling more than $57 million by preparing and submitting false individual and trust tax returns and fictitious financial instruments to the IRS. The conspirators allegedly received more than $8 million from the IRS. Moshkanova, Nichols, and Rice were each charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Andrea and Kent Shannon, Skinger and Chandler were previously charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Andrea and Kent Shannon were also charged with committing multiple acts of wire fraud, making false claims to the United States and engaging in money laundering by purchasing personal property such as luxury cars with their fraudulently obtained refunds. If convicted, the conspirators face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the conspiracy charge. Andrea and Kent Shannon face an additional maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each wire fraud charge and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each false claim charge. Kent Shannon faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for the money laundering charge. 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. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.