News Blog

2023 Entries - January through July

July 2023

Inside the FBI: The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Heist

July 31, 2023

Inside the FBI: The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Heist

In March 1990, art thieves conned their way into the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Massachusetts and made off with more than $500 million dollars’ worth of masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt, Degas, and Vermeer.

Since that time, the FBI’s Boston Division has diligently investigated the case—in partnership with the museum and the Massachusetts U.S. Attorney’s Office—following leads around the world. More than three decades—and multiple significant case developments—later, the Bureau continues to search for the stolen works. But we need your help.

On this episode, learn about this historic heist; why the stolen pieces matter to the museum, the art world at large, and the FBI; the $10 million reward being offered by the museum to help recover the artwork; and how you can help the Bureau bring the looted masterpieces back to Boston.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

July 28, 2023

The FBI plays a key role in combating violent crimes across our country—and in some cases, abroad—through our investigative work targeting gangs and criminal organizations, violent crimes against children, Indian Country crime, human trafficking and involuntary servitude, bank robbery, and jewelry and gem theft.

FBI investigators usually work in partnership with other law enforcement groups, often establishing task forces to concentrate resources and efforts. This round-up is only a partial list of recent FBI violent crime stories—for a full list, read more FBI violent crime news and press releases.

FBI and Dallas Partners Arrest 15 in Gun, Drug Bust in Texas

The defendants were charged in a 16-count indictment with a variety of gun and drug crimes, including possession with intent to distribute cocaine and felon in possession of firearms.

During the operation—which involved more than 200 officers and agents from FBI Dallas, the Dallas Police Department, the Dallas Sheriff’s Office, and other local agencies—law enforcement seized more than 540 grams of cocaine, more than 1,100 grams of methamphetamine, more than 150 grams of alprazolam, and more than 7 grams of fentanyl, along with nine firearms and over $10,000 in cash.
"Combatting significant violent crime is a priority mission of the FBI,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough. “It's not our goal to just put individuals in jail for a few days, but to build cases that cut into the capabilities of these gangs and criminal enterprises, putting the most violent offenders and facilitators behind bars for as long as we possibly can to keep our communities safe.”
Full press release

Florida Man Found Guilty of Federal Hate Crimes for Racially Motivated Attack Against Six Black Men Near 1923 Rosewood Massacre Site
David Emanuel was convicted on all counts for committing hate crimes for his racially motivated attack on a group of Black men who were surveying land along a public road in Rosewood, Florida.

"Despicable, hate-fueled crimes such as these have no place in our state or country," said U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida Jason R. Coody. "The violence directed toward these victims, based solely on their race, is abhorrent and will not be tolerated. With the dedicated assistance of our law enforcement partners, we will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute civil rights violations to ensure justice for those victimized by hate."
"Horrific acts of hate-motivated violence like this are devastating to families and communities," said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. "The FBI is fiercely committed to investigating civil rights violations and holding perpetrators accountable."
Full press release

Final MS-13 Gang Member Sentenced for Role in Rival Gang Member’s Murder
Jose Gimenez-Lobos, a member and leader of an MS-13 clique in New Jersey, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for his involvement in a gang-related murder.

Gimenez-Lobos was a conspirator in the murder of a rival gang member in November 2014. He and two other members murdered a Sureño gang member who was at the same apartment as them. The men stabbed the victim several times and beat him over the head with a gun.
The other members, Darwin Solorzano-Quintanilla and Francisco Lemus-Castillo, were sentenced to life in prison.
"Those who choose to commit violent acts will be investigated and held accountable," said FBI Richmond Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador. "The FBI will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to vigorously investigate these cases as demonstrated by these sentences."
Full press release

Former Oregon Corrections Nurse Found Guilty of Sexually Assaulting Nine Female Inmates
Tony Klein was convicted of 17 counts of depriving his victims of their constitutional right not to be subjected to cruel and unusual punishment by sexual assault and four counts of perjury.

From 2010 to January 2018, Klein served as a nurse at the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility in Wilsonville, Oregon. Due to his position, Klein was often alone with the female inmates and used the time to assault them.
Klein was found guilty of assaulting nine female inmates and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.
"As a state prison nurse, Mr. Klein used his position to intimidate and sexually assault multiple women," said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Kieran L. Ramsey. "His heinous actions were only brought to light by a small group of courageous women who came forward, even despite their precarious circumstances of being incarcerated. Their willingness to report their victimization undoubtedly saved others from Mr. Klein’s predatory actions..."
Full press release

Final Defendant Sentenced in Multi-State Dogfighting Ring
Herman Tyrone Washington was sentenced to 46 months in prison and three years of supervised release for his role in a dog fighting conspiracy.

Between December 2017 and August 2021, Washington and other conspirators organized contract matches and role fights. The dogs used were transported from different states and were bred and trained to fight.
In 2020, 93 dogs that were being used in the conspiracy were seized by law enforcement. The conspiracy proved to be a space of extraordinary cruelty for the dogs with at least one conspirator killing those who lost.
Washington and the six other conspirators, Kenneth Otey Jr., Connell Stukes, Raymond Johnson, Jerome Smith, Antonio Ruffin, and Royal Washington were sentenced to a combined 534 months in prison.
"Dogfighting is not a sport, it’s a brutal crime against animals who rarely escape death unless liberated by law enforcement," said U.S. Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. "The lengthy sentences faced by Washington and others who conspired in this dogfighting ring illustrates that those who seek to profit from the suffering of animals face significant prison time."
Full press release

Federal Grand Jury Charges Three in Molotov Cocktail Attack Last year on Planned Parenthood Clinic
Two defendants arraigned and a third arrested for conducting a firebombing attack on a Planned Parenthood clinic.

Chance Brannon, Tibet Ergul, and Xavier Batten were charged with one count of conspiracy and one count of malicious destruction of property by fire and explosion.
Brannon and Ergul were also charged with one count of possession of an unregistered destructive device and one misdemeanor count of intentional damage to a reproductive health services facility.
In February and March of 2022, the defendants plotted to throw a Molotov cocktail at the Planned Parenthood clinic. Brannon and Ergul chose the target, obtained the materials to construct the cocktail, assembled the device, and threw the cocktail at the clinic. Batten advised and directed Brannon regarding how to build the Molotov cocktail.
On March 13, 2022, the cocktail was ignited and thrown at the building, setting it on fire. Because of the fire, the clinic was forced to close and cancel approximately 30 appointments.
Full press release

Additional resources:

Director Wray Speaks to NOBLE

July 27, 2023

Director Christopher Wray was in Cleveland, Ohio, on Monday for the 47th annual training conference of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE).

In his keynote address, Director Wray spoke on some of the larger threats facing law enforcement, including violent crime, counterterrorism, and cyber threats.

He also addressed NOBLE’s conference theme, “Stronger Together: Reducing and Preventing Crime through Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations.”

“It would be nearly impossible to overstate just how critical partnerships are to everything we do in today’s threat environment," he said. "Law enforcement remains one of the hardest careers out there, and it’s not getting any easier. These are tough times in our profession, but I honestly believe there’s no higher calling, no better work…There’s no question that we’re stronger—and more effective at protecting the American people—together.”

Following his remarks, Director Wray visited the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office and met with regional law enforcement partners to reaffirm the FBI’s continued commitment to help stem violent crime in the area and applaud the successes of local task forces.

Full story
Full remarks
Press release

The FBI Turns 115

July 26, 2023

FBI 115th Anniversary - English version, 2023

Happy birthday to the Federal Bureau of Investigation!

July 26 marks 115 years since U.S. Attorney General Charles Bonaparte established a group of detectives to conduct investigations exclusively for the Department of Justice.

Since 1908, we have worked to combat crime, support victims, and partner with agencies worldwide to uphold the Constitution and protect the American people.

Our numbers have grown from 34 special agents to more than 35,000 employees across the United States and around the world serving as special agents, intelligence analysts, language specialists, scientists, IT specialists, and professional staff.

As we celebrate, we’d like to thank our many partners in the law enforcement and intelligence communities who have supported our efforts over the past 115 years.

The Birth of the Federal Bureau of Investigation

Today in FBI History

July 22, 2023

On July 22, 1934, John Herbert Dillinger, one of the most notorious gangsters of his day, resisted arrest outside the Biograph Theater in Chicago and was killed by FBI special agents.

The events of that July night in Chicago marked the beginning of the end of the Gangster Era.

Dillinger, whose name once dominated the headlines, was a notorious and vicious thief. From September 1933 until July 1934, he and his gang terrorized the Midwest, killing 10 men, wounding 7 others, robbing banks and police arsenals, and staging 3 jail breaks—killing a sheriff during one and wounding two guards in another.

Full story.

Interested in reading more about the FBI’s history? Visit fbi.gov/history.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

July 21, 2023

Missouri Woman Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for the Sexual Exploitation of Children
Brittany Bailey was sentenced to 15 years in prison and 10 years of supervised release, while also being ordered to register as a sex offender for 25 years and pay $25,000 in restitution to her victims.

Bailey pleaded guilty to advertising child pornography for her involvement with an online group called “Taboo Parents.” In this group, she sent images to an undercover law enforcement officer who she thought was a pedophile, asking him to sexually abuse the child in said images.
Bailey also created her own online group that was dedicated to exchanging child sexual abuse material. Bailey shared videos of child pornography in this group and encouraged other members to do the same.
During a search of Bailey’s home, agents recovered electronic devices containing several images and videos of the sexual abuse of children.
Full press release

D.C. Man Indicted in a Six-Count Federal Indictment After Deadly Carjacking Spree
Daeyon Ross was indicted in connection with a carjacking spree that left one Maryland resident and two dogs dead.

On July 2, 2023, Ross carjacked multiple cars in Prince George’s County, Maryland. During the carjackings, Ross, using a stolen handgun, shot a 56-year-old off-duty Metro bus driver and two dogs.
After the shootings, Ross re-entered D.C. and crashed the carjacked vehicle in a residential neighborhood. After the crash, Ross used his handgun to carjack another vehicle.
When attempting to flee, Ross crashed into the Maryland law enforcement officer who followed him to D.C. and exchanged gunfire with the officers before surrendering.
Full press release

Long Beach Man Found Guilty of Federal Charges for Bombing of Aliso Viejo Spa That Killed Ex-Girlfriend and Severely Injured Two Others
In 2018, a bomb built and planted by Stephen William Beal exploded inside a day spa, killing his ex-girlfriend and causing lifelong damage to her two clients.

While Ildiko Krajnyak, owner of the Magyar Kozemetika day spa, was out of the country, Beal entered her business and left the package bomb for Krajnyak to open upon her return. On May 15, 2018, Krajnyak opened the package and was instantly killed by the explosion. Her two clients were injured.
Beal was found guilty of four felony counts: use of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death, malicious destruction of a building resulting in death, use of a destructive device during and in relation to a crime of violence, and possession of an unregistered destructive device.
Full press release

Four Mean Charged with Targeting and Robbing Victims Selling Apple Products on Popular Online Marketplace
The men have been charged with conspiracy to commit robbery, robbery, conspiracy to use and carry a firearm during a crime of violence, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.

Jordan Denzel Lewis, Tyrell Brion Bouie, Anthony Christopher Diggs Jr., and Johntaevious Henry Johnson targeted their victims on a national online marketplace that allows users to list items for sale.
From June to October 2022, the men conspired to rob and robbed people who posted Apple products for sale on the marketplace. The indictment claims the men used firearms in some of the robberies.
Along with the previously mentioned charges, Lewis has also been charged with illegal possession of a firearm due to his status as a convicted felon.
Full press release

Ferndale Man Sentenced to Over 15 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking Children
Toriano Davis pled guilty to two counts of sex trafficking of a minor.

Law enforcement began investigating Davis while trying to locate two minors who were thought to be trafficked in the Detroit area. Davis was found in a motel room with a nude 15-year-old girl.
Additional investigation found that Davis had trafficked at least two minor victims, rented motel rooms for them to engage in commercial sex, and assisted them with advertising online for commercial sex dates.
Davis took the proceeds from the minors’ commercial sex dates for his own use, including drugs. He also had sex with the minors and recorded it.
“The sexual abuse and trafficking of children is a scourge on our community that leaves an indelible mark on victims,” said U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan Dawn Ison. “The video recording of that abuse only perpetuates the abuse. This defendant committed these heinous acts while on bond in a federal drug case. The lengthy sentence imposed today will protect the public from this defendant and help keep out community safe for children.”
Full press release

Ex-ATM Technician Sentenced to Federal Prison for Armed Bank Robbery in Tallahassee
Johnson Saint-Louis was sentenced to 147 months in federal prison for armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.

Saint-Louis, a former ATM technician, spent two years traveling around the southeast tampering with ATMs serviced by his former employer.
Over the two-year period, Saint-Louis robbed four ATM technicians sent out to fix problems he caused. Saint-Louis was also observed traveling to different Bank of America locations with a firearm and notes describing the banks and whether they were good targets for future robbery.
“This serial armed robber endangered the lives of multiple victims,” said U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida Jason Coody. “Through the coordinated efforts of our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, his multi-state crime spree has ended, and he has been held accountable for his criminal conduct. This sentence illustrates our shared resolve to keep out communities safe and the significant consequences associated with such federal crimes of violence.”
Full press release

Director Wray Testifies on Capitol Hill

July 20, 2023

Director Wray Testifies Before House Judiciary Committee on July 12, 2023

FBI Director Christopher Wray testified before the House Judiciary Committee on July 12 about the FBI’s work to protect the American people and uphold the U.S. Constitution.

In his opening remarks, Director Wray praised the FBI’s 38,000 employees for their commitment to public service. He thanked the FBI’s partners as well, particularly the 6,000 task force officers from state and local agencies who bring tremendous value to the FBI’s investigations.

“We are honored and humbled by their trust in us, and grateful for their partnership, but the numbers don’t tell the whole story. To truly appreciate the impact the FBI and our partners are having, you’ve got to look at the cases.”

The FBI’s casework has resulted in thousands of arrests across a wide variety of threats – from violent crime and drug trafficking to intellectual property theft.

“And that’s just scratching the surface,” said Director Wray.

Full story

FBI Crisis Response Canines

July 19, 2023

Wally and Gio, two English Labrador Retrievers, are the FBI’s crisis response canines. Since 2015, the pair have been working steadily by visiting hospitals and supporting command posts by helping to console victims and first responders.

FBI Crisis Response Canines Wally (left) and Gio (right)

The FBI Victim Services Division crisis response canines achieved a new milestone recently when Gio was permitted for the first time to accompany a victim during testimony in federal court. Crisis response canines work to mitigate stress and anxiety experienced by victims of crime.

Gio and another canine, Wally, joined the FBI in 2015. Learn more about how they help victims and family members.

Combating Violent Crime in San Juan

July 18, 2023

An investigation led by the FBI, with the assistance of several local and federal organizations, has resulted in the arrests and indictments of dozens of members of a violent drug trafficking gang, Los 1,500, based in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The Los 1,500 gang spent decades bringing violence and drugs into the communities of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Recently, an extensive investigation led by the FBI interrupted the gang’s work and restored peace in many Puerto Rican communities. And dozens of Los 1,500 members now face federal drug and firearms charges.

"The communities in Puerto Rico are faced with many challenges due to economic hardships, which create an opportunity for criminal enterprises to flourish," said FBI San Juan Assistant Special Agent in Charge Guillermo Gonzalez. "As a direct result of gang violence, these communities live in turmoil and have limited access to services that could improve their quality of life."

Full story

51 Years of Female Special Agents

July 17, 2023

In May 1972, the FBI began accepting applications from women for the special agent position. On July 17 of that year, Joanne Pierce (Misko)—in the foreground in the red dress—and Susan Roley (Malone)—partially visible near the back of the group—were sworn in as the first two women special agents in modern times.

On this day in 1972, Joanne Pierce (Misko) and Susan Roley (Malone) entered the FBI Training Academy as the Bureau's first female special agents. By the end of that year, 11 women would be sworn in as special agents.

Today, women serve in all 56 FBI field offices—and are leading many of them. They have climbed into the leadership ranks and are making an undeniable impact on cases and investigations every single day.

Learn more about the achievements of Joanne and Susan and of female agents that followed:

Celebrating Today’s Female Special Agents (2022 story)
Fifty Years of Female Special Agents (2022 story)
Celebrating Women Special Agents: Joanne Pierce Misko (2012 story)
Celebrating Women Special Agents: Susan Roley Malone (2012 story)

Interested in joining the FBI? Learn more about the special agent position—and all employment opportunities—at fbijobs.gov.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

July 14, 2023

The FBI plays a key role in combating violent crime across our country—and in some cases, abroad—through our investigative work targeting gangs and criminal organizations, violent crimes against children, Indian Country crime, human trafficking and involuntary servitude, bank robbery, and jewelry and gem theft.

Long Island Bloods Gang Member Sentenced to Life Plus 22 Years in Prison for Racketeering, Murder, Sex Trafficking, and Other Crimes
Lawrence Lewis, also known as "L Boogs," was convicted for the forcible rape and sex trafficking of a Suffolk County woman, narcotics possession and distribution, witness tampering, firearms charges, and murder.

From 2004 to 2019, Lewis used his gang membership to distribute large quantities of cocaine base and heroin in Suffolk County. To protect his narcotics, Lewis possessed an extensive number of firearms, including an AR-15 assault rifle, 12-gauge shotgun, and a semi-automatic pistol.
In addition, Lewis engaged in acts of extreme violence, including forcing a Suffolk County woman into prostitution until she repaid her debt. During the same period of time, Lewis forcibly raped the same woman.
Lewis was also charged in the murder of a rival gang member, John Birt, a member of the Crips gang.
"Today’s life sentence assures that Lawrence Lewis' violent criminal behavior that plagued Long Island communities has been brought to a definitive conclusion," said Homeland Security Investigations New York Special Agent in Charge Ivan J. Arvelo. "While nothing can erase the pain and suffering endured by his victims, no one else will be harmed by this unrepentant individual who has shown a wanton disregard for human life."
Full press release

Yakima Man Sentenced to 300 Months Imprisonment and Lifetime Supervised Release for Production and Attempted Production of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography
Miguel Urbina pleaded guilty to two counts of production and attempted production of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography, resorting in a 25-year prison sentence, lifelong supervised release, and a spot on the sex offender registry.

In February 2007, Urbina and a partner placed a purse with a concealed video camera inside a mall bathroom. The camera captured explicit images and video of minors using the bathroom and were saved to Urbina’s computer hard drive.
From November 2008 to November 2009, Urbina produced and attempted to produce child pornography with a minor.
In April 2020, the FBI executed a search on Urbina’s residence and seized a hard drive that contained thousands of images of child pornography, including the device used in the mall bathroom.
"As a parent and as a law enforcement officer, I am horrified at Mr. Urbina's blatant pattern of exploiting and victimizing children," said FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge Richard A. Collodi. "...The digital images child predators create are as lasting as the harm they cause, and we continue to fight with the hope that the consequences will deter a future offender."
Full press release

Columbus Armed Robber Sentenced to Over 21 Years for Violent Crime Spree
Janerio Jones teamed up with his stepbrother to commit multiple armed robberies, both were sentenced to prison.

Janerio Jones was sentenced to 259 months in prison for his participation in seven violent armed robberies after pleading guilty to two counts of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.
Jones and Quentin Anderson, the stepbrother and co-defendant, robbed seven businesses from January 2021 to February 2021. The men would enter the establishments pointing their weapons at the staff and demanding money. In one instance, Jones fired shots at a store owner who refused to give the men money.
Co-defendant Anderson was sentenced to 200 months in prison.
"No one should ever be terrorized physically or emotionally, like the victims in these violent armed robberies were," said Special Supervisory Resident Agent Rich Bilson of FBI Atlanta's Columbus office. "Thanks to the assistance from our local law enforcement partners, Jones and Anderson will spend a long time behind bars where they won't be able to wreak havoc on any more innocent civilians."
Full press release

Former Warren Police Officer Charged with Using Excessive Force Against a Jail Prisoner
Matthew J. Rodriguez faces up to ten years in prison for being charged under color of law after violating a prisoner’s civil rights.

In June 2023, the victim was brought into the Warren Police Department after being arrested. While processing the victim, Rodriguez assaulted him without justification.
Rodriguez struck the victim in his head, shoved him against a wall, threw him on the floor, and while the victim was on the floor, punched him in the head repeatedly and slammed his head into the floor.
"One of the FBI’s most important missions is to protect the civil rights of all people, including those in police custody," said FBI Detroit Acting Special Agent in Charge Devin J. Kowalski. "This defendant’s alleged conduct is not reflective of the honor and professionalism with which the men and women of the Warren Police Department perform their duties. I am grateful for the collaboration with the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office and the Warren Police Department which has been essential to this investigation."
Full press release

Chicago Street Gang Leaders Convicted on Federal Racketeering Charges
Three leaders of a Chicago street gang were convicted for their participation in a criminal organization that murdered rivals and violently protected its perceived territory in the city’s South Side.

Romeo Blackman, Terrance Smith, and Jolicious Turman were indicted in 2018 after a joint federal and state investigation found that the defendants stole firearms, violently prevented witnesses from cooperating with law enforcement, and publicly boasted about gang activities on social media.
The men were found responsible for a combined six murders and two attempted murders.
Blackman and Smith are facing mandatory life sentences, while Turman faces a maximum of 20 years.
"Combating violent street gangs is a top priority in our office," said Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois Morris Pasqual. "We will use all lawful tools and resources at our disposal to dismantle those street gangs and disrupt the cycle of violence in Chicago and the surrounding areas."
Full press release

Wapato Man Sentenced to 96 Months in Prison for Manslaughter and Aggravated Assault
Brandon Kelly Root was sentenced to eight years in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of involuntary manslaughter and two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury.

Root was driving in the Yakama Nation in the Eastern District of Washington while under the influence of alcohol. He crossed the center line of the roadway and struck another car head on.
Four individuals were in the other vehicle—two were killed and the others, one of whom was a minor child, suffered serious bodily injury.
"This tragedy would have never happened had Mr. Root acted responsibly," said FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge Richard A. Collodi. "Instead, his decision to drive while intoxicated caused two people to lose their lives, others to suffer serious injuries, and families and loved ones to face agonizing loss from a preventable collision. We know this sentence will keep our communities safer and dissuade future drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel."
Full press release

Additional resources:

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

July 7, 2023

Young Man Sent to Prison for Over 30 Years for Crime Spree
A Houston man has been sent to federal prison for robbery and brandishing a firearm during a 12-hour, one-man crime spree.

Jose Luis Perez Jr. was sentenced to 372 months in prison for committing multiple commercial aggravated robberies during a 12-hour period from March 2, 2021, to March 3, 2021.
Entering the businesses with a rifle, Perez Jr. would brandish his weapon on the store clerks and demand money from the registers. Clerks saw his vehicle when fleeing the scene, eventually leading to his arrest.
"This young man has thrown most of his life away," said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas Alamdar Hamdani. "At 22 now, he will likely be an old man before his release from federal prison. Crime does not pay. Jose Luis Perez terrorized the Houston area or 12 long hours, robbing convenient stores and a gas station at gun point. Thanks to brave victims who relayed concise and expeditious information, law enforcement was able to stop his reign of terror before it became even worse."
Full press release

Kentucky Man Arrested on Child Exploitation Offenses
Aden Willis Yeager was indicted on four counts of child exploitation charges.

Yeager is facing up to life in prison for events involving the sexual exploitation of a minor that occurred between April 2020 and October 2020.
Yeager has been charged with one count of production of child pornography, one count of coercion and enticement of a minor, one count of transportation of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.
"Summer is here, and children will have an increased online presence. I encourage parents to have open and ongoing conversations about safe and appropriate online behavior," said U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama Prim F. Escalona. "My office, in collaboration with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, will continue in our efforts to protect our most vulnerable victims—our children."
Full press release

Three Members of Drug Trafficking Organization Plead Guilty to Importing and Distributing Narcotics
Angel Adan Valenzuela, Benjamin Soto Jr., and Refugio Veronica Quintero Moreno worked with a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization to import and distribute drugs across the country.

From January 2020 to April 2022, the men worked with others to transport narcotics from Mexico through the port of entry in Nogales by car and ship those narcotics across the United States.
From September 2021 to November 2021, agents identified and intercepted 21 packages sent in the manner the men packaged them. More than 30 kilograms of methamphetamine, 20 kilograms of cocaine, seven kilograms of fentanyl, and four kilograms of heroin were found in these packages.
The men pled guilty to conspiring to import five kilograms or more of cocaine, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and conspiring to distribute those amounts of those substances and Ritalin.
Full press release

Serial Robbers Plead Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and Pair of Commercial Armed Robberies in South Tampa and Ybor City
Antonio Brown and Steve Jackson conspired to commit armed robberies at two auto parts stores in the Tampa area.

On August 29, 2021, Brown and Jackson entered two auto parts stores, brandished their firearms, and demanded money from the stores’ employees.
Both Brown and Jackson pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit robbery, two counts of robbery, and one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. They are facing up to 20 years in prison.
Full press release

Los Lunas Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Firearms and Drug Offenses
Russell Wheeler pleaded guilty to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and one count of attempt to manufacture methamphetamine on May 26, 2022.

In 2021, following an argument, Wheeler shot a man in the head with a revolver before fleeing the scene. Wheeler was convicted of possession of a controlled substance in 2005 and aggravated fleeing from law enforcement in 2007, both felonies. As a previously convicted felon, Wheeler cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.
Following the incident, the FBI sought and executed a search warrant on Wheeler’s home and recovered two firearms. They also discovered an active methamphetamine lab.
Full press release

Minneapolis Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Violent Carjacking Conspiracy Targeting Uber and Lyft Drivers
Between September and October 2021, Shevirio Kavirion Childs-Young, along with others, engaged in a series of violent carjackings and armed robberies, targeting Uber and Lyft drivers.

As part of the scheme, members of the conspiracy lured victim-drivers to particular locations under the guise of picking up or dropping off passengers.
When the victim-drivers arrived, members of the conspiracy forced the victim-drivers at gunpoint to unlock their cell phones and provide passcodes.
The conspiracy members then transferred money, via Cash App or other applications, from the accounts of the victim-drivers to the accounts of members of the conspiracy.
Full press release

Additional resources:

Keeping Older Adults Safe From Scams

July 6, 2023

More than 88,000 people over age 60 collectively lost $3.1 billion last year in scams targeting older adults, according to the Internet Crime Complaint Center’s (IC3) 2022 Elder Fraud Report.

Common schemes include cold calls offering tech support, fake investment opportunities, and romance and confidence scams.

More than 60 grandparent scams—where criminals impersonate a panicked loved one—accounted for $3.8 million in losses in 2022, according to the IC3.

The actual number is likely far higher, investigators say, because many elder fraud scams go unreported.

Can you and your older loved ones recognize the signs of a potential scam?

- Full story

June 2023

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

June 30, 2023

Denver Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal Prison for 10 Armed Bank Robberies
Jerome Bravo has been sentenced to 27 years in federal prison after earlier pleading guilty to ten counts of bank robbery and three counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.

The defendant and his codefendant robbed ten banks in Denver, Aurora, and Arvada, between Jan. 6, 2021, and March 31, 2021. The two were nicknamed the “Brazen Bandits” for their risky tactics during the commission of the robberies.
"This is a criminal who terrorized employees and customers at 10 banks across metro Denver in just three months," said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek. "This case is an example of why the FBI Denver Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force and Project Safe Neighborhoods are so important in our work to keep communities safe. We will continue to partner with local law enforcement to get violent criminals off the streets and reduce gun crimes."
Full press release

Oklahoman Convicted of Kidnapping Estranged Wife by Gunpoint
Joshua Anthony Wallin was found guilty of kidnapping and brandishing a firearm during the crime.

In the early morning hours of June 23, 2021, Wallin confronted his estranged wife at her home in Crescent, Oklahoma, holding her at gunpoint and subjecting her to a two-day ordeal.
"Joshua Wallin’s maniacal decision to kidnap and torture his estranged wife and one-year-old son and later point a gun at the baby’s head caused two days of terror from places in Oklahoma to Texas," said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas Alamdar S. Hamdani. "Thanks to the heroic efforts of first responders, the child and mother were able to survive their frightening nightmare, and now Wallin will pay the price for his actions."
Full press release

Passenger Arrested in Alaska for Multiple Crimes Aboard an Aircraft
The FBI arrested Christian David Burch for multiple crimes aboard an aircraft, including interference with flight crew members and attendants, and simple assault within maritime and territorial jurisdiction.

Burch had allegedly become combative, refused crew members' instructions, and began fighting with the crew members, causing minor injuries.
With the help of several passengers and crew members, Burch was restrained mid-flight for passenger and crew safety, and given Narcan for a suspected overdose.
Burch faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
Full press release

Virginia-Area Man Who Groomed a Child Online and Sexually Assaulted Her After Moving to Wisconsin Receives 20 Years in Federal Prison
Stanley J. Seifert III was sentenced to 20 years' imprisonment, followed by 20 years' supervised release, and a lifetime sex-offender registration after pleading guilty to child enticement and receiving child pornography.

When Seifert was living in Virginia, he met a then-15-year-old from Wisconsin on an online game platform. Unknown to the child’s parents, Seifert groomed her for months, then moved to Wisconsin to be closer to the victim and sexually assaulted her.
"The United States Department of Justice has made the protection of our nation's children a top priority through Project Safe Childhood and other efforts...Anyone involved in the enticement of children, including anyone who travels for the purpose of meeting with a child for sexual purposes, will be investigated thoroughly and prosecuted to the full extent of the law," said U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin Gregory J. Haanstad.
Full press release

Indictment Charges Alleged Members of Drug Trafficking Organization in Drug, Gun, and Money Laundering Charges
Law enforcement arrested 12 alleged members of a violent drug trafficking organization, known as the "Kennedy Street Crew," or "KDY."

KDY members operated open-air drug markets in and around the 100-1200 blocks of Kennedy Street in Northwest Washington, D.C., as well as the surrounding streets.
The defendants are charged with conspiring to distribute several controlled substances, including fentanyl, cocaine base, and marijuana, and utilizing firearms, including fully automatic weapons, to enforce and protect the crew’s territory, including through intimidation and acts of violence.
KDY crew members also conspired to establish shell companies through which they launder the proceeds of their drug trafficking.
Full press release

Pineville Woman Indicted for Killing Unborn Child of Kidnapping Victim
A Pineville, Missouri, woman who was previously indicted for the kidnapping and murder of a pregnant Arkansas woman now faces an additional charge of killing her victim's unborn child.

Amber Waterman, and her husband, Jamie Waterman, were charged in a three-count superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury.
Between Oct. 31 and Nov. 2, 2022, Amber Waterman kidnapped Ashley Bush in order to claim her unborn child as her own.
Amber Waterman transported Bush from Maysville, Arkansas, to Pineville. The indictment alleges the kidnapping resulted in Bush’s death—the superseding indictment also alleges that Amber Waterman thereby caused the death of a child in utero.
Full press release

Additional resources:

Inside the FBI: Top Ten Fugitive Wilver Villegas-Palomino

June 28, 2023

Inside the FBI: Top Ten Fugitive Wilver Villegas-Palomino

On April 14, the FBI added Wilver Villegas-Palomina to the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. A ranking member of the National Liberation Army or Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), Villegas-Palomino has been charged with narcoterrorism, international cocaine distribution conspiracy, and international cocaine distribution.

The U.S. Department of State Narcotics Rewards Program is offering up to $5 million for information leading to his arrest and/or his conviction.

Listen to this episode of Inside the FBI for a closer look at the investigation into Villegas-Palomino.

On This Day in FBI History

June 22, 2023

Baby picture of Charles Lindbergh junior before he was kidnapped and murdered by Bruno Hauptmann in 1932.

Charles Lindbergh Jr.

June 22, 1932: In response to the Lindbergh kidnapping case and other high profile kidnappings, Congress passed the Federal Kidnapping Act. This act gave the FBI authority to investigate kidnappings perpetrated across state lines.

June 22, 2011: James “Whitey” Bulger—a fugitive for 16 years and a Ten Most Wanted Fugitive for 12 years—was arrested in Santa Monica, California, by an FBI-led task force. In the 1970s and 1980s, Bulger ran a violent criminal organization from South Boston. In 2013, he was convicted of murdering 11 people and committing other crimes. He was sentenced to life in prison.

Interested in reading more about the FBI’s history? Visit fbi.gov/history.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

June 16, 2023

Forty Members of a Violent Gang Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms Violations in San Juan, Puerto Rico
On June 8, 2023, a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging 40 violent gang members from the municipality of San Juan with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, possession and distribution of controlled substances, and firearms violations.

The indictment alleges that from 2015 to June 8, 2023, the drug trafficking organization distributed heroin, cocaine base (commonly known as “crack”), cocaine, marihuana, Fentanyl, Oxycodone (Percocet), and Alprazolam (Xanax) within 1,000 feet of the Manuel A. Pérez, the Alejandrino, and the Los Laureles Public Housing Projects (PHPs), and other areas nearby, as well as the San Isidro ward in the Municipality of Canóvanas, all for significant financial gain and profit.
“Violent gangs are a real threat to public safety and this particular gang was among the most violent Puerto Rico has ever seen. The leaders of this organization acted with a complete disregard for authority and human life and caused much harm to the communities in which they operated,” said FBI San Juan Special Agent in Charge Joseph González. “Our commitment to the people of Puerto Rico has been and will continue to be bringing these violent criminals to justice so they can have peace in their communities. As always, the contributions of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico, as well as those of our federal and local law enforcement partners, were instrumental in disrupting this dangerous criminal enterprise and we remain thankful for their support to the FBI mission.”
Full press release

Montana Man Sentenced for Federal Hate and Firearms Crimes for Shooting Intended to Kill and Rid Town of LGBTQI+ Residents
John Russell Howald, of Basin, Montana, was sentenced to 18 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for shooting into a residence and attempting to shoot others with the intent of ridding a town of LGBTQI+ residents.

Russell targeted people across his town that he knew identified within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division said: “This defendant is being held accountable for his horrific attempted mass shooting against the LGBTQI+ community in a Montana town. Howald set out to rid the town of all LGBTQI+ members by killing them. He shot into the home of a lesbian resident, nearly killing her, with the hope of inspiring similar attacks around the country. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously defend the rights of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation, to be free from hate-fueled violence. This Pride Month, we affirm our commitment to using the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Hate Crimes Prevention Act to hold perpetrators of hate-fueled violence targeting the LGBTQI+ community accountable.”
Full press release

Six Charged With Trafficking In Stolen Human Remains
The indictments and information allege that a nationwide network of individuals bought and sold human remains stolen from Harvard Medical School and an Arkansas mortuary.

“Some crimes defy understanding,” said U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania Gerard M. Karam. “The theft and trafficking of human remains strikes at the very essence of what makes us human. It is particularly egregious that so many of the victims here volunteered to allow their remains to be used to educate medical professionals and advance the interests of science and healing. For them and their families to be taken advantage of in the name of profit is appalling. With these charges, we are seeking to secure some measure of justice for all these victims.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has and will continue to attempt to identify and contact as many of the victims and victims’ families affected by this case as possible. If anyone believes they or a family member may have been affected by the conduct charged in these indictments and information, please contact our Victim and Witness Unit at USAPAM.Victim.Information@usdoj.gov or (717) 614-4249.
Full press release

U.S. Army Soldier Pleads Guilty to Terrorism Charges for Attempting to Help ISIS Conduct Deadly Ambush on U.S. Troops
Cole Bridges pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization and attempting to murder U.S. military service members based on his efforts to help the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) to attack and kill U.S. soldiers in the Middle East.

Bridges joined the Army in 2019, but became an ISIS supporter after consuming online propaganda that promoted jihadists and their ideology. He thought he was communicating with an ISIS supporter who had contact to ISIS fighters in the Middle East.
During this communication, he shared training, guidance, potential targets, instructions on how to attack soldiers in the Middle East, and more.
U.S. Attorney for Southern District of New York Damian Williams said: “As he admitted in court today, Cole Bridges attempted to orchestrate a murderous ambush on his fellow soldiers in service of ISIS and its violent ideology. Bridges’s traitorous conduct was a betrayal of his comrades and his country. Thanks to the incredible work of the prosecutors of this office and our partners at the FBI and the U.S. Army, Bridges’s malign intent was revealed, and he now awaits sentencing for his crimes.”
Full press release

Evansville Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison After Engaging in Sexually Explicit Conduct with a 14-Year-Old via Facebook Video Chat
Stacy Ryan Goldman, of Evansville, Indiana, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to sexual exploitation of a child.

Goldman had contact with a 14-year-old girl through Facebook video chat. Knowing the girl was a minor, he sent her intimate photos of himself and asked her to do the same, threatening to post her photos online.
“Through social media networks and mobile devices, predators like this defendant can gain access to our children’s bedrooms from hundreds of miles away,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana Zachary A. Myers. “Those who might seek to engage in sexual contact with children online should take notice of the federal prison sentence imposed today. Child sexual exploitation is a heinous crime and will be met with serious punishment. Our office, alongside the FBI and our law enforcement partners, are committed to keeping our children safe and holding child sex offenders accountable.”
Full press release

Ventura County Man Pleads Guilty to Making Death Threats and Bomb Threats to a Nonprofit and Reproductive Health Centers
Nishith Tharaka Vandebona pleaded guilty to federal criminal charges making threatening telephone calls, including to a Planned Parenthood office on the day the U.S. Supreme Court overturned its Roe v. Wade decision.

Prior to the threats to the Planned Parenthood facilities, Vandebona threatened to bomb and murder the staff of the office of Californians for Population Stabilization (CAPS).
Vandebona will face a statutory maximum sentence of one year in federal prison for the FACE Act count and up to five years in federal prison for the transmitting threatening communications in interstate commerce count.
Full press release

Additional resources:

Do Your Kids Know About Safe Online Surfing?

June 13, 2023

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

June 9, 2023

FBI Pittsburgh Operation Targets Erie-Based Drug Ring
Federal prosecutors announced charges against 58 alleged members of a neighborhood street gang that distributed marijuana, prescription hydrocodone, cocaine, cocaine base, heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl powder, and fentanyl pills within the gang’s geographic territory in western Pennsylvania.

Defendants engaged in organized criminal activity as part of their membership and association with the 4-Nation gang.
"This gang brought violence and despair to our neighborhoods and pedaled drugs onto the streets, exploiting the young and vulnerable," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. "This investigation was a collaborative effort led by the FBI’s EAGLE Safe Streets Task Force and the community will see the impact immediately. I commend the work done by the investigative team and restate the commitment of the FBI and our partners to aggressively pursue those that bring harm to our communities."
Full press release

Bronx Man Convicted of 2018 Murder During Which He Shot the Victim’s 5-Year-Old Son
Joshua Rodriguez was found guilty at trial of the Oct. 23, 2018, murder of Jaquan Millien in connection with a drug-trafficking crime.

Rodriguez shot and killed Millien in the Butler Houses in the Bronx, New York. During the shooting, Rodriguez shot Millien’s 5-year-old son, who was with his father at the time. Millien's son survived.
"Jaquan Millien was bringing his 5-year-old son to an after-school program—something parents do in New York City every day—when he was gunned down in his building’s stairwell," said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams. "His son not only was shot, but he had to see his father die before his eyes."
Williams continued: "Today, a unanimous jury returned a verdict within hours that found Rodriguez shot and killed Millien. While the verdict cannot bring Millien back, we hope today’s verdict brings some measure of justice for Millien’s family and his community..."
Full press release

Five Defendants Arrested for Daytime Armed Robberies of Manhattan Jewelry Stores
Five defendants were charged with the armed robberies of two Manhattan jewelry stores in which approximately $2 million of jewelry was stolen at gunpoint.

"...Dressed as construction workers, the defendants allegedly sought to blend into the busy streets around them before pointing guns at the jewelry stores' employees and carrying out about $2 million in stolen diamonds and other valuable pieces," said Damian Williams, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.
"...Violent robberies, especially those with firearms, will not be tolerated by the FBI and our partners in law enforcement," FBI Assistant Director in Charge Michael J. Driscoll. "The arrests today should serve as a warning to anyone willing to engage in armed robberies—you will face the consequences."
Full press release

Marysville, Washington Man Who Ran Fentanyl Pill Mill From His Garage Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison
Jose Eduardo Garnica pleaded guilty in March 2023 to conspiracy to manufacture and deliver controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Garnica had more than two dozen guns, and had mixed dangerous animal tranquilizers with fentanyl pills, increasing overdose risk.
"This case weaves together all the strands that make fentanyl trafficking such a dangerous business," said U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington Nick Brown. "Mr. Garnica was manufacturing fentanyl pills with deadly powders that could make each pill lethal. His activities contaminated the home he rented, and he had 27 guns—many of them high-powered assault weapons—adding to the danger. This is a significant prison sentence, but appropriate due to the risk he posed to our community."
Full press release

Sex Offender Gets 40 Years for Sharing Child Pornography in Two States
Timothy Lee Tyler pleaded guilty Sept. 12, 2022, to distributing child pornography in 2020 and to possessing child pornography in both 2019 and 2020.

Before imposing the sentence, the court heard Tyler had previously committed hands-on offenses against children he knew through friends and loved ones and that he had encouraged other users on the Kik messaging app to create child pornography for his enjoyment.
"For years, this person preyed upon children," said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas Alamdar S. Hamdani. "Online, he encouraged other predators to abuse their own children for his sick gratification. In real life, he terrorized and abused children of people close to him. This sentence will help ensure he isn’t allowed access to children ever again."
Full press release

Additional resources:

On This Day in FBI History

June 7, 2023

June 7, 1999: Usama bin Laden was added to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. Bin Laden was charged in connection with the U.S. Embassy bombings in East Africa.

June 7, 2021: The FBI successfully seized $2.3 million in cryptocurrency allegedly representing the proceeds of a ransom payment to individuals in a Russia-based cybercrime group known as DarkSide that targeted Colonial Pipeline, resulting in critical infrastructure being taken out of operation.

Interested in reading more about the FBI’s history? Visit fbi.gov/history.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

June 2, 2023

Wanted Fugitive Nida Muhammad Niazy Returned to Sacramento County to Face Sexual Assault Charges
Nida Muhammad Niazy is alleged to have sexually assaulted two people last fall.

With the assistance of the FBI Berlin Legal Attaché and the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) Germany, Niazy was apprehended by Landeskriminalamt Schleswig-Holstein, near Eutin, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, on February 23, 2023, pending extradition.
“The FBI is eager to help our law enforcement partners ensure those accused of crimes can and will answer to charges, despite their efforts to flee,” said FBI Sacramento Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan. “We thank our international partners and the FBI International Operations Division for assisting us with our effort to apprehend Mr. Niazy.”
Full press release

Twelve Quad Cities Gang Members and Associates Indicted on Federal Charges
A federal grand jury in Davenport, Iowa, returned an indictment charging 12 Quad Cities men with offenses related to a racketeering conspiracy, and who conspired to engage in a years-long pattern of violence, including murder, attempted murders, robbery, and drug trafficking.

“The tremendous work of our investigators and federal partners delivered justice for those impacted by these violent crimes,” said Davenport Police Chief Jeffery Bladel. “These cases demonstrate, the outstanding partnership and collaboration between federal prosecutors and local law enforcement that has a long-term impact on the safety of our community.
Full press release

Suburban Houstonian Sentenced for Having More Than 35,000 Child Pornography Files
Michael Crisp Jr. has been sentenced to over 17 years in federal prison following his conviction of distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography.

“Cases that involve the sexual exploitation of children are some of the toughest cases our agents work,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge James Smith. “Crisp took pleasure from thousands of images and videos depicting the sadistic sexual exploitation, torture and abuse of children, including infants and toddlers. By choosing to receive and disseminate such graphic imagery, Crisp repeatedly re-victimized the victims. While today’s sentence removes one sexual predator from children’s lives, the FBI’s work continues as there are many more like Crisp still out there.”
Full press release

Expatriate Charged with Making Multiple Threats to Kill U.S. Senator and U.S. Marines
Eric Charles Welton, an American citizen living in Thailand, was arrested on a criminal complaint charging that he threatened a U.S. senator and members of their staff in September 2021.

Welton is also alleged to have made threats against U.S. Marines and others working the U.S. Consulate in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in late 2022.
“Our elected representatives and the public servants who staff their offices must be free to do the people’s work without threats of violence,” said U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina Michael Easley. “Violent threats against our democratically elected representatives do not just erode our civil discourse—they can undermine our democracy. We will hold accountable anyone who threatens violence targeting our bedrock institutions.”
Full press release

Spokane Man Sentenced to 17 Years for Receipt of Child Pornography While on Federal Supervision
Christopher Gary Carlson was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for receipt of child pornography, followed by an additional 24 months in prison for violating a previously imposed term of supervised release.

This was Carlson’s third time being sentenced for child pornography crimes.
“Today’s 17-year sentence sends a powerful reminder to Mr. Carlson and others like him: Crimes that exploit the most vulnerable among us cannot, and will not, be tolerated,” stated U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington Vanessa R. Waldref. “Time and again, Mr. Carlson returned to the internet to view and collect depictions of a child’s most horrific experiences. Yet, just as swiftly as Mr. Carlson collected these images and videos depicting this incredible harm, U.S. Probation and the FBI responded, preventing Mr. Carlson from victimizing hundreds if not thousands more minor children.”
Full press release

Five Columbia Men Sentenced to Federal Prison Following Armed Bank Robbery
Following the armed robbery of a bank ATM on Fairfield Road in Columbia, South Carolina, five Columbia men have been sentenced collectively to more than 42 years in federal prison.

The defendants stole $108,940 from the ATM.
Law enforcement recovered more than $32,000 in robbery proceeds, four firearms (including the long gun used in the crime), ammunition, and the drum magazine used in the crime, which was loaded with 46 rounds.
Full press release

Additional resources:

May 2023

Olympic Park Bomber Captured 20 Years Ago Today

May 31, 2023

Eric Rudolph Wanted Poster - Cropped images Only

Twenty years ago today – on May 31, 2003 – Eric Robert Rudolph, better known as the Olympic Park Bomber, was arrested in North Carolina while rummaging through a dumpster. His capture ended a five-year manhunt for one of the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives.

Rudolph pleaded guilty to setting off four bombs between 1996 and 1998 in Atlanta, Georgia, and Birmingham, Alabama. The first, which he detonated in Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park during the 1996 Summer Olympic games, killed one spectator and injured more than 100 others. In 1997, he planted bombs in Atlanta at an abortion clinic and a lesbian bar. In 1998, he bombed a Birmingham abortion clinic, killing an off-duty police officer and critically injuring a nurse.

After being placed on the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list in 1998, Rudolph eluded law enforcement for five years by hiding in the western North Carolina mountains. He is currently serving multiple life sentences without the possibility of parole.

Read a behind-the-scenes interview with a former FBI executive about the pursuit and capture of Rudolph.

Last week, the FBI increased its reward to up to $250,000 for information leading directly to the capture of a Ten Most Wanted Fugitive.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

May 26, 2023

Wanted Fugitive Arrested After Multi-Agency Manhunt
The FBI, along with its law enforcement partners, arrested Michael Burham on federal and multiple state arrest warrants.

Burham was on the run after a spree of alleged crimes, which include rape and unlawful imprisonment. He was also wanted for kidnapping an elderly couple.
“Every single law enforcement team, from Buffalo to South Carolina, was determined and committed to finding this dangerous man,” said FBI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Matthew Miraglia. “Burham had evaded law enforcement long enough. I am thankful no one was injured and grateful to all the law enforcement agencies that came together, and of course, the community members who provided tips along the way. We all came together. Our communities are safer tonight because of those efforts.”
Full press release

Montana Man Sentenced for Assault on Flight Crew on Flight to Juneau, Alaska
Eric Richard Bruns was sentenced for assaulting a flight crew member on a commercial airline flight while the plane was landing at the Juneau airport.

“The safety and security of air travel are paramount, and we will continue to prosecute offenders in order to ensure that all passengers are able to travel without fear of assault or harm,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska S. Lane Tucker. “We hope that this case will serve as a warning to others who may consider committing similar acts in the future, and that it will encourage everyone to follow the rules and regulations designed to keep our skies safe and secure.”
Full press release

FBI Seattle Highlights the Recovery of Four Children Kidnapped From Washington State
On National Missing Children’s Day, FBI Seattle highlighted the successful recovery of kidnapped children:

In February 2023, FBI Seattle recovered Aranza Maria Ochoa Lopez, who was kidnapped by her biological mother from a Vancouver, Washington, shopping mall in 2018.
Also, in February 2023, FBI Seattle recovered Breadson John from Vancouver, Washington, who had been missing since June 2022, and was safely recovered in Jasper County, Missouri.
“Child kidnapping cases take a great deal of coordination with other law enforcement agencies, both in and outside the United States, and with our legat offices, which further the FBI mission overseas,” said FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge Richard A. Collodi.
Full press release

Pineville, Louisiana, Man Sentenced to 35 Years for Conspiracy to Commit Forced Labor and Transporting a Minor for Criminal Sexual Activity
Darnell Fulton used violence, sexual abuse, withholding of food, degradation, and intimidation to coerce multiple minors to work for his brownie baking business and provide him the profits.

“Forced labor, especially when it involves sexual abuse of children, violence, and mental and physical anguish, is heinous conduct that has no place in our society today. The defendant mercilessly exploited children for his own financial gain and personal gratification, and we will not tolerate it,” said Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division Kristen Clarke. “This sentence demonstrates the Justice Department’s commitment to standing up for the survivors of forced labor schemes. We will not only pursue and prosecute human and child traffickers, but also seek restitution and use those funds to help survivors rebuild and reclaim their lives.”
Full press release

Arrests Made in 'Operation Broken Bonds,' an Investigation into Violent Crime, Drug Trafficking, and Gun Trafficking in the Central Valley Committed by Gang Members and Associates
Following a multi-agency investigation in Fresno County, California, that focused on crimes of violence, drug sales, and illegal firearms possession, 10 federal defendants were arrested for racketeering, drug trafficking, violent crimes, and firearms offenses.

In July 2021, law enforcement agencies joined together to investigate the ongoing criminal activities committed by gang members for the benefit of the enterprise formed by the coordination of the Nuestra Familia prison gang and the Norteño criminal street gang.
On May 25, 2023, nearly 550 federal, state, and local law enforcement personnel executed 54 search warrants: 49 firearms, ammunition, firearm magazines, currency, and controlled substances were seized.
More than 25 criminal street gang members and associates were arrested and charged with crimes in either federal or state court.
Full press release

Additional resources:

FBI Child ID App

May 25, 2023

Today is National Missing Children's Day, and the FBI remains committed to investigating these cases and working to reunite kidnapped or missing children with their loved ones.

The FBI Child ID app provides a convenient place to electronically store photos and vital information about your children so that it’s literally right at hand if you need it. The app also includes tips on keeping children safe and guidance on what to do during the first crucial hours after a child goes missing.

(The FBI does not collect or store the information or photos you enter into the app. The data resides on your mobile device unless you choose to send it to authorities in an emergency.)

You can download the app on iTunes and GooglePlay.

Learn more about keeping kids safe and how to contact the FBI to report a missing child.

Reduce Your Organization’s Risk of a Ransomware Attack

May 24, 2023

The FBI has partnered with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the National Security Agency (NSA), and the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) to publish an updated version of the #StopRansomware Guide.

Developed through the Joint Ransomware Task Force, this guide is designed to help organizations reduce the risk of ransomware incidents by providing best practices for detection, prevention, response, and recovery. The latest update includes lessons learned from the past two years and recommendations on initial access techniques, social engineering, cloud security backups, and threat hunting tips for detection and analysis.

"The FBI is committed to sharing information with organizations and the public to assist in shoring up network defenses," said Bryan Vorndran, assistant director of the FBI's Cyber Division. "While the FBI continues to prevent and disrupt cyberattacks, we cannot win the fight against ransomware attacks alone. We urge all organizations to implement these recommendations to ensure stronger resiliency for their networks."

Read more about the updated #StopRansomware Guide.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

May 19, 2023

Judge Imposes Eight Consecutive Life Sentences Plus 260 Years in Prison for ISIS-Inspired 2017 Murder of Eight Victims and Attempted Murder of 18 Others in NYC Truck Attack
Sayfullo Saipov carried out a terrorist attack on Oct. 31, 2017, in the name of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), in which Saipov used a truck to murder eight victims and injure many more on a bike path in lower Manhattan.

More than 20 victims and family members delivered emotional and powerful victim impact statements at Saipov’s sentencing.
In total, Saipov was sentenced to eight consecutive life sentences, 260 years in prison to run consecutively, and two additional life sentences to run concurrently to each other and to all other sentences imposed.
“Although it has been more than five years since Sayfullo Saipov carried out this horrific, senseless attack in the name of ISIS, the FBI never relented in our pursuit of justice for the victims and their loved ones,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “This case demonstrates the FBI’s steadfast commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who commit acts of violence inspired by terrorist groups.”
Full press release

Contract Killer Sentenced to Five Consecutive Life Sentences in Prison for Committing Six Murders and One Attempted Murder
Ernest Pressley was sentenced to five consecutive life sentences in connection with Pressley's role in murdering four victims in Philadelphia between 2017 and 2018, all in exchange for money.

Pressley's conduct also included his role in the killing of two other victims in 2016 and 2017 and the attempted murder of a woman in 2018.
“Ernest Pressley is a hardened and chronic offender, a true menace to society,” said FBI Philadelphia Special Agent in Charge Jacqueline Maguire. “For all the lives he took and families he affected, this contract killer has duly earned each of his life sentences. The FBI and Philadelphia Police Department will continue to focus our partnership and resources on locking up the worst of the worst, like Pressley, who cause so much of the city’s bloodshed.”
Full press release

Career Criminal Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Violent, Armed Robbery of Indianapolis Car Dealership
Jeffrey Fleshood was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to attempted interference with commerce by robbery and felon in possession of a firearm as an armed career criminal.

At the time of his arrest, Fleshood had been previously convicted of six felonies, including residential entry, three separate burglary charges, resisting law enforcement, and possession of methamphetamine.
“This sentence clearly demonstrates the impact and importance of the ongoing collaboration between the FBI and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “This defendant failed to learn from multiple previous felony convictions and instead chose to continue committing acts of violence. The FBI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to ensuring residents feel safe in their homes, places of work and the community.”
Full press release

Arizona Man Sentenced to 108 Months for Transporting Victim for Prostitution
Ashton Jordan was sentenced in federal court to 108 months in prison for transporting a woman from Nevada to Arizona to California for engage in prostitution.

“I applaud the bravery of this victim,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California Randy Grossman. “The defendant’s reprehensible actions have forever impacted her life, and for that he will pay a high price. We will never relent in our pursuit of justice for victims.”
“Jordan preyed on, manipulated, and exploited his victim for his own financial gain—he showed zero regard for human life,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi. “Sex trafficking happens every day, and it often occurs in plain sight. When you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it to law enforcement. FBI San Diego will continue to collaborate with our partners at every level to hold accountable all who believe a living being can be reduced to a dollar amount.”
Full press release

St. Louis Man Sentenced to Over 28 Years in Prison for Carjacking, Crime Spree
Drew Clark was sentenced for a “rampage” that involved carjackings, burglaries, and a home invasion in May of 2021.

Clark was convicted of all charges: three counts of carjacking, three counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and one count of possession of a stolen firearm.
Clark started his spree by stealing a man’s Jeep Cherokee at Union Station in St. Louis on May 22, 2021, as the victim was unloading the vehicle. Inside was the man’s 9mm handgun and a Gibson guitar.
Four days later, Clark committed a series of crimes in less than four hours, often discarding items he’d stolen earlier and stealing new clothing, vehicles, and other items.
Full press release

Los Angeles Harbor Area Gang Members and Associates Targeted in Federal Complaints Alleging Fentanyl and “Ghost Gun” Sales
Law enforcement arrested seven members and associates of Los Angeles Harbor area street gangs—including from the two largest gangs, Westside Wilmas and Eastside Wilmas—on federal charges alleging the trafficking of firearms and pound quantities of narcotics such as fentanyl.

In relation to the charges unsealed, law enforcement seized approximately 23 firearms, 26.2 kilograms of methamphetamine, approximately 23,000 fentanyl pills, 2.4 kilograms of powdered fentanyl, and one kilogram of cocaine.
These arrests are the latest development in a violence reduction initiative started by a joint FBI and Los Angeles Police Department task force targeting gang activity in the Harbor area.
Full press release

Additional resources:

Cycling for Awareness: Police Unity Tour

May 18, 2023

Photo of bicyclists in D.C. participating in 2023 Policy Unity Tour

A wave of bicyclists in blue jerseys rode through Washington, D.C., on May 12 for the final stretch of the 2023 Police Unity Tour, a multi-day event that culminates each year at the National Law Enforcement Memorial during National Police Week.

The Police Unity Tour has a primary mission: to raise awareness of law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. Founded in 1997 by Patrick Montuore, a New Jersey police officer, the annual event has grown from an initial 18 riders to nearly 2,600 from the U.S. and abroad.

All riders are current or retired law enforcement officers—including some from the FBI—or family members of fallen officers. They meet at various locations across the eastern U.S. coast and ride together to Washington, D.C.

Inside the FBI: The Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted Data Collection, Revisited

May 17, 2023

Inside the FBI: The Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted Data Collection, Revisited

The FBI has released its annual report on the number of law enforcement officers killed in line-of-duty incidents during the previous year. In 2022, 118 officers died while on duty. 60 died as a result of felonious acts in 28 states and the District of Columbia. 58 died in accidents. For more details on the 2022 LEOKA report, visit fbi.gov/cde and click on "Law Enforcement Explorer."

The Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Data Collection reports on felonious deaths; accidental deaths; and assaults of city, college/university, county, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement officers who met certain criteria at the time of the incident.

The FBI has been publishing yearly statistics on officer line-of-duty deaths since 1937. A second report was added in 1960 to cover assaults on officers, and the two reports were combined into one publication in 1982. Through this report, the FBI's LEOKA Program aims to provide potentially lifesaving information to law enforcement agencies.

Listen to this episode of Inside the FBI for an in-depth look at LEOKA data collection.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

May 12, 2023

Leader of Sex Trafficking and Drug Conspiracy Pleads Guilty, Faces Up to Life in Prison
Lairon Graham pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute—and to distribute—400 grams or more of fentanyl, as well as sex trafficking by force or coercion.

Between 2013 and August 2021, Graham coerced four victims to engage in commercial sex acts by exploiting their addictions, providing the victims with crack cocaine or heroin.
Graham also used physical violence and threats of physical violence to get the victims to engage in commercial sexual activity. Graham brutally beat one victim on a near-daily basis.
“As today’s plea details, Lairon Graham showed zero regard for human life by deceiving, manipulating, and profiting off those grappling with addiction for his benefit,” said FBI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Matthew Miraglia. “The FBI’s focus is, and always will be, on protecting our communities from these violent offenders. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue our collaborative efforts to identify and dismantle violent gangs found to be dealing in the deadly drug trade.”
Full press release

Former Federal Agent Sentenced to Life in Prison for Sexually Assaulting Two Women and Preventing Them From Reporting Attacks
John Jacob Olivas, a former special agent with Homeland Security Investigations, was sentenced to life in federal prison for sexually assaulting two women and abusing his official position to prevent them from reporting his violent conduct.

U.S. District Court Judge for the Central District of California Jesus G. Bernal said that Olivas had engaged in “systematic torture of women” and was an individual whose “senseless” crimes would cause his victims to “live with this trauma for the rest of their lives.”
“John Jacob Olivas not only used the power of his position to commit horrific acts of violence and silence his victims—his actions while employed as a government agent served to undermine the efforts of honorable law enforcement officials,” said FBI Los Angeles Assistant Director in Charge Donald Alway. “This significant sentence should not only deliver a measure of justice to his victims, but restore trust in government as we hold accountable individuals who use their position to violate civil rights.”
Full press release

Detroit Street Gang Leader Sent to Prison for 25 Years for Murdering Two People as Part of a Racketeering Conspiracy
A leader of a Detroit street gang, Edwin Mills, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for murdering two people—one of them an innocent 13-year-old bystander—as part of a racketeering conspiracy.

Mills and ten other members of the “6 Mile Chedda Grove” gang were indicted in 2016 for racketeering offenses. 6 Mile Chedda Grove was a violent organization responsible for murders, assaults, robberies, and narcotics trafficking in the Detroit metropolitan area and in other states. All eleven charged members of the gang have now been convicted and sentenced.
“Guns and drugs take the lives of far too many people in our communities, and Edwin Mills—as a leader of the ‘6 Mile Chedda Grove’ gang—contributed to the devastating impact of both on Detroit’s Eastside,” said FBI Detroit Special Agent in Charge James A. Tarasca. “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to address the threat of gang violence in our neighborhoods. The lengthy sentence Mills received today sends a strong message that we will not tolerate criminal enterprises using violence to further their agendas.”
Full press release

Federal Jury Convicts Former El Paso Independent School District Employee on Kidnapping Charges
A federal jury returned guilty verdicts against Jeffrey Steven Clay on one count each of kidnapping and transportation for illegal sexual activity.

Clay was employed as the Executive Director of Analytics, Strategy, and Assessment and Public Education Information Management Systems for the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD). Clay previously worked for EPISD in various roles including as a teacher and school principal.
“This crime was disturbing and relentless,” said FBI Albuquerque Special Agent in Charge Raul Bujanda. “The conviction of Jeffrey Steven Clay is a great achievement in keeping our communities safer from those who target and prey on innocent people. The FBI will always work together with our partners and hold these criminals accountable and prevent such violence from happening in our communities.”
Full press release

Alabama Man Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child
Whitehorse Ducharme was sentenced to life in federal prison for abusive sexual contact with a child under the age of 12.

Ducharme engaged in sexual abuse of a Native American child under the age of 12 from about 2008 until approximately 2016.
"The FBI is fully committed to combating the sexual abuse and exploitation of children,” said FBI Minneapolis Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Krause. “This life sentence sends a clear message to those who target kids—we will find you and hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law."
Full press release

Leader of Queens-Based “Wood City” Gang Convicted of Revenge Killing Over Stolen Necklace
Christopher Acevedo, the leader of “Wood City,” a violent criminal enterprise—which also used the names “Yellow Tape Boyz” and “YTB”—was found guilty of murder in-aid-of racketeering and causing death through the use of a firearm in connection with the August 2019 fatal shooting of a rival gang associate.

In 2019, members of the Snow Gang, including one of its leaders, robbed a gold YTB chain from a high-ranking member of Wood City. Shortly after the robbery, the Snow Gang leader posted a photo of himself wearing the YTB chain on social media. As a leader of Wood City, Acevedo was expected to retaliate for the chain-snatching to protect his gang’s reputation. Ultimately, Acevedo fired a dozen shots at Snow Gang members, killing the driver David Hutchinson.
“How senseless it was for Acevedo to callously take a human life to maintain and burnish his status as the leader of a violent street gang whose members felt insulted by the taking of a piece of jewelry,” stated U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace. “With today’s verdict, the defendant will spend the rest of his life in prison. Protecting our communities from gang and gun-related violence is a priority of my office, and I commend the attorneys, special agents, and detectives whose work brought the defendant to justice.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

Remembering Fallen Employees

May 12, 2023

Photo of Director Wray laying a wreath for fallen FBI employees

Director Christopher Wray helped lay a wreath in the courtyard of FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C., on May 11, 2023, to honor the 92 Bureau employees who have lost their lives in the line of duty since 1925.

Two names were recently added to the FBI's Wall of Honor: Supervisory Police Officer (Lieutenant) Yiu Tak "Louis" Tao and Supervisory Administrative Specialist Bryan A. Myers. Both died in 2022 from illnesses related to toxic air exposure during 9/11 recovery efforts.

The FBI remembers and grieves those we have lost.

Inside the FBI: Oasis Ponzi Scheme

May 11, 2023

Inside the FBI: Oasis Ponzi Scheme

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

May 5, 2023

Former Alabama Deputy Sheriff Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting Woman in His Custody
Joshua Davidson, a former deputy sheriff with the Dallas County, Alabama, Sheriff’s Office, pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a woman while he was on duty.

“Law enforcement officials who sexually assault women and those in their custody will and must be held accountable,” said Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division Kristen Clarke. “The Justice Department will continue to take allegations of sexual assault seriously, and vigorously prosecute those who violate the civil rights of people in their custody and prey on vulnerable victims.”
“All law enforcement personnel who take an oath to protect and serve the American people must be held to a higher standard,” said FBI Mobile Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown. “FBI Mobile remains committed to holding those who do not meet this standard accountable for their actions, especially those who wear the badge.”
Full press release

Everett, Massachusetts, Man Indicted for Sex Trafficking
A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment charging Trevor Jones with sex trafficking four female victims.

According to the charging documents, Jones ran a sex trafficking operation targeting victims who were suffering from substance use disorder. He routinely confiscated their identifications and other personal items to impede their ability to leave, and allegedly enforced his requirements by punishing victims with acts of violence.
“The conduct we allege in this case is horrific," said FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Joseph R. Bonavolonta. "Trevor Jones is accused of preying on, drugging, and sexually victimizing women for his own financial gain. No human being should ever be lured into servitude, exploited, and forced to live their lives in fear where escape seems all but impossible, but that’s exactly what we believe happened here. The resiliency his victims have shown is commendable, and as a result, Jones will now face justice. Make no mistake, FBI Boston’s Child Exploitation-Human Trafficking Task Force will do everything in its power to help them get the services they need to heal.”
Full press release

Bank Robber Sentenced to More Than Nine Years; Robbed Same Credit Union Twice
Akil Saeed Daniels was sentenced in federal court to 110 months in prison for robbing credit unions in Poway and Chula Vista, California, after he was released from a long stint in prison for robbing the same Chula Vista credit union more than a decade earlier.

“Employees who have been through a robbery are impacted for the rest of their lives,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California Randy Grossman. “This defendant made the decision to terrorize the same people not once, but twice. And now, not once, but twice, he will pay for his crime with a lengthy prison term.”
“This is not the first time that Daniels has had to face the consequences for this type of crime,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi. “May this 110-month sentence be a reminder of the severity of his actions. Violent crimes such as these in our community are intolerable. The FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to holding those responsible who choose to rob banks as a means of income.”
Full press release

Former Elementary School Teacher Sentenced for Sexually Abusing Children
Stefan Zappey has been sentenced to life in prison for sexually abusing four of his former elementary school students while employed by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) federal school system located on a U.S. military installation near Stuttgart, Germany.

“Zappey presented himself as a dedicated teacher, but in reality, he is the most dangerous type of predator, an educator who uses his position of trust to gain access to children and victimize them for his own sick gratification,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Keri Farley. “The FBI remains committed to protecting children and is thankful for the law enforcement partnerships that make it possible to stop people like Zappey from victimizing anyone else.”
“The successful prosecution of Stefan Zappey demonstrates the Justice Department’s commitment to prosecuting U.S. citizens who prey on young and vulnerable children regardless of where and when the crimes occurred,” said Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. “Zappey’s offenses are especially egregious because he was entrusted with teaching the children of our brave service members overseas. The courage of the victims and the perseverance of investigators and prosecutors ensured that Zappey’s offenses were exposed and will prevent him from abusing even more children.”
Full press release

Final Defendant in Multi-State Dog Fighting, Drug Conspiracy Case Pleads Guilty
The thirteenth and final defendant involved in a multi-state dog fighting and drug distribution conspiracy based out of Georgia pleaded guilty to his crimes.

According to court documents, law enforcement investigated a criminal organization involved in both cocaine distribution and organized dog fighting based out of Roberta, Georgia, which extended into Florida and Alabama from May 2019 until February 2020.
“Shutting down this criminal organization, which was engaged in drug distribution and barbaric dog fighting, is the direct result of a lengthy and coordinated investigation involving many law enforcement agencies at the local, state and federal level,” said U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia Peter D. Leary. “Their combined efforts have made our communities safer.”
Full press release

Federal, State, and Local Law Enforcement Authorities Announce the Formation of a Peoria, Illinois, Area Task Force to Fight Gun Crimes
Peoria Area Federal Firearms (PAFF) Task Force is a collaborative effort between federal, state, and local law enforcement designed to combat and prevent violent firearm crimes.

PAFF cases have included indictments for possession of a firearm as a felon and additional indictments for unlawful possession of a machine gun, as well as indictments that arose from cases involving the discharge of fully-automatic machine guns within residential areas of Peoria.
“Families in Peoria and the surrounding communities are at risk each day as violent criminals commit violations of firearms laws,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge David G. Nanz. “The FBI is committed to working side-by-side with our law enforcement partners toward our shared goal of battling violent crime and making our communities safer.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

April 2023

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

April 28, 2023

Jeffrey Dean Biddle Sentenced to Life in Prison
Jeffery Dean Biddle was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to production and attempted production of child pornography, receipt and attempted receipt of child pornography, and enticement and attempted enticement of a minor.

“This sentence was eminently fitting, given the abhorrent acts committed against innocent and vulnerable children,” said HSI El Paso Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola. “This case demonstrates once again how producing child pornography and abuse can go hand-in-hand. For that reason, child exploitation investigations are a top priority for Homeland Security Investigations, and we will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to hold devious sexual predators accountable for their actions.”
“One child is too many. Eleven is unspeakable. Today, the court imposed the only sentence which will ensure this serial child molester will never add another name to his terrible list,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico Alexander Uballez. “This case highlights what is possible when local, state, and federal agencies team up to relentlessly pursue sexual predators who seek to harm our most vulnerable population.”
Full press release

Armed Heroin Dealer Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison
Giancarlo Fermin, for whom court records indicate multiple previous state court convictions for similar conduct, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for being an armed drug dealer, a felon in possession of firearms, and for trafficking heroin.

“Today’s sentence makes it clear that career criminals like Giancarlo Fermin who refuse to learn from their mistakes by repeatedly breaking the law and threatening the safety of others will be held accountable,” said FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Joseph R. Bonavolonta.
“Armed drug traffickers who choose to make a career out of peddling opioids into our Rhode Island communities can look forward to prison, not profits,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island Zachary A. Cunha. “Today’s sentence should leave no doubt about this office’s resolve to use every means at our disposal to deal with those who put guns and drugs on our streets.”
Full press release

Braymer, Missouri, Man Sentenced to 32 Years for Cattle Fraud Scheme that Led to Murders
Garland Joseph Nelson was sentenced in federal court for a $215,000 cattle fraud scheme that he attempted to cover up by murdering two Wisconsin brothers, Nicholas and Justin Diemel.

Nelson agreed to care for cattle belonging to Diemel’s Livestock. Nelson killed many cattle and then fraudulently billed the Diemels for feed and yardage for the dead cattle.
Nicholas Diemel pressed Nelson for payment for his cattle. To deprive the Diemels of their cattle or their money and to prevent them from recovering either their cattle or their money, Nelson fraudulently sent the Diemels a bad check for $215,936.
Ultimately, Nelson murdered both Diemels and then committed at least two more cattle fraud schemes.
Full press release

Austin Man Sentenced for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material
Tucker Smith was sentenced to five years in prison for having searched for, accessed, viewed, downloaded, possessed, stored, and distributed child sexual abuse material (CSAM) since approximately 2018.

“The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to protect children from those who seek to exploit their innocence,” said FBI San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Oliver E. Rich Jr. “These types of cases serve as a reminder of the important role the public plays in keeping our children and communities safe by immediately reporting potential public safety threats to law enforcement.”
“This sentencing sends the message that we will continue to pursue and prosecute the predators who engage in the heinous and indefensible act of possessing child sexual abuse material,” said U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas Jaime Esparza.
Full press release

Washington Man Charged with Three Counts of Assault on Flight to Anchorage, Alaska
A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging Adam David Seymour with three counts of assault in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States.

On April 5, 2023, while aboard Alaska Airlines Flight 49 inbound to Anchorage, Alaska, from Seattle, Washington, Seymour assaulted a female passenger intending to make sexual contact, and assaulted two male passengers.
The flight crew had to remove Seymour from his seat and restrain him in the jump seat at the front of the airplane for the remainder of the flight.
If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the count of assault with intent to commit abusive sexual contact, and six months in prison on the two assault counts.
Full press release

Springfield, Vermont, Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Robbing Two Banks and Three Convenience Stores
Samuel Colby was sentenced to serve seven years in prison after pleading guilty to having committed two bank robberies and the robberies of three convenience stores in January of 2022.

Colby was also ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release after his release from prison.
“Samuel Colby committed multiple bank robberies and convenience store robberies in southeastern Vermont over the course of eight days," stated U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont Nikolas P. Kerest. "In addition to traumatizing victims, these types of crime sprees are dangerous and disruptive for our communities. Thanks to the coordinated and diligent work of the Springfield Police Department, the Vermont State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Colby was arrested and brought to justice. Our office will continue to work closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to protect the safety of Vermonters.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

April 21, 2023

Missouri Man Sentenced for Hate Crime in Attempted Murder of Teen Because of His Sexual Orientation
Malachi Robinson was sentenced to over 21 years in federal prison for committing a hate crime by shooting a local teenager eight times because of the victim’s sexual orientation.

“To target an individual, lure them, and shoot them multiple times for no other reason than their perceived sexual orientation is reprehensible,” said FBI Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Charles Dayoub. “The sentence imposed today reflects the severity of the crime committed against the victim and the entire LGBTQI+ community. Every individual has the right to live without fear of being attacked or harassed, regardless of their sexual orientation. The FBI is committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to protect the civil rights of all.”
“To ambush and shoot an unwitting victim, who posed no threat to him, for no other reason than his sexual orientation is reprehensible behavior that won’t be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri Teresa Moore. “Our entire community must stand together against acts of violence motivated by hatred for any group of people. The Department of Justice is committed to protecting the civil rights of all citizens and prosecuting those who illegally threaten those rights.”
Full press release

California Man Sentenced for Threatening Merriam-Webster with Anti-LGBTQ Violence
Jeremy David Hanson was sentenced to about a year in prison for threatening to commit anti-LGBTQ violence against dictionary company Merriam-Webster Inc. and others.

“Despite repeated interactions with law enforcement directing Jeremy Hanson to stop his hateful tirades threatening violence, he continued to make them. In doing so, his bias against the LGBTQ+ community instilled real fear and safety concerns, causing Merriam-Webster to close its offices in Springfield [Massachusetts] and New York City for almost five days,” said FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Joseph R. Bonavolonta.
Bonavolonta continued: “Today’s sentence cannot undo the damage Hanson did, but it can provide some comfort in knowing that threats to life are not protected free speech but criminal acts, and the FBI and our partners will vigorously pursue those who commit them. If you are a victim or witness to similar conduct, we’d ask you to report it to us by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or submitting a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.”
Full press release

Bank Robber Gets 50 Years in Prison for Murdering Security Guard
Jaylan Quinn was sentenced for murdering a security guard during a bank robbery in East St. Louis in August 2021.

According to court documents, Quinn and Andrew R. Brinkley entered First Bank in East St. Louis in August 2021. Wearing masks, the pair approached the teller and displayed a demand note that claimed they would detonate a bomb if they didn't get any money.
Ted Horn was working at the bank as a uniformed security guard and followed the men to observe, but Quinn drew a semi-automatic handgun and fatally shot Horn in the head. The robbers then fled, and Horn was pronounced dead at the scene.
FBI Springfield Field Office Special Agent in Charge David Nanz said, “Today’s significant sentence reflects the severity of Jaylan Quinn’s actions. And while it brings a conclusion to this case, the loss experienced by the family of Ted Horn will last a lifetime. We hope that in some way today’s sentence provides a degree of comfort for the victim’s family.”
Full press release

South Los Angeles Man Found Guilty of Knowingly Recruiting Teenage Girls for Commercial Sex Work and Trafficking an Adult via Threats
Donavin Dwayne Bradford was found guilty of nine felonies for recruiting and enticing teenage girls for whom he acted as a “pimp.”

Bradford, along with Layla Kalani Valdivia, advertised a 15-year-old girl for commercial sex work on multiple websites. Customers who responded to the ads were directed to various hotels and motels where they engaged in commercial sex acts with the victim. Bradford later recruited and enticed two other girls—ages 16 and 17—to engage in commercial sex activity.
Bradford also recruited and sex trafficked an adult victim through threats of force, fraud, or coercion, including multiple instances of violence.
Bradford will face a mandatory minimum of 15 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison.
Full press release

Man Convicted of Child Abuse Resulting in Death and Voluntary Manslaughter
A federal jury convicted Devin Warren Sizemore for the death of his 21-month-old daughter in Indian Country.

Sizemore was estranged from the child’s mother when he visited the child and drowned her in a pond.
Sizemore was convicted of child abuse resulting in death and voluntary manslaughter and will be sentenced at a later date. Sizemore faces a maximum penalty of life in prison for the child abuse resulting in a death charge, and 15 years in prison for the voluntary manslaughter charge.
Full press release

Former Alabama Correctional Sergeant Found Guilty of Civil Rights Violations and Obstruction for Assaulting Three Incarcerated People with a Riot-Baton and Falsifying a Report
In October 2020, Lorenzo Mills subjected three incarcerated persons to cruel and unusual punishment by striking them with a wooden riot-baton.

After the unlawful use of force, Mills authored a use of force report wherein he denied using any force against the victims.
“This verdict shows that our community members agree that no person is above the law,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Constitution protects the rights of all people, including those in our jails and prisons. We will continue to prosecute correctional officers who abuse their power and use our federal civil rights laws to protect the rights of those detained inside our jails and prisons.”
“An individual's rights do not end after being convicted of a crime,” said FBI Mobile Special Agent in Charge Paul W. Brown. “The FBI takes any violation of civil rights seriously, especially allegations against those sworn to protect and uphold the law. The few who tarnish the badge and illegally use their official capacity will be caught and tried like any other criminal.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

Inside the FBI Podcast: The China Threat

April 20, 2023

Inside the FBI: The China Threat

Through tactics like systematic theft of intellectual property, transnational repression, and brazen cyber intrusions—just to name a few—the Chinese government is seeking to have great power and influence on the world stage.

And no one is immune from these threats: from businesses to academic institutions, to lawmakers or the general public.

Listen to the latest episode of Inside the FBI as we discuss some recent criminal charges that demonstrate the lengths the Chinese government will go to to threaten the economic well-being, national security, and democratic values of the United States.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

April 14, 2023

63 Individuals Charged with Drug Trafficking in the Municipality of San Germán, Puerto Rico
The indictment alleges that from 2015 through April 3, 2023, the defendants were members of a drug trafficking organization that distributed heroin, cocaine base (commonly known as crack), cocaine, marijuana, fentanyl, and other drugs in San Germán, Puerto Rico, and areas nearby for significant financial gain and profit.

“This case is a prime example of successful drug interdiction operations that result from collaborative work between federal and state agencies,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “We can remove wrongdoers from the streets and bring stability and peace to our communities when we jointly apply our resources, personnel, and operational expertise to bear against extensive organized crime networks.”
Full press release

Seven Arrested for Stealing Catalytic Converters from Over 470 Vehicles and Targeting ATMs and Jewelry Stores

Catalytic converters use precious metals in their center or core. They are targeted for theft due to the high value of these metals. Catalytic converter thieves conduct searches in residential neighborhoods, parking lots, and other locations to steal the most high-value catalytic converters.
The defendants are allegedly responsible for an estimated $2 million in losses across Massachusetts and New Hampshire during 2022 and 2023.
Full press release

Sophisticated Sinaloa Cartel Money Laundering Organization Dismantled
A two-year investigation by the FBI and DEA has resulted in the indictment of 12 people, the takedown of a transnational criminal organization that allegedly laundered at least $16.5 million for the Sinaloa cartel, and the rescue of two victims of an extortion plot.

“This operation highlights how the FBI and our law enforcement partners are joining efforts to dismantle organized, violent, criminal enterprises,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “These enterprises create a space for cartels to exist, and we will spare no resources when it comes to addressing the criminals who enable the flow of poison to our communities.”
“Mexican drug cartels cannot succeed without money launderers,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California Randy Grossman. “Our office will prosecute not only those who traffic in drugs but also those who enable the drug traffickers through sophisticated shell corporations and multiple bank accounts.”
Full press release

Detroit Street Gang Leader Sentenced to Life Imprisonment Following Convictions at Trial for Racketeering and Murder
Duane Peterson was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, racketeering, narcotics trafficking, and other gang-related crimes.

Peterson acted as the leader of It’s Just Us (IJU), a violent street gang.
IJU terrorized the Detroit community from 2014 through the beginning of 2019 by engaging in violent acts, obstruction of justice, and witness intimidation.
“Violent street gangs like IJU threaten the safety and security of everyone in our community," said FBI Detroit Special Agent in Charge James A. Tarasca. "The FBI, alongside federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies across the country, will continue to target and dismantle gangs that wreak havoc on our neighborhoods."
Full press release

Texas Man Sentenced for Threatening Jewish Organization
Anthony Joseph Hammer pleaded guilty to interstate communication of a threat and was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison.

According to information presented in court, Hammer sent a threatening electronic message to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), a Jewish civil rights organization based in New York, via the ADL’s website’s contact page.
“Threatening to harm others by using phones, computers or mail is a federal crime and taken very seriously,” said U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas Brit Featherston. “Hammer believed he could promote his malicious agenda by making threats to kill and to disrupt business activity. That’s why he is going to jail and being punished. Others who do the same will have the same fate.”
Full press release

Urologist Charged with Sexually Abusing Patients
Darius A. Paduch, a New York-area urologist, was arrested for multiple sexual abuse charges.

"The indictment unsealed today against Paduch, a New York-area doctor, details alleged systemic abuse of a number of patients, to include minors, over the course of several years," said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Michael J. Driscoll. "Sexual abuse of anyone at any age for any reason is a horrific crime that carries strict penalties. If you have been victimized by Darius Paduch in any way or have any additional information about his alleged illegal behavior, please call us at 1-800-CALL-FBI or reach out to us at tips.fbi.gov.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

FBI Launches Stolen Art App

April 13, 2023

Photo depicting hands holding a cell phone with the FBI National Stolen Art File app on the screen. A laptop computer is in the background.

Now you can access the FBI's National Stolen Art File (NSAF)—a database of stolen pieces of art and culturally significant property—in the palm of your hand using our newest app.

While the National Stolen Art File app was primarily created with law enforcement and art-industry partners in mind, anyone can use it to verify that art or antiquities they own or are looking to buy aren't actually stolen property.

Download the app for free on the Apple App Store or on Google Play.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

April 7, 2023

High-Ranking Member of the Sinaloa Cartel Extradited from Mexico to the United States to Face International Drug Trafficking and Firearm Charges
Jorge Ivan Gastelum Avila of the Sinaloa Cartel made his initial appearance in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

The Sinaloa Cartel is a violent, transnational drug trafficking organization based in Mexico that engaged in the manufacture, distribution, and importation of ton quantities of cocaine and marijuana from Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru, Panama, Costa Rica, and Honduras to Mexico and into the United States.
Gastelum Avila was allegedly a lead sicario, or assassin, and operated as the “plaza boss” for the Mexican city of Guamúchil, Sinaloa, supervising at least 200 armed men and controlling the drug-trafficking activities in that city and the surrounding area.
Gastelum Avila faces a maximum penalty of life in prison for the drug conspiracy charge.
Full press release

Virginia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking
Michael Jabaar Wilkins was sentenced to 20 years in prison for a federal sex trafficking conviction stemming from his sexual exploitation of three women.

Between 2011 and 2019, Wilkins separately induced and coerced women to travel from Virginia to the District of Columbia to engage in commercial sex acts for his financial benefit.
Wilkins took sexually explicit photographs of these women that he used in online advertisements for commercial sex.
Wilkins repeatedly physically assaulted two of the women, knocking one of them unconscious in one instance and causing a severe injury to the woman’s eye. Wilkins also used verbal abuse, threats to harm, and emotional manipulation to entice and coerce these women into commercial sex work for his financial gain.
Full press release

MS-13 Member Sentenced to Life in Prison for Kidnapping and Murder
Israel Alberto Rivas Gomez, a member of La Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), was sentenced for kidnapping and murder in aid of racketeering.

MS-13 is a violent criminal street gang that engages in racketeering activity, including murder, kidnapping, extortion, and drug trafficking.
In December 2017, Rivas Gomez and his fellow MS-13 members kidnapped the 19-year-old victim in Mendota, California, drove him to a remote location approximately 30 minutes away, and used a knife and machete to murder him, all in furtherance of MS-13’s criminal gang enterprise.
Full press release

Leader of Armed Robbery Crew Targeting Pharmacies Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison
Jordan Velez was sentenced to prison for his organizing role in the armed robberies of 10 pharmacies.

“Jordan Velez recruited and directed a crew of robbers that put our citizens in grave danger when they entered numerous pharmacies wielding their semi-automatic weapons. They stole drugs and money and terrorized many victims,” stated U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace.
“Velez and his coconspirators brought violence and fear to multiple communities throughout the New York metropolitan area when they used semi-automatic weapons to rob pharmacies of money and prescription pills. As the sentence today shows, the FBI will ensure anyone willing to commit crimes of this nature faces consequences in the criminal justice system,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Michael J. Driscoll.
Full press release

Baltimore Eight Tray Gangster Crips Member Sentenced to Almost 20 Years in Federal Prison for Racketeering and Drug Conspiracy Charges
Devon Powell was sentence to 235 months in federal prison for racketeering and drug conspiracy charges related to his activities as a member of the Eight Tray Gangster (ETG) Crips gang in Baltimore.

The ETG Crips are a violent subset of the Crips gang that originated in California in the 1970s, eventually operating on the streets and in correctional facilities in Maryland beginning in the 2000s.
Powell attempted to murder his victim, shooting the victim multiple times using a 9mm caliber pistol.
Full press release

Former Clarksville School Nurse Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography Crimes
Leon B. Hensley, a former Clarksville, Tennessee, school nurse, was sentenced to over 24 years in federal prison on child pornography charges.

A superseding indictment returned in June 2022 charged Hensley with 25 counts of attempting to produce child pornography and enticing or coercing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography.
Hensley pleaded guilty to all charges in September 2022.
Full press release

Additional resources:

On the Job: USERT

April 7, 2023

A USERT diver emerging from freezing waters in Burlington, Vermont.

Imagine being immersed underwater. The water is thick and muddy. Your suit is keeping you dry, but the frigid temperatures are making your fingers numb. All you can see is darkness.

This is a real-life scenario for divers who are part of the FBI’s Underwater Search and Evidence Response Team (USERT). They must conduct underwater searches in all kinds of conditions, often regardless of visibility, temperature, and pollution. Proper diving gear and attire, as well as collaboration with other teams, are key for diver safety, and underwater search tools and evidence collection protocol help ensure successful search and recovery operations.

March 2023

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

March 31, 2023

FBI Pittsburgh Executes Over 50 Search Warrants, Arrests in Historic Counternarcotics Operation
The FBI Pittsburgh Field Office's Charleston Resident Agency—with support from the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the West Virginia State Police, and other partners—recently executed over 50 search warrants as part of an investigation that disrupted a major drug trafficking organization (DTO).

These actions lead to federal charges against 30 individuals for their roles in the DTO responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl in Charleston, West Virginia.
"These arrests are an outstanding example of what federal and local law enforcement can accomplish when we work together to target the individuals who threaten the safety and stability of our neighborhoods,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall.
Another 24 individuals were charged in state criminal complaints.
Law enforcement officers seized monumental amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl; 18 firearms; and $747,000 in cash during the course of the operation.
Approximately 300 law enforcement personnel from numerous federal, state, and local agencies have partnered with the FBI on the investigation.
Full press release

Former South Bay Resident Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Enticing Vulnerable Girls to Engage in Masochistic Abuse Online
Matthew Christian Locher was sentenced to federal prison for targeting girls on the internet and enticing them to engage in masochistic abuse for his sexual gratification.

From November 2020 to May 2021, Locher targeted girls suffering from mental health issues, including depression, suicidal thoughts, and eating disorders. During internet conversations, Locher groomed his victims to engage in self-mutilation and instructed a victim struggling with an eating disorder to starve herself and ordering her to film herself cutting her body when she disobeyed him.
“[Locher’s] victims are real people—real girls who turned to the internet to seek help with their struggles with anorexia, schizophrenia, and depression and tragically fell into [Locher’s] hands,” prosecutors argued in a sentencing memorandum. “[Locher] knew he was talking to kids, wanted to be talking to kids, and knew kids were, in fact, harming themselves at his urging.”
Full press release

Twenty-Two Individuals Charged with Drug Trafficking in the Municipalities of Sabana Grande, San Germán, Lajas, and Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico
A federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned a six-count indictment charging 22 individuals with drug trafficking.

The indictment alleges that the drug trafficking organization distributed heroin, cocaine base (“crack”), cocaine, marihuana, fentanyl, tramadol, oxycodone (Percocet), and alprazolam (Xanax) for significant financial gain and profit.
“When I first came to San Juan, I said that violent crime would be amongst our top priorities. Today, I want to thank my FBI Aguadilla Team for helping me make good on that promise,” said FBI San Juan Special Agent in Charge Joseph González. “There will always be more work to be done, but this takedown dismantled an extremely violent criminal enterprise that controlled most of the drug trafficking operations in the southwest of Puerto Rico, with no regard for human life and no respect for law enforcement.”
Full press release

Bank Robbery and 45-Minute Crime Spree Gets Texas Man Significant Federal Prison Time
Anthony Dwayne Carrington has been sentenced to over 11 years in federal prison for robbing a bank in Corpus Christi, Texas, and brandishing a firearm during the robbery.

Carrington entered the bank and approached the teller station while holding a silver pistol in his hand, pointing it directly at a bank employee and demanding that he give Carrington all the money from the drawer.
Further investigation revealed two shootings that occurred a short distance from the bank within 45 minutes of the robbery—an attempted murder in a private residence and a homicide at a restaurant.
Full press release

Drug Ring Tied to Aryan Prison Gang Indicted with 24 Federal Arrests
A grand jury indicted 27 people for drug trafficking, and many of those in the indictment are tied to the Aryan Family, a white supremacist prison gang.

The alleged leader of the drug trafficking organization, Jesse James Bailey, is an influential member of the Aryan Family prison gang. Bailey allegedly trafficked huge amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other drugs in Washington, Idaho, and Alaska.
“This operation was the culmination of a year and a half of great investigative work,” said FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge Richard A. Collodi. “We were able to arrest over 20 subjects, some of whom are alleged to have operated this drug organization from prison, and also prevented vast quantities of dangerous drugs from being sold on our streets. I'm so proud of how the FBI, along with our federal, state, and local partners, worked together to keep our community safe.”
Full press release

Repeat Offender Heads Back to Prison for Distributing, Receiving, and Possessing Child Pornography
Colt Jacoby Barnett was sentenced to over 17 years in prison for the distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography, as well as destruction of evidence.

“Offenders who exploit children by repeatedly traumatizing them via collecting and making their images available through the internet are a plague on our society,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas Hamdani. “This defendant was previously prosecuted and punished for similar behavior, and thankfully, the enhanced penalties for repeat offenders ensure he will spend even longer in prison this time, thus protecting our children further from his deviant criminal behavior.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

FBI Takes 30x30 Pledge to Recruit More Women Agents, Police

March 29, 2023

The FBI has joined a push to recruit more female sworn law enforcement officers and to empower them professionally.

In its commitment to the 30x30 Initiative, the FBI and other participating law enforcement agencies have pledged to:

Increase representation of women in recruiting classes to at least 30% by 2030
Promote agency culture and standards that set up female officers for success
Share progress, successes, and challenges with others in the 30x30 network

“The FBI is committed to ensuring our work environment supports the recruitment, development, and advancement of our female sworn officers,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “This important commitment reflects our continued dedication to bringing more women into our special agent cadre, FBI police, and the FBI’s leadership ranks. We are honored to join more than 260 of our policing partners in making this commitment.”

The Bureau hopes that its 30x30 pledge will encourage women to envision a future for themselves at the FBI. "I think representation matters," said Scott McMillion, the FBI's Chief Diversity Officer, "and when people see representation at all levels—to include women—that encourages them to consider the FBI as an employer of choice and a place to serve their community."

Full story

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

March 24, 2023

FBI investigators usually work in partnership with other law enforcement groups, often establishing tasks forces to concentrate resources and efforts. This round-up is only a partial list of recent FBI violent crime stories—for a full list, read more FBI Violent Crime news and press releases.

Jury Finds Defendant Guilty in Staged Armored Truck Robbery of $1.9 Million
Terry Tyrone Pollard was convicted following a jury trial in federal court for conspiracy to commit bank larceny and bank larceny.

The convictions arose from a January 2021 incident during which Pollard and his four codefendants staged an armed robbery of a Garda armored cash transport truck carrying $1.9 million in North Charleston, South Carolina.
“The FBI is committed to thoroughly investigating violent crime, to include armored car robberies, and pursuing all who perpetrate those offenses,” said FBI Columbia Acting Special Agent in Charge Paul “Reid” Davis. “This conviction sends a strong message that our office, along with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, will not waver in the pursuit of justice.”
Full press release

Former Bureau of Prisons Corrections Officer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Assaulting Inmate in Los Angeles Jail
Jose Viera sexually assaulted a woman in custody at Metropolitan Detention Center-Los Angeles while on assignment to supervise incarcerated women who were quarantined due to COVID-19 exposure and infection.

Viera also lied to federal agents about his misconduct.
“A corrections officer’s job is to ensure the safety and security of those in custody,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Instead, the defendant’s actions did just the opposite, destroying this woman’s sense of peace and trust in law enforcement. We hope this sentence provides a measure of justice to the victim and a reminder to would-be offenders that the Justice Department is committed to ensuring that those who work in federal prisons and abuse their positions of authority by sexually assaulting people in their care will be held accountable.”
Full press release

Leaders of North Carolina Drug-Trafficking Organization Convicted of Murder-for-Hire in Norfolk
A federal jury convicted four Greensboro men for their role in a murder-for-hire that resulted in the death of 59-year-old Norfolk resident, Lillian Bond, on April 19, 2016.

All four men face mandatory life sentences when sentenced.
"The suspects in this case had a complete disregard for anyone but themselves, and because of pure greed, took an innocent woman’s life to send a message. While the family of Lillian Bond can never be made whole because of these men’s senseless actions, today’s convictions can hopefully bring her family some semblance of justice and closure," said FBI Norfolk Special Agent in Charge Brian Dugan. "This case is a stark reminder of how gun violence devastates our local communities. The FBI is committed to continuing to work with our local, state, and federal partners to disrupt this type of crime and dismantle organized criminal enterprises."
Full press release

Spouse and Cousin of Drug Trafficking Ringleader Sentenced to Significant Prison Terms for Their Roles in Drug Distribution Conspiracy
Yvette Olguin played a key role as a money launderer, while Jose Arrondondo-Valdez distributed drugs and collected payments—sometimes by force.

Olguin, the wife of ringleader Cesar Valdez-Sanudo, was sentenced to 30 months in prison.
Arrondondo-Valdez, Valdez-Sanudo’s cousin, was sentenced to nine years in prison.
“Debt collection, money laundering—these are sophisticated organizations that don’t function without members who handle these chores—and the two people sentenced today were key players in a drug ring that distributed massive amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl in our community,” said U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington Nick Brown. “In addition to prison time, substantial resources have also been seized as proceeds of drug trafficking.”
Full press release

Former Middle School Paraprofessional Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Child Sextortion Scheme
Glen Robert Anderson targeted minors through social media and an online gaming forum.

Between April 1, 2016, through August 20, 2021, Anderson used his position as the forum administrator to groom minors to produce child pornography and engage in sexual activity with him, including by providing minors with in-game perks, privileges, and other gifts.
Anderson pleaded guilty on June 28, 2022, to two counts of production of child pornography, one count of enticement of a minor, and one count of interstate communications with intent to extort.
Full press release

Jury Convicts Lakewood Felon of Bank Robbery, Weapons Violations
James David Trujillo Jr. was found guilty of bank robbery, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and brandishing a weapon during a federal crime of violence.

Trujillo was one of two men who robbed a Canvas Credit Union on West 5th Avenue in Lakewood, Colorado. The men were armed with an AR-15 and shotgun.
“Bank robbery is not a victimless crime,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek. “The threat of violence in these incidents can have a traumatic and lasting impact on the employees and customers who live through them. FBI Denver and our Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force will continue to work with our local partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue federal prosecution and reduce violence in our communities.”
Full press release

FBI Violent Crime, Transnational Organized Crime Operations Yield Multiple Arrests, Drug Seizures
During the week of March 20, the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division oversaw three large operations across the nation that resulted in a total of 44 federal arrests and 25 state arrests.

These operations originated from investigations in support of the FBI’s Violent Crime and Transnational Organized Crime programs.
Twenty-five search warrants were also executed as part of these efforts. This resulted in the seizure of 11 kilograms fentanyl pills, 1 kilogram of fentanyl powder, 3 kilograms of heroin, 10 kilograms of methamphetamine, 2 kilograms of Xanax, 500 grams of cocaine, 183 firearms (137 rifles and 46 handguns) and $330,886 USD.

Additional resources:

Making the Team: USERT

March 23, 2023

USERT is trained to dive in all types of conditions—even this dense swamp located in Jasper, Florida.

What does it take to join the FBI’s Underwater Search and Evidence Response Team (USERT)?

It’s certainly no easy feat—in addition to already being a special agent, USERT hopefuls must be certified divers and have exceptional physical and mental stamina. They must try out for the team and then complete rigorous basic training before embarking on a case.

Supervisory Special Agent Brian Hudson, USERT Program Manager, explained what else it takes to qualify: "The main requirement is that you have a certification from an accredited diving organization. ... As long as you’re a certified diver and have completed at least 10 dives, then you can try out for the team."

Tryouts consist of a swim test and an underwater skills assessment. "You’ll go down in the water and demonstrate various skills, such as removing your mask and putting it back on, taking gear off underwater and putting it back on, as well as performing emergency procedures in recreational diving," said Hudson.

Candidates must also complete an underwater obstacle course and other tasks—all while wearing a blacked-out mask that simulates a real-life scenario where there’s often no visibility—and participate in a panel interview with current USERT divers.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

March 17, 2023

Six Houston Gang Members Indicted for Using a Firearm in Racketeering Murder of Innocent Bystander
The six defendants are alleged members of the 100% Third Ward (103) Gang that operates in and around the Third Ward area of Houston. If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison or death.

This is the first indictment returned as part of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative, conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas and local, state, and federal law enforcement.
“Since we announced the Violent Crime Initiative less than six months ago, our dedicated prosecutors and agents have been working tirelessly to target the ‘worst of the worst’ violent gang members that are terrorizing Houston residents,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.
“Gang violence impacts nearly every aspect of our communities, from the safety of our streets to the quality of life in our neighborhoods,” said Assistant Director Luis M. Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners and use every available tool to combat the fear and violence caused by these gangs and bring them to justice.”
Full press release

Resident Doctor Arrested for Possessing Images and Videos of Child Pornography
Bradford Ferrick was charged with one count of possession of child pornography and faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Ferrick began a medical residency in July 2022 focused on family medicine with Baystate Franklin Family Medicine, including rotations at facilities in at least Greenfield, Deerfield, and Springfield, Massachusetts.
It is alleged that during a search of Ferrick’s residences, approximately 80 devices were seized containing thousands of images and videos of suspected child pornography. A hidden camera device designed to be worn as a bracelet contained at least two secretly recorded videos of Ferrick administering medical exams.
“I can think of no greater fear as a parent or guardian than potential harm coming to your child. Today we allege that this doctor, who held a position of trust with access to children, maintained child sexual abuse material. The investigation is active and ongoing,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Rachael S. Rollins. “Members of the public with questions, concerns, or any information pertaining to this doctor are strongly encouraged to contact the FBI via the provided form.”
Full press release

Former Kentucky Federal Prison Lieutenant Convicted of Covering up the Assaults of Two Federal Inmates by Corrections Officers
Former Bureau of Prisons Lieutenant Kevin Pearce was convicted on two counts of obstruction for writing false reports about the assaults of two federal inmates by corrections officers under Pearce’s command. The maximum penalties for false report offenses are 20 years of imprisonment.

Pearce is a former supervisor at U.S. Penitentiary Big Sandy in Inez, Kentucky.
Two former officers, Samuel Patrick and Clinton Pauley, previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the two assaults and testified for the government at trial.
“While serving their sentence, inmates are entitled to equal protections under the law,” said Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen of the FBI Louisville Field Office. “When a few correctional officers choose to violate those protections, either by physical abuse or by orchestrating a cover-up, the integrity of all officers is questioned. The FBI stands ready to bare all of its resources in order to bring to justice law enforcement officials who take advantage of their position of power.”
Full press release

Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Kidnapping and Carjacking in Alabama’s Wiregrass Region

Iziquel Pasheng Vang forced a girl and her mother to drive him across multiple states using their family car. When law enforcement attempted to pull them over, Vang refused, and led law enforcement on a chase at excessive speeds, shooting at the pursuing officers multiple times.
Vang ultimately wrecked the vehicle and was apprehended. The girl suffered minor injuries during the crash.
“The defendant in this case inflicted unimaginable terror upon a minor and her parents,” stated U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama Sandra J. Stewart. “No family should be forced to endure events like those caused by Vang. Moreover, by trying to run from law enforcement, Vang placed at risk the lives of countless individuals. Given the disturbing facts of this case, the 30-year sentence is certainly appropriate.”
Full press release

Fort Wayne Pimp Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking of a Minor at Indianapolis-Area Hotels
Damion Alexander took sexually explicit photos and videos of the minor victim and the adult and used them for online commercial sex advertisements.

Alexander received and kept thousands of dollars obtained by trafficking the minor victim in commercial sex, assuring her that he was “holding” the money and would give it back to her if she ever needed it.
Alexander also berated and abused the minor victim while she was severely impaired.
“Trafficking vulnerable minors’ bodies for financial gain is a despicable crime that merits significant punishment,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana Zachary A. Myers. “Pimps like this defendant inflict lasting trauma with utter disregard for the safety or dignity of those they exploit. Our office and our law enforcement partners, including the FBI and IMPD, are fully committed to rescuing survivors from sex trafficking and putting pimps in prison. The sentence imposed today should serve as a warning to would-be traffickers: if you sell minors for sex, you will spend many years in federal prison.”
Full press release

FBI, Sacramento Police Department Investigating Theft of Aircraft at Sacramento Executive Airport
Law enforcement is investigating reports of helicopters being broken into, including one that appeared to have been operated and resulted in a collision.

This investigation is ongoing, and the FBI and Sacramento Police Department continue to work collaboratively to investigate the incident and locate the subjects involved.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call the FBI Sacramento Field Office at 916-746-7000 or send a tip to tips.fbi.gov.
Full press release

Additional resources:

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

March 10, 2023

Former Benton County, Tennessee, Coach and Youth Pastor Sentenced to 45 Years for Exploiting Children
Joshua Henley was sentenced to federal prison for producing sexually explicit images of a minor, transporting and possessing child exploitation material, and transporting a minor interstate with the intent to engage in sexual activity.

According to the information presented in court, from 2017 until April 2021, Henley was the pastor at Holladay Church of Christ and coached the girls’ basketball team at Holladay Elementary.
In April 2021, Henley left Benton County to become the youth pastor at a church in Indiana.
Full press release

Man Arrested for Attempting to Open Emergency Exit Door Aboard Flight to Boston
Francisco Severo Torres was arrested and charged for allegedly attempting to open an emergency exit door while aboard a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston and then allegedly attempting to stab a flight attendant in the neck.

Torres was charged with one count of interference and attempted interference with flight crew members and attendants using a dangerous weapon.
Torres faces a sentence of up to life in prison, up to five years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
Full press release

South Sioux City, Nebraska, Man Convicted of Two Kidnappings
Arjune Ahmed kidnapped and sexually assaulted two women, facing a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Ahmed followed a woman and tricked her into getting close to his car. Once she was close, he grabbed and pulled her into his car, then sexually assaulted her.
On another occasion, Ahmed used social media to trick a woman into meeting him for breakfast and ultimately sexually assaulted her.
U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa Timothy Duax said, “I was impressed with the courage of the victims who were able to confront their attacker and help prevent him from hurting anyone else.”
Full press release

Defendant Sentenced to 17 Years for Murder-for-Hire Scheme and Related Shooting in Poughkeepsie, New York
Justtin Kenyotta Haywood, having been offered $5,000 to kill another individual, wrongly identified, pursued, and shot at a 17-year-old boy who was playing basketball with friends in a park.

Haywood previously pleaded guilty to murder for hire and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
FBI New York Assistant Director in Charge Michael J. Driscoll said, “As this sentence demonstrates, there is no place in our community for anyone willing to commit murder. Criminal behavior like Haywood's is a dangerous bane to society and often results in innocent people being placed in harm's way. The FBI's Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force and our partners in law enforcement work tirelessly to make those who have complete disregard for humanity face the consequences of their actions.”
Full press release

MS-13 Gang Member Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for a Racketeering Conspiracy, Including a Murder in Maryland
Jose Domingo Ordonez-Zometa and his co-defendants participated in MS-13 criminal enterprise by engaging in acts of violence, including murder, the destruction of evidence, and witness tampering, among other crimes.

MS-13 or La Mara Salvatrucha, a transnational criminal enterprise, is one of the largest street gangs in the United States.
Branches or “cliques” of MS-13, operate throughout the country. Ordonez-Zometa and his co-defendants were members and associates of the Los Ghettos Criminales Salvatruchas or the “LGCS” or “Ghettos” clique of MS-13.
Full press release

Additional resources:

FBI Returns 2,700-Year-Old Artifact Stolen 20 Years Ago in Looting of Iraq Museum

March 9, 2023

Gloved Hands on Artifact "Furniture Fitting with Sphinx Trampling a Youth"

The FBI this week returned an artifact to the government of Iraq that is believed to have been stolen during the pillaging of the Iraq Museum in Baghdad in 2003. The piece is believed to be the first relic looted from the Iraq Museum in Baghdad to be found in a United States museum collection.

The item, “Furniture Fitting with Sphinx Trampling a Youth,” dates back about 2,700 years, according to archaeologists. The ivory figure, which stands only 2 1/4 inches tall and 1 1/2 inches wide, is adorned with pigment and gold leaf. It was on exhibit at the Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University in Atlanta until special agents in the FBI’s Boston and Atlanta field offices determined the artifact was, in fact, the property of Iraq.

“We are glad our agents could return a small part of history back to where it belongs in Iraq,” said Keri Farley, special agent in charge of FBI Atlanta.

Full story

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

March 3, 2023

Prolific Drug Trafficking Organization Dismantled
Fifty-seven defendants have been charged in two separate with violating federal narcotics and firearms laws.

Over the past 10 months, investigators have seized:
- more than 673 pounds of fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills
- over 400 pounds of methamphetamine
- more than 16 pounds each of fentanyl powder and cocaine
- over $600,000 in cash
- nine vehicles
- 47 firearms
“These defendants exploited our neighborhoods as they dealt deadly fentanyl and other drugs without a second thought to the harm being inflicted on the community,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “This multi-state state operation is an outstanding example of what federal, state, and local law enforcement can accomplish when we work together to target the individuals who threaten the safety and stability of our neighborhoods. The FBI is committed to working with our partners to rid the streets of this type of criminal activity and the violence that so often accompanies it.”
Full press release

Reality Show Star Sentenced to Life in Prison for Arranging Nephew’s Murder
James Timothy Norman was found guilty of conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud in the fatal shooting of Andre Montgomery Jr. in 2016.

Norman and Montgomery appeared on the reality show "Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s."
Norman took out a life insurance policy worth $450,000 on Montgomery, then arranged through intermediaries for his nephew’s murder at 3964 Natural Bridge Avenue in St. Louis.
“[James Timothy] Tim Norman portrayed one image to the public, but there were more sinister intentions lurking underneath,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Angie Danis of the Eastern District of Missouri. “And the measure of someone’s character is what they do when they think no one is watching. When he thought no one was watching, he planned the execution of his nephew and carried it out.”
“Five families, especially that of the victim, are suffering and irreparably harmed as a result of Norman’s plot to have his own nephew murdered,” said FBI St. Louis Special Agent in Charge Jay Greenberg. “At least all his co-conspirators have accepted responsibility. To this day, Norman hasn’t accepted responsibility despite the fact 12 jurors unanimously convicted him after seeing and hearing seven days of evidence in trial.”
Full press release

Man Convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor on Fort Polk Sentenced to 50 Years in Prison
Bobby Joe Mincey was sentenced for sexual abuse of his stepdaughters.

Mincey was living with his wife, who was a soldier in the U.S. Army and stationed at Fort Polk, Louisiana, and her two minor daughters.
In 2019, Mincey's two stepdaughters, who were ages 6 and 9 at the time, confided to their mother that Mincey had been sexually abusing them.
“The 50-year sentence handed down today in U.S. District Court sends a clear message that those who take advantage of others by sexually abusing them will lead to strong punishment for their actions,” said U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana Brandon B. Brown. “The minor victims in this case did nothing to deserve the abuse inflicted on them by this defendant and we applaud their bravery. This conviction and lengthy sentence are the result of the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agents with the FBI and the U.S. Army, Criminal Investigation Division.”
Full press release

West Des Moines Man Sentenced to 60 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation Crimes
Jonathan Francis Seidel of West Des Moines, Iowa, was sentenced for multiple child exploitation offenses.

For the last 12 years, Speidel used social media platforms, including Snapchat, Kik, TikTok, and MeetMe, to communicate with minor females and collected and exchanged child pornography using various internet sites.
Speidel also traveled over state lines with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a child.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa said: “Speidel is a dangerous child predator, pure and simple. Today’s sentence provides some degree of justice for Speidel’s actions to the victims, who in the face of indescribable trauma, have courageously contributed to help prevent Speidel from harming any other minors. For over a decade, he targeted, manipulated and enticed minors, exchanging thousands of electronic messages, with the goal to produce child pornography and engage in illegal sex acts. Our thanks to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI)’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force and their continued dedication to protecting children and bringing individuals like Speidel to justice.”
Full press release

Peoria Man Sentenced to Almost 22 Years in Prison for Armed Bank Robbery
Dante Latice Williams from Peoria, Illinois, originally pled guilty in November 2021, but his sentencing was delayed by a series of unsuccessful motions.

Williams’ girlfriend and accomplice, Irene Belton, pleaded guilty in January 2022 and was sentenced to 43 months' imprisonment.
During the hearing, Judge Darrow commented on the profound impact that Williams actions had on the lives of the tellers he robbed. She also commented on Williams’ significant criminal history, including the fact that he was on supervised release for bank robbery when he committed this bank robbery.
Full press release

Kansas City Man Sentenced to 45 Years for Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robberies of Local Businesses
Joe Lee Nichols was sentenced in federal court for his role in a conspiracy to commit nine armed robberies of local businesses in the summer of 2018, as well as an armed robbery in which a convenience store employee was beaten and then fatally shot.

On March 11, 2022, Nichols pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit robbery, three counts of robbery, and three counts of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Additionally, federal prosecutors used evidence of Nichols’s involvement in a tenth, uncharged armed robbery which a person was killed as relevant conduct for determining his sentence.
Video surveillance evidence indicated that Nichols pointed a handgun at an employee of Inner-City Oil, who resisted and engaged in a struggle for Nichols’s firearm. Nichols began to stomp and kick at the head and body of the employee, who ultimately died from his injuries.
Full press release

Additional resources:

February 2023

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

February 24, 2023

Multi-Agency Press Conference Addressing School Threats in the El Paso, Texas Area
To address the alarming surge in social media threats directed towards El Paso schools, law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies came together to show that the safety of El Paso’s children is paramount, and threats directed at El Paso schools will not be tolerated.

In 2022, almost 6,000 school threats were reported to the FBI, which is a 60% increase from 2021. Across El Paso, law enforcement agencies are diverting resources to address a minimum of three threats a day from each school across region 19 school districts.
“As a community, we need to ensure our children feel safe in their schools and remind those who threaten our children that law enforcement will find you and bring you to justice,” said FBI El Paso Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey R. Downey. “As a parent of school-age children, I recognize the importance for us all to remain vigilant. We need to talk with our children about what is going on at school and ensure we report any threats or safety concerns to law enforcement and school officials immediately.”
“Any threats made towards schools, whether online, over the phone, or in person, will be immediately investigated,” said El Paso Police Department Interim Police Chief Peter Pacillas. “These school threats often begin as hoaxes on social media, but their impact is far from a joke. When precious resources are diverted from genuine emergencies to deal with false alarms, lives are put at risk. Threatening a school carries severe consequences—both for the safety of our children and their families.”
Full press release

Federal Prosecutors File Hate Crime Charges Against Man Who Allegedly Shot and Wounded Two Victims Leaving Synagogues
Jaime Tran allegedly targeted the two victims because they were Jewish, or he believed them to be Jewish.

The maximum statutory penalty for each of the two hate crimes is life without parole in federal prison.
“In addition to targeting innocent people with violent physical attacks, these crimes instill fear in the community. There is no place in Los Angeles, and indeed, the United States of America, for fear to control communities and to intimidate people of faith,” said FBI Los Angeles Assistant Director in Charge Donald Alway. “Law enforcement will work together to prevent hate crimes, whether they be civil liberties violations or acts of terror. On behalf of the FBI, I wish a full recovery to the victims who were senselessly attacked for their faith, as well as peace to the Jewish community.”
Full press release

Maryland Man Sentenced for "DMV Board" Dogfighting Conspiracy
Charles Edward Williams, III, was sentenced to two years in prison for conspiring to engage in dogfighting.

Williams and other conspirators from Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia used a messaging app private group, which they generally referred to as “The DMV Board” or “The Board,” as a place where they and their associates could discuss training fighting dogs, exchange videos about dogfighting, and arrange and coordinate dog fights away from the view of law enforcement authorities.
Members of The DMV Board also used the messaging app to compare methods of killing dogs that lost fights, as well as to circulate media reports about conspirators who had been caught by law enforcement and discuss methods to minimize the likelihood that they would be caught themselves.
Full press release

Louisville, Kentucky Man Sentenced to 24 Years in Federal Prison for Producing and Distributing Child Pornography
Patrick Appleton used a social media application to communicate with a 15-year-old girl for the purposes of engaging in sexual contact.

Appleton recorded the sexual acts and distributed those videos, as well as other videos of obscene material, including bestiality, to the girl.
“Predators, like Appleton, are appalling and have no place in civilized society,” said FBI Louisville Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen. “Appleton’s sentence highlights the egregious nature of his conduct and serves as an example that the FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting our most innocent and helpless victims.”
Full press release

Three Miami Men Sentenced to Life for Pawn Shop Robberies and Murders
Jonathan Cruz, Eric Ortiz Melendez, and Jorge Aponte Figueroa were sentenced to life in federal prison for their participation in violent robberies and murders following two federal trials.

In March 2022, a jury found Aponte Figueroa guilty of carjacking resulting in death and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
In November 2022, a jury found Cruz, Ortiz Melendez, and Aponte Figueroa guilty of committing armed robbery of nine pawn shops in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties (and conspiring to do so), as well as killing a customer during a robbery in Little Havana. The jury also found Cruz guilty of being a felon in possession of ammunition.
Full press release

Washington Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for 2019 Murder of Alillia Minthorn
Jordan Everett Stevens was found guilty of one count of first-degree murder and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

Following the sentencing, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington Vanessa R. Waldref stated: “The execution and murder of this young indigenous woman was horrific. It is the obligation of law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to seek justice for all victims and their family members.”
“Life in prison is not a sentence we see often,” said FBI Seattle Special Agent Richard A. Collodi. “While no sentence will undue the crimes perpetrated by Mr. Stevens, it will prevent him from victimizing anyone on the Yakama Reservation again. I appreciate the work of our investigators and partners, who too often have to respond to scenes of violence like this.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

February 17, 2023

Documented Gang Member Sent to Prison for Sex Trafficking
Aryion Dupree Jackson pleaded guilty to sex trafficking a minor and conspiracy to traffic an adult female by force, fraud, or coercion, and was sentenced to 27 years of imprisonment.

Between August 2019 and July 2020, Jackson caused females, both minors and adults, to engage in commercial sex. Both the minor and adult victims were threatened with violence.
The minor was forced to engage in commercial sex for Jackson’s financial benefit, and was tattooed with a five-point crown and a bag of money, Jackson’s brand.
The adult victim was forced to earn at least $1,000 a day for Jackson.
“Young women and girls are not commodities to be sold for the financial benefit of gang members,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas Alamdar S. Hamdani. “We must remain vigilant to combat this problem together. To the victims—please know we have your backs. To the traffickers—you might want to watch your back. To all the others—please look for the signs and call the authorities.”
Full press release

Kickapoo Man to Serve 20 Years in Federal Prison for Severely Injuring Infant
Connor Flores Jimenez of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas Reservation near Eagle Pass severely injured his 2-month-old baby in April 2019.

Medical experts determined the infant sustained two fractures to the skull, brain swelling, fractures in both femurs, and a broken rib.
Jimenez also choked his wife, rendering her unconscious for more than two hours.
“The FBI condemns violence of all kinds, including terrible acts of domestic violence that ravages our communities behind closed doors,” said FBI San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Oliver E. Rich Jr. “This sentence sends a strong message that violence of this sort will not be tolerated.”
Full press release

Renton, Washington Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Huge Stash of Guns and Drugs
David Christopher Pitts was arrested in December 2021 following an undercover investigation of his drug trafficking activities.

Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington Erin H. Becker wrote to the court:
“Looking just at his fentanyl powder and pills, the defendant intended to enrich himself by distributing more than 470,000 lethal doses. Worse, many of the doses were disguised as pharmaceutical pills that would not put the user on notice that he was ingesting such a potentially dangerous substance… In addition, the defendant possessed 25 firearms. Several of these guns were loaded, at least one was stolen, two had extended magazines, [and] all of them were possessed to facilitate his drug trafficking.”
“One fentanyl dose may be one too many,” said FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge Richard A. Collodi. “Considering the amount of fentanyl found in his residence, as well as the number of weapons and cash, Mr. Pitts posed an immediate and significant threat to the safety and security of our community. This case illustrates how, working with our partners, the FBI is committed to getting fentanyl off our streets.”
Full press release

Previously Convicted Sex Offender Sentenced to 50 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Abusing Five Minor Victims and Recording the Sexual Abuse Over 13 Years
From 2007 to 2020, Garnell Eugene Graves sexually abused five minors between the ages of 6 and 13 years old.

The videos and images documenting Graves’ abuse of minor victims were located on his digital devices after his arrest in December 2020.
Graves has two previous convictions related to his sexual abuse of two other minor victims.
Full press release

Former Memphis, Tennessee, Police Officer Pleads Guilty to a Civil Rights Violation for Assaulting a Man in his Custody
While on duty, Memphis police officer Armando Bustamante struck a man in the head using his service weapon and his hands without legal justification, causing bodily injury.

Bustamante pleaded guilty to one felony count of deprivation of rights under color of law for assaulting an arrestee.
Bustamante faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison and three years of supervised release.
“This plea is the result of the efforts of law enforcement to ensure that any officer who violates the civil rights of those they are sworn to protect is brought to justice,” said FBI Memphis Acting Special Agent in Charge Douglas S. DePodesta. “The FBI is committed to protecting the civil rights of all people and wearing a badge does not make one above the law."
Full press release

Three San Diego Residents Sentenced for Conspiring to Kidnap a Former Business Associate with Intent to Intimidate or Murder
Salam Razuki, Sylvia Gonzales, and Elizabeth Juarez were sentenced in federal court for conspiring to have a former business associate kidnapped.

Razuki and Gonzales were sentenced to seven years in prison, and Juarez was sentenced to about four years in prison.
All three defendants admitted that they conspired in a plan to have the intended victim kidnapped and taken to Mexico to be intimidated or murdered. The victim had ongoing business disputes and civil litigation pending against Razuki and others, which could have resulted in significant monetary judgments.
“These three defendants callously conspired to kidnap and use violence in order to resolve a business dispute, reducing the value of a person's life to a dollar figure,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy.
Full press release

Additional resources:

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

February 10, 2023

Texas Man Pleads Guilty to 90 Federal Hate Crimes and Firearms Violations for August 2019 Mass Shooting at Walmart in El Paso, Texas
Patrick Wood Crusius admitted to targeting perceived Hispanic immigrants, killing 23 people and injuring 22 others.

Crusius has agreed to accept 90 consecutive life sentences.
“Today’s guilty plea marks one more step towards justice for the El Paso community; however, we must remember that the survivors and victims’ families will be on a lifelong journey of healing because of this defendant’s actions,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the Hispanic community who had their sense of security shattered by this heinous attack. The FBI will continue to seek justice for all those whose civil rights and safety are threatened by hate.”
“White nationalist-fueled violence has no place in our society today,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the U.S. Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division. “This senseless massacre violates the law, runs contrary to our values as Americans, and defies the principles of tolerance and inclusion that define us as a nation. By pleading guilty, the defendant has admitted that he murdered innocent people based on their national origin and targeted Hispanics.”
Full press release

International Law Enforcement Agencies Issue Joint Warning about Global Financial Sextortion Crisis
The FBI and international law enforcement partners have seen an explosion in incidents of minor boys around the world being coerced into sending explicit images online and extorted for money—a crime called financial sextortion.

In 2022, the FBI received thousands of reports related to the financial sextortion of minors, primarily boys, representing an exponential increase from previous years. The FBI is aware of more than a dozen suicides following these incidents.
The FBI is urging children and caregivers to educate themselves about this crime and help us protect others from being victimized.
“Financial sextortion has a far wider impact than just our country and our kids—it is a global crisis that demands everyone’s attention,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The FBI is working hand-in-hand with our international partners to prevent children from becoming victims of this tragic crime. We all have a duty to support and empower victims to come forward and show them that there is life after images.”
Full press release

Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison After Killing One Victim and Injuring Another During Armed Robbery Spree
Angel Montano and co-conspirators committed four armed robberies in the Indianapolis, Indiana, area, one of which resulted in the death of a 26-year-old man.

Montano facilitated and orchestrated the armed robberies through two online marketplaces, OfferUp and LetGo, by luring victims to his location to purchase a cell phone that he had listed for sale.
“The defendant’s crime spree demonstrated his utter disregard for human life. His choice to engage in senseless violence took an innocent man from his loving family forever,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana Zachary A. Myers. “A sentence of four decades in federal prison will protect the public from this murderous criminal and brings some measure of justice to the victims. Reducing gun violence is a top priority for our office, and we will continue to use our federal resources to hold violent offenders accountable.”
Full press release

Haines Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Sexually Exploiting Minors
Christopher Panagiotou-Scigliano groomed and sexually exploited minors by taking numerous sexually explicit images and videos of them.

Panagiotou-Scigliano is also charged with the sexual abuse of multiple child victims in another state.
“In this unconscionable case, the defendant engaged in a years-long manipulation and grooming process to isolate and sexually abuse minors, all under the guise of being a trusted family friend,” said FBI Anchorage Field Office Special Agent in Charge Antony A. Jung. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to identify, aggressively pursue, and hold accountable those who commit these vile crimes against children.”
Full press release

Serial Rapist Convicted by Jury for 2010 Home Invasion Sexual Assault of Woman in Northwest Washington, D.C.
Ronald P. Berton, Jr. was found guilty of sexually assaulting a 30-year-old woman.

Berton was found guilty of first-degree burglary, kidnapping, first-degree sexual abuse with aggravating circumstances, assault with intent to commit first-degree sexual abuse, and attempted first-degree sexual abuse with aggravating circumstances. He was convicted of previous sexual assaults in Washington, D.C., and Virginia.
Berton faces a maximum sentence of life in prison for the crimes. He will be required to register as a sex offender for life.
Full press release

Two Defendants Sentenced to 202 Years' and 40 Years' Imprisonment, Respectively, for their Participation in the Murder and Extortion of Queens Business Owner
Ppassim Elder and Wilbert Bryant participated in an extortion scheme during which one victim was pistol-whipped and another victim was fatally shot in the face.

“The defendants are guilty of multiple crimes of violence and fraud that victimized many persons, including the patriarch of a Queens family who was gunned down in his place of business,” stated U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace. “The defendants will deservedly serve lengthy prison sentences for their ruthless and vicious conduct.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

Beware Romance Scams

February 8, 2023

In a romance scam, a criminal uses a fake online identity to build a relationship with you, whether it's over social media or on a dating site or app. They'll use information you've posted publicly online to connect with you, and they'll seem genuine, caring, and believable as they pull you into their fraud.

And when these scammers inevitably ask for money, it’s not always cash they're after. They may ask for a gift card or cryptocurrency.

Always remember: If it seems too good to be true—and if they seem to perfect to be real—take it slow. Stop and ask questions. And don't send money to someone you’ve never met.

You can report online fraud to the FBI at ic3.gov.

Learn more:

Safer Internet Day

February 7, 2023

On this Safer Internet Day, the FBI and our international law enforcement partners are issuing a joint warning about a global financial sextortion crisis. Our agencies have seen an explosion in incidents of minor boys around the world being coerced into sending explicit images online and extorted for money—a crime called financial sextortion.

We're also sharing a number of resources to help keep you, your family, and your friends safe online—today and every day.

Safe Online Surfing (SOS): An online program that teaches internet safety to kids in grades 3 through 8
Sextortion: What Kids and Caregivers Need to Know
Parents, Caregivers, and Teachers: Protecting Your Kids
Student Resources
Scams and Safety
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): Learn more about common internet-enabled scams and crimes

You can also learn more about keeping kids safe online from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

If you think you’ve been the victim of or have information about a crime, report it to the FBI.

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

February 3, 2023

Passaic County Man Arrested for Attempt to Firebomb Synagogue
Nicholas Malindretos of Clifton, New Jersey, is charged with one count of attempted use of fire to damage and destroy a building used in interstate commerce.

The count of attempted use of fire to damage and destroy a building used in interstate commerce is punishable by a minimum of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000.
“Newark FBI and our law enforcement partners have been working around the clock since Sunday morning, after being notified someone targeted the Temple Ner Tamid in Bloomfield,” FBI Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy said. “We allege Mr. Malindretos threw a Molotov cocktail at the doors of the synagogue. The speed and intensity of this investigation demonstrates our determination and dedication to protecting houses of worship and protecting their congregations. We take seriously all threats of hate and bias aimed at all religions and faiths, and we intend to hold accountable all those who target them.”
Full press release

Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for a 2017 Claremore Murder
Michael Eugene Spears was sentenced in federal court for killing a man with a machete in Claremore, Oklahoma.

Spears stabbed the victim repeatedly with the 16-inch-blade weapon, beat him until he was unrecognizable, took his phone and the few dollars in his pocket, and left him to die on the floor while Spears spent hours drinking.
"Today's sentencing brings to an end a tragic story of cold-blooded murder and an attempted cover-up by a merciless and violent criminal," said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray. "Thanks to a determined investigation by the FBI, Claremore Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Oklahoma, Spears will be held accountable for his heinous crime."
Full press release

Leader of Brooklyn-Based Elite Assassin Millas Gang Convicted of Racketeering Conspiracy and Firearms Offense
A federal jury convicted Quandel Smothers on charges of racketeering conspiracy and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in connection with his leadership of the East New York-based Elite Assassin Millas (E.A.M.), a set of the Bloods street gang.

Six other members and associates of E.A.M. previously pleaded guilty after being charged in June 2020.
When sentenced, the defendant faces a maximum of life in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years.
“Today’s verdict is welcome news to the people of East New York, who will no longer have to face the defendant’s destructive impact on their neighborhood,” stated U.S. Attorney Peace. “Our communities should not have to live in fear of unprompted violence from the defendant and his gang.”
Full press release

Domestic Abuser Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm
Carlton Chaney Jr. of Indianapolis, Indiana, had been prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his previous felony convictions, including a federal conviction for commercial robbery, and state convictions for battery with a deadly weapon, illegal gun possession, and resisting law enforcement.

Chaney was also the subject of multiple domestic violence-related protective orders
“Armed domestic abusers pose a serious threat to those closest to them, law enforcement officers, and public safety in general,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana Zachary A. Myers. “Many illegally armed perpetrators of gun violence in the home and mass shootings in public have a prior history of committing domestic violence. That’s why our office is working together with IMPD and the FBI, through the LEATH initiative, to protect the public from these offenders and save lives.”
Full press release

Pediatric Surgeon Sentenced to Prison for Possession, Distribution of Child Pornography
Guy Rosenschein of Albuquerque, New Mexico, was sentenced to over 17 years in prison after pleading guilty to child pornography charges.

Rosenschein first came to the attention of law enforcement in 2016 following two CyberTipline Reports submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) by the online chat provider Chatstep.
“Dr. Rosenschein’s conduct was shameful and heinous,” said United States Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez. “Distribution and possession of material depicting the sexual assault of children are serious offenses that cause ongoing harm to the victims and encourage the sexual exploitation and rape of minors. These offenses are horrific when committed by any offender, but it is all the more egregious that the offender in this case was a pediatric surgeon. Using a position of trust to exploit the most vulnerable should always come with the maximum penalties under the law.”
Full press release

Queens Man Charged with Child Exploitation, Enticement of Minors and Firearm Possession as a Felon
Angel Almeida faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment and up to life in prison.

FBI New York Assistant Director in Charge Michael Driscoll stated, "As alleged, Almeida posed multiple threats to our community, not only as a felon in possession of a firearm, but also through targeting children as victims of sexual abuse. Today’s indictment serves as a reminder the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to aggressively pursue and hold accountable anyone willing to exploit some of the most vulnerable members of our society."
Anyone who may have been victimized by Almeida should contact 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

Inside the FBI: Submitting Tips to the Bureau

February 1, 2023

Inside the FBI: Submitting Tips to the Bureau

Tips from the public have helped the FBI bring criminals to justice, find missing persons, and give closure to victims.

But what if you have information that could help the Bureau solve—or prevent—a crime?

Listen to our latest episode of the Inside the FBI podcast to learn how to submit a tip to the Bureau. We’ll also share what kinds of things you should—and shouldn’t—report to the Bureau and what happens once you do contact us.

For this and more episodes of Inside the FBI, follow us on:

For more podcasting platforms, view our listing on transistor.fm or subscribe to episodes with email.

January 2023

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

January 27, 2023

Louisiana Man Sentenced to 45 Years for Kidnapping and Attempting to Murder a Gay Man as Part of Hate Crime Scheme Targeting Users of a Dating App for Gay Men
Chance Seneca intentionally targeted the victim and other gay men because of their gender and sexual orientation.

In June 2020, Seneca used Grindr to kidnap and attempt to commit a murder.
Seneca had become fixated on the idea of killing gay men, and this fascination led him to spend months designing a murder-kidnapping scheme that mirrored the murders of gay men committed by the notorious serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer.
“The facts of this case are truly shocking, and the defendant’s decision to specifically target gay men is a disturbing reminder of the unique prejudices and dangers facing the LGBTQ+ community today,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.
“The preservation of civil rights and the investigation of Color of Law violations are of utmost priority for the FBI,” said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams, Jr.
Full press release

Houston Man Gets 30 Years for Multiple Charges Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Children
Andrew Jeffrey Swope produced a total of 311 images and 48 videos of two minor victims. He also possessed 4,625 images and 1,533 videos of child pornography.

Swope was the owner of a chatroom on KiK where he posted numerous images of child pornography. In this room, Swope also said he had been abusing a minor male from the time the boy was 6 until he was 10 years old.
Swope later attempted to flee from authorities and dispose of evidence.
“We must protect our most vulnerable victims—the children—from sexual exploitation,” said U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. “No amount of prison or restitution can make these victims whole but lengthy prison sentences, like the one in this case, send a strong message to these despicable offenders that our law enforcement partners will spend as much time as necessary to bring them to justice.”
Full press release

Tallahassee Woman Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison in Murder-for-Hire Plot
Gretchen Buselli communicated with an acquaintance via U.S. mail, telephone calls, text, and an encrypted mobile application to solicit the murder of her estranged husband. The acquaintance reported Buselli’s request to law enforcement, who engaged an undercover agent to further the investigation.

Buselli communicated her desire to have her estranged husband killed to the undercover agent. She negotiated the price for committing the murder and discussed how the act would take place.
Buselli was later surveilled depositing the agreed upon $5,000.
“This case demonstrates the FBI's commitment to investigate with a sense of urgency in order to prevent violent crime in our communities,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Sherri E. Onks. “I am extremely proud of the collaborative effort by the FBI, Tallahassee Police Department, and the United States Postal Inspection Service to ensure a life was protected and a defendant was brought to justice.”
Full press release

Organizer of Armed Jewelry Store Robbery Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison
Trenelle Cannon, a member of the O’Farrell Park Criminal Street Gang, admitted that he and other individuals agreed to rob the Alpha and Omega Jewelry Store in National City, California, at gunpoint.

Individuals entered the store, pointed a gun at the store clerk, smashed the jewelry cases open, and placed jewelry into bags before fleeing the store with the stolen property.
“Mr. Cannon didn’t just commit this crime, he organized and planned it for his accomplices to help carry out,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “The FBI remains committed to keeping our communities safe by finding, investigating, and dismantling criminal organizations one person at a time. Today’s sentencing represents the unwavering teamwork between the FBI and our law enforcement partners to see that dangerous criminals are no longer a danger to the public.”
Full press release

Texas Man Sentenced for Sexual Exploitation of 15-Year-Old Girl Who Later Committed Suicide
Amari Mychael Singh was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for the production of child pornography.

The victim died by suicide in 2020. Her mother read from journal passages her daughter had written, highlighting the emotional toll of Singh’s actions.
Another woman, who Singh victimized while she was in high school, provided a statement that Singh raped her while she was incapacitated by drugs he provided.
“This man’s actions led to the death of an innocent girl,” said U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. “While he will have to serve 25 years in prison, he will someday still have freedom and a life. She will not. The damage he caused her, her family, and the other victims is immeasurable and has absolutely no place in our community.”
Full press release

Former Spokane Doctor Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison After Paying Dark Web Hitmen $60,000 in Bitcoin to Kidnap Estranged Wife and Assault Former Colleague
Ronald Craig Ilg, former neonatologist in Spokane, Washington, transmitted dozens of messages in early 2021 through the dark web as part of a plot to injure a former professional colleague and to have his estranged wife kidnapped.

“Mr. Ilg’s actions read like plot of a true-crime show, but his intentions had real-life consequences,” said FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge Richard A. Collodi. “Despite his efforts to remain anonymous and subsequently cover up his activities, our investigators were able to prevent innocent people from being harmed. This case demonstrates that even the anonymity of the dark web will not prevent the FBI from identifying and disrupting individuals who are intent on engaging in criminal activity. I am thankful for our partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, which brought Mr. Ilg to justice.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

Hive Ransomware Group Disrupted by FBI and Global Partners

January 27, 2023

On January 26, 2023, the Justice Department announced its months-long disruption campaign against the Hive ransomware group that has targeted more than 1,500 victims in over 80 countries around the world, including hospitals, school districts, financial firms, and critical infrastructure.

Yesterday, the Justice Department and FBI announced the disruption of the Hive ransomware group, which targeted more than 1,500 victims around the world, including hospitals, school districts, financial firms, and critical infrastructure. The FBI coordinated with our global partners and prevented more than $130 million in ransom payments.

"Hive hurt thousands of victims across the country and around the world,” said FBI Director Wray in his remarks, “until the FBI and our partners disrupted them, helping their victims decrypt their networks without Hive catching on, and then today dismantling Hive’s front- and back-end infrastructure in the U.S. and abroad."

He also reminded businesses large and small to "reach out to your local FBI field office today and introduce yourselves, so you know who to call if you become the victim of a cyberattack. We’re ready to help you build a crisis response plan, so when an intruder does come knocking, you’ll be prepared."

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

January 20, 2023

FBI Offering $25,000 Rewards for Information in Series of Attacks Against Reproductive Health Service Facilities
The FBI is seeking the public’s help to identify the individual(s) responsible for a series of attacks and threats targeting reproductive health service facilities across the country.

“[This] announcement reflects the FBI’s commitment to vigorously pursue investigations into crimes against pregnancy resource centers, faith-based organizations, and reproductive health clinics across the country,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “We will continue to work closely with our national, state, and local law enforcement partners to hold responsible anyone who uses extremist views to justify their criminal actions.”
The FBI can investigate the incidents as potential acts of domestic violent extremism, Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act) violations, or violent crime matters, depending on the facts of each case.
Full press release

Mother of Teen Sextortion Victim and FBI Warn of Trending Crime in New PSA
The PSA urges parents to be vigilant of their children’s activities online as sextortion among young children, primarily boys, increases across the country.

In a scheme that has recently become more prevalent, the predator (posing as a young girl) uses deception and manipulation to convince a young male, usually 12 to 17 years old, to exchange sexually explicit photos or engage in explicit activity over video, which the predator secretly records.
The predator then attempts to extort the victim for money to prevent the video or photos from being posted online.
To make the victimization stop, children need to tell someone—normally a parent, teacher, caregiver, or law enforcement. The embarrassment children feel from the activity they were forced to engage in is what typically prevents them from coming forward. Sextortion offenders may have hundreds of victims around the world, so coming forward to help law enforcement identify the offender may prevent countless other incidents of sexual exploitation to that victim and others.
Full press release

MS-13 Gang Member Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison After Being Convicted of Racketeering, Including Murders, and Federal Drug Charges
Brayan Contreras-Avalos of Langley Park, Maryland, and his co-defendants participated in at least three murders and extorted local businesses by charging them “rent” for operating in MS-13 “territory.”

Contreras-Avalos and co-defendants also trafficked illegal drugs, including marijuana and cocaine.
Most of the proceeds were sent to gang leadership in El Salvador to further promote illicit activities, using structured transactions and intermediaries to avoid law enforcement scrutiny.
MS-13 is a national and international gang. MS-13 members are required to commit acts of violence both to maintain membership and discipline within the gang, as well as against rival gang members.
Full press release

Four Memphis Carjackers Who Shot Law Enforcement Officers Sentenced
The FBI was part of an investigation that led to federal prison sentences for Julius Armstrong, Adairius Armstrong, Barium Martin, and Malik McCoy, after being convicted of carjacking, assaulting a federal officer, and using a weapon during those crimes.

“The FBI and our federal and state partners will continue to combine our efforts and resources to target those who commit violent crimes in our community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Bryan McCloskey of the FBI Memphis Field Office. “The law enforcement response and investigation, collaboration by law enforcement and prosecutors, and the sentences imposed serve notice to all that crimes of violence, especially those that threaten the lives of law enforcement, will be met with swift and exacting justice.”
Full press release

Omak Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison for Shooting on the Colville Indian Reservation
Chance The Wind Smith, of Omak, Washington, was sentenced in federal prison for a violent shooting, pleading guilty to charges of assault with a dangerous weapon in Indian Country and theft in Indian Country.

The judge specifically noted the effects of Smith’s conduct on his victims and the seriousness of the offense.
“Violence on our state’s Indian Reservations is at an intolerable level,” said Richard A. Collodi, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Seattle Field Office. “When you consider the impact Mr. Smith’s crimes had on children, who were innocent witnesses, this significant sentence is warranted. I am grateful for the professionalism of our investigators and partners who work these difficult cases.”
Full press release

FBI Washington Field Office, Partners Announce $10,000 Reward for Information Leading to Arrest of Suspect in Unsolved Murders
The FBI and its partners believe the public has critical information that could help catch the individual(s) responsible for heinous murders.

On January 16, 1998, Sherry Ann Culp, a mother of two young girls and who was 8 1/2 months pregnant with Kelsey, was shot at point-blank range shortly after entering her teal Honda Civic in Springfield, Virginia.
Sherry and Kelsey did not survive.
Several witnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing a man running on the sidewalk near the murder scene. He wore a dark jumpsuit with a hood. A maroon pickup truck was also seen parked in the vicinity.
“Twenty-five years have passed since Sherry and Kelsey’s senseless murders, but the FBI and our law enforcement partners continue to search for the perpetrator who tragically ended their lives,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, special agent in charge of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division. “We will pursue justice for Sherry and her daughters, no matter how long it takes.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

January 13, 2023

Massive Drug Trafficking Investigation Leads to Largest-Ever Indictment in Southern District of Georgia
An Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces investigation, led by the FBI in partnership with law enforcement, has resulted in charges against 76 defendants allegedly involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy.

The investigation is tied to the Ghost Face Gangsters criminal street gang.
According to the newly unsealed indictment, all 76 defendants have been charged with involvement in the conspiracy, which distributed large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, and alprazolam in the greater Glynn County, Atlanta, area.
Two defendants are also charged with distribution of illegal drugs that resulted in the deaths of three individuals from drug overdoses.
“One of our fundamental duties at the FBI is to ensure people can live free from fear in their own homes and neighborhoods,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The largest-ever indictment in the Southern District of Georgia and the law enforcement operations conducted by our Atlanta Field Office this week are another example of the work being done by the FBI and our task forces, along with our local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement partners across the country. We will continue to be relentless in our dedication to reducing violent crime in our nation and speaking through the results of our work.”
Full press release

Indictment Charges Eight Members of Alleged D.C. Drug Gang with Conspiracy
The FBI took part in an investigation that led to gang members’ arrests for allegedly peddling cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and phencyclidine (PCP).

During the arrests and related search warrants on multiple residences, law enforcement recovered at least eight firearms (including a ghost gun and shotgun), ammunition, drugs (including fake pills containing fentanyl, crack cocaine, powder cocaine, and PCP), drug paraphernalia, and more than $60,000 cash.
“This investigation demonstrates the collective commitment of the FBI, DEA [Drug Enforcement Administration], and MPD’s [D.C. Metropolitan Police Department’s] Violent Crime Impact Team (VCIT) to dismantling street crews who are the purveyors of the illicit drugs that drive the violent crime in our communities,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, special agent in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division. “Together with our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to hold those accountable who traffic in the violence and narcotics responsible for causing the irreparable damage to the neighborhoods we all live and work in.”
Full press release

U.S. Attorney Announces Federal Charges Against Man Who Carried Out Machete Attack in Times Square on New Year’s Eve
The investigative efforts of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force led to Trevor Thomas Bickford being charged with federal crimes in connection with his efforts to wage jihad by killing U.S. government officials and his knife attack on three New York Police Department officers in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.

Bickford is charged with four counts of attempted murder of officers and employees of the U.S. government and persons assisting them, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The charges carry an aggregate potential sentence of 80 years in prison.
FBI Director Christopher Wray said: “As alleged, three New York City Police Department officers were brutally assaulted in a jihad-inspired attack on New Year’s Eve while they were performing their duties to protect their city and those out celebrating the holiday. Being a law enforcement officer requires brave individuals willing to put their lives on the line every day to keep others safe. We are committed to holding those who would target law enforcement with violence fully accountable.”
Full press release

69 Universal Aryan Brotherhood Gang Members and Associates Convicted During Multiyear Investigation into Their Drug Trafficking of Methamphetamine
The FBI participated in a multiyear investigation into a prison-based drug trafficking organization that resulted in 69 defendants being convicted across multiple state and federal cases.

The Universal Aryan Brotherhood gang directed a drug trafficking network through contraband cell phones from state prison cells.
Across those convictions, law enforcement seized 62 firearms, more than 300 pounds of methamphetamine, and more than $400,000 in drug proceeds. Collectively, the individuals charged federally have been sentenced to 418 years in prison and 216 years of supervised release.
“This multi-agency investigation demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement at all levels to disrupting criminal enterprises operating behind prison walls,” said FBI Oklahoma City Field Office Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray. “The citizens of Oklahoma are safer today because of the massive amount of methamphetamine, weapons, and drug proceeds removed from our communities.”
Full press release

Kentucky Man Gets 15 Years for Attempted Sex Crimes with a Minor
Justin A. Wadsworth was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to traveling to Illinois to engage in sexual activity with a minor in May 2020.

“Increasingly, children are becoming victims of crimes committed online. With the spread of these crimes, the FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to stop sexual predators before they strike,” said FBI Springfield Field Office Special Agent in Charge David Nanz. “This sentence delivers a clear message that those who seek to harm children will face significant prison time.”
Full press release

Additional resources:

Violent Crime Case Round-Up

January 6, 2023

FBI Washington Field Office Marks Second Anniversary of January 6 Violence at the U.S. Capitol
The FBI, working in partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and law enforcement partners across the nation, remains committed to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting those responsible for the attack.

With the assistance of hundreds of thousands of tips from the American people, the FBI has identified and arrested more than 950 individuals who took part in the Capitol riots. Of those, nearly 200 were arrested for assaulting law enforcement officers.
Among the most significant judicial outcomes to date, Elmer Stewart Rhodes III, the founder and leader of the Oath Keepers, and Kelly Meggs, the leader of the Florida chapter of the organization, were found guilty by a jury of seditious conspiracy and other charges for crimes related to the breach of the Capitol.
The FBI continues to ask the public for assistance in identifying additional suspects who committed assaults on federal officers or other violence at the Capitol on January 6. If you have any information on the individuals depicted in the photos or videos at fbi.gov/capitolviolence, call 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Please reference the photo number when calling or submitting information online.
Full press release

FBI, ATF, and Metropolitan Police Department Raise Reward for Information About Capitol Hill Pipe Bomber to $500,000
The reward is for information leading to the arrest of a suspect who placed pipe bombs near the headquarters of the Republican National Committee and the Democratic National Committee in Washington, D.C., in January 2021.

"We remain grateful to the American people, who have provided invaluable tips that have helped us advance the investigation," Washington Field Office Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg said. "With the significantly increased reward, we urge those who may have previously hesitated to contact us—or who may not have realized they had important information—to review the information on our website and come forward with anything relevant."
The FBI and our partners encourage the American public to take a fresh look at our Seeking Information website, which includes images and video of the suspect, the suspect’s backpack, the suspect’s shoes, the explosive devices, and a map of the route the suspect walked the night the pipe bombs were placed.
If you have any information, please call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov. Tips can remain anonymous.
Full press release

Frank James Pleads Guilty to Mass Shooting on New York City Subway
The FBI investigated this case where Frank James pleaded guilty to 10 counts of committing a terrorist attack or other violence against a mass transportation vehicle—one count for each gunshot victim—and one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of his attack.

On April 12, 2022, James used a Glock 17 handgun to conduct a mass shooting on an N subway train in Brooklyn.
As part of his attack, James—disguised in an orange reflective jacket and yellow hardhat to look like a Metropolitan Transportation Authority employee—set off a smoke-emitting device in a subway car before opening fire on his captive victims. The smoke-emitting device caused panicked passengers to scramble to one end of the subway car, allowing James to more easily shoot at his victims.
In total, 10 victims were struck by the defendant’s bullets. Even more passengers suffered from smoke inhalation and other emotional and physical injuries caused by the defendant’s attack.
“Frank James, as he admitted today, deliberately planned and carried out an attack of terror on everyday New Yorkers. The FBI's JTTF [Joint Terrorism Task Force] and our law enforcement partners remain ever vigilant in our efforts to protect our city, and we will ensure those willing to commit acts of terror face the consequences of their actions,” stated Michael J. Driscoll, assistant director in charge, FBI New York Field Office.
Full press release

Former Coach from Pecos, New Mexico, Pleads Guilty to Coercion and Enticement of Minors
As the result of an FBI investigation, Joshua Rico pleaded guilty to five counts of coercion and enticement of minors.

Beginning as early as January 2018, Rico used multiple profiles on the social media platform Snapchat to coerce minor girls into sending him sexually explicit photos and videos and engage in sexual acts. Rico used fictitious profiles under the names “Chris Lujan” and “Erik Romero,” as well as a profile in his own name, to threaten, coerce, and manipulate at least four victims who were between 14 and 16 years old.
In each case, Rico used one or both of his fake profiles to persuade the victims into sending compromising photos, then used the threat of exposing the photos to coerce the victims into engaging in sexual acts and sending him videos of the acts.
In two cases, after using a fake profile to demand that the victims engage in sexual acts and provide videos, he offered to “help” the victims by allowing them to perform the sexual act with him. Rico coerced at least one of the victims into engaging in sexual acts with him.
Rico faces up to life in prison and will be required to register as a sex offender.
Full press release

Owner of Farm Labor Company Sentenced to More Than Nine Years in Prison for Leading a Multi-State Conspiracy Involving Forced Labor of Mexican Farm Workers
Bladimir Moreno was sentenced for leading a federal racketeering and forced labor conspiracy that victimized Mexican H-2A agricultural workers in the United States between 2015 and 2017. The Palm Beach County Human Trafficking Task Force, which includes the FBI and multiple partners, investigated the case.

Moreno and his co-conspirators coerced the victims into providing long hours of physically demanding agricultural labor, six to seven days a week, for de minimis pay.
Various forms of coercion were used, including imposing debts on the workers; confiscating their passports; subjecting them to crowded, unsanitary, and degrading living conditions; harboring them in the United States after their visas had expired; and threatening them with arrest and deportation if they failed to comply with Moreno’s and his co-conspirators’ demands.
In an attempt to conceal the criminal enterprise from federal investigators, Moreno created and provided to investigators fraudulent records that contained falsified information about the workers’ pay and hours, and repeatedly made false statements to federal investigators.
Full press release

Three Individuals Charged in Relation to Murder of Postal Employee
The FBI took part in an investigation that resulted in a federal criminal complaint, charging three individuals—Kevin McCaa, Charles Ducksworth Jr., and Shanelle McCoy—with offenses related to the killing of an on-duty United States Postal Service letter carrier on December 9, 2022.

"The FBI sends our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of U.S. Postal Service Letter Carrier Aundre Cross," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle. "The FBI continues to work with our partners at the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Milwaukee Police Department to bring those responsible for this senseless crime to justice. The multiple arrests made … represent the unrelenting efforts of these law enforcement partnerships to protect the people of Wisconsin and represents an opportunity for the loved ones of Mr. Cross to begin their healing process. Anyone responsible for crimes against federal employees who are doing their jobs in service of the American people will be investigated and held accountable to the full extent of the law.”
Full press release

Fall River Man Indicted for Four Bank Robberies
The FBI supported an investigation that led to the indictment of William Sequeira by a federal grand jury for allegedly robbing four separate banks in Massachusetts within a five-day period and attempting to rob of a fifth bank.

According to the charging documents, between September 26-30, 2022, Sequeira robbed four separate banks in the Fall River and Boston areas.
On October 5, 2022, law enforcement surveilling the Back Bay area in an effort to locate Sequeira, spotted him entering a Citizens Bank branch on Boylston Street in Boston. There, it is alleged that Sequeira approached the teller, said “Give me hundreds,” and then threatened to shoot the teller if they did not move fast enough. Sequeira was immediately apprehended.
Full press release

Additional resources:

How the FBI Fights Human Trafficking

January 4, 2023

Each January, the FBI joins our U.S. government partners in marking National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. But our work to combat human trafficking happens year-round.

Human trafficking is the illegal exploitation of a person. Anyone can be a victim, and it can occur in any U.S. community—cities, suburbs, and even rural areas. The FBI takes a trauma-informed, victim-centered approach when investigating these cases.

You can visit our human trafficking landing page to learn more how we pursue these cases and how our agents' collaboration with our federal, state, local, and tribal partners helps us identify victims and investigate traffickers. You can also explore the resources below to learn more about our efforts to combat this crime and provide assistance to survivors once they've been identified.

Listen to an Inside the FBI Podcast episode to learn how we fight trafficking and provide assistance to victims.
Download a brochure about how the FBI’s Victim Services Division provides assistance to victims of trafficking. This resource is also available in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, and Tagalog.
Read about Operation Cross Country, a coordinated operation among the FBI, other federal agencies, state and local police, and social services agencies across the country to find and assist victims of human trafficking, particularly child victims.

Report Trafficking and Get Help

If you’re a human trafficking victim or have information about a potential trafficking situation, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.

NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also submit a tip on the NHTRC website.

If you believe a child is involved in a trafficking situation, submit a tip through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s CyberTipline or call 1-800-THE-LOST. FBI personnel assigned to NCMEC review information that is provided to the CyberTipline.

Official websites use .gov

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

News Blog

2023 Entries - January through July

July 2023

June 2023

May 2023

April 2023

March 2023

February 2023

January 2023

Recent blog entries

fbi

federal bureau of investigation

FBI.gov Contact Center

Email updates

Official websites use .gov

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

News Blog - Previous 2023 Entries - January through July

News Blog

2023 Entries - January through July

July 2023

June 2023

May 2023

April 2023

March 2023﻿

February 2023

January 2023

﻿Recent blog entries

fbi

federal bureau of investigation

FBI.gov Contact Center

Email updates

March 2023

Recent blog entries