NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coos Bay Man Faces Federal Charges for Producing and Distributing Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EUGENE, Ore.—A Coos Bay, Oregon man was arraigned in federal court today for possessing, distributing, attempting to produce, and producing child pornography.

    Thomas Owen Barnett, 39, has been charged with attempting to use and using a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and possessing and distributing child pornography.

    According to court documents, between September and December 2023, Barnett is alleged to have knowingly and intentionally used a minor to engage in and record sexually explicit conduct. In September 2024, Barnett is further alleged to have used Kik and Instagram, online social media platforms, to engage in chats involving child sex abuse, seek opportunities to engage in child sexual abuse, and advertise the sale of child pornography. At times, Barnett posed as a young man or a minor female to persuade his victims to produce and exchange child pornography, including requests for sexually explicit materials depicting an infant.

    Barnett made his initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on May 27, 2025.

    Attempting to use a minor and using a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct are each punishable by up to 30 years in federal prison with a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence, distribution of child pornography is punishable by up to 20 years in prison with a 5-year mandatory minimum sentence, and possession of child pornography is punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison. If convicted, Barnett also faces up to a lifetime term of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 for each count.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

    An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

    Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bonanno Crime Family Soldier Sentenced to 37 Months’ Imprisonment for Extortionate Collection of Credit

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Continued to Demand Payments from Victim While Facing Charges for Illegal Collection of a Debt and Under Court Supervision

    Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, John Ragano, also known as “Bazoo,” a member of the Bonanno organized crime family, was sentenced by United States District Judge Hector Gonzalez to 37 months in prison for extortionate collection of credit in connection with a $150,000 loan.  The sentence imposed today will be served following the completion of Ragano’s 57-month sentence for the conspiracy to commit extortionate collection of credit of the same victim.  Additionally, as part of the sentence, Ragano was ordered to pay the government $3,000 in forfeiture.  Ragano was convicted of the charge in October 2024 following a four-day jury trial.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Leslie R. Backschies, Acting Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the sentence.

    “Today’s sentence punishes Ragano’s blatant disregard for the law, even while under court supervision for crimes brazenly carried out within the federal courthouse,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “This prosecution represents my Office’s steadfast commitment to combatting the Mafia in our district.”

    “Despite previous arrests and detention, John Ragano tormented his victim to make weekly exorbitant loan payments and enforced humiliating methods when faced with resistance,” stated Acting FBI Assistant Director in Charge Backschies.  “His actions reflected his apathy to the criminal justice system as he repeatedly attempted to extort his victims in the midst of active legal proceedings. Today’s verdict emphasizes the FBI’s intolerance of the mob’s historical inclination to utilize coercive and threatening tactics to fulfill their greedy demands.

    In early 2021, the defendant Ragano loaned the victim $150,000 in cash and required the victim to make interest payments of approximately $1,800 a week.  These payments did not reduce the principal of the $150,000 loan.  On September 14, 2021, Ragano was arrested in connection with the extortionate loan to the victim, as well as separate schemes to traffic marijuana and commit fraud.  After Ragano was released on bond from the Metropolitan Detention Center in December 2021, he continued to try to collect the $150,000 loan from the victim while under pretrial supervision.  He did so by approaching the victim in-person at status conferences held at the federal courthouse, and by directing another individual (Individual #1) to contact the victim.  On November 28, 2022, Ragano pleaded guilty to conspiring to issue the extortionate loan to the victim.  However, in 2023, despite his previous guilty plea, ongoing court supervision, and sentence to 57 months’ imprisonment in connection with his previous guilty plea as to the 2021 loan, Ragano continued to extort the victim to collect payments on the 2021 loan, which resulted in a subsequent indictment for extortionate collection of credit and harassment of a witness.

    As proven during Ragano’s October 2024 trial, on March 25, 2023, the victim recorded a meeting with Individual #1, who explained that Ragano wanted the entire amount of the loan repaid and that “nobody’s looking for anybody to get hurt.” A week later, on March 31, 2023, Individual #1 told the victim that Ragano was “a little upset” that the loan was outstanding.  On July 5, 2023, the victim went to a used auto parts yard where Ragano worked to discuss the loan.  Unbeknownst to Ragano, the victim recorded the meeting.  The victim told Ragano that he was going to stop repaying the loan. Ragano accused the victim of cooperating with the government and demanded that he remove all his clothes. Ragano stated: “Okay, well then take off your f–king s–t right now my man.  Take off your f–king pants right now, lemme see, I want to see.”  At Ragano’s insistence, the victim complied and took off all his clothing. At that point, two men at the business walked up behind Ragano, one of whom was holding metal tools.  Ragano then demanded the victim pay the money the defendant believed he was owed, telling him, “You owe me my f—king money, let’s see how you’re gonna do when I get out.”  Despite being forced to strip naked, the victim was still able to record the confrontation, including Ragano’s parting words, “I’ll see you when I get out tough guy…Don’t forget I know where you’re at now.”

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section.  Assistant United States Attorneys Devon Lash and Andrew D. Reich are in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Kristina Kim.  Assistant United States Attorney Tanisha Payne of the Office’s Asset Recovery Section is handling forfeiture matters.

    The Defendant:

    JOHN RAGANO (also known as “Bazoo”)
    Age:  62
    Franklin Square, Long Island

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-50 (HG)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Previously Deported Sentenced to Six Years for Illegal Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican National illegally residing in Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition.

    Mario Alberto Hernandez-Lugo, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to six years in federal prison without parole.

    On August 1, 2024, Hernandez-Lugo pleaded guilty to being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition.  Hernandez-Lugo admitted he was in possession of a Beretta, 9mm pistol and .45 caliber and 9mm ammunition following his arrest during a traffic stop by Independence, Missouri Police Officers on May 28, 2023.     

    Under federal law it is illegal for any alien knowingly illegally or unlawfully in the United States to possess a firearm or ammunition. Hernandez-Lugo admitted he was in the United States illegally, having been previously deported and removed from the United States.  At sentencing District Judge Greg Kays noted that Hernandez-Lugo had previously been deported or removed from the United States on seven separate occasions. 

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jess Michaelsen. It was investigated by the Kansas City and Independence, Missouri Police Departments, and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Career criminal sentenced in Corpus Christi to 14 years for drug trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 46-year-old Santa Rosa resident has been sentenced for possession with intent to distribute nearly six kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Jossue Omar Gonzalez pleaded guilty Aug. 6, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Gonzalez to serve 168 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard evidence of Gonzalez’s long criminal history that included two prior federal convictions for the same offense. In handing down the sentence, Judge Ramos noted the seriousness and repetitive nature of his criminal conduct.  

    On Oct. 22, 2023, Jonathan Anthony Lopez, 38, of Rio Hondo, approached the Sarita checkpoint driving a red Mitsubishi Mirage when a K-9 alerted. Authorities referred the vehicle to secondary inspection where they discovered 5.99 kg of cocaine hidden behind the rear seat of the vehicle.

    The investigation linked Gonzalez to the cocaine bundles. Authorities also found a video of Gonzalez purchasing the packaging material wrapped around the drugs the day prior to the offense in the same red Mitsubishi.  

    Lopez also pleaded guilty and was previously sentenced to 120 months in prison.

    Gonzalez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Martin prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Calhoun County Man Sentenced to 52 Months for Role in the Burglary of a Local Firearms Store

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREENVILLE, MS – Bryson Latavion Walker, 22, was sentenced today to over four years for his role in the burglary of a federally licensed firearms store.

    According to court documents, just after midnight on August 13, 2024, Walker and three other individuals broke into a federally licensed firearms store in Calhoun City, Mississippi and stole more than a dozen firearms as well as ammunition.

    On March 19, 2025, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Walker to 52 months in federal prison for the offense, to be followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. The Court further ordered Walker to pay restitution to the store.

    “Every stolen firearm has the potential to wind up in the hands of a criminal, threatening the safety of our citizens and communities,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner.  “We are proud to stand with our state and federal partners to demonstrate unequivocally that thieves who burglarize federal firearms licensees will face prosecution.”

    “Getting guns out of the hands of criminals before it is used in a violent crime is an essential part of our efforts to prevent, reduce, and solve violent crime,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “We continue to identify and hold accountable those who want to illegally obtain firearms. The sentence imposed today sends a message that we will continue to focus our efforts to remove another violent criminal from our streets and keep our neighborhoods safe as the top priority for ATF.”

    The case was investigated by the Oxford Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, along with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Howell Addison prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pictou — RCMP investigating suspicious incident in Pictou

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Pictou County District RCMP is asking for the public’s help in identifying a person of interest following a suspicious incident that occurred in Pictou.

    Yesterday, at approximately 10 p.m., RCMP officers responded to a report of an attempted abduction in the area of Denoon St. Investigators learned that an 18-year-old woman was walking home when she was approached by a man who offered her a ride. When the woman declined, the man exited his pickup truck and attempted to grab her.

    The victim was not physically injured and ran for help.

    The man of interest is described as white and in his 60s. At the time of the incident, he had a long white beard and was wearing a camouflage hat with an antlers emblem on the front, a camouflage jacket, and khaki pants.

    The vehicle of interest is described as a white Ford extended cab pickup with a black push bar. The truck was heavily rusted, had a very loud exhaust, and had a burned-out passenger headlight.

    Anyone with information about this incident, or with security camera footage of the area, is asked to contact the Pictou County District RCMP at 902-485-4333. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Salt River Man Convicted of Murder and Conspiracy

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, a jury found Clifton Nez Hamalowa, 47, of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, guilty of First-Degree Murder, Conspiracy to Commit Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Discharging a Firearm During, In Relation to, and in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence. The guilty verdict followed a seven-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge John J. Tuchi.

    During trial, evidence showed that Hamalowa became angry with the victim one evening and then shot the victim in the head multiple times the following morning, August 29, 2020. Hamalowa dumped the victim’s body in a remote area of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Reservation. Meanwhile, Hamalowa’s brother disposed of the victim’s car in Parker, Arizona, and Hamalowa’s sister made her daughter clean the victim’s blood from the crime scene on the Gila River Indian Reservation. Over the next two weeks, Hamalowa and his sister also intimidated witnesses into silence. Eventually, a witness was able to contact the Gila River Police Department so that officers could rescue the victim’s minor child who was still in the victim’s home.

    Hamalowa’s brother, Thomas Leon Hamalowa, pleaded guilty to Accessory-After-the-Fact to Murder and was sentenced to 108 months in prison on October 23, 2023. Hamalowa’s sister, Devonne Beth Hamalowa, pleaded guilty to Accessory-After-the-Fact to Murder and was sentenced to 84 months in prison on April 1, 2024.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Gila River Police Department jointly investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer E. LaGrange and Travis L. Wheeler, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-22-00751-PHX-JJT
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-037_Hamalowa

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stephenville — Man remains under investigation by Bay St. George RCMP for local crime spree

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 31-year-old Stephenville man remains under investigation by Bay St. George RCMP for a number of crimes committed on March 17, 2025.

    Shortly after 5:00 a.m. on Monday, a pickup truck was stolen from a business on Utah Drive and, around the same time, during a break and enter at a nearby business, generators and a number of propane tanks were stolen.

    While investigating the above matters, at approximately 7:00 a.m., police received a report of a stolen all-terrain vehicle (ATV) in Fox Island River. A 2022 Can AM Outlander was stolen from a residential property. The property owner witnessed the theft and followed the suspect. Police attempted to stop the operator of the ATV, who fled the area on the stolen side by side.

    Shortly before 11:00 a.m., Bay St. George RCMP recovered the stolen pickup truck in a snow bank near Crane Place in Stephenville. The abandoned vehicle was left running and was seized as part of the investigation.

    Shortly after this, the stolen Can Am Outlander ATV was observed by its owner, traveling along the T’railway. Police attended the area and, with the assistance of the owner, the ATV was located and recovered in Heatherton. The suspect was arrested nearby without further incident.

    Following these crimes, Bay St. George RCMP received a report of a second ATV that was stolen sometime overnight from a residential property in Point Au Mal, a 2019 black and blue 800 Can Am Commander XT.

    Police are continuing to look for the stolen property, including generators, currently of an unknown make or model, propane tanks and the 2019 Can Am Commander. An image of the Can Am Commander side by side ATV is attached.

    The investigation is continuing with charges anticipated.

    Anyone having information about these crimes or the current location of the stolen property is asked to contact Bay St. George RCMP at 709-643-2118. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Hazleton Men Charged With Drug Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Cesar Altagracia Mateo Lara, a/k/a Miguel Carrasquillo Apolinaris, age 46, and Luis Mercado-Alicea, a/k/a Yensi Mateo, age 44, both of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, were indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking charges.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that between November 2024 and February 2025, the defendants conspired to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl. The indictment also alleges that during that time the defendants distributed fentanyl and possessed fentanyl with intent to distribute it.   

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office, and the Hazleton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

    This case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 40 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

    Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduran Citizen Sentenced For Possessing Fraudulent Social Security Card

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WILLIAMSPORT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Roney Vasquez-Pineda, age 48, a Honduran citizen, was sentenced yesterday to time-served, after being in ICE custody and with the Bureau of Prisons for 36 days, by U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Arbuckle, for a misdemeanor charge of possessing a fraudulent identification document.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Vasquez-Pineda possessed a fraudulent social security card on February 10, 2025.

    Vasquez-Pineda will return to ICE custody and face immigration removal proceedings.

    This case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger prosecuted the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mississippi Man Indicted for Federal Civil Rights and Arson Charges for Setting Fire to Mormon Church

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A federal grand jury in Gulfport, Mississippi, returned a six-count superseding indictment today charging Stefan Day, also known as Stefan Pete Day Rowold, with federal civil rights and arson violations for vandalizing and setting fire to a house of worship.

    According to the superseding indictment, on July 5, 2024, and July 7, 2024, Day set fire to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Wiggins, Mississippi. Counts one and four of the superseding indictment charge Day with arson for setting fire to the church. Counts two and five of the superseding indictment charge Day with intentionally damaging, defacing, and destroying religious real property because of the religious character of the property. Counts three and six of the superseding indictment charge Day with using fire to commit a federal felony offense.

    If convicted, Day faces a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each of the arson charges, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each of the civil rights charges, and a minimum penalty of ten years in prison for the use of fire to commit a federal felony offense.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General Mac Warner of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick Lemon for the Southern District of Mississippi, and Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff of the FBI Jackson Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Jackson Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, the Mississippi State Fire Marshal, and the Wiggins Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Buckner for the Southern District of Mississippi and Trial Attorney Chloe Neely of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force Apprehends Austin Homicide Suspect Sought in December Shooting

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Austin, TX – Members of the U.S. Marshals-led Lone Star Fugitive Task Force March 13 arrested a man sought for murder that occurred Dec. 21, 2024, in Austin. 

    Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Gomez, 26, was a suspect wanted by the Austin Police Department for a homicide that occurred in the 2500 block of Huntwick Road, where a victim was reported to have been shot inside a vehicle in the parking lot.  

    Austin police arrived on scene and located the male victim, who had sustained life-threatening gunshot wounds, and was pronounced deceased, despite lifesaving attempts. 

    On Feb. 16, the Austin Police Department, Homicide Unit, obtained a warrant for Rodriguez-Gomez in the City of Austin Municipal Court and requested immediate assistance from the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force in the Austin Division. 

    On March 13, after members of the task force developed information that indicated Rodriguez-Gomez was residing in the 15200 block of Sparks Road in Manor, the suspect fled on foot into a wooded area and was arrested by a swarm of task force officers, with vital assistance provided by the Austin Police Department, Air Support Division. 

    Rodriguez-Gomez was transferred to the Austin Police Department and booked into the Travis County Jail where he will await further judicial proceedings. 

    According to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Rodriguez-Gomez, a Mexican national, is an undocumented immigrant from Mexico with no legal status in the United States.

    Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force in Austin – 

    Austin Police Department-Tactical Intelligence Unit
    Round Rock, and San Marcos Police Department
    Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson County Sheriff’s Office
    Texas Attorney General’s Office
    Texas Department of Criminal Justice OIG
    Texas Department of Public Safety
    U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement
    U.S. DHS/Homeland Security Investigations

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Minnesota State Senator Charged with Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota state Senator Justin David Eichorn has been charged via federal criminal complaint with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to the criminal complaint, on March 12, 2025, Bloomington Police detectives began an undercover operation to target commercial sex involving juveniles.  Law enforcement placed online advertisements offering commercial sex.  Unbeknownst to the prospective sex buyers, it was in fact undercover law enforcement officers who received and responded to the messages.  

    On March 11, 2025, undercover officers began receiving messages from Eichorn, age 40, inquiring, “I saw your post and [sic] chance you are still available tonight?” and then later, “What’s a guy gota do to get with the hottest girl online tonight.” Over the course of messaging over several days, the undercover officer repeatedly said that she was not 18 but was, in fact, 17 years old. Even so, Eichorn proceeded to ask the undercover officer about pricing for various sex acts she might perform, and then Eichorn arranged an in-person meet-up to pay for commercial sex.  Eichorn also requested that the undercover officer—whom he believed to be a 17-year-old minor—send him “a naught[y] pic” including one “with lot less clothes.”  Eichorn arrived at the agreed-upon location to find law enforcement waiting to apprehend him.  In his car, among other things, law enforcement found cash and a condom.  

    “The U.S. Attorney’s Office has no tolerance for public officials who violate federal law—particularly those laws meant to protect children,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.  “I am grateful to the Bloomington Police Department, to the FBI, and to all law enforcement officers who use undercover operations to identify and arrest child sex predators to prevent them from abusing real children.”

    “The actions alleged in this case are an appalling attempt to exploit an innocent and vulnerable minor,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “The FBI and our partners are committed to protecting children from predators who seek to harm them. Every child deserves to grow up in a safe environment, free from the threat of exploitation.”

    “If you come to the Orange Jumpsuit District looking to have sex with someone’s child, expect to leave in handcuffs,” said Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges. “We will not tolerate predators in our community. I have long advocated for stronger penalties for these crimes, and this case is yet another example of why tougher laws are necessary.  Our state legislature must take this issue seriously—protecting children should never be up for debate.”

    Eichorn was charged by complaint today in U.S. District Court with one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.

    A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national indicted for assaulting federal agent

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Mexican national with physically attacking a federal law enforcement agent. 

    According to court documents, Diego Barron-Esquivel, 23, of Wichita was indicted on one count of forcible assault of a federal officer.

    In February 2025, Barron-Esquivel is accused of forcibly assaulting and causing bodily harm to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation officer while the officer was performing his official duties. 

    Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly Gordon is prosecuting the case.

    OTHER INDICTMENTS

    Charles Wayne Franke, 21, of Wellington, Kansas, was indicted on two counts of sexual exploitation of a child-production of child pornography, four counts of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting the case. 

    Juan Francisco Ulloa-Gonzalez, 46, was indicted on one count of reentry of a removed alien. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly Gordon is prosecuting the case.
     

    Project Safe Childhood
    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fresno Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possessing Over 100 Pounds of Fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — Carlos Jordan Lopez, 29, of Fresno, was sentenced Monday by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston to 10 years in prison for possessing with intent to distribute approximately 107 pounds of fentanyl and approximately 39 pounds of cocaine, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on Sept. 8, 2023, Lopez was stopped for a traffic infraction while driving northbound on Interstate 5 near Shields Avenue in Fresno County. A subsequent search of the trunk revealed a spare tire loaded with 28 packages containing approximately 485,000 fentanyl pills. Officers also located a bag that contained 18 “bricks” of cocaine powder.

    This case was the product of an investigation by the California Highway Patrol, the California High Impact Investigation Team, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Gilio and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis Lewis prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Venezuelans Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Fake Green Cards

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendants Arrested During the Laken Riley Murder Investigation in Athens, Georgia

    ATHENS, Ga. – A Venezuelan man who entered the United States illegally and who admitted to possessing a fraudulent Green Ccard during the murder investigation of a 22-year-old nursing student was sentenced to serve 48 months in prison—above the federal sentencing guidelines—and to be deported along with his brother and a former roommate.

    Diego Jose Ibarra, aka “Gocho,” 29, was sentenced to serve a total of 48 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a fraudulent document on July 15, 2024. Argenis Ibarra, aka “Meny,” 25, of Venezuela, was sentenced to time served after he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a fraudulent document on Dec. 10, 2024. Rosbeli Flores-Bello, aka “La Gorda,” 29, of Venezuela, was sentenced to time served after she pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a fraudulent document on Dec. 11, 2024.

    All three defendants are to be delivered to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation. Diego Ibarra will be placed in ICE custody at the conclusion of his federal prison sentence; Argenis Ibarra and Flores-Bello will be placed in ICE custody immediately. U.S. District Judge Tilman E. Self, III handed down the sentences on March 19 in Athens. There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court documents and statements referenced in court, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) was made aware of Deigo Ibarra’s undocumented presence in the United States on Feb. 23, 2024, during the murder investigation of Laken Hope Riley, who was kidnapped and brutally murdered on Feb. 22, 2024, during a morning run at the University of Georgia, where she previously attended as an undergraduate prior to transferring to the Augusta University College of Nursing. At the time, an Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD) officer approached Diego Ibarra because he matched the description of the primary suspect in the murder investigation, which was his brother, Jose Antonio Ibarra. Diego Ibarra gave the ACCPD officer a counterfeit U.S. Permanent Resident Card (also called a Green Card) as identification and was taken into custody. Jose Ibarra was convicted of Laken Riley’s murder on Nov. 20, 2024, in Athens-Clarke County Superior Court and is serving a life sentence.

    On April 30, 2023, Diego Ibarra illegally entered the United States, along with four other Venezuelan men, by crossing the border near the Ysleta station in El Paso, Texas. The men fled when approached by the United States Border Patrol (USBP) agents. Diego Ibarra resisted an agent’s efforts to detain him and grabbed the agent’s service radio, threw it into a nearby yard, and then attempted to bite the agent. Agents scuffled with him and another Venezuelan man for several minutes before the National Guard arrived and assisted in subduing both men. Diego Ibarra was taken to a local hospital after complaining of chest pains and pain in his back and leg, which he indicated to FBI agents he sustained from scaling and falling from the border fence during his illegal crossing. He admitted to illegally crossing the border, resisting arrest and attempting to avoid apprehension at any cost. He said his injuries were not from the fight with agents.

    According to information uncovered during the investigation and provided in multiple court documents, Diego Ibarra is likely affiliated with the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA), based on evidence including his multiple TdA tattoos and photos of him on social media making the TdA gang signs and wearing TdA clothing. Further investigation concluded that Diego Ibarra was previously removed from the United States to Mexico on April 3, 2023, after agents apprehended him illegally entering the United States near Eagle Pass, Texas. After the above incident on April 30, 2023, Diego Ibarra claimed asylum and fear of return to Venezuela. On May 11, 2023, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) placed him in the Alternatives to Detention (ATD) program, and he was released from immigration custody the following day. The ATD program required Diego Ibarra to wear a global positioning system (GPS) ankle monitoring device, and he was directed to report to New York, New York, pending asylum proceedings. He failed to report in New York as directed.

    On May 25, 2023, Diego Ibarra’s ankle monitor last “pinged” near Littleton, Colorado, and he cut it off at some point prior to his final arrest in Athens, Georgia. Diego Ibarra settled in Athens and was subsequently arrested three times by law enforcement: on Sept. 24, 2023, he was arrested by ACCPD for driving under the influence of alcohol and driving without a license; on Oct. 27, 2023, he was arrested by ACCPD for theft by shoplifting; and on Dec. 8, 2023, he was arrested by ACCPD for shoplifting and for an outstanding arrest warrant that was issued when he failed to appear in court for his DUI charge. In addition, ACCPD responded to a domestic incident involving Diego Ibarra and his girlfriend on Sept. 26, 2023. And, while in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service and housed in the Butts County Detention Center, Ibarra caused “severe water damage” inside the jail when he damaged the fire sprinkler system in a jail cell block. On June 25, 2024, jail officers found Ibarra in possession of two improvised weapons: a sharpened sprinkler head with a make-shift grip and a pen wrapped in saran wrap.

    Co-defendants Argenis Ibarra (Diego and Jose Ibarra’s younger brother) and Flores-Bello (Deigo and Jose Ibarra’s roommate) admitted to possessing a fraudulent U.S. Permanent Resident Card in the names of Argenis Jose Ibarra Ibarra and Rodrianny Brito Brito respectively on Feb. 23, 2024. In addition, agents found counterfeit Social Security cards for Argenis Ibarra and Flores-Bello in the apartment they shared with Diego and Jose Ibarra.

    Investigators determined that Argenis Ibarra entered the United States illegally on April 3, 2023, near Eagle Pass, Texas, and the USBP returned him to Mexico. On April 30, 2023, the USBP encountered and arrested him near El Paso, Texas, and transported him to an ICE processing center in El Paso. Because the processing center lacked space, Ibarra was released on his own recognizance on May 4, 2023. Argenis submitted Form I-765 for Employment Authorization on Oct. 20, 2023, and Nov. 2, 2023, both of which were rejected.

    Flores-Bello illegally entered the United States on May 3, 2023, and was arrested by the USBP. She was transported to an ICE processing center in El Paso. On May 5, 2023, Flores-Bello was released on her own recognizance because the processing center lacked space. She provided a residential address in New York and was scheduled for immigration court there on Oct. 18, 2023. In Dec. 2023, she and Jose Ibarra, whom she met in New York, took a humanitarian flight from New York to Atlanta, Georgia. She settled in Athens and lived with the Ibarra brothers until Laken Riley was murdered.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with critical assistance from FBI, GBI, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, University of Georgia Police Department and Clarke County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison prosecuted the case for the Government

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Last Sentence Imposed in Massachusetts-to-Vermont Drug Distribution Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on March 13, 2025, Christopher Morgan, 21, of Chicopee, Massachusetts, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 78 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release. Morgan previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and to using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.

    According to court records, Christopher Morgan and co-defendant Javon Calderon spent substantial time in Bennington, Vermont, in 2022 distributing fentanyl and cocaine. During a portion of that time, Morgan and Calderon were hosted by co-defendants and Bennington residents Shavonne Doucette and Kyle Winnie. Morgan and Calderon employed locals to sell drugs for them. Doucette and Winnie also occasionally sold drugs for Morgan and Calderon.

    In early September 2022, inside the Doucette/Winnie residence, Calderon and Morgan threatened with firearms and assaulted one such local distributor over a drug debt. Portions of the assault were captured on video and depicted Calderon striking and threatening the victim and holding a firearm to the victim’s neck while making threats. The video depicted Morgan pointing a firearm at the victim and issuing threats. The victim sustained scalp injuries that required staples.

    Like Morgan, Calderon pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine and to using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. On December 23, 2024, Chief Judge Reiss sentenced Calderon to 85 months of imprisonment to be followed by an 8-year term of supervised release. Doucette and Winnie pleaded guilty to making their residence available for the distribution of fentanyl and cocaine. On January 21, 2025, Doucette was sentenced to 1 year and 1 day in prison to be followed a 3-year term of supervised release. On February 18, 2025, Winnie was sentenced to time-served followed by a 3-year term of supervised release.

    Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the HSI Special Response Team, the Vermont State Police, the Bennington Police Department, the Bennington County Sheriff’s Department, the Rutland City Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne Smith. Morgan was represented by Peter Langrock, Esq.; Calderon was represented by Devin McKnight, Esq; Doucette was represented by Brooks McArthur, Esq.; Winnie was represented by Jordana Levine, Esq.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.  

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Charlotte Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Trafficking Kilograms of Cocaine from Charlotte to Wilmington

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A Charlotte man was sentenced Tuesday to 20 years in prison for injecting large quantities of cocaine into the Wilmington area from early 2017 to July 2022. On November 5, 2024, Kinte Fisher, age 47, pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute a quantity of cocaine.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Wilmington Police Department (WPD) started investigating Fisher for drug trafficking. The investigation revealed that Fisher, who lived in Charlotte, moved narcotics to a “stash house” that he maintained in Wilmington. From there, he would sell large quantities of cocaine.  Fisher often used the cover of visiting family to deliver cocaine to the area and supervised several other individuals involved in drug trafficking, including his girlfriend. Fisher also mailed packages containing narcotics using the United States Postal Service. Over a five-year period, Fisher distributed at least sixty-two kilograms of cocaine.

    On July 25, 2022, surveillance revealed that Fisher was traveling again to Wilmington. Agents with the FBI saw him enter his stash house with a backpack. A few moments later, Fisher left the apartment and threw a piece of plastic wrap into a municipal trash can before driving off. Law enforcement officers tested that plastic wrap, and it tested positive for cocaine residue. Based on that, law enforcement attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Fisher sped off.  A high-speed chase unfolded where Fisher sped through various areas, including one of Wilmington’s business districts. Fisher abandoned his car and continued to evade arrest on foot. Law enforcement caught up to Fisher at the Wilmington Riverwalk. As they closed in, Fisher tossed his cellphone into the river. A subsequent search of Fisher’s stash house found approximately 340 grams of cocaine, a scale, and drug packaging materials.

    This investigation was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The FBI and the Wilmington Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Logan Liles  prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:22-CR-101-D-1.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Lawrence County Man Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Prison for Mail Fraud

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    HUNTSVILLE, Ala. –  A Lawrence County man has been sentenced for his role in a scheme to steal agricultural chemicals from his employer, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples.

    U.S. District Court Judge Liles C. Burke sentenced Christopher Michelfelder, 56, of Moulton, Alabama, to 63 months in prison.  In December 2024, Michelfelder pleaded guilty to mail fraud.

    According to the plea agreement, Michelfelder was the facility manager of the local branch of an international agricultural company that sells chemicals to customers. Over the course of a decade, he executed a scheme in which stole products from his employer.  He sold them to a third-party broker under the false pretense that the products belonged to his personal farm business, Midway Farms.  Michelfelder shipped the products via FedEx to an address that the broker would provide to him. The loss amount was over $6 million.

    The FBI investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney John M. Hundscheid prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbus Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Exploiting Minor

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Columbus man who sexually abused a young girl and created child pornography of the abuse was sentenced in federal court here today to 300 months in prison.

    Arturo Navarrete-Juarez, 30, pleaded guilty in July to sexually exploiting a minor. He was charged federally by a criminal complaint in March 2023.

    According to court documents, between October 2021 and December 2022, Navarrete-Juarez sexually abused a minor female and filmed some of the abuse. Specifically, the child was between the ages of 9 and 10 in the videos recovered by law enforcement.

    In March of 2023, the FBI investigated child sexual abuse material on a Tor network that featured Navarrete-Juarez. The defendant’s face was visible in the videos. Investigators also linked Navarrete-Juarez’s identity to the videos by distinctive tattoos on his hands, arms and chest and by the apartment depicted in the background of the videos.

    Navarrete-Juarez is a Mexican national and does not currently have legal status in the United States.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, announced the sentence imposed today by Chief U.S. District Judge Sarah D. Morrison. Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer M. Rausch and Emily Czerniejewski are representing the United States in this case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Happy Valley-Goose Bay — Man arrested and charged by Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP as part of sexual assault and drug trafficking investigation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Following the execution of a search warrant at a residential property in Happy Valley-Goose Bay on March 18, 2025, 44-year-old Darryl Dyson was arrested by Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP as part of an investigation involving sexual assault and drug trafficking.

    On the evening of March 17, 2025, Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP received the report from a victim who was allegedly drugged and sexually assaulted. Labrador District General Investigation Section (GIS) were engaged to continue the investigation.

    On March 18, 2025, as part of this investigation, police obtained search warrants, authorized under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Criminal Code, to search a home on Saunders Street in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. RCMP officers with Labrador District GIS, Police Dog Services and Happy Valley-Goose Bay Detachment attended the home, where Dyson and a number of other individuals were arrested.

    During the search of the home, officers located and seized the following items:

    • Over $47,000.00 cash
    • Approximately 10 ounces of cocaine
    • Brass knuckles
    • Drug paraphernalia
    • Other items consistent with drug trafficking

    Darryl Dyson remains in custody and will appear in court today, charged with the following criminal offences:

    • Sexual Assault
    • Possession for the Purpose of trafficking cocaine
    • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000

    The remaining arrested individuals were released without charge. Additional charges against Dyson and other individuals are possible. The investigation is continuing.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Duo Arrested And Charged For Human Smuggling Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RENO – A father and son residing in the Reno area were charged and made their initial court appearances Tuesday before United States Magistrate Judge Carla L. Baldwin for their alleged roles in a human smuggling conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens in the Reno area.

    “The criminal complaint alleges the father and son conspired to exploit vulnerable individuals for profit,” said Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada. “Human smuggling operations threaten our national security. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to continually working with HSI and our local law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who smuggle illegal aliens into the United States.”

    “A collaborative operation of this scale demonstrates the importance of intelligence-driven investigations, followed by coordinated law enforcement action,” said Homeland Security Investigations Las Vegas acting Special Agent in Charge Lester R. Hayes Jr. “We will continue to disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations that engage in the exploitation and trafficking of humans while combatting other criminal activities that impact the communities of Northern Nevada.”

    According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made in court, beginning in July 2021, and continuing to March 11, 2025, Carlos Recinos-Valdez (43) and his son Kevin Recinos-Ruano (20) conspired with each other to harbor illegal aliens for personal financial gain. Law enforcement executed a criminal search warrant at Recinos-Valdez’s residence, leading to the recovery of firearms, fraudulent documents, and other evidence.

    It is alleged that Recinos-Valdez orchestrated the illegal smuggling of aliens through a Transnational Criminal Organization (TCO) with a network of human smugglers and traffickers located throughout Guatemala, Mexico, and the United States. He has locations in apartment complexes where he houses the illegal aliens in the Reno area. Recinos-Valdez and the TCO he works for charge thousands of dollars for each person smuggled into the United States. Once in Reno, Recinos-Valdez demands money from the victims to pay off their debt to the TCO. He would meet the victims at their residence or place of employment to collect regular payments for smuggling fees; and victims have been threatened with physical violence if payments were not received. Recinos-Ruano assisted in collecting payments and acted as an enforcer.

    Recinos-Valdez is charged with one count of conspiracy to harbor aliens; three counts of harboring illegal aliens; and two counts of aiding and abetting attempted interference with commerce by extortion. Recinos-Ruano is charged with one count of conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens.

    If convicted, Recinos-Valdez faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison; and Recinos-Ruano faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The charges are the result of an HSI-led criminal investigation with assistance from the Reno Police Department, the Sparks Police Department, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Keenan is prosecuting the case.

    A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: DOJ and Vix Technology (USA) Inc. resolve allegations of Paycheck Protection Program fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Company obtained COVID 19 Small Business Administration loan but did not qualify due to the number of employees

    Seattle – The U.S. Department of Justice and Vix Technology (USA) Inc. today resolved a qui tam False Claims Act lawsuitalleging Vix had too many employees to qualify for the $1,066,900 Paycheck Protection loan it received on May 18, 2021. Vix will pay $2,144,114 to resolve the matter. The relator of the qui tam case will receive a percentage of the settlement amount. The relator is the San Francisco company Blockquote that produces public interest internet research, news reporting and investigations.

    According to the settlement agreement, on June 24, 2024, Blockquote filed a qui tam action alleging that Vix Technology had improperly received a COVID 19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration.  To be eligible for the loan a business had to have fewer than 300 employees. Vix has more than 300 employees in its operations around the world and therefore did not qualify for the loan.

    Vix Technology is an Australian company that designs, supplies, and operates automated fare collection systems, intelligent transportation systems access, payment, and passenger information display systems for the public transit industry. The company’s U.S. Operations are headquartered in Tempe, Arizona.

    Vix does not admit any wrongdoing, but to avoid the uncertainty of litigation, entered into the agreement with the United States paying double damages of $2,144,114. Vix will also pay $20,000 to the relator, Blockquote, for attorney fees and costs.

    “The favorable settlement in this case is the product of enhanced efforts by federal agencies such as the Small Business Administration, working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and with private individuals who uncover fraudulent conduct, to recover the product of fraud and penalties as well,” said SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis.

    The settlement was negotiated by Assistant United States Attorney Nickolas Bohl.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Lone Star Fugitive Task Force Apprehend Fugitive who Fled to Mexico After 2019 San Antonio Homicide

    Source: US Marshals Service

    San Antonio, TX – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS)-led Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (LSFTF) in San Antonio, with the assistance of the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force (GCVOTF) in Laredo, has apprehended a San Antonio man wanted in connection with the 2019 murder of an elderly man. 

    Joe Michael Rubio, 24, was apprehended March 14 with the assistance of Mexican authorities from La Secretaría de Seguridad y Protección Ciudadana (SSPC) in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico. His capture resulted from a multiagency effort that developed numerous leads.

    Rubio was detained, officially deported from Mexico, and placed into the custody of the U.S. Marshals GCVOTF in Laredo where he is currently awaiting extradition back to Bexar County. 

    On July 26, 2019, 77-year-old Jose Rodriguez was fatally shot outside a gas station on Fair Avenue in San Antonio’s South Side. After purchasing lottery tickets, he was confronted by two suspects in what police believe was an attempted robbery. During the altercation, Rodriguez sustained three gunshot wounds, including one to the face, and was pronounced dead at the scene.

    Rubio was subsequently charged with aggravated robbery and homicide. Members of the LSFTF followed multiple leads and gathered information suggesting that Rubio fled to Mexico upon learning of his active arrest warrant.

    In 2023, the LSFTF officially elevated the case involving Rubio to USMS Major Case status.

    “Through strong international partnerships, the U.S. Marshals Service collaborates with law enforcement agencies in Mexico and beyond to facilitate the apprehension of fugitives and uphold justice,” said Susan Pamerleau, U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Texas. “These cooperative efforts play a vital role in enhancing public safety and ensuring that fugitives are held accountable.”

    The LSFTF thanks the Mexican authorities from La Secretaría de Seguridad y Protección Ciudadana for their critical assistance.

    The USMS Major Case Fugitive Program prioritizes the investigation and apprehension of high-profile offenders considered to be some of the country’s most dangerous individuals. These offenders tend to be career criminals with histories of violence or who pose a significant threat to public safety.

    Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force – San Antonio:

    Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO)
    Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS)
    Texas Attorney General’s Office (TXAGO)
    Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS)
    New Braunfels Police Department (NBPD)
    Texas Board of Criminal Justice OIG (TBCJ)
    Bexar County District Attorney’s Office (BCDA)
    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) U.S. Marshal Service (USMS)

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Art Advisor Lisa Schiff Sentenced To 30 Months In Prison For Defrauding Clients

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that LISA SCHIFF, a Manhattan-based art advisor focused on contemporary art, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison by U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken for perpetrating a multi-year scheme in which she defrauded the clients of her art advisory business of approximately $6.5 million in connection with the purchase and sale of approximately fifty-five artworks. 

    Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “For five years, Lisa Schiff breached the trust of her art advisory clients by diverting millions of dollars to pay her own business and personal expenses, and to fund a lavish lifestyle. Because of Schiff’s lies, and her illusory art advisory scam, Schiff will now serve a substantial sentence in prison.”   

    According to the Information, plea agreement, and statements made in court:

    From 2018 through May 2023, SCHIFF engaged in a scheme to defraud clients of her art advisory business, Schiff Fine Art (“SFA”) by diverting her clients’ funds—profits from the sale of her clients’ artworks or payments they made to purchase artwork—to pay her own personal and business expenses. SCHIFF advised clients regarding the purchase and sale of artworks and bought and sold artworks on behalf of clients in exchange for a commission. In her role as an art advisor, SCHIFF acted as an intermediary between art galleries and auction houses, and her clients, who were art collectors. Typically, when SCHIFF’s clients bought or sold artworks, payments were routed through SCHIFF’s business, SFA. In addition, when SCHIFF sold artworks on behalf of a client, she often had custody or control of the artworks to coordinate the sale. At times, SCHIFF, through SFA, also sold artwork on consignment on behalf of artists and other galleries.   

    Starting in about 2018, SCHIFF began defrauding her clients in two ways: not remitting payments to her clients when she sold their artwork while not disclosing to her clients that their artworks had, in fact, been sold; and not purchasing artworks on behalf of clients despite representing to her clients that she would purchase certain artworks on their behalf using their funds. Instead of using client funds as promised, SCHIFF diverted her clients’ money to pay her business and personal expenses. SCHIFF lied to her clients and galleries in furtherance of her fraud scheme. For example, when defrauding clients in connection with selling their artwork, SCHIFF at times lied to clients, claiming she had not sold the artwork, or the buyer was delayed in making the payment and SCHIFF still had custody of the artwork when, in fact, SCHIFF had sold the artwork, received payment from the buyer, and delivered the artwork to the buyer. When defrauding clients in connection with purchasing artwork on their behalf, SCHIFF lied to galleries from which she was supposed to purchase artwork on behalf clients, blaming delays in payment on clients when, in fact, clients had already paid SCHIFF for the purchase of the artwork and she had diverted the funds for her own use. In 2020, SCHIFF considered admitting to at least two of her victims that she had stolen millions from them, drafting letters of confession to them, but she never sent the letters and instead continued to defraud these two victims and others for three more years. Over approximately five years, SCHIFF defrauded at least 12 clients, one artist, the estate of another artist, and one gallery, collectively, of at least approximately $6.5 million. During her fraud, SCHIFF lived lavishly and incurred substantial debts, which she paid in part using her victims’ diverted funds.

    In about May 2023, SCHIFF could no longer conceal her scheme due to mounting debts. SCHIFF confessed to several clients that she had stolen their money.

    *                *                *

    SCHIFF, 54, of New York, New York, was sentenced to two years of supervised release. SCHIFF was further ordered to pay forfeiture of $6,408,538.20 and restitution of $9,147,789.26.

    Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Art Crime Team.

    This case is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cecilia Vogel and Jennifer Ong are in charge of the prosecution.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Indian National Found Guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute More than 170 Pounds of MDMA in Eastern Washington

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Spokane, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced today that a jury returned a verdict in the federal trial of Jaskaran Singh, age 31, who is a native of Gujarat, India. Singh was found guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), which is more commonly known as “Ecstasy” or “Molly.” United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice presided over Singh’s trial, which began March 17, 2025. At sentencing, which is set for June 25, 2025, Singh faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years. He may also face removal from the United States.

    The evidence presented at trial established that on April 29, 2023, at approximately 10:00 p.m., three unknown individuals tripped motion sensor cameras in a remote area just south of the U.S.-Canada border, approximately one-half-mile west of the Danville, Washington port of entry. U.S. Border Patrol officials at the Curlew Border Patrol Station saw images of these individuals, who had crossed into the United States from Canada and were carrying backpacks and a suitcase. From the U.S. side of the border, the only route to drive into or out of this area is an unestablished dead end, dirt road known as Fourth of July Creek Road.

    Minutes later, Border Patrol observed a 2014 Honda Odyssey traveling east on Fourth of July Creek Road. Border Patrol Agents responded to the area and stopped Singh, who was driving the rented Honda Odyssey away from the U.S. Canada border.

    From outside the van, Border Patrol agents observed backpacks and suitcase in the rear cargo area of the Odyssey. The backpacks and suitcase were same as those carried across the border by the three individuals, who tripped the motion sensor cameras just a few minutes earlier. Border Patrol Agents obtained authorization to search the van and seized 173.7 pounds of MDMA stored inside the backpacks and suitcase.  Investigators later located a map of the area on Singh’s phone and messages detailing where Singh should go, when he should arrive, and directing him to “leave the back hood open.”

    Testimony at trial established that the three men transported the MDMA from the Canadian side of the border by carrying the backpacks and suitcase through approximately 300 yards of remote wilderness to where Singh had parked the rented Odyssey van.  The three men then returned to the Canadian side of the border, escaping apprehension by law enforcement.

    Just one day before the massive seizure, Singh traveled from Northern California to Washington State. Singh had purchased his ticket just prior to the flight and then rented a car in Seattle, before driving to the remote area where the drugs were smuggled across the U.S.-Canada border.

    “Mr. Singh trafficked more than 170 pounds of illegal drugs across our northern border into the United States,” stated Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker. This seizure, which was one of the largest ever in Eastern Washington, had a street value exceeding $7.8 million. Today’s guilty verdict sends a clear message that those who seek to exploit our nation’s borders by flooding our communities with dangerous controlled substances will be held accountable for their crimes.”

    “The transnational drug trafficking organization for whom Singh worked had identified the ideal, isolated location in rural Washington to smuggle illegal drugs across the northern border,” continued Acting United States Attorney Barker. “Fortunately, our team of experienced Border Patrol agents were ready, and they intercepted this poison before it could harm communities in Eastern Washington.”

    “International drug traffickers like Mr. Singh profit by flooding our country with illicit, dangerous drugs that harm our citizens,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “I am gratified that we, at the Drug Enforcement Administration, can stand with our partners in the U.S. Border Patrol and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to hold people like Mr. Singh accountable for their crimes.”

    “Spokane Sector agents are vigilantly safeguarding our borders, swiftly detecting, and interdicting cross-border smuggling activities. This conviction highlights the Spokane Border Patrol Sector’s unwavering commitment to protecting communities from illicit drugs and those who attempt to smuggle them across our borders,” said Jason Liebe, Acting Chief Patrol Agent of the Spokane Sector for the U.S. Border Patrol.

    This case was investigated by the United States Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alison L. Gregoire and Dan Fruchter.

    2:23-cr-00052-TOR

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Longtime Rollin’ 60s Crips Leader and Show Business Entrepreneur Charged in Federal Complaint Alleging Racketeering Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A longtime leader of the South Los Angeles-based Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips street gang – who also is an entertainment entrepreneur and a self-proclaimed community activist – has been charged in a federal complaint alleging he ran a criminal enterprise that committed a series of racketeering crimes, including extortion, human trafficking, fraud, and the 2021 murder of an aspiring rap musician, the Justice Department announced today.

    Eugene Henley Jr., 58, a.k.a. “Big U,” of the Hyde Park neighborhood of South Los Angeles, is charged in the complaint with conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

    Two other alleged members of the criminal enterprise – Sylvester Robinson, 59, a.k.a. “Vey,” of Northridge, and Mark Martin, 50, a.k.a. “Bear Claw,” of the Beverlywood area of Los Angeles – were arrested today on the same criminal complaint in which Henley is charged. 

    Robinson, and Martin are expected to make their initial appearances this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. Henley is considered a fugitive.

    “The allegations in the complaint unsealed today reveal a criminal enterprise that engaged in murder, extortion, human trafficking, and fraud – all led by a supposed anti-gang activist and purported music entrepreneur who was nothing more than a violent street criminal,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “Eliminating gangs and organized crime is the Department of Justice’s top priority. Today’s charges and arrests target the leadership of this criminal outfit and will make the neighborhoods of Los Angeles safer. I am grateful for the work of our prosecutors and law enforcement partners.”

    “The lead defendant and others in this case have for too long gotten away with violent acts and stealing money from taxpayers and well-intentioned donors whether they use intimidation tactics or wield influence as rehabilitated original gangsters,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI and our partners have worked for four years to bring justice in this case and will continue to rule out this kind of criminal behavior plaguing the streets of Los Angeles.”

    In total, law enforcement in the last 24 hours arrested 10 Rollin’ 60s members and associates who are charged with various federal crimes, including drug trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and firearms offenses. Four defendants already were in custody. Law enforcement is seeking the whereabouts of five other defendants – three of whom are expected to be in custody shortly. Two defendants, including Henley, are considered fugitives.

    According to an affidavit filed with the criminal complaint filed Monday and unsealed today, from 2010 to the present, Henley’s criminal group – identified in court documents as the “Big U Enterprise” – operated as a mafia-like organization that utilized Henley’s stature and long-standing association with the Rollin’ 60s and other street gangs to intimidate businesses and individuals in Los Angeles. Henley is widely regarded as a leader within the Rollin’ 60s and rose to prominence in the street gang during the 1980s.

    While the Big U Enterprise at times partnered with the Rollin’s 60s and other criminal elements for mutual benefit, the Big U Enterprise is a distinct and independent criminal enterprise engaged in criminal activity including murder, extortion, robbery, trafficking and exploiting sex workers, fraud, and illegal gambling.

    For example, in January 2021, Henley murdered a victim – identified in the affidavit as “R.W.” – an aspiring musician signed to Uneek Music, Henley and Martin’s music label. Shortly before R.W.’s murder, Henley and Uneek Music paid for R.W. to travel to Las Vegas to record music at a Grammy Award-winning music producer’s studio.

    But R.W. did not record at the agreed-upon rate and instead recorded a defamatory song about Henley, causing Henley and Robinson to travel to Las Vegas to confront him. Henley allegedly drove R.W. to North Las Vegas, shot him in the head, and dragged the victim’s body off Interstate 15 into the desert and left it in a ditch. Henley returned to Los Angeles with Robinson and ordered studio workers to leave while his associate removed security surveillance footage from the studio. Henley allegedly later ordered witnesses to not speak with law enforcement about R.W.’s murder.  

    Not only did the enterprise expand its power through violence, fear, and intimidation, but it also used social media platforms, documentaries, podcasts, interviews, and Henley’s reputation and status as an “O.G.” (original gangster) to create fame for – and stoke fear of – the Big U Enterprise, its members, and its associates. 

    In furtherance of the enterprise, Henley allegedly submitted a fraudulent application for a COVID-19 pandemic relief loan in which he claimed that Uneek Music was operating at a $200,000 profit in 2019 despite operating at a $5,000 loss that year, which should have disqualified it from loan eligibility. 

    The enterprise also enriched itself by defrauding donors to nonprofit entities under the control of the Big U Enterprise, including Henley’s charity, Developing Options, a Hyde Park-based nonprofit. Henley marketed Developing Options as giving South Los Angeles youth alternative choices to gang violence, drugs, and other criminal activity. But the Big U Enterprise allegedly used it as a front for fraudulent purposes and to insulate its members from suspicion by law enforcement. 

    Henley allegedly embezzled large donations that celebrities and award-winning companies made to Developing Options, which Henley immediately converted to his personal bank account. According to the complaint, Developing Options is primarily funded through the City of Los Angeles’s Mayor’s Office through the Gang Reduction Youth Development (GRYD) Foundation, portions of which receive federal funding, but also receives donations from prominent sources, including NBA players. 

    “The RICO charges against Mr. Henley and his associates reflect a pattern of crimes that runs the gambit from extortion to tax evasion, all under the umbrella of a well-organized criminal organization led by Mr. Henley,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “Additionally, Mr. Henley allegedly duped the County of Los Angeles by running a charitable organization that promoted anti-gang solutions while continuing criminal activity that was directly contrary to his charity. IRS-CI is proud to partner with fellow law enforcement organizations to investigate these criminal organizations to protect our communities from further harm.”

    “From day one, the Los Angeles Police Department has been proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the FBI in this critical investigation,” said Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell. “The invaluable expertise provided by the Operations South Bureau FBI Task Force on the Rollin’ 60’s criminal street gang has played a pivotal role in securing these charges. This is a major step forward in our ongoing fight against gang violence, and it brings hope and relief to a community that has endured far too much. Together, we will continue to protect and serve, working tirelessly to ensure the safety of our neighborhoods.”

    Criminal complaints and indictments contain allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted, Henley would face a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison. If convicted, Robinson, and Martin would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. 

    The FBI’s Los Angeles Metropolitan Task Force on Violent Gangs; IRS Criminal Investigation; the United States Department of Justice Office of Inspector General; the Los Angeles Police Department; and the North Las Vegas Police Department are investigating this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin J. Butler and Jena A. MacCabe of the Violent and Organized Crime Section are prosecuting this case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Update following fatal collision in Aldwych

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are continuing to investigate a fatal collision in Aldwych on Tuesday, 18 March.

    Emergency services were called to a location close to The Strand, near King’s College London’s campus at 11:41hrs following a collision involving a van and pedestrians.

    Sadly, a woman in her 20s was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family have been made aware and continue to be supported by specialist officers.

    A 27-year-old woman was taken to hospital where she remains in a serious condition. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. A 23-year-old man was taken to hospital and has since been discharged.

    Police arrested the driver of the van, a 26-year-old man at the scene on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He was further arrested whilst in custody on suspicion of drug driving offences. He has since been bailed with conditions while enquiries continue.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah, in charge of policing for the area said:

    “This was a tragic incident which has deeply affected the community.

    “I commend the actions of the emergency services and members of the public, who provided aid to those involved who tried to save this young woman’s life and help the others who were injured.

    “This area of London is extremely busy and those who have been in the area over the last 24 hours would have noticed an increased police presence as our enquiries continue.

    “Cordons have since been lifted, however we continue to work with those in the area, including King’s College London.

    “We are aware of inaccurate speculation online about this incident being terrorism related. We ask the public to refrain from this speculation to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and avoid causing further suffering to the family of the young woman.

    “Our thoughts remain with the family of the young woman who has died.”

    Chief Superintendent Thomas Naughton of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command said:

    “Our team is continuing to establish the facts around this extremely upsetting incident.

    “The investigation remains in the early stages and officers continue to gather CCTV and obtain witness statements from those at the scene.

    “The 26-year-old man who was arrested has since been bailed whilst our enquiries continue. This is a complex investigation which remains a priority to ensure justice for those affected.”

    Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or post @MetCC ref CAD 2771/18MARCH.

    To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two women charged after October 2023 protest

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two women have been charged with intending or likely to stir up racial hatred contrary to Sec 18(1) of the Public Order Act following an incident during a protest March in central London.

    Hadjer Boumazouna 27 (27.08.1997) and Fatiha Boumazouna 53 (15.07.1971), both of Croydon, are both due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 21 March. They were both charged via postal charge requisition in February.

    The charges relate to an incident near Trafalgar Square during a march organised by the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign on Saturday, 28 October 2023.

    The two women attended a police station and were arrested on 29 October 2023 after an appeal was issued on the Met’s X account

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Employee of Marshall Mathers, AKA Eminem, Charged with Criminal Infringement of a Copyright and Interstate Transportation of Stolen Goods

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DETROIT – Joseph Strange, 46, of Holly, Michigan and a former employee of Marshall Mathers, AKA Eminem, was charged in a criminal complaint with criminal infringement of a copyright and interstate transportation of stolen goods in connection with the sale of unreleased music created by Eminem, announced Acting United States Attorney Julie Beck.

    Beck was joined in the announcement by Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Detroit Field Office (Michigan).

    According to the criminal complaint, on or about January 16, 2025, the FBI was contacted by employees of Mathers’s music studio in Ferndale, Michigan who recently discovered unreleased music created by Mathers that was available on the internet. This music was still in the process of being developed by Mathers. The employees obtained an image of a list of the music that Mathers had created, but not released, and was for sale through various internet sites. The employees recognized this as an image taken directly from a hard drive in the Ferndale studio. The FBI was able to identify and locate multiple individuals that purchased the unreleased music.  These individuals identified Joseph Strange as the person who was selling the music.   Strange was an employee of Marshall Mathers from approximately 2007 until 2021.

    “Protecting intellectual property from thieves is critical in safeguarding the exclusive rights of creators and protecting their original work from reproduction and distribution by individuals who seek to profit from the creative output of others,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Beck.

    “This investigation underscores the FBI’s commitment to safeguarding artists’ intellectual property from exploitation by individuals seeking to profit illegally,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Thanks to the cooperation of Mathers Music Studio, FBI agents from the Oakland County Resident Agency were able to swiftly enforce federal laws and ensure Joseph Strange was held accountable for his actions.”

    If convicted on the charge of criminal infringement of a copyright, Strange faces a statutory maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.  A conviction on of the charge of interstate transportation of stolen goods, carries a statutory maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison.

    A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Trial cannot be held on felony charges in a complaint. When the investigation is completed, a determination will be made whether to seek a felony indictment.

    This case is being investigated by special agents of the FBI Oakland County Resident Agency and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Wyse and Alyse Wu.

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