Friday, May 22, 2026

Fitchburg Detective Honored With Hometown Hero Award

Detective Trundle and U.S. Attorney Elgersma Standing With Award

MADISON, WIS. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Wisconsin proudly announces that Detective Jordan Trundle of the Fitchburg Police Department has been awarded the inaugural Hometown Hero Award sponsored by the U.S. Department of Justice in honor of America’s 250th birthday.

In a ceremony today, U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma presented Detective Trundle the award in recognition of his outstanding work as a Task Force Officer with ATF Madison’s Crime Gun Task Force. The task force was formed to reduce gun violence by removing handguns from felons, drug traffickers, and other prohibited persons. The task force also aims to eliminate dangerous machine guns and machine gun conversion devices from Wisconsin communities.

Since joining the task force in July 2024, Detective Trundle has worked tirelessly to make the Fitchburg Police Department a model agency for processing crime guns. Detective Trundle has worked to streamline his department’s procedures for documenting and analyzing firearms used in the commission of federal and state crimes. Detective Trundle has also led in service training sessions to ensure his fellow officers are educated on the new procedures. Through his efforts, Detective Trundle has personally opened approximately two dozen federal firearms cases which have led to eighteen indictments.   

In addition to his contributions to the Crime Gun Task Force,  Detective Trundle was recognized in May 2024 by the Fitchburg Police Department for his outstanding service during a shots fired incident. He has participated in training for the department’s Citizens Academy, including conducting demonstrations on building clearing tactics and K9 apprehension.

“Today we honor one of our absolute best,” said U.S. Attorney Elgersma. “The Western District of Wisconsin is proud to recognize Detective Trundle for his exceptional work and service to his fellow Wisconsinites. He is an extraordinary example of what a law enforcement officer can be, and I am grateful for his continued service.”

The Hometown Hero Award was created in honor of the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The U.S. Department of Justice is proud to honor law enforcement across the country with recognition of the extraordinary service to their fellow citizens.

MAN CHARGED FOR UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A FIREARM AFTER SHOOTING AT GRAND PRAIRIE POLICE OFFICERS.

A previously convicted felon who shot at Grand Prairie Police Department (GPPD) officers during a domestic violence investigation was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould. 

“The Chief in Grand Prairie has been a great friend to this office and to our collective efforts in rooting out violent crime in North Texas.  I told him when I met with him months ago that we would stand up for the men and women under his charge.  Today I’m keeping my promise.  We will always go after those who try to intimidate and harm our great law enforcement officers in North Texas.”

The complaint alleges that on May 2, 2026, GPPD officers were dispatched to investigate a domestic disturbance after a child called to report that things had gotten “physical” while their mom and her boyfriend were arguing.  Upon arrival at the scene, GPPD officers encountered Malik Williams sitting in a silver Altima.  Upon seeing the mother in a blood-stained shirt, officers told Williams that he was not free to leave.  Williams immediately sped off in the Altima and officers pursued with their lights and sirens activated.  Eventually, a GPPD officer executed a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver to force Williams’ car to stop and block the driver’s door so that Williams could not escape.

As the officer got out of his patrol vehicle, Williams shot at him with an AR-15 rifle. A second officer then returned fire. Williams surrendered after he was struck and injured.  He was then taken to a hospital.  Investigators later learned that Williams was on parole for six prior felonies—five of them involving domestic violence against the same domestic violence victim in this case.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Grand Prairie Police Department conducted the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Walt Junker is prosecuting the case. 

U.S. Attorney’s Office Honors Law Enforcement Partners and “Hometown Heroes” During National Police Week

INDIANAPOLIS- On May 15, 2026, United States Attorney Tom Wheeler recognized more than 160 individuals from 33 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies during the Office’s annual awards ceremony at the Indiana War Memorial & Museum in downtown Indianapolis. Held during National Police Week, the ceremony honored law enforcement professionals whose exceptional work safeguarded communities across Indiana in cases concluded in 2025.

In commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, the U.S. Attorney’s Office named Matt and Laurie Shahnavaz—Founders of the Remember Officer Noah Foundation—as the 2026 Hometown Heroes. This award honors the enduring American ideals of liberty, service, and civic responsibility. Matt and Laurie were recognized for their extraordinary service, unwavering devotion to their community, and steadfast support of law enforcement in carrying forward the mission and legacy of fallen Elwood Police Officer Noah Jacob Shahnavaz.

 Case Awards:

Outstanding Collaborative Investigation

Recognizes cases demonstrating exceptional teamwork and the ability to overcome significant challenges through multi‑agency coordination.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Carranza, et al and U.S. v. Patients Choice Labs

 Project Safe Childhood – Shield of Innocence

Honors those who provide extraordinary assistance to victims of federal child sexual abuse crimes, including sustained emotional support, extensive off‑duty dedication, detailed financial analysis to secure restitution, and resolving complex investigative challenges.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Austin Ryan Lauless, U.S. v. Bryan Lee Fish, and U.S. v. Moises Bojorquez

 L.E.A.T.H Heroism Award

Presented to a case demonstrating extraordinary commitment and fortitude in pursuing justice for domestic violence victims. The award honors IMPD Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance. The LEATH Initiative—led by ATF, IMPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office—focuses on domestic violence offenders who illegally possess firearms or have significant violent criminal histories.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Pedro Zuniga-Lopez

 Investigative Excellence Award

Recognizes cases that significantly advanced the mission of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice through complex, thorough, and proactive evidence analysis.

Awarded to:  U.S. v. Julian Green, et al and U.S. v. Freire-Pifferrer, et al

 Excellence in the Pursuit of Justice

Presented to a case in which local, state, and federal officials achieved extraordinary results in preventing crime, enhancing community safety, and seeking justice.

Awarded to: U.S. v. James Henley, et al

 Community Impact

Recognizes a case that produced widespread, positive impact on constituents, strengthened law enforcement relationships, and contributed to the lasting legacy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Desha MorrisU.S. v. Aaron Strong and U.S. v. Kristopher McDonald

 Outstanding Agency Service

Presented to cases that substantially contributed to the mission of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Lawrence TaylorU.S. v. Otha Watkins IIU.S. v. Jeremy MackU.S. v. Mitchell Gibson and Quaylan Anderson v. United States.

Excellence in Appellate Practice

Recognizes an appellate case exemplifying excellence in legal writing, issue preservation, and advocacy before the appellate courts, contributing meaningfully to the development of the law and the protection of the United States’ interests.

Awarded to: U.S. v. Fenner, et al

Participating Agencies

Honorees represented the following 33 agencies:

  • Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
  • Drug Enforcement Administration
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation – Indianapolis and Tampa
  • Federal Bureau of Prisons – FCC Terre Haute
  • Homeland Security Investigations – Indianapolis and Cleveland
  • IRS–Criminal Investigation
  • U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Maryland
  • U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General
  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General
  • U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Frauds Section
  • U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division
  • U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General
  • U.S. Postal Inspection Service
  • Indiana Attorney General’s Homeowner Protection Unit
  • Indiana Family and Social Services Administration
  • Indiana State Police
  • Charlestown Police Department
  • Clarksville Police Department
  • Cleveland, Ohio Police Department
  • Evansville Police Department
  • Fishers Police Department
  • Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office
  • Henry County Sheriff’s Office
  • Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
  • Jeffersonville Police Department
  • Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office
  • Morgan County Sheriff’s Office
  • New Castle Police Department
  • Plainfield Police Department
  • Princeton Police Department
  • Richmond Police Department
  • Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office
  • Zionsville Police Department

Friday, May 15, 2026

Liberty County felon sentenced to 14 years in federal prison after taking firearm from law enforcement officers during courtroom scuffle

BEAUMONT, Texas – A Liberty convicted felon has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

Allen Joe Fregia, Sr., 48, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone on May 14, 2026.

According to information presented in court, on April 29, 2025, Fregia was a defendant in a Liberty County courtroom where he had just been sentenced to prison by a State District Judge.  As he was being escorted out of the courtroom by several law enforcement officers, Fregia became enraged and noncompliant, and a scuffle ensued. During the altercation, Fregia removed a firearm from an officer’s gun holster. The officer was able to retrieve the firearm as other officers were able to subdue Fregia.  During the altercation, an officer suffered injuries that required medical attention. Fregia, a previously convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing the firearm.

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

This case was investigated by the Texas Rangers, Liberty County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tommy Coleman.

Saturday, May 09, 2026

Long Beach Man Sentenced to 2½ Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Molotov Cocktail at Anti-ICE Protest Last Year in Downtown L.A.

LOS ANGELES – A Long Beach man who possessed a Molotov cocktail during an anti-immigration enforcement protest in downtown Los Angeles last year was sentenced today to 30 months in federal prison.

Wrackkie Quiogue, 28, was sentenced by United States District Judge Anne Hwang. 

Quiogue pleaded guilty in November 2025 to one count of possession of an unregistered destructive device. He has been in federal custody since June 2025.

In June 2025, federal law enforcement officials began conducting immigration enforcement operations throughout the greater Los Angeles area. During and following those operations, protests occurred in and around Los Angeles County. While many of the protestors peacefully exercised their First Amendment rights, some individuals directly engaged in violent actions to obstruct, impede, or injure law enforcement officers.

One such protest that turned violent occurred on June 8, 2025, in the Civic Center area of downtown Los Angeles. Members of the crowd threw rocks and bottles at law enforcement officials. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) declared an unlawful assembly. 

One police officer witnessed Quiogue possessing a Molotov cocktail. The glass bottle he held contained a flammable liquid (ethanol) and a source of ignition, namely a yellow piece of cloth soaked in ethanol, which acted as a wick. 

Fearing that Quiogue would light the Molotov cocktail and throw it at the officers, police approached Quiogue, causing him to attempt to flee. As the LAPD officers pursued him, Quiogue threw the unlit Molotov cocktail into the air. LAPD officers subdued and arrested Quiogue, who was holding a lighter in his right hand.

Quiogue admitted to knowingly possessing the destructive device and that he had not registered it with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required by federal law.

“Unlike many of the individuals in the crowd, who were gathered to peacefully exercise their First Amendment rights and protest immigration enforcement operations, [Quiogue] came prepared to instigate violence and inflict harm on the law enforcement officers assigned to protect the Roybal Federal Building,” prosecutors argued in a sentencing memorandum. “[Quiogue]’s premeditated actions endangered the law enforcement officers protecting Roybal Federal Building and the civilians who gathered to peacefully protest.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this matter with the assistance of the Los Angeles Police Department.

Assistant United States Attorney David C. Lachman of the Major Frauds Section prosecuted this case.

Friday, May 01, 2026

Star Prairie Sporting Goods Store Burglarized, $10,000 Reward Offered

STAR PRAIRIE, Wis. – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), in partnership with the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for a February 12, 2026, burglary of a federally licensed firearms dealer in Star Prairie, Wisconsin.

The St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office and ATF are investigating the early-morning break-in, during which a suspect entered through a window and stole nearly 50 firearms and a large quantity of ammunition.

Anyone with information is asked to call the St. Croix County Sheriff’s Office at 715-386-4701 or email tipline@sccwi.gov 

Former Dallas Police Department Sergeant Sentenced to 28 Months in Federal Prison for Selling Stolen Service Weapons

A former Dallas Police Department sergeant who sold stolen service weapons was sentenced to 28 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould.

Thomas Fry, 53, of Royse City, Texas, was sentenced on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, by United States District Judge Brantley Starr for possession and sale of a stolen firearm.

“This police officer violated his oath and the public’s trust when he chose to commit a crime,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “Our law enforcement partners work day and night to keep us safe and enforce the law, and our trust and faith in them will not waiver.  We will work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to root out the few bad apples among their ranks.”

“This case strikes at the core of public trust,” said Brian Garner Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Dallas Field Division. “The very individuals entrusted to safeguard our communities must be held to the highest standard. When that trust is violated through the theft and illegal sale of firearms, it endangers the public and undermines the integrity of law enforcement. This 28-month federal sentence sends a clear message: no one is above the law, and those who abuse their authority will be held accountable. ATF remains committed to working alongside our partners to protect our communities and prevent illegal firearms trafficking.

Court records reveal that Fry, who at the time was a sergeant with the Dallas Police Department, admitted to three separate instances of taking a firearm owned by the Dallas Police Department, knowing that the firearms were stolen, and selling them to an Oklahoma pawn shop in June and July of 2022.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Dallas Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marty Basu prosecuted the case.

Friday, April 24, 2026

Pensacola Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Threatening a Pensacola Police Department Detective

Pensacola, Florida – Tamal W. Jenkins, 20, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison for interstate threatening communication with intent to extort. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the brave men and women of law enforcement who are on the front lines in the fight against crime. They deserve our gratitude and respect for placing themselves in harm’s way every day to keep our communities safe. As this case demonstrates, anyone who harms or threatens to harm a law enforcement officer will be aggressively prosecuted by my office and held accountable.”

Court documents reveal that, in July 2025, the Pensacola Police Department arrested suspects during a homicide investigation. Within days of the arrest, one of the responsible Pensacola Police Detectives received an electronic text message threatening to kill the Detective if she did not release the suspects who are now facing homicide charges.  Through legal process and electronic investigative techniques, law enforcement identified Jenkins as the person who made the threat against the Detective for acting in the course of her official duties.

Jenkins imprisonment will be followed by three years of federal supervised release.  Jenkins also faces a violation of prior state-ordered probation for firearm and drug offenses.

Pensacola Police Chief Eric Winstrom said: “Threats of violence against those upholding the law cannot be tolerated. The Pensacola Police Department is grateful to our federal partners for recognizing the gravity of this incident and ensuring Mr. Jenkins is held accountable.”

The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Pensacola Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg.

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.

Sunday, April 19, 2026

The Anatomy of Elder Fraud: Ten Scams Every Family Should Recognize

Financial crimes against older adults are not isolated incidents. They are structured, repeatable, and increasingly sophisticated. What appears to be a single deceptive phone call or email is often part of a broader pattern of exploitation that targets trust, urgency, and vulnerability.

The scope of the problem is significant. Each year, an estimated one in ten adults age 60 and older experience some form of abuse, including financial exploitation, with many cases going unreported (Sill & Haskins, 2025) . Financial fraud alone has resulted in billions of dollars in losses among older Americans, with over $3.4 billion reported lost to scams targeting individuals aged 60 and older in 2023 (Federal Bureau of Investigation [FBI], 2024). These figures likely underrepresent the true scale due to underreporting driven by embarrassment, fear, or lack of awareness (Federal Trade Commission [FTC], 2023).

Understanding how these scams operate is essential. What follows is a breakdown of ten of the most common schemes and how they are carried out.

Tech Support Scams

The victim receives a pop-up message, email, or phone call claiming their computer is infected or compromised. The scammer impersonates a legitimate company and instructs the victim to grant remote access. Once inside the system, the offender may install malware, access financial information, or demand payment for fake repairs. These scams rely on fear and technical confusion to gain control (FBI, 2024).

Government Impersonation Scams

Scammers pose as representatives of agencies such as the IRS or Social Security Administration. Victims are told they owe money or face legal consequences. Payment is demanded immediately, often through untraceable methods like gift cards. These scams exploit authority and urgency, two factors shown to increase compliance (FTC, 2023).

Grandparent Scams

The offender impersonates a grandchild or relative in distress, often claiming arrest or injury. The victim is urged to send money quickly and not inform others. This tactic relies on emotional manipulation and family loyalty, which are particularly effective among older adults (FBI, 2024).

Romance Scams

Offenders build relationships through online platforms, gaining trust over time. Eventually, they request money for emergencies or opportunities. In 2023, romance scams accounted for some of the highest financial losses among fraud categories, particularly affecting older victims (FBI, 2024). These scams succeed because they exploit emotional connection rather than immediate deception.

Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams

Victims are told they have won a prize but must pay fees or taxes to receive it. The promise of a reward is paired with urgency, discouraging verification. The FTC reports that such scams continue to target older adults despite longstanding public awareness campaigns (FTC, 2023).

Investment Scams

These schemes promise high returns with little risk, often involving cryptocurrency or real estate. Victims are persuaded to invest large sums. According to the FBI, investment scams resulted in the highest reported financial losses among fraud types in 2023 (FBI, 2024). These scams exploit financial security concerns and the desire for stability in retirement.

Phishing and Email Scams

Fraudulent messages impersonate legitimate institutions, directing victims to fake websites or requesting credentials. Once access is obtained, accounts are compromised. The increasing digital engagement of older adults has expanded exposure to these tactics (Internet Crime Complaint Center [IC3], 2024).

Charity Scams

Following disasters or crises, scammers pose as charitable organizations and solicit donations. Victims are pressured to act quickly. The National Council on Aging notes that older adults are particularly vulnerable due to their higher likelihood of charitable giving (National Council on Aging [NCOA], 2023).

Home Repair and Contractor Fraud

Scammers approach homeowners offering urgent or discounted repairs. Payment is requested upfront, and work is either incomplete or never performed. Older adults are targeted due to higher rates of homeownership and a desire to maintain independence (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau [CFPB], 2022).

Business Email Compromise and Account Takeover

Scammers gain access to email accounts and impersonate trusted contacts. They request transfers or redirect payments. These schemes are highly effective because they leverage existing relationships rather than creating new ones (IC3, 2024).

The Pattern Beneath the Scams

Despite differences in execution, these scams share common elements: exploitation of trust, creation of urgency, and limitation of verification. Older adults are disproportionately targeted due to factors such as social isolation, cognitive decline, and financial stability (Sill & Haskins, 2025) . Research indicates that financial exploitation often occurs within relationships of trust, further complicating detection and reporting (CFPB, 2022).

What Families Can Do

Prevention requires more than awareness. It requires structure and involvement. Families play a critical role in reducing risk.

  1. Maintain consistent communication
    Regular contact reduces isolation, a known risk factor for exploitation (NCOA, 2023).

  2. Encourage verification of financial requests
    Creating a habit of pausing and confirming requests can disrupt scam attempts (FTC, 2023).

  3. Monitor financial activity when appropriate
    Early detection of unusual transactions is key to limiting losses (CFPB, 2022).

  4. Educate about common scam tactics
    Awareness of patterns increases resistance to manipulation (FBI, 2024).

  5. Establish trusted advisors or contacts
    Having a designated person to consult before financial decisions adds a layer of protection (NCOA, 2023).


Conclusion

Elder fraud is not simply a collection of isolated crimes. It is a system of exploitation built on predictable human factors. As the population ages and technology evolves, these schemes will continue to adapt.

Understanding how these scams work is essential, but it is not sufficient. Protection depends on relationships, communication, and the presence of trusted systems that reduce isolation and increase accountability.

The challenge is not eliminating risk entirely. It is ensuring that when risk appears, it is met with awareness, structure, and support.

References

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2022). Suspicious activity reports on elder financial exploitation.

Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2024). Internet crime report 2023.

Federal Trade Commission. (2023). Protecting older consumers report.

Internet Crime Complaint Center. (2024). Elder fraud report.

National Council on Aging. (2023). Top scams targeting older adults.

Sill, K., & Haskins, P. A. (2025). Studies of mistreatment of older adults offer solutions to an urgent and growing societal problem. National Institute of Justice Journal.

Friday, April 17, 2026

Baltimore Man Sentenced for Armed Robberies, Carjacking, Assaulting Federal Officer

Baltimore, Maryland – A Baltimore man is headed to federal prison for his role in robbing multiple local commercial businesses and then later assaulting a Deputy U.S. Marshal while at the U.S. Courthouse in Baltimore.

U.S. District Court Judge Ellen L. Hollander sentenced Sharif Northington, 23, of Baltimore, to 10 years in prison for interfering with commerce by robbery, and using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Northington also received one year in prison, consecutive to the 10-year sentence, for intentionally assaulting an officer and employee of the United States. In September 2024, following a court proceeding at the U.S. Courthouse in Baltimore, Northington threatened and then assaulted the Deputy U.S. Marshals escorting him to his cell.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Clinton J. Fuchs, U.S. Marshal for the District of Maryland (USMS); Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD); and Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD).

According to court documents, in November 2022, Northington conspired with co-conspirators Devin Grimes, 27, of Baltimore, and John Hyman, 21, of Baltimore, to commit armed commercial robberies and at least one armed carjacking.  During each robbery and carjacking, the co-conspirators used a firearm while demanding money, a vehicle, and/or other items.

On November 29, Northington, Grimes, and Hyman — who were wearing masks and hoods — entered a Northeast Baltimore 7-Eleven convenience store. Grimes brandished a handgun and then proceeded to rob the store with Northington and Hyman.  The suspects stole money from the cash register and then fled the store.  But unknown to the suspects, the stolen cash included a money tracker which helped law enforcement officers track their movements. In response, both BPD and BCPD dispatched officers, detectives, and aviation squads to locate the suspects.

The co-conspirators then went to a carry-out restaurant, less than a mile away. Upon entering, Grimes went to the back of the restaurant and brandished a handgun. He then confronted a delivery driver and robbed the man of the keys in his pocket.  Then Grimes returned to the register and demanded the cashier open the register. Grimes then removed money from the register before the three co-conspirators fled the store in the delivery man’s vehicle.

BPD and BCPD aviation units soon located and apprehended the co-conspirators. During the arrests, law enforcement recovered a loaded Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol, money, and a money tracker from Grimes.  Law enforcement also discovered additional cash in the vehicle. 

In December 2024, Judge Hollander sentenced Grimes to 10 years in federal prison. Then in September 2025, Judge Hollander sentenced Hyman to 10 years in prison for his role in the crimes.        

U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes commended the ATF, USMS, BPD, and BCPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sippel who prosecuted this federal case.