Former New Mexico House of Representatives Candidate Charged for Shooting Spree

 Albuquerque, New Mexico - Solomon Peña, a former candidate for the New Mexico House of Representatives, has been charged in an indictment unsealed today for a shooting spree targeting the homes of four elected officials. The charges were filed in the District of New Mexico.

According to court documents, Solomon Peña, 40, ran for District 14 of the New Mexico House of Representatives during the November 2022 mid-term elections. Allegedly, after his electoral defeat in November 2022, Peña organized a series of shootings targeting the homes of two Bernalillo County commissioners and two New Mexico state legislators. These shootings, one of which involved the use of a machine gun, took place between December 4, 2022, and January 3, with the assistance of co-conspirators Demetrio Trujillo, 41, Jose Trujillo, 22, and others.

Before the shootings occurred, Peña reportedly visited the homes of at least three Bernalillo County commissioners, urging them not to certify the election results and claiming that the election had been rigged against him. Following the certification of the vote by the Bernalillo County board of commissioners, Peña allegedly hired individuals to carry out the shootings, and he himself participated in at least one of them. Shockingly, at least three of the shootings took place while children and other family members of the targeted officials were present in their homes.

Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department's Criminal Division expressed concern over politically motivated violence, stating, "There is no room in our democracy for politically motivated violence, especially when it is used to undermine election results." He emphasized that acts of violence targeting elected officials and their families not only affect individuals but also harm the entire election system. Polite affirmed the Department's commitment to holding individuals accountable for politically motivated violence.

U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez for the District of New Mexico emphasized the significance of the charges, stating, "These charges strike at the heart of our democracy." He stressed that voters, candidates, and election officials must be able to exercise their rights and perform their duties without fear, intimidation, or influence. Uballez affirmed that law enforcement agencies will take a strong stance against those who attempt to disrupt the will of the people.

Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI's Criminal Investigative Division reaffirmed the commitment of the FBI and its partners to ensuring that violent crime investigations remain a top priority. Quesada stated, "We will continue to pursue justice in cases like these in the name of safety for the American people."

Solomon Peña, Demetrio Trujillo, and Jose Trujillo face charges of conspiracy, interference with federally protected activities, and various firearms offenses, including the use of a machine gun. If convicted, Peña faces a mandatory minimum of 60 years in prison. Additionally, Jose Trujillo is charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and firearms offenses, including possession of a machine gun.

The case was investigated by the FBI and the Albuquerque Police Department. Senior Litigation Counsel Victor R. Salgado of the Criminal Division's Public Integrity Section, along with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy Peña and Patrick E. Cordova for the District of New Mexico, are prosecuting the case.

It is important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

NIC Launches E-Course for Naloxone Administration: A Step Towards Addressing Opioid Overdoses in Correctional Facilities

National Institute of Corrections introduces online training program to equip correctional staff in saving lives

In an effort to combat the alarming rates of opioid-related deaths among incarcerated individuals, the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) has unveiled a new e-course, Naloxone Administration. This online training program aims to educate correctional staff on identifying the risks and hazards associated with opioid exposure, as well as equipping them with life-saving techniques to minimize harm.

With opioid-related deaths in the United States surpassing 90 per day, claiming a life every 21 minutes, the urgency to address this crisis within correctional facilities is paramount. Statistics reveal that drug-related deaths rank among the top three causes of mortality in jails, and the number of people who died in prison due to drugs surged by over 600% between 2001 and 2018 [1],[2]. Recognizing the ongoing significance of the opioid epidemic, NIC developed the Naloxone Administration e-course to ensure that correctional staff across the nation possess the necessary awareness and skills to respond effectively to opioid overdoses.

Mike Ward, NIC's learning specialist and the designer of the e-course, emphasizes the importance of this initiative. "The opioid epidemic is still significant and still bears its presence," Ward states. By extending the availability of the course beyond the Bureau of Prisons to correctional staff nationwide, NIC aims to facilitate widespread awareness and preparedness to address opioid emergencies on a greater scale.

Naloxone Administration provides comprehensive training on recognizing the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose. The e-course offers step-by-step instructions and realistic scenarios to guide participants through the use and application of Naloxone, an opioid antagonist. Through a combination of videos, illustrations, and text-based content, learners gain a thorough understanding of the key steps involved in administering Naloxone.

One notable feature of the e-course is its compliance with the certification requirements for Naloxone application. By completing the Naloxone Administration training, correctional staff can obtain the necessary certification, further reinforcing their ability to respond effectively in opioid emergency situations. The course is conveniently accessible through the NIC Learn Center, providing a user-friendly platform for staff members to enhance their knowledge and skills at their own pace.

The introduction of Naloxone Administration by the National Institute of Corrections signifies a significant step forward in addressing opioid overdoses within correctional facilities. By empowering correctional staff with the tools and knowledge to identify and respond to opioid emergencies, this e-course has the potential to save lives and contribute to the overall well-being of incarcerated individuals.

You can find the e-course in the NIC Learn Center.

 

Chicago Man Wanted for Murder Added to the FBI’s List of Ten Most Wanted Fugitives

 FBI Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Chicago Field Office Jeffrey S. Sallet and Chief Richard Shore of the Burbank Police Department (BPD) in Illinois announced today the addition of an alleged murderer, Arnoldo Jimenez, to the FBI’s list of Ten Most Wanted Fugitives.

Jimenez, 37, is the 522nd fugitive to be named to the FBI’s list of Ten Most Wanted Fugitives, which has been in existence since 1950. Jimenez is being sought for his alleged involvement in the murder of his new wife the morning after their wedding. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

On May 12, 2012, Jimenez allegedly stabbed his wife to death in his black, four-door, 2006 Maserati, then allegedly dragged her body into the bathroom tub of her apartment in Burbank, Illinois. Jimenez was charged with first degree murder by the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, and a state warrant was issued for his arrest on May 15, 2012. A federal arrest warrant was issued by the United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, on May 17, 2012, after Jimenez was charged federally with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

Select to view related story, poster, and other information

“Arnoldo Jimenez is accused of brutally stabbing his wife to death just hours after their wedding. Because of this horrific crime, a family has forever lost their mother, daughter, and sister,” said SAC Sallet. “Our local, state, and federal partners have worked tirelessly on this investigation, and we are now asking for the public’s assistance to ensure that Jimenez is swiftly brought to justice.”

“I first want to express my condolences to the victim’s family for their tragic loss seven years ago, and thank the FBI for their assistance, commitment, and dedication in our investigation,” said Chief Shore. “This collaborative partnership will continue until Arnoldo Jimenez is apprehended and brought to justice, and I ask for the public’s assistance in locating Arnoldo Jimenez.”

Jimenez may have fled to Durango, Mexico, specifically in the area of Santiago Papasquiaro. He may also frequent Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. He has previously resided in Chicago, Illinois.

Jimenez also uses the aliases Arnoldo Gimenez and Arnoldo Rochel Jimenz. He is described as follows:

• DOB Used: February 19, 1982
• Place of Birth: Texas
• Hair: Black
• Eyes: Brown
• Height: 6’0”
• Weight: 200 to 225 pounds
• Race: White (Hispanic)
• Nationality: American

Additional information and wanted posters in English and Spanish can be found at this link: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/topten

The FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list was established in March 1950. Since then, 488 fugitives have been apprehended or located; 162 of them were apprehended as a result of citizen cooperation.

Since its inception, there have been 30 fugitives wanted from the Chicago region placed on the list. In addition, 29 fugitives that have been placed on the list were arrested in the Chicago region.

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the arrest of Arnoldo Jimenez. Anyone with information concerning Jimenez should take no action themselves, but should immediately contact the nearest FBI office or local law enforcement agency.

All information can remain anonymous and confidentiality is guaranteed. Individuals from outside of the United States should contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Calls may also be directed to 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). The FBI’s Chicago Field Office may be reached at 312-421-6700.

This fugitive investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force (SSMCTF) in Chicago. Formed in 1999, the SSMCTF is comprised of 58 south and southwest suburban departments, along with personnel from the Cook County Sheriff’s Police Department, Illinois State Police, and federal partners. The SSMCTF has approximately 150 investigators and crime scene personnel at its disposal, serving a population area of approximately one million.

Kentucky Man Sentenced to 292 Months in Prison for Child Exploitation and Production of Child Pornography

LEXINGTON, Ky.— In a significant development, Sean Ryan Reardon, a 30-year-old resident of Stanford, Ky., has been sentenced to 292 months in federal prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves. Reardon pleaded guilty to charges of enticing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography.

According to Reardon's plea agreement, he met the minor victim in Fall 2019 and initiated communication with the victim via Snapchat in early 2020. Reardon admitted to engaging in sexual contact with the victim at his home and other locations between July 2021 and March 2022. Additionally, he confessed to capturing pictures and videos of these encounters and exchanging sexually explicit content through Snapchat and Google Duo.

Having entered a guilty plea in February 2023, Reardon is required to serve 85 percent of his prison sentence under federal law. Following his release, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years.

The sentence was jointly announced by Carlton S. Shier IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Louisville Field Office; and Col. Phillip Burnett, Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police.

The FBI and Kentucky State Police conducted the investigation, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Melton representing the United States in the case.

This prosecution falls under the purview of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat the alarming rise of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative coordinates federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children online, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

Fugitives Wanted for Aggravated Rape, Robbery, Drug Trafficking, and Auto Theft Successfully Repatriated

Houston, Texas - Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Houston, in coordination with ERO Mexico and the Security Alliance for Fugitive Enforcement (SAFE) Task Force, successfully deported four foreign fugitives to Mexico on May 25. The operation involved the removal of individuals wanted for serious crimes, including aggravated rape of a minor, robbery, drug trafficking, and auto theft. This joint effort demonstrates the commitment to upholding the law and ensuring public safety.

Among the four fugitives, Marco Antonio Alcantar-Lopez, a 19-year-old Mexican national, was wanted for the aggravated rape of a minor. Vladimir Reynaldo Hernandez Aguilar, 27 years old, had previous convictions for robbery. Gilberto Cano-Troncoso, 33 years old, was wanted for drug trafficking, and Perne Vallejo Ayala, 23 years old, was wanted for auto theft. These individuals were apprehended at the Montgomery Processing Center in Conroe, Texas, and subsequently transported to the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo, where they were handed over to Mexican law enforcement authorities.

While residing in the United States, all four fugitives had previous encounters with law enforcement and faced convictions for various crimes. Cano-Troncoso had convictions for burglary of a vehicle, criminal trespass, theft, and probation violation. Vallejo had convictions for illegal reentry into the country. Hernandez faced convictions for failure to stop and give information, possession of a controlled substance, and illegal entry, while Alcantar-Lopez was convicted of driving while intoxicated.

ERO Houston acting Field Office Director Gabriel Martinez emphasized the significance of returning these fugitives to Mexico to face justice for their alleged crimes. By removing them from American communities, not only are public safety threats eliminated, but closure is provided to the victims in Mexico affected by these individuals' actions.

The public is encouraged to report any information about foreign fugitives to ICE through the ICE Tip Line or by completing the online tip form. Cooperation from the community plays a crucial role in ensuring the enforcement of immigration laws and maintaining public safety.

The SAFE Program, established in 2012, facilitated the collaboration between local investigative resources and law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, detain, and remove foreign individuals residing in the U.S. illegally. This program operates under the host nation's AAR (Alien Arrest Record) and includes relevant foreign law enforcement agencies, immigration authorities, attorneys general, and national identification repositories.

As part of ICE's operational directorates, ERO is responsible for domestic immigration enforcement. Its mission is to safeguard the homeland by arresting and removing individuals who undermine the safety of U.S. communities and the integrity of immigration laws. With a dedicated workforce of over 7,700 personnel, ERO carries out interior enforcement operations, manages detained and non-detained populations, and facilitates the repatriation of noncitizens with final orders of removal.

The Chain of Command: Exploring the Organizational Structure of the LAPD

The rank structure of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is a hierarchical system that signifies different levels of authority, responsibility, and leadership within the organization. Here is an outline of the rank structure of the LAPD, starting from the lowest to the highest ranks:

1. Police Officer: Entry-level position responsible for enforcing laws, responding to calls for service, conducting investigations, and maintaining public safety.

2. Police Detective: Assigned to investigative units, detectives specialize in gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and solving complex crimes.

3. Police Sergeant: First-level supervisory position, responsible for overseeing a team of officers, providing guidance, and ensuring the proper execution of duties.

4. Police Lieutenant: Mid-level management position, responsible for overseeing a division or specialized unit, managing personnel, and coordinating operations.

5. Police Captain: High-ranking management position, responsible for commanding a division, bureau, or area command. Captains manage personnel, resources, and operations within their command.

6. Police Commander: Senior management position, responsible for overseeing multiple divisions or bureaus, setting strategic goals, and implementing departmental policies.

7. Deputy Chief: Second-in-command to the Chief of Police, responsible for managing a specific area of responsibility, such as operations, investigations, or administrative services.

8. Assistant Chief: Assists the Chief of Police in overall departmental management, policy development, and decision-making.

9. Chief of Police: The highest-ranking position in the LAPD, responsible for the overall administration, management, and leadership of the department. The Chief sets the department's goals, policies, and strategies.

It's important to note that the LAPD may have additional specialized ranks or positions within certain units or divisions. These ranks and positions can include specialized detectives, tactical officers, supervisors of specialized units, and executive-level positions. The rank structure of the LAPD is designed to provide clear lines of authority, effective leadership, and efficient management of resources to ensure public safety and uphold the law in the city of Los Angeles.

From Crimebusters to Counterintelligence: A Journey Through the History of the FBI

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is one of the most renowned law enforcement agencies in the United States, playing a vital role in protecting the nation from crime, terrorism, and espionage. Since its establishment in 1908, the FBI has evolved and adapted to the changing landscape of crime and national security. This article takes you on a fascinating journey through the history of the FBI, from its humble beginnings to its current prominence.

Origins and Early Years

The roots of the FBI trace back to the Progressive Era, a time when the United States was grappling with increasing crime rates and social unrest. In 1908, Attorney General Charles Bonaparte created a special force of investigators within the Department of Justice to address federal violations. This force would later become the FBI. Initially named the Bureau of Investigation (BOI), its primary focus was on enforcing federal laws and combating white-collar crimes.

J. Edgar Hoover and the Modernization of the FBI

One of the most influential figures in FBI history is J. Edgar Hoover, who served as the Bureau's director for nearly five decades, from 1924 to 1972. Under Hoover's leadership, the FBI underwent significant transformation and expansion. Hoover established a strict code of professionalism, emphasizing scientific investigation techniques and building an extensive fingerprint database. During his tenure, the FBI also played a crucial role in combating organized crime, pursuing notorious gangsters like John Dillinger and Al Capone.

Evolution into a National Security Agency

Following the end of World War II, the FBI faced new challenges as the Cold War era dawned. In response to the threat of Soviet espionage and subversion, the Bureau shifted its focus to counterintelligence activities. Hoover's FBI played a crucial role in investigating and apprehending spies, most notably with the arrests of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg in 1950. The FBI also became involved in civil rights cases, investigating hate crimes and enforcing desegregation laws.

Post-9/11 Era and the Expansion of Responsibilities

The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, marked a turning point in the history of the FBI. The agency's mission expanded to include preventing future acts of terrorism. The creation of the Department of Homeland Security led to a reshaping of the FBI's structure and enhanced cooperation with other agencies. The FBI established Joint Terrorism Task Forces across the country, fostering collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement.

Challenges and Criticism

Throughout its history, the FBI has faced various challenges and criticisms. Hoover's long tenure and alleged abuses of power raised concerns about unchecked authority and violations of civil liberties. The COINTELPRO program, aimed at surveilling and disrupting political organizations, came under scrutiny for its intrusive tactics. Additionally, the FBI has been criticized for its handling of high-profile cases, such as the investigation into the 1996 Atlanta Olympics bombing.

Conclusion

The FBI has come a long way since its inception in 1908. From tackling domestic crime to confronting espionage and terrorism, the agency has continuously evolved to address the ever-changing threats faced by the United States. While it has faced criticisms and challenges throughout its history, the FBI remains a vital institution dedicated to upholding the law, protecting national security, and preserving the rights and safety of the American people.

Unveiling the Mystical Shield: The Secret Power of Ceramic Panels in Police Officer's Ballistic Vests

The ceramic panel in a police officer's ballistic vest is a crucial component that provides enhanced protection against ballistic threats. These panels are typically made of advanced ceramic materials, such as boron carbide or silicon carbide, which possess exceptional hardness and strength.

The ceramic panel works in conjunction with other layers of the ballistic vest to stop or slow down the penetration of projectiles, such as bullets, by dispersing and absorbing their energy. When a bullet strikes the ceramic panel, it causes the material to fracture and disintegrate, dissipating the bullet's kinetic energy and reducing its ability to penetrate further.

The use of ceramic panels in ballistic vests has significantly improved the level of protection offered to law enforcement officers. Compared to traditional soft armor alone, ceramic panels add an additional layer of defense against high-velocity rounds and armor-piercing ammunition.

These panels are designed to be lightweight and flexible, allowing officers to maintain mobility and agility while wearing the vest. The ceramic materials used are chosen for their exceptional hardness-to-weight ratio, ensuring maximum protection with minimal added bulk.

It's important to note that ceramic panels are typically used in conjunction with other materials, such as aramid fibers or polyethylene, which provide resistance against different types of threats and offer additional protection against blunt force trauma.

Law enforcement agencies prioritize the safety of their officers, and the inclusion of ceramic panels in ballistic vests represents a significant advancement in protective gear. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect further innovations in the design and materials used in these critical pieces of equipment, ensuring officers have the best possible protection in the line of duty

Minneapolis Felon Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Prison for Possession of a Stolen Firearm

A Minneapolis man has been handed a significant prison sentence for the possession of a stolen firearm, reinforcing the consequences of illegal possession of weapons. Lamonte Edjuan Brown, 39, was sentenced to 92 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, by U.S. District Court Senior Judge Susan Richard Nelson. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hillary A. Taylor.

The incident occurred on August 29, 2022, when Brown brandished a loaded gun at two individuals outside a Minneapolis apartment complex. Prompted by a distress call, officers from the Minneapolis Police Department swiftly responded to the scene. Brown, realizing the presence of law enforcement, attempted to evade capture by fleeing on foot. However, the officers pursued him and successfully apprehended him. During a search of Brown's sweatshirt pocket, the officers discovered a loaded .40 caliber Smith & Wesson semi-automatic pistol, which was later confirmed to be reported stolen by the Eagan Police Department.

Brown, having recognized the severity of the charges against him, entered a guilty plea on January 11, 2022, admitting to the possession of a firearm as a felon. The subsequent sentencing by Judge Nelson reflected the gravity of the offense, with her remarking on the palpable trauma inflicted by Brown's actions. She also emphasized the pressing issue of gun violence affecting the local community, describing it as an epidemic that needs to be addressed.

This case is the result of a thorough investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in collaboration with the Minneapolis Police Department. By working together, these law enforcement agencies were able to successfully apprehend Brown and remove a stolen firearm from circulation, preventing any potential harm it could have caused.

The sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by illegal possession of firearms and the serious consequences that can follow. Possessing a firearm as a felon is a federal offense, carrying severe penalties to deter individuals from engaging in such activities. The U.S. Attorney's Office, led by Andrew M. Luger, expressed its commitment to combating gun violence and ensuring the safety of the community.

It is crucial for law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and the community to continue working together to address the issue of gun violence and implement measures that promote responsible firearm ownership. By strengthening laws, conducting proactive investigations, and fostering community engagement, a collective effort can be made to reduce the prevalence of illegal firearms and enhance public safety.

The successful outcome of this case should serve as a reminder that the possession of stolen firearms by felons will not be tolerated, and those who choose to engage in such activities will face severe legal consequences. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the dedication of prosecutors underscore the commitment to maintaining the rule of law and protecting communities from the dangers associated with illegal firearms.

Departments of Justice and Education Release Resource on Confronting Racial Discrimination in Student Discipline

The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) jointly released a Resource on Confronting Racial Discrimination in Student Discipline. The departments recognize and appreciate school administrators, teachers and educational staff across the nation who work to administer student discipline fairly, and to provide a safe, positive and nondiscriminatory educational environment for all students, teachers and other educators.

The Resource demonstrates the departments’ ongoing commitment to the vigorous enforcement of laws that protect students from discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin in student discipline. The Resource provides examples of the departments’ investigations over the last 10 years, reflecting the long-standing approach and continuity in the departments’ enforcement practices over time and the continuing urgency of assuring nondiscrimination in student discipline in our nation’s schools.

“Discrimination in school discipline can have devastating long-term consequences on students and their future opportunities,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department Civil Rights Division uses our federal civil rights laws to protect students from discriminatory discipline, including discrimination in suspensions and expulsions, law enforcement referrals and school-based arrests. The investigations that we describe demonstrate how students may experience discrimination based on multiple facets of their identities and reflect our joint commitment to fully protect all students.”

“OCR remains committed to ensuring nondiscrimination in disciplinary practices,” said Assistant Secretary Catherine E. Lhamon of the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights. “I look forward to ongoing work in, and with, schools to ensure that no student experiences unlawful discrimination, including with respect to discipline.” 

The Resource describes how the departments resolved investigations of 14 school districts in 10 states nationwide – Alabama, Arizona, California, Delaware, Maryland, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma and Utah. These investigations, conducted under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and its regulations and Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, involved concerns about discrimination in schools’ use of out-of-school suspensions, expulsions, school-based arrests, referrals to law enforcement, involuntary discipline transfers, informal removals and other disciplinary actions against Black, Latino and Native American students.

The Resource demonstrates ways school districts can take steps to proactively improve their administration of student discipline.

Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt, and additional information about the work of the Educational Opportunities Section is available at www.justice.gov/crt/educational-opportunities-section. Members of the public may report possible civil rights violations at civilrights.justice.gov/report/.

Bakery Owner in Fresno Indicted for Wire Fraud and Attempted Wire Fraud in SNAP Benefit Scheme

 FRESNO, Calif. - Jorge Luis Rivera, a 53-year-old resident of Fresno, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and attempted wire fraud. The indictment was unsealed following Rivera's recent arrest.

According to court documents, Rivera was the owner of El Ranchito Bakery in Fresno, which had been authorized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, formerly known as Food Stamps, since 2005. SNAP benefits are intended for the purchase of food and cannot be exchanged for cash. However, between approximately 2011 and August 2018, Rivera allegedly instructed his employees to exchange SNAP benefits for cash and accept SNAP benefits for unauthorized items at the request of customers. The estimated loss to the United States resulting from this scheme exceeds $5 million.

The investigation into this case was conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexandre Dempsey and Joseph Barton are handling the prosecution.

If convicted, Rivera could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count. However, the court will determine the final sentence based on various factors, including statutory guidelines and other considerations. It is important to note that the charges against Rivera are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

FBI Seeking Information on Unsolved Attempted Bank Robbery

The FBI and Saginaw Police Department are seeking the public’s assistance with identifying a man who attempted to rob the Team One Credit Union in Saginaw, Michigan, on Dec. 29, 2022. Despite photographs of the man and his vehicle, the attempted robbery remains unsolved.

At approximately 9:10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022, an unidentified Black male attempted to rob the Team One Credit Union located at 520 Hayden Street, Saginaw, Michigan.

The man, who was dressed in a white 3M branded hard hat, a white face mask, and a bright yellow short-sleeved t-shirt with reflective stripes over a dark, long-sleeved shirt, approached the teller with a note demanding money. The man took the note when he exited the credit union.

The unidentified male was seen leaving the area in a Black Nissan Altima with black rims and black tinted windows.

Anyone with information about this robbery is asked to contact the FBI at (313) 965-2323. Tips can also be submitted anonymously online at tips.fbi.gov.