MIL Security Engine-1

Source: US FBI

SAN FRANCISCO – A federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment today charging Linwei Ding, also known as Leon Ding, 38, with seven counts of economic espionage and seven counts of theft of trade secrets in connection with an alleged plan to steal from Google LLC (Google) proprietary information related to artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Ding was originally indicted in March 2024 on four counts of theft of trade secrets.  The superseding indictment returned today describes seven categories of trade secrets stolen by Ding and charges Ding with seven counts of economic espionage and seven counts of theft of trade secrets.

According to the superseding indictment, Google hired Ding as a software engineer in 2019.  Between approximately May 2022 and May 2023, Ding uploaded more than 1,000 unique files containing Google confidential information from Google’s network to his personal Google Cloud account, including the trade secrets alleged in the superseding indictment.

While Ding was employed by Google, he secretly affiliated himself with two People’s Republic of China (PRC)-based technology companies.  Around June 2022, Ding was in discussions to be the Chief Technology Officer for an early-stage technology company based in the PRC.  By May 2023, Ding had founded his own technology company focused on AI and machine learning in the PRC and was acting as the company’s CEO.

The superseding indictment alleges that Ding intended to benefit the PRC government by stealing trade secrets from Google.  Ding allegedly stole technology relating to the hardware infrastructure and software platform that allows Google’s supercomputing data center to train and serve large AI models.  The trade secrets contain detailed information about the architecture and functionality of Google’s Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) chips and systems and Google’s Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) systems, the software that allows the chips to communicate and execute tasks, and the software that orchestrates thousands of chips into a supercomputer capable of training and executing cutting-edge AI workloads.  The trade secrets also pertain to Google’s custom-designed SmartNIC, a type of network interface card used to enhance Google’s GPU, high performance, and cloud networking products.

As alleged, Ding circulated a PowerPoint presentation to employees of his technology company citing PRC national policies encouraging the development of the domestic AI industry.  He also created a PowerPoint presentation containing an application to a PRC talent program based in Shanghai.  The superseding indictment describes how PRC-sponsored talent programs incentivize individuals engaged in research and development outside the PRC to transmit that knowledge and research to the PRC in exchange for salaries, research funds, lab space, or other incentives.  Ding’s application for the talent program stated that his company’s product “will help China to have computing power infrastructure capabilities that are on par with the international level.”

United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Dan Costin made the announcement.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, defendant faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for each count under 18 U.S.C. § 1832 and a maximum of 15 years in prison for each count under 18 U.S.C § 1831.  Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey Boome and Molly K. Priedeman and Trial Attorneys Stephen Marzen and Yifei Zheng of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.  The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.

Today’s action was coordinated through the Justice and Commerce Departments’ Disruptive Technology Strike Force. The Disruptive Technology Strike Force is an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains, and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation-states.

Ding Superseding Indictment
 

Source: US FBI

SAN FRANCISCO – Darneko Yates, 30, of Richmond, Calif., was found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm, following a one-day bench trial on Jan. 17, 2025, before the Honorable Araceli Martínez-Olguín, U.S. District Judge.    

The evidence at trial established that on Aug. 27, 2023, San Pablo Police Officers attempted to stop Yates for a vehicle infraction.  Yates drove for several blocks before pulling up partially onto the sidewalk in front of a relative’s house.  Yates had his young nephew and niece in the backseat of his car.  At the time, Yates was on parole following three felony convictions for carjacking, solicitation to commit murder, and possessing a loaded firearm.  

Upon learning that Yates was on parole with a search condition, officers searched his person but did not find anything.  When Yates’s six-year-old nephew got out of the car, Yates urged the child to go inside the house.  The child moved slowly and kept his back to the officers.  When officers looked at the front of the child, they saw an object tucked into the front of his pants.  Upon further inspection, officers located a Glock firearm loaded with 11 rounds of ammunition inside the six-year-old’s pants.  The gun had a “Glock switch” or “machinegun conversion device,” which allows a shooter to fire an endless stream of bullets with one pull of the trigger.  During the traffic stop, Yates sent text messages telling an individual to come get the child out of the car before the police searched the vehicle, and admitting that the child had Yates’s gun on him.

“Defendant’s actions inexcusably endangered a young child.  Thanks to the careful work of the officers on the scene, this did not turn into a tragedy,” said U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey.  “My office will continue to use all resources available to reduce violent crime and gun violence in our communities.”

“Using a child to conceal a loaded, fully automatic firearm shows an alarming disregard for their safety and well-being,” said FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Dan Costin. “The FBI, alongside our law enforcement partners, remains steadfast in our commitment to holding dangerous offenders accountable and removing illegal firearms from our streets.”

Yates was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g).  He faces a maximum statutory sentence of 15 years in prison.  Defendant’s sentencing is scheduled for April 28, 2025.  

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 of Justice 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.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leif Dautch and Richard Ewenstein are prosecuting this case, with the assistance of Madeline Wachs.  The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI, the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, and the San Pablo Police Department.  
 

Source: US FBI

EL CENTRO – Five indictments were unsealed in federal court today charging 48 alleged members of an Imperial Valley-based, Sinaloa Cartel-linked drug trafficking organization accused of distributing methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin and bulk cash smuggling.

In a coordinated takedown this morning, more than 140 federal, state, and local law enforcement officials arrested 25 defendants and executed 15 search warrants in Imperial County, San Diego, Los Angeles, and Stockton, as well as in Yuma, Arizona and Las Vegas, Nevada. As of this afternoon, the search continues for 23 fugitives.

Including seizures today and throughout this long-term investigation, authorities have seized more than 3,600 kg (about 8,000 pounds) of methamphetamine; substantial quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin; and one firearm.

Crimes charged in the indictments include drug trafficking, conspiracy, and bulk cash smuggling.

According to court records, the defendants belonged to a drug trafficking organization based in the Imperial Valley and Mexicali, Mexico with ties to Los Rusos, one of the most violent and significant factions of the Sinaloa Cartel.

“This investigation represents another blow to traffickers of deadly drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “With the indictment of four dozen individuals, we are not only disrupting a major drug trafficking network but also taking significant steps to protect our community from the devastation these drugs cause. We are committed to dismantling these dangerous operations and ensuring that those who fuel the crisis are held accountable.”

“HSI’s challenge with investigating cases tied to the Sinaloa Cartel is to not just chase those who profit from addiction, but to dismantle the transnational network responsible for plaguing our communities and tearing families apart,” said Shawn Gibson, special agent in charge for HSI San Diego. “The success of today’s takedown would not have been possible without the unwavering support and assistance from our law enforcement partners. By working together, we each bring a unique skillset to the fight against these trafficking organizations and can disrupt and dismantle cells like these.”

“This successful operation underscores the pivotal role that collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies plays in safeguarding our communities,” stated Roque Caza, Area Port Director for the Calexico Port of Entry. “At U.S. Customs and Border Protection, our mission is to protect the nation’s public by preventing dangerous substances from entering the United States. This joint effort highlights our commitment to disrupting the flow of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin, addressing the dangerous impacts on public health and safety. Together, we stand strong in our fight against these illicit activities and remain steadfast in protecting our borders and communities.”

“The Sinaloa Cartel and any other criminal organization will fare poorly here in the Imperial Valley as we have just seen,” said El Centro Sector Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino. “With seamless coordination between HSI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and a multitude of state and local agencies, yet another set of alleged traffickers and criminals were prevented from harming the community.”

According to court records, employing undercover operations and four rounds of wiretaps, agents conducted numerous controlled purchases, traffic stops of personal vehicles and several tractor trailers, and searches of houses and stash locations leading to large seizures of narcotics. In one instance on April 27, 2022, authorities seized 256 pounds of methamphetamine after intercepting phone conversations between several defendants about a big sale. Federal agents watched the transaction from afar, then conducted a traffic stop on the drug-laden tractor-trailer. Law enforcement officials located four duffel bags containing 256 pounds of methamphetamine in the cab of the truck.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Van Demark and Owen Roth.

DEFENDANT                                               Case Number 24cr2316-WQH                         

Adrian Garcia                                                 Age: 28                                   El Centro, CA

SUMMARY OF CHARGES

Distribution of Controlled Substances – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841(a) and (b)(1)

Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a $10 million fine.

DEFENDANTS                                             Case Number  24cr2320-WQH

Fausto Herrera-Lopez, AKA “Vecino”*        50                    Mexicali, MX

Rodolfo Ramirez-Palacios, AKA “Rudy”*   34                    Mexicali, MX

Tereso Ramirez-Velasquez                            54                    San Bernadino, CA

Juan Carlos Ojeda-Saldana                            35                    Brawley, CA

Jose David Morales-Rodriguez*                    46                    Brawley, CA

Ernesto Morales-Rodriguez*                          41                    Mexicali, MX

Vicente Barrera-Robles*                                32                    Mexicali, MX

Ricardo Ruben Pinzon                                    24                    El Centro, CA

Jose Ramon Ochoa-Monteverde                    31                    El Centro, CA

Salvador Martinez                                          54                    Los Angeles, CA

Juan Carlos Martinez*                                    52                    Los Angeles, CA

Rogelio Robledo-Valdez*                              26                    Mexicali, MX

Maria Elena Reyes                                          50                    Wichita, KS

Gabriela Estrada*                                           46                    Mexicali, MX

Jaime Mayoral                                                40                    El Centro, CA

Marcos Arturo Barrera                                   28                    Brawley, CA

Oscar Silvas-Gamez                                       32                    Fresno, CA

Juan Ernesto Salas Villela*                            37                    Fontana, CA

Yeiming Hernandez                                        34                    Calexico, CA

Frank Gustavo Zendejas                                 56                    Calipatria, CA

Gerardo Medina Plancencia                           45                    Calexico, CA

Jose Andres Leyva                                          55                    El Centro, CA

Stephanie Melgoza*                                       21                    Salinas, CA

Victor Rene Herrera*                                     24                    Los Angeles, CA

Arnulfo Morfin-Moreno*                               52                    Pasco, WA

Edgar Garcia*                                                 24                    Las Vegas, NV

Roberto Valenzuela De La Torre*                 27                     Sonora, MX

Leonardo Saldivar*                                       38                     San Bernardino, CA

Francisco Ramirez*                                       52                    Tolleson, Arizona

Luis Fernando Simental Palacios*                34                     Mexicali, MX

Abraham Noe Esparza-Garcia*                     36                      Mexicali, MX

Angelica Guerrero                                        29                      Calexico, CA

Sergio Sanchez                                             46                      Long Beach, CA

Nicholas Adam Fortier                                  41                      Portland, OR

Luis Alberto Felix*                                        38                      Pacoima, CA

Elizabeth Echeverria                                      43                      Las Vega, NV

Pedro Estrada*                                              50                      San Diego, CA

Bernadette Lucero Vallejos*                          33                      Goodyear, AZ

Maribel Garcia Barajas                                  56                      El Centro, CA

Jose Arturo Mendiola Porras*                       57                      Mexicali, MX

Enrique Villalobos                                         43                      Stockton, CA

Israel Alejandro Ramirez-Velasquez             60                      Perris, CA                      

SUMMARY OF CHARGES

Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1), and 846

Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a $10 million fine

Distribution of Controlled Substances – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841(a) and (b)(1)

Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a $10 million fine

Possession of Controlled Substances with Intent to Distribute – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841(a) and (b)(1)

Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a $10 million fine

Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 31, U.S.C., Section 5332(a) and (b)

Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine

Conspiracy to Commit Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371

Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine

DEFENDANT                                               Case Number 24cr2318-WQH                         

Nilda Charlenne Ledon                                   Age: 34                                   El Centro, CA

SUMMARY OF CHARGES

Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 31, U.S.C., Section 5332(a) and (b)

Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine

DEFENDANT                                               Case Number 24cr2319-WQH                         

Jasmine Santos                                                Age: 34                                   Los Angeles, CA

SUMMARY OF CHARGES

Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 31, U.S.C., Section 5332(a) and (b)

Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine

DEFENDANT                                               Case Number 24cr217-WQH                         

Brenda Lara*                                                  Age: 32                                   Los Angeles, CA

Romulada Contreras*                                     Age: 75                                   Mexicali, MX

SUMMARY OF CHARGES

Conspiracy to Commit Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371

Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine

Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 31, U.S.C., Section 5332(a) and (b)

Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine

*Fugitives

INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

Homeland Security Investigations, Calexico Office

United States Border Patrol, El Centro Sector Intelligence Unit

Customs and Border Protection, Calexico Intelligence Division

Imperial County Narcotics Task Force

Drug Enforcement Administration, Imperial County Office

United States Postal Inspectors

Federal Bureau of Investigations, Imperial County Office

United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations

United States Marshals Service

Calexico Police Department

Imperial County Sheriff’s Office

Brawley Police Department

San Bernardino Police Department Narcotics Unit

California Highway Patrol

El Centro Police Department

The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.

This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (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.

Source: US FBI

SAN DIEGO – Former U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer Leonard Darnell George was sentenced in federal court today to 23 years in prison for accepting bribes to allow unauthorized migrants and vehicles containing methamphetamine and other illicit drugs to pass through the border into the U.S.

“What’s important to remember about the story of Leonard George is that his corruption was discovered and defeated.” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “Our commitment to the integrity of the badge brought justice to a corrupt officer in this case who will spend decades behind bars.”

“Public corruption as in this case is the betrayal of trust that erodes the foundation of the very principals of law enforcement and undermines the public’s perception of those held to a higher standard,” said Shawn Gibson, special agent in charge for HSI San Diego. “Today’s sentencing is a result of HSI’s commitment to investigating transnational criminal organizations and holding all individuals that aid these criminals accountable for their actions. The success of this multiagency investigation is due to everyone’s commitment of honor and integrity.”

“Mr. George should have used his position of authority and trust to protect the United States; however, he used it for his own financial gain,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “The entire law enforcement profession is tarnished when an officer betrays the oath to protect and serve. The FBI will always vigorously and relentlessly investigate anyone who violates that sacred oath.”

“CBP does not tolerate misconduct within its ranks,” said Special Agent in Charge Elizabeth Cervantes of CBP’s Office of Professional Responsibility, San Diego Field Office. “OPR’s efforts in this case and this latest court decision are a testament to CBP’s commitment to preserving the honor of its overwhelmingly professional workforce, and to its core values of Vigilance, Integrity, and Service to country.”

Department of Homeland Security Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari, Ph.D., said, “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that federal employees who violate the law will be held accountable. DHS Office of Inspector General is grateful for our continued partnership with our law enforcement partners as we fight corruption along the Southern Border.”

During the trial, several witnesses testified that George agreed to allow drug-laden vehicles to enter the U.S. through his lane in late 2021. George would notify members of a drug trafficking organization when he was at work, what lane he was on, and that they had one hour to reach his lane. However, in February 2022, after an alert placed by law enforcement agents on a suspected drug smuggling vehicle was flagged entering George’s Lane, George was forced to send the vehicle to secondary inspection, later revealing approximately 222 pounds of methamphetamine.

Undeterred, George allowed a second drug-laden vehicle affiliated with the drug trafficking organization and traveling directly behind the flagged vehicle to enter the U.S. with over 200 pounds of drugs. Text messages sent by George the following day reveal he received approximately $13,000 for the vehicle he allowed to enter the U.S. On the same day he received his bribe payment, George purchased a 2020 Cadillac CT5 for an associate of the drug trafficking organization as a gift. George delivered the Cadillac CT5 to the associate in Ensenada on Valentine’s Day.

Over the course of six months, George continued to allow vehicles containing undocumented individuals to enter the U.S. through his lane. George repeatedly omitted passengers and the true names of drivers coming through his lane, instead entering the names of others to conceal his criminal activities. Law enforcement agents and prosecutors identified approximately 19 crossings associated with the criminal organizations during the six-month time period. Text messages confirmed George agreed to allow vehicles through his lane for $17,000 per vehicle, $34,000 for two vehicles, $51,000 for three vehicles, or $65,000 for four vehicles. One text message confirmed that George received $68,000 after he allowed four vehicles from one organization to enter his lane in June 2022.

Testimony from a witness confirmed that George purchased vehicles, motorcycles, and jewelry with the proceeds of his illicit activities. Additionally, on George’s days off, he travelled to Tijuana to visit Hong Kong Gentlemen’s Club where he spent approximately $5,000 per trip. He would stand on the second level of the club and throw cash over the balcony to the dancers below, “showering” them with money. He would also buy bottles of alcohol, and occasionally gifts, for dancers.

The extent of George’s relationship with traffickers revealed itself when prosecutors admitted a photograph of one of George’s trafficking associates taking a selfie in George’s CBP uniform jacket.

The case was tried and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bianca Calderon-Peñaloza, Brandon J. Kimura and Michael G. Wheat.

DEFENDANT                                Case Number 23CR1291

Leonard Darnell George                  Age: 42                          San Diego               

SUMMARY OF CHARGES                                   

Receiving Bribe by Public Official – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 201

Maximum penalty: Fifteen years in prison

Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances – Title 21 U.S.C., Sections 952, 960, 963

Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a 10-year mandatory minimum

Bringing in Certain Aliens for Financial Gain – Title 18 U.S.C., Section 371, Title 8 U.S.C., Section 1324(a)(2)(B)(ii)

Maximum Penalty: Ten years in prison

Bringing in Certain Aliens for Financial Gain – Title 18 U.S.C., Section 371, Title 8 U.S.C., Section 1324(a)(2)(B)(ii)

Maximum Penalty: Ten years in prison

INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General (DHS OIG)

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)

Customs and Border Protection – Office of Professional Responsibility (CBP OPR)

Source: US FBI

SAN DIEGO – Half-brothers Christopher Baltezar Hernandez and Victor Armondo Aguilar were sentenced in federal court today to six consecutive life terms and 45 years, respectively, for the premeditated execution of their sister, her three children – ages 9, 8 and 4 – and her significant other in their Tijuana home. The siblings had been involved in a bitter dispute over property prior to the murder.

“I cannot understand how one can point a gun in front of a child’s face and pull the trigger,” U.S. District Judge Linda Lopez told the defendants during the sentencing hearing. She described the murders as “horrific,” “completely incomprehensible,” and “cold, intentional, planned, calculated, and callous.”

Aguilar, of Tijuana, pleaded guilty in October 2023 and Hernandez, of Fresno, California, pleaded guilty in December 2023, each to a single count of conspiring to murder a U.S. citizen in a foreign country and five counts of stalking resulting in death. The half-brothers are U.S. citizens. The sister and her children were also U.S. citizens; the significant other was a Mexican national.

According to their plea agreements, on December 3, 2021, the day of the murders, Hernandez traveled from Fresno to Tijuana through San Diego, armed with an assault rifle, .223 caliber ammunition, and two revolver speed loaders. Hernandez met up with Aguilar in Tijuana, where they acquired a revolver.

The half-brothers, armed with the firearms and wearing dark clothes and gloves, went to the victims’ residence in Tijuana. According to the plea agreements, which identified the victims by their initials, the defendants first shot and killed the sister, J.H., and her eight-year-old daughter, A.M.M., in the kitchen. The significant other, G.M.V., was shot and killed in a bedroom while he attempted to shield the other two children. The bedroom door was forced open and nine-year-old A.M. and four-year-old S.M. were each shot in the head.

“Borders do not shield criminals from justice when Americans are victimized abroad,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “These executioners were charged, convicted, and held to account in a U.S. court. The Department of Justice will continue to use every available tool to protect Americans from harm at home and abroad.”

“Jealousy and greed led to one family’s devastating loss of five loved ones,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “Hernandez’s and Aguilar’s well-deserved prison sentences reflect their total disregard for human life. While their imprisonment will never bring back these lives, we hope it offers some peace to the victims’ family. The FBI, alongside our local and international law enforcement partners, remains dedicated to seeking justice and will not hesitate to hold accountable those involved in violent crimes, whether in the United States or abroad.”

While there were likely multiple motivations for the murders, the primary reason was a dispute over the ownership of numerous properties in Mexico. According to court documents, in the months leading up to the murders, the sister retained an attorney to help in the property dispute, which prompted Hernandez to text her: “We already know about the lawyer.” Hernandez asked, “You think you can just fuck us over and nothing will happen?” Hernandez then mentioned J.H.’s attorney’s name and that he had the attorney “in are[sic] hands.” Hernandez continued to say, “Fuck you and all your family” and, “The truth is I’m not fucking around. You thought you were going to make a dumbass out of me but no. You’re not going to have anything.” Hernandez then challenged J.H. to “…try me and see how much you can handle because with me you’re not going to be able to finish it.”

Hernandez had a long history of threats against his sister and her children. In May 2019, J.H. called 911 stating Hernandez was threatening to shoot her and her kids in the head. Hernandez and J.H. had the same parents; Aguilar and J.H. were half-siblings. It’s unclear if J.H. and her significant other were married.

According to the plea agreements, the murders occurred after months of meticulous and obsessive planning and premeditation. Hernandez and Aguilar had researched the victims’ address and the surrounding area online more than 200 times. Hernandez also bought the parts and built a fully functional .223 caliber assault rifle. The week before, Hernandez researched “ar15 jam clearing” and “ar15 room clearing” and watched ten different videos related to tactical firearms training. Hernandez also researched how to build a hidden compartment in his Toyota Corolla and discussed contingency plans with others, among other preparatory steps. The day before the murders, Hernandez bought a pair of revolver speed loaders, and on the day of the murders, Hernandez and Aguilar acquired a revolver in Tijuana, Mexico.

Aguilar searched for and listened to a podcast related to homicide investigations just hours before the murders. Minutes before the murders, Hernandez removed the SIM card from his phone, and returned it about a half-hour after the murders.

Following the murders, Hernandez researched numerous news articles about the killings and searched, “does the fbi investigate murders.” Hernandez and Aguilar also deleted their location and messaging history.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mario Peia, Matthew Brehm and Fred Sheppard.

DEFENDANTS                                             Case Number 22cr778-LL                              

Christopher Baltezar Hernandez                    Age: 27                                   Fresno, CA

Victor Armondo Aguilar                                Age: 22                                   Tijuana, MX

SUMMARY OF CHARGES

Conspiracy to Murder – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1117

Maximum penalty: Life in prison

Stalking Resulting in Death – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 2261A

Maximum penalty: Life in prison

INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

Federal Bureau of Investigation

San Diego County Sheriff’s Department

Source: US FBI

SAN DIEGO – The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combating discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Askins has been appointed to serve as District Election Officer for the Southern District of California, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the district’s handling of Election Day complaints regarding voting rights, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department headquarters in Washington, D.C.

“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).   

U.S. Attorney McGrath said: “The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to vote can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Askins will be on duty while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (619) 546-6692.”

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (858) 320-1800.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

U.S. Attorney McGrath urged those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.

Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately, before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency. 

Source: US FBI

SAN DIEGO – Eric Jin of San Diego pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting that he persuaded a 14-year-old girl to send him sexually explicit photographs of herself, including an image of her leg where she had carved the defendant’s name into her skin with a knife at his direction.

Jin was indicted on May 15, 2024. He pleaded guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a Minor in connection with his online communications with the girl. For example, according to his plea agreement, Jin demanded that she take sexually graphic pictures of herself without clothing in December 2022 and again in February 2023. The girl did as Jin directed and sent him the photos. It was on the February date that he ordered her to carve his first name into her skin and send him a photo.

Jin also admitted to sending the victim images of other minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

“This defendant repeatedly victimized, exploited, and literally scarred a child,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “This horrific crime serves as a reminder to keep a very close eye on who kids are talking to online.”

“While all crimes we investigate are deplorable, the sexual exploitation of children is an especially flagitious violation,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi. “Let Eric Jin’s guilty plea be a clear message that the FBI and its partners will aggressively pursue people who intend to exploit children in such a despicable manner.”

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Sherwood and Katie Grammenidis.

The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on January 24, 2025.

DEFENDANT                                   Case Number 24cr1071-JO                                    

Eric Jin                                                Age: 30                                   San Diego, CA

SUMMARY OF CHARGES

Sexual Exploitation of a Minor – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 2251(a) and (e)

Maximum penalty: Thirty years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a $500,000 fine

INVESTIGATING AGENCY

Federal Bureau of Investigation

Source: US FBI

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence. At the core of PSN is setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announces the following indictments in federal PSN cases.

Marcus Anderson, 26, of Sacramento, was indicted today and charged with nine counts of firearms trafficking, unlicensed firearms dealing, and other firearms charges. According to court documents, from February 2022 to March 2023, Anderson unlawfully trafficked and possessed multiple firearms, and engaged in the business of unlawful firearms dealing in the Sacramento area. Anderson is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he has multiple state felony convictions. This case is the product of an investigation by the ATF with the assistance of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Special Service Unit, the Placer County Special Investigations Unit, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, and the Sacramento Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Haddy Abouzeid is prosecuting the case.

Armond Bass, 39, of Fairfield, was indicted on Jan. 23, 2025, and charged with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to court documents, in October 2024, Bass was found to have possessed a Colt .22‑caliber semi-automatic rifle and ammunition. Bass is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he has previous felony convictions for domestic violence, possession of a stolen vehicle, and possession of a controlled substance. This case is the product of an investigation by the FBI and the Vacaville Police Department, with assistance from the FBI’s Solano County Violent Crimes Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Campbell is prosecuting the case.

If convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm or ammunition, the defendants face a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Anderson also faces up to five years in prison, if convicted for unlicensed firearms dealing. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

These cases are 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 U.S. Department of Justice 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.

Source: US FBI

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Anton Andreyevich Iagounov, 38, of South Lake Tahoe, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta to two years and three months in prison for four counts of impersonating a federal officer, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

According to court documents, and evidence presented at a three-day trial in July 2024, Iagounov pretended to be a federal law enforcement agent by creating and sending counterfeit investigative documents, which he signed in the name of a fictional federal agent, seeking highly protected information from the Department of Defense.

“The defendant impersonated federal officers and tried multiple times to obtain protected information using fake court documents,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Beckwith. “Many federal agencies including NASA have devoted law enforcement officers, and we will not tolerate federal officers being illegally impersonated.”

“Mr. Iagounov’s attempt to undermine public trust in order to obtain sensitive government information posed a significant risk, potentially endangering national security and the integrity of NASA and government operations,” said Michael Graham, Acting Assistant Inspector General for Investigations. “This sentencing demonstrates the commitment of NASA OIG, the USAO, and our law enforcement partners to safeguarding Federal assets and holding accountable those who undermine justice.”

“The defendant impersonated a federal law enforcement officer and took advantage of the trust that exists between federal agencies,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeremy N. Schwartz of the FBI Las Vegas Division. “All officers carry badges and credentials that are used to verify their identity. If you believe someone is impersonating an officer, you may ask their agency to confirm their official business. This sentencing demonstrates the excellent work achievable through partnerships.”

On July 5, 2022, Iagounov sent a search warrant he had created to the U.S. Capitol Police, falsely claiming it was signed by a Special Agent of NASA Office of Inspector General (NASA‑OIG) and appearing to be authorized by a U.S. District Court judge for the District of Columbia. The Capitol Police investigated the document, determined it was fake, and referred it to NASA-OIG for further investigation.

On July 11, 2022, Iagounov again pretended to be the same fictional NASA-OIG agent and sent the warrant to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. This time, he sent it without a judge’s signature, indicating it was for an “emergency filing” and required a judge’s signature. He sent it from an email address designed to look like it was from a United States government agency, but which Iagounov owned and had named to look like a government agency’s internet domain.

On July 18, 2022, Iagounov again sent the fake search warrant, purporting to be signed by the same fictitious NASA-OIG agent. He sent it to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Georgia, again indicating that it was for an emergency filing and needed a judge’s signature immediately.

Finally, on July 24, 2022, Iagounov faxed a letter, under the name of a real NASA-OIG supervising agent, to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida. In that letter, he claimed to be following up on the warrant, stating that an “exigent circumstance” required a judge’s signature immediately. The faxed letter included an anonymous email address for the agent that actually belonged to Iagounov. Several days earlier, on July 15, Iagounov had sent his warrant to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Florida but had received no response.

In each case, given the apparently sensitive nature of the materials Iagounov’s warrant sought, the receiving personnel for the Courts referred the matter to NASA-OIG for review and investigation.

This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and NASA Office of Inspector General, with assistance by the South Lake Tahoe Police Department and the Carson City Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Conolly and Audrey Hemesath prosecuted the case. 

Source: US FBI

FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a six-count indictment on Jan. 30, 2025, that charged David Hardcastle, 61, of Fresno, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and substantive wire fraud for defrauding investors in loans made to the failed Fresno-based startup company Bitwise Industries, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced today.

The indictment was unsealed after Hardcastle’s arrest this morning, and he is scheduled to make his initial appearance in court this afternoon. Andrew Adler, 31, of Greenwich, Connecticut, has been charged by information and entered into a plea agreement with the government where he has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Adler is scheduled to enter his guilty plea in court next month.

According to court documents, from December 2022 through May 2023, Hardcastle and his business partner Adler gave Bitwise approximately $20 million in hard money loans through their special purpose entity Startop Investments LLC. They syndicated the loans to other investors. In doing so, they altered the original loan documents to make it appear that Bitwise was obligated to pay significantly less interest on the loans than was true. They also forged the signature of Bitwise’s Co-CEO, Jake Soberal, on the altered documents. This made the loans appear less risky and therefore more appealing to the investors.

Hardcastle and Adler received tens of thousands of dollars in origination fees for the loans and stood to make millions more in secret profits from the higher, undisclosed interest rates had the loans been fully repaid. Moreover, one of the loans to Bitwise included a secure interest reserve of approximately $700,000. The investors were unaware of this reserve. Hardcastle and Adler then used these reserve funds to make an unrelated investment in another company that they operated without the investors’ authorization, and the money was not available to repay the investors when Bitwise collapsed in May 2023. Generally speaking, secure interest reserves are disclosed to loan investors and are supposed to help protect the investors in the event the borrower does not repay the loan on schedule.

Bitwise did not repay the loans before collapsing. As a result, the investors in the loans lost nearly all of their money.

This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Barton, Henry Carbajal III, and Cody Chapple are prosecuting the case.

If convicted, Hardcastle and Adler each face maximum statutory penalties of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the conspiracy to commit wire fraud charge. Hardcastle also faces another 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each of the substantive wire fraud charges. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.