News and reports from the .

Kaleb Christopher Merritt has pleaded guilty in Los Angeles federal court for leading an extremist group involved in child sexual abuse material production targeting minors online. Authorities say he faces significant prison time following his conviction related to these crimes.

Ecuadorian citizen pleads guilty to illegal re-entry after removal from United States

Vanessa Yalixa Munoz-Baque has pled guilty to illegally re-entering the United States after being deported last year. She was discovered by authorities following an arrest related to a violent crime charge in Maryland.

Dominican national extradited to U.S. on narcotics and firearms trafficking charges

Angel Delarosa has been extradited from the Dominican Republic to face drug- and gun-trafficking charges in Connecticut federal court after an extensive investigation by U.S agencies targeting international crime networks.

Bronx man pleads guilty to bank fraud conspiracy and ID theft

Edwin Robles of the Bronx pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and identity theft on Mar. 26 after participating in a multi-state scheme targeting victim bank accounts earlier last year. Authorities say losses totaled over $91,000.

House Armed Services Committee leaders commend passage of ALERT Act on air safety reforms

Leaders from both parties on House Armed Services Committee commended progress on new air safety reforms after last year's fatal crash near Washington D.C., highlighting steps taken through H.R. 7613—the ALERT Act—to address NTSB recommendations for safer skies.

Senate Judiciary Committee advances Combating Illicit Xylazine Act and other measures

By H. B. Edwards | Mar 26, 2026

The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced key bipartisan bills including one targeting illicit xylazine use. The panel also moved forward on other legislative measures and two U.S. Marshal nominations.

Secretary Rubio and Egyptian foreign minister discuss Iranian threats and partnership

Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Egypt's foreign minister about threats from Iran. Both leaders stressed their commitment to addressing economic and security challenges together.

Georgetown woman sentenced to five years for fentanyl trafficking conspiracy

Mabel Francis Soto has been sentenced to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl from her home in Georgetown, Kentucky. Law enforcement recovered significant quantities of drugs and cash during their investigation.

Iowa City man sentenced to 42 years for child sexual exploitation and pornography

Martin Edgardo Menjivar from Iowa City received a 42-year federal sentence for sexually exploiting a child and possessing child pornography. Law enforcement uncovered evidence through forensic analysis of his cell phones. The case is part of Project Safe Childhood’s ongoing efforts against online child exploitation.

Chairman Rick Scott supports CMS proposal to strengthen domestic medical supply chains

Senator Rick Scott has voiced strong support for new CMS proposals intended to boost U.S.-based production of vital medical supplies amid concerns about reliance on foreign sources like China. In a detailed letter addressed Mar. 26 to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, Scott outlined steps he believes are needed for greater security within America's healthcare system.

Maryland U.S. Attorney announces prosecutions tied to Operation Take Back America

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 26, 2026

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for Maryland announced new prosecutions linked to Operation Take Back America targeting illegal immigration offenses. Several individuals face charges ranging from assaulting officers to illegal re-entry after previous removals.

OB/GYN physician agrees to pay $507,500 to resolve False Claims Act allegations

A Maryland OB/GYN physician has agreed on Mar. 26 to pay over half a million dollars following allegations she participated in a scheme involving fraudulent prescriptions billed through federal health programs. Authorities say such actions undermine trust in Medicare and TRICARE while costing taxpayers.

House committee to consider updated ALERT Act on aviation safety March 26

The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee will review an updated ALERT Act on March 26 after last year's midair collision near Washington National Airport. Lawmakers aim for new measures addressing critical aviation safety issues identified by federal investigators.

House subcommittee reviews Telecommunications Act of 1996 after three decades

Chairman Richard Hudson led a House subcommittee hearing reviewing three decades since passage of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Lawmakers discussed how technological changes may require updates in federal policy.

EPA seeks public input on Clean Water Act financial capability guidance