News and reports from the .

Three people have been charged with defrauding a cruise ship company out of more than $2 million through false invoicing schemes involving multiple businesses linked by personal relationships or employment ties according to federal prosecutors' April announcement.

Chief Michael W. Banks highlights personnel changes and operations in latest social media posts

Chief Michael W. Banks shared updates on personnel appointments and enforcement actions via Twitter on April 17, 2026.

Americans for Tax Reform President Norquist on redistricting: '10 or 12 electoral college votes that move into red states from blue states'

Grover Norquist of Americans for Tax Reform said population shifts driven by state tax policies could transfer up to a dozen electoral college votes from blue to red states within five years.

Investigative Researcher Grandstaff on election security: 'Despite supporting Democrats on other issues, most minorities support common sense voting laws that ensure only American citizens are allowed...

By C. M. Ingle | Apr 17, 2026

Jacob Grandstaff addressed congressional debate over election security measures in a recent column discussing the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act.

Flock Safety announces expansion of AI surveillance network in U.S. cities

Flock Safety announced it has expanded its AI-powered surveillance network into more than 5,000 U.S. communities using taxpayer-funded contracts with local governments.

The White House announces net negative migration across all U.S. metro areas

The White House announced that all U.S. metropolitan areas experienced net negative migration for the first time in over five decades due to recent border security policies.

U.S. Attorney’s Office files 143 border-related cases in Southern California this week

Federal prosecutors filed 143 border-related cases this week in Southern California's busy cross-border district. Charges include drug importation, illegal reentry after deportation, and alien smuggling for profit.

Former Cherokee County deputy sheriff sentenced to 15 years for child exploitation offenses

By C. M. Ingle | Apr 17, 2026

A former Cherokee County deputy sheriff has been sentenced to fifteen years in federal prison after pleading guilty to charges related to child sexual exploitation overseas. Authorities say Stephen Michael Bunte received explicit materials involving minors during communications uncovered by Homeland Security Investigations.

Registered sex offender sentenced to 24 months for assaulting federal officers in Pasco

Victor Lara-Lopez has been sentenced for assaulting two federal immigration agents during an attempted arrest near Pasco after previously being convicted for molesting a minor while unlawfully residing in the U.S.. Authorities highlight this case as part of broader efforts promoting public safety across eastern Washington.

Three Memphis men sentenced for fentanyl trafficking after federal trial conviction

By C. M. Ingle | Apr 17, 2026

Three men from Memphis have been sentenced following their convictions for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl after being linked with local gang activity. Authorities say large quantities were trafficked using mail services across public areas around Memphis.

Mohamed Mubarak convicted of firearm and identity theft offenses in Burlington federal court

By C. M. Ingle | Apr 17, 2026

Mohamed Mubarak was convicted on multiple firearm and identity theft charges following a jury trial in Burlington federal court. Authorities said he used another person's identification without consent to buy guns despite being barred due to prior felonies. The case reflects ongoing efforts by federal prosecutors in Vermont to address violent crime.

Etowah County man indicted on child pornography charge in federal court

Kevin James Xiques of Altoona has been indicted for possession of child pornography following an alleged incident in December 2025. The case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood by authorities serving northern Alabama communities.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement highlights funding issues and major case outcome

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement used social media posts from April 16-17, 2026 to discuss funding shortfalls for victim advocacy programs while also reporting a major conviction in a multi-state methamphetamine distribution case led by...

House passes bills to reduce Clean Air Act requirements and support domestic manufacturing

The House passed two bills designed to ease Clean Air Act requirements affecting manufacturers. Supporters say this will streamline permitting processes without penalizing states or companies for foreign or uncontrollable emissions.

Deputy Secretary Landau meets with Belizean Prime Minister Briceño in Washington

U.S. Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau met with Belize's Prime Minister John Briceño in Washington on April 17. They discussed cooperation against narcotics trafficking, illegal migration, energy opportunities, and regional challenges.

Former Social Security worker indicted in disability funds theft scheme in Maryland

By C. M. Ingle | Apr 17, 2026

A former Social Security Administration employee has been indicted on charges related to a scheme stealing disability benefits intended for others in Maryland. Prosecutors allege he redirected funds using access gained through his job at SSA offices between February and April last year.

House Appropriations subcommittee approves FY27 financial services and general government bill

The House Appropriations Financial Services Subcommittee approved a $25.4 billion FY27 funding bill covering major agencies like Treasury and SBA disaster aid. Chairmen Dave Joyce and Tom Cole highlighted fiscal discipline measures while addressing national security concerns.

House Appropriations Subcommittee approves FY27 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs bill

The House Appropriations Subcommittee has approved its Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs spending bill. Leaders say it addresses key needs for veterans' services while investing in military infrastructure.

Diane J. Sabatino highlights CBP actions on food declaration and counterfeit goods

Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino used her social media account in April 2026 to share recent enforcement actions by U.S. Customs and Border Protection involving undeclared food products in Chicago and counterfeit merchandise in...

Senator Graham supports defense budget and proposes reconciliation for ICE and CBP funding