Attorney General
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WHAT VIRGINIANS ARE SEEING: A.G. JAY JONES SHARES WEEKLY ROUNDUP OF ACTIONS TAKEN
RICHMOND, Virginia, May 16 -- Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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WHAT VIRGINIANS ARE SEEING: ATTORNEY GENERAL JAY JONES SHARES WEEKLY ROUNDUP OF ACTIONS TAKEN
Takes action to protect public health, keep communities safe and defend democracy
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Attorney General Jay Jones continued taking action to protect public health, keep communities safe and defend democracy, while also honoring the rule of law and engaging with 2026 graduates.
Vape Crisis
Attorney General Jay Jones continues to address the growing crisis of illegal and unregulated
... Show Full Article
RICHMOND, Virginia, May 16 -- Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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WHAT VIRGINIANS ARE SEEING: ATTORNEY GENERAL JAY JONES SHARES WEEKLY ROUNDUP OF ACTIONS TAKEN
Takes action to protect public health, keep communities safe and defend democracy
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Attorney General Jay Jones continued taking action to protect public health, keep communities safe and defend democracy, while also honoring the rule of law and engaging with 2026 graduates.
Vape Crisis
Attorney General Jay Jones continues to address the growing crisis of illegal and unregulatedvape products in the Commonwealth.
WHRO: New federal vape rules expected to build on Virginia's forthcoming vape law
Legislation in Virginia aimed to curb vaping, or at least the number of stores selling dangerous, unregulated products, is set to go into effect this summer, and Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones says the federal and state efforts complement each other.
"The good news is FDA authorized products are eligible for inclusion on our product directory, and we're excited because on July 1 it will become harder for minors to buy vapes than it ever has been before," Jones said.
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"We will maintain the directory and then continue to work with ABC through the enforcement perspective which we think is the right scheme to really make a meaningful impact to get these products off of children's hands," Jones said.
Keeping Communities Safe
Attorney General Jay Jones joined a multistate comment letter opposing an unlawful proposal by the United States Postal Service, that would allow firearms to be moved across state borders by mail.
Virginia Mercury: Virginia joins 21 states in opposing USPS gun mailing proposal
In a multi-state comment letter, the attorneys general argue the proposal is unlawful and would create what they describe as a dangerous loophole in federal law that has restricted the mailing of concealable firearms for nearly a century.
"This loophole puts guns in the hands of those barred by Virginia law from buying weapons, and it allows people to blatantly dodge background checks and access illegal firearms," Jones said in a statement. "The federal government continues to undermine the law and (is) putting our communities at risk in the process."
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In their letter, the attorneys general contend that the statute remains valid and enforceable, noting it has never been struck down by a court.
They argue that allowing firearms to be shipped through the mail without going through licensed dealers would bypass background check requirements and increase access for people barred from owning guns, including felons and domestic abusers.
The states also warn the change could complicate criminal investigations by weakening existing firearm tracing systems. Without federal trace data tied to licensed sellers, law enforcement agencies could face higher costs and new logistical challenges in tracking weapons used in crimes.
News From The States
NBC12
WTOP
Yahoo News
Fauquier Times
MSN: Mail-order firearm loophole? Virginia joins 21 states to block USPS rule
Law enforcement officials are also worried about the price tag of this policy change. According to the letter, the unregulated mailing of firearms would make it significantly harder for states to trace weapons used in crimes. This would force local agencies to spend more money and man-hours building new tracking systems at a time when state budgets are already under heavy pressure.
The Attorneys General also addressed the Second Amendment, stating that the 1927 law only regulates how the Postal Service operates and does not infringe on an individual's right to own a gun.
Cardinal News: Headlines from across the state: Virginia joins 21 states opposing USPS gun mailing proposal; more...
FFX Now: Morning Notes from May 6, 2026
Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones on Tuesday joined 21 other states in opposing a proposed United States Postal Service rule that would allow certain firearms to be sent through the mail, warning the change could undermine state gun laws and make it easier for prohibited individuals to obtain weapons.
Defending the Will of the Voters
The Office of the Attorney General continued to defend the will of the voters by asking the Supreme Court to allow implementation of voter-approved congressional maps.
Politico: Virginia Democrats ask Supreme Court to restore their new map
The state's attorney general, Jay Jones, filed an emergency appeal with the high court Monday following an unexpected, 4-3 decision from the Virginia Supreme Court on Friday invalidating the ballot measure.
Jones asked Chief Justice John Roberts, who oversees emergency appeals arising from Virginia, to issue a temporary stay that would allow election preparations to continue under the lines newly drawn to favor Democrats. Roberts did not immediately act but is likely to refer the request to the full bench of the Supreme Court for a vote.
ABCNews: Virginia Democrats ask US Supreme Court to override state court on nixing redistricting plan
In an emergency application filed Monday, Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones wrote that the Virginia Supreme Court was " deeply mistaken" when it invalidated the ballot measure, arguing the decision was predicated on a flawed understanding of "election day" and usurps the authority of state legislatures under the Constitution to supervise federal elections.
"The irreparable harm resulting from the Supreme Court of Virginia's decision is profound and immediate. By forcing the Commonwealth to conduct its congressional elections using districts different from those adopted by the General Assembly pursuant to a constitutional amendment the people just ratified, the Supreme Court of Virginia has deprived voters, candidates, and the Commonwealth of their right to the lawfully enacted congressional districts," Jones wrote.
Fox5: Virginia AG asks Supreme Court to reinstate voter approved House map
WTVR: Virginia's Attorney General takes redistricting fight to US Supreme Court
Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones is asking the Virginia Supreme Court to delay issuing its mandate to void the results of last month's redistricting referendum as state Democrats prepare an appeal to the United States Supreme Court.
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After the decision came down, Jones said in a statement they were reviewing what he called "an unprecedented order" and are "evaluating every legal pathway forward to defend the will of the people."
He issued his motion to delay the mandate Friday evening, citing a rule that may require the Court to defer the issuance of its mandate if a party intends to file an appeal with the Supreme Court of the United States.
SCOTUSblog: Virginia asks Supreme Court to allow it to reinstate congressional maps that would advantage Democrats
Although the Supreme Court does not normally review decisions by state courts that rest on state law, the Virginia Democrats and Jones argued that the justices should intervene in this case because it implicates "two critical issues of federal law" - specifically, the meaning of the term "election" under federal law, and the idea that the state court so "impermissibly transgressed the ordinary bounds of judicial review" that its ruling should be reversed.
Moreover, the Democrats and Jones added, the Virginia Supreme Court's ruling "overthrows [a] democratic outcome just days before the Commonwealth must begin its preparations to administer the 2026 midterm election."
The Cavalier Daily: Jay Jones files emergency request to U.S. Supreme Court after redistricting ruling
"Based on that novel and manifestly atextual interpretation, the Court overrode the will of the people who ratified the amendment by ordering the Commonwealth to conduct its election with the [6-5] congressional districts that the people rejected," Jones wrote in his request to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Jones continued, writing in the request that the Virginia Supreme Court is "deeply mistaken" on two counts. First, Jones alleged the court misinterpreted the term "election" and second, alleged that this misinterpretation resulted in the court taking power away from the legislature.
"The Supreme Court of Virginia 'transgressed the ordinary bounds of judicial review such that it arrogated to itself the power vested in the state legislature to regulate federal elections,'" Jones wrote in his request.
Fox5: Virginia AG files emergency appeal to US Supreme Court on maps
Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones has filed an emergency request for a stay with the United States Supreme Court after the Virginia Supreme Court blocked a statewide redistricting referendum that Democrats said could reshape the state's congressional map.
In the filing, Jones argued the Virginia Supreme Court misinterpreted federal law by treating an "election" as a single day rather than an ongoing process. He also argued the court improperly assumed the role of the state legislature in regulating federal elections.
NBC29: Virginia Democrats file emergency appeal with U.S. Supreme Court over redistricting ruling
Virginia justices voided the results on Friday in a 4-3 vote, holding that Democrats violated the Constitution when they initially voted to pass the constitutional amendment in October 2025.
The appeal argues that state Supreme Court justices "overrode the will of the people," as Virginia voters narrowly voted to pass the amendment through a statewide referendum in late April.
WSLS: Democrats ask the Supreme Court to halt Va. ruling blocking new congressional districts
"The Court overrode the will of the people who ratified the amendment by ordering the Commonwealth to conduct its election with the congressional districts that the people rejected," wrote lawyers for Virginia Democrats and the state's Democratic Attorney General, Jay Jones. They added, "The irreparable harm resulting from the Supreme Court of Virginia's decision is profound and immediate."
ALXnow
WCYB5: AG Jay Jones releases statement after Virginia Supreme Court rules against redistricting
"The strength and stability of our democracy depends on adherence to the rule of law, the execution of free and fair elections where every eligible voter can cast their ballots to choose their leaders, and public trust in the institutions that provide accountability and protect our democratic processes. This Court's ruling follows a dangerous trend of tilting power away from the people."
WTKR: Jay Jones, VA Democrats file motion asking state Supreme Court to pause decision to void redistricting results
Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones, along with notable Virginia Democrats, has filed a motion asking the Virginia Supreme Court to delay issuing their mandate striking down the redistricting referendum that would give Democrats a 10-1 advantage.
He issued the motion, with supporters in House Speaker Don Scott and Sen. Louise Lucas, to pause the mandate on Friday night after the state Supreme Court ruled 4-3 that the process by which the referendum reached the ballot did not comply with constitutional requirements.
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Jones said in a statement that they were reviewing the decision, which he called an "unprecedented order" and planned to "defend the will of the people."
Jones wrote that they also plan to file an Emergency Petition to the U.S. Supreme Court.
WTVR: Virginia AG asks Supreme Court to pause mandate voiding redistricting referendum results
Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones is asking the Virginia Supreme Court to delay issuing its mandate to void the results of last month's redistricting referendum as state Democrats prepare an appeal to the United States Supreme Court.
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After the decision came down, Jones said in a statement they were reviewing what he called "an unprecedented order" and are "evaluating every legal pathway forward to defend the will of the people."
He issued his motion to delay the mandate Friday evening, citing a rule that may require the Court to defer the issuance of its mandate if a party intends to file an appeal with the Supreme Court of the United States.
Celebrating the Class of 2026
Attorney General Jay Jones gave the keynote address at Norfolk State University Spring Commencement on Saturday, May 9. This weekend, Attorney General Jones will deliver the keynote address at Virginia State University's second commencement ceremony. He is he is honored to congratulate and ready graduates as they embark on this next stage in their lives.
The Progress Index: VSU graduation speakers, tickets, schedule and livestream
Virginia State University will hold two spring 2026 commencement ceremonies at the VSU Multi-Purpose Center on Saturday, May 16.
Two historic Virginia leaders, Gov. Abigail Spanberger, the first woman elected governor of Virginia, and Attorney General Jay Jones, the first Black Virginia's attorney general, will deliver keynote addresses.
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The second ceremony, with Jones as the keynote speaker, will celebrate graduates from the College of Agriculture, the College of Engineering and Technology, the College of Natural and Health Sciences, and the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business.
Social Media:
Norfolk State University Instagram Post 1
Norfolk State University Instagram Post 2
Law Day
The Office of the Attorney General celebrated Law Day, on May 1. Law Day is a moment to remember the significance of the rule of law and our legal system.
13NewsNow: Attorney General Jay Jones attends Newport News Law Day Open House
The Virginian-Pilot: Virginia attorney general will kick off 'Law Day' at Newport News courthouse Friday
The Newport News courthouse will open its doors to the public Friday for an educational program about various aspects of the judicial system.
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"This event represents a meaningful step toward transparency and civil engagement in our local justice system," the Circuit Clerk of Court's office said in announcing the event.
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The attorney general will speak, as will Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones, Circuit Court Judge Matthew W. Hoffman, Clerk of Circuit Court Angela Reason and Molly Newton, president of the Greater Peninsula Women's Bar Association.
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Original text here: https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/3023-what-virginians-are-seeing-attorney-general-jay-jones-shares-weekly-roundup-of-actions-taken-5
S.D. A.G. Jackley Releases Final Ballot Explanation on Proposed Constitutional Amendment Establishing a Trust for Unclaimed Property Fund
PIERRE, South Dakota, May 16 -- South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Attorney General Jackley Releases Final Ballot Explanation on Proposed Constitutional Amendment Establishing a Trust for Unclaimed Property Fund
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has released the final ballot explanation for a Constitutional Amendment proposed by the State Legislature that would establish a trust for the state's Unclaimed Property Fund. The proposed amendment will be on the Nov. 3, 2026 general election ballot.
Attorney General Jackley
... Show Full Article
PIERRE, South Dakota, May 16 -- South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Attorney General Jackley Releases Final Ballot Explanation on Proposed Constitutional Amendment Establishing a Trust for Unclaimed Property Fund
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has released the final ballot explanation for a Constitutional Amendment proposed by the State Legislature that would establish a trust for the state's Unclaimed Property Fund. The proposed amendment will be on the Nov. 3, 2026 general election ballot.
Attorney General Jackleytakes no position on any such proposal for purposes of the ballot explanation.
As required by law, he has provided a fair and neutral explanation on the initiated Constitutional Amendment to help assist the voters as required by state law. The sponsors of the proposed Constitutional Amendment were Sen. Taffy Howard and Rep. Chris Kassin.
The Attorney General's explanation was finalized after a review of all the comments received during the 10-day comment period on the Attorney General's draft explanation.
No comments were received by the deadline.
Language for the final initiated ballot measure explanation can be found here (https://atg.sd.gov/OurOffice/Media/pressreleasesdetail.aspx?id=3081).
For more information regarding ballot measures, please visit the Secretary of State's website.
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Original text here: https://atg.sd.gov/OurOffice/Media/pressreleasesdetail.aspx?id=3081
N.J. A.G. Davenport: Thirteen People Charged in Connection With Human Trafficking Operation
TRENTON, New Jersey, May 16 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Thirteen People Charged in Connection with Human Trafficking Operation
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport, the New Jersey State Police, and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) today announced the arrests of 13 New Jersey residents on charges connected to a human trafficking ring they allegedly operated in Central and South Jersey.
Shalaby Hicks of Pennsauken, Nathaniel Clay of Mount Laurel, Shawn Williams of Lindenwold, Raymond Edness of Mount Holly, Richard
... Show Full Article
TRENTON, New Jersey, May 16 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Thirteen People Charged in Connection with Human Trafficking Operation
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport, the New Jersey State Police, and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) today announced the arrests of 13 New Jersey residents on charges connected to a human trafficking ring they allegedly operated in Central and South Jersey.
Shalaby Hicks of Pennsauken, Nathaniel Clay of Mount Laurel, Shawn Williams of Lindenwold, Raymond Edness of Mount Holly, RichardWood of Burlington, Amber Temean of Mount Laurel, Eleana Kuzel of Ventnor, Deena Turner of Delanco, Kelley Plotts of Stratford, Anthony Hicks Simms of Camden, Bernard Dandridge of Sicklerville, Nicholas Bray of Haddon Heights, and Michael Amoroso of Riverside are charged variously with offenses including racketeering, conspiracy, human trafficking and drug charges in connection with the criminal operation. (See attached chart)
"The physical and emotional abuse of human trafficking leaves scars that stay with victims for the rest of their lives," said Attorney General Davenport. "It is our mission to relentlessly pursue those who exploit others. Anyone who engages in this kind of criminal activity should know one thing: you will be held accountable."
"This takedown reflects the power of coordinated law enforcement efforts, working together to dismantle trafficking networks," said DCJ Director Theresa L. Hilton. "These cases can be complicated, requiring cooperation across agencies and disciplines to protect survivors and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice."
"Human trafficking is a cruel and predatory crime that targets the most vulnerable members of our society, leaving victims with lasting physical, emotional, and psychological trauma," said Jeanne Hengemuhle, Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. "These traffickers prey on human lives for personal profit and have no regard for the devastation they cause to victims, families, and communities. The New Jersey State Police remain unwavering in our commitment to combating human trafficking, protecting those at risk, and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice. These arrests send a clear message: this exploitation will not be tolerated in our communities."
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court, from January 1, 2025, through the present, the New Jersey State Police's Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) investigated the activities of a human trafficking ring operating across multiple counties in New Jersey, including Middlesex, Ocean, Camden, and Burlington.
The investigation revealed that Shalaby Hicks and Nathaniel Clay allegedly ran a human trafficking "program" in which women they employed engaged in commercial sex acts on their behalf and provide them with all the money they earned. In exchange, Hicks and Clay allegedly paid for their lodging, food, other necessities, transportation, and controlled dangerous substances (CDS). In addition to the human trafficking enterprise, Hicks and Clay also allegedly distributed CDS.
The criminal enterprise found clients by posting advertisements of the women for commercial sex acts on websites such as skipthegames.com and megapersonals.eu. The enterprise forced the victims to post online advertisements of themselves.
In addition, victims of the human trafficking enterprise were expected to provide CDS if they had clients who wanted to purchase it. Hicks would purchase CDS from his suppliers and bring it back to various hotels where he was staying where he would cook the cocaine into crack cocaine, and bag it for distribution.
Hicks allegedly controlled the portion of the enterprise operating out of a hotel in Pennsauken. Hicks allegedly used female and male managers who were responsible for handling the CDS and money on site, as well as enforcing the rules of Hicks's program. Temean, Kuzel, Williams, and Plotts allegedly served as such managers. Turner is alleged to have assisted in photographing and posting online commercial sex advertisements for Hicks's victims.
Clay allegedly controlled the portion of the enterprise operating out of a hotel in Maple Shade. He allegedly used male managers - including Wood and Edness, who allegedly provided transportation, CDS, and protection on site. At the time of arrest, Clay is alleged to have been in possession of a handgun.
On May 7, a search warrant was executed for a hotel room allegedly associated with Hicks and his operation. Hicks was present at the time. Approximately 7.79 ounces of suspected crack cocaine, 5 ounces of fentanyl, and 3.77 ounces of methamphetamine were recovered, along with drug paraphernalia and approximately $5,000 in cash. Search warrants were also executed at 3 residences and two additional hotels, which lead to the recovery of 15 victims.
Hicks Simms and Dandridge were allegedly cocaine suppliers for the enterprise. Hicks allegedly obtained the powdered cocaine and cooked it into crack-cocaine, which was supplied to all the victims. Dandridge is also alleged to have been using his residence to manufacture cocaine. At the time of his arrest, he was allegedly in possession of 14 ounces of cocaine, two handguns, and an assault ghost gun rifle.
This investigation was led by the New Jersey State Police's Human Trafficking Unit by Detective Anthony Duncan, Detective Sergeant Mark Wettengel, and Lieutenant Ricardo Diaz. Deputy Attorneys General Amie Hyde and Robert Guarni are prosecuting the case for the Division, with assistance from Deputy Attorney General Lisa Queen, under the supervision of Deputy Chief Veronica Daddario and Bureau Chief Cassandra Montalto.
Attorney General Davenport thanked the Burlington, Camden, Gloucester and Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Offices; the Montgomery County (Pennsylvania) District Attorney's Office; the Maple Shade, Mount Laurel, Pennsauken, and Totowa Police Departments; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for their assistance with the investigation. Attorney General Davenport also thanks the providers who rendered services to the victims in this case: Volunteers of America, Operation Rise, Hoving Home, Inspira Health, and Jefferson Health for medical services.
The charge of first-degree human trafficking (receiving anything of value as an organizer/supervisor/financier/manager) carries a sentence of 20 years to life with a mandatory period of parole ineligibility of 20 years, and up to a $200,000 fine.
First-degree crimes carry a sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $200,000. Second-degree charges carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000. Third-degree charges carry a sentence of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaints are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Organization Structure (http://www.njoag.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-0515_Organization-Structure.pdf) | Human Trafficking Hotline (http://www.njoag.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-0515_Human-Trafficking-Hotline.pdf)
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Original text here: https://www.njoag.gov/thirteen-people-charged-in-connection-with-human-trafficking-operation/
Md. A.G. Brown Joins Coalition Opposing EPA's Proposal to Gut National Limits on Toxic Ethylene Oxide Pollution
BALTIMORE, Maryland, May 16 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Joins Coalition Opposing EPA's Proposal to Gut National Limits on Toxic Ethylene Oxide Pollution
Attorney General Anthony G. Brown today joined a coalition of 16 attorneys general opposing a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposal to repeal national emission standards for ethylene oxide (EtO) used by commercial sterilization facilities. According to the EPA's own assessment, EtO is a known human carcinogen and among the most toxic
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BALTIMORE, Maryland, May 16 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Joins Coalition Opposing EPA's Proposal to Gut National Limits on Toxic Ethylene Oxide Pollution
Attorney General Anthony G. Brown today joined a coalition of 16 attorneys general opposing a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposal to repeal national emission standards for ethylene oxide (EtO) used by commercial sterilization facilities. According to the EPA's own assessment, EtO is a known human carcinogen and among the most toxicpollutants regulated under the Clean Air Act.
In 2024, the EPA improved old regulations on EtO, taking into account updated scientific evidence showing EtO emissions are far more harmful than previously recognized. Among other improvements, the 2024 updates required the complete capture of EtO at sterilizer facilities that use it, major reductions to EtO pollution and continuous emissions monitoring at regulated facilities. The Trump administration is now proposing to dismantle the updated EtO limits and return to the old regulations.
There are four commercial sterilization facilities that use EtO in Maryland, located in Jessup, Hanover, Hampstead, and Salisbury. More than 343,000 Marylanders live within five miles of these facilities.
In their comments, Attorney General Brown and the coalition argue that the EPA's new proposal unlawfully ignores decades of scientific progress and improved understanding of the health risks from EtO pollution.
Long-term cumulative exposure, even to very small amounts of EtO, significantly increases the risk of developing certain types of cancers. Researchers for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health found that workers from 13 sterilizer facilities who participated in a study of EtO's health effects suffered higher rates of breast cancer and lymphomas.
A follow-up study on the female workers found that cumulative exposure to EtO was associated with elevated rates of breast cancer mortality, with workers who were exposed to the highest EtO levels dying at three times the rate of their unexposed peers.
Short-term exposure to high levels of EtO can cause memory loss, headaches, dizziness, numbness and other neurological impacts, as well as respiratory, eye and skin irritation. Children are especially vulnerable to EtO, which can cause DNA mutations. Analysis from the EPA also found that commercial sterilizers emitting EtO disproportionately impose adverse health effects on communities of color, low-income populations and indigenous peoples.
Joining Attorney General Brown in submitting the letter are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Vermont and Virginia, along with the California Air Resources Board.
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Original text here: https://oag.maryland.gov/News/pages/Attorney-General-Brown-Joins-Coalition-Opposing-EPA%e2%80%99s-Proposal-to-Gut-National-Limits-on-Toxic-Ethylene-Oxide-Pollution.aspx
Md. A.G. Brown Announces Sentencing of Former DPSCS Correctional Staff in Contraband Schemes at Jessup Correctional Institution
BALTIMORE, Maryland, May 16 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Announces Sentencing of Former DPSCS Correctional Staff in Contraband Schemes at Jessup Correctional Institution
Attorney General Anthony G. Brown announced today that former Correctional Officer Sergeant Awungjia Rita Atabong, Correctional Educator Lakesha Murry, and Correctional Officer Kathyrn Hawes were sentenced after pleading guilty for their involvement in three separate contraband smuggling schemes operating at Jessup Correctional Institution
... Show Full Article
BALTIMORE, Maryland, May 16 -- Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Attorney General Brown Announces Sentencing of Former DPSCS Correctional Staff in Contraband Schemes at Jessup Correctional Institution
Attorney General Anthony G. Brown announced today that former Correctional Officer Sergeant Awungjia Rita Atabong, Correctional Educator Lakesha Murry, and Correctional Officer Kathyrn Hawes were sentenced after pleading guilty for their involvement in three separate contraband smuggling schemes operating at Jessup Correctional Institution(JCI) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. The investigations were led by the Maryland Office of the Attorney General's Organized Crime Unit and the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS).
"When correctional staff smuggle contraband into our prisons, they endanger the health and safety of their colleagues and the incarcerated people entrusted to their care," said Attorney General Brown. "These defendants abused their authority to bring prohibited items into Jessup Correctional Institution, undermining prison security for their own profit. Our Office will hold accountable any public servant who betrays the people and institutions they are sworn to protect."
"The guilty pleas entered by these former employees send a clear message that misconduct and corruption within our correctional institutions will not be tolerated," said Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Secretary Carolyn J. Scruggs. "Any staff member who chooses to engage in criminal activity or compromise the safety and integrity of our facilities will be held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. I want to once again commend our detectives and investigators for their outstanding work that led to the apprehension of the guilty and, in so doing, protected the public and the integrity of our correctional system."
Correctional Officer Sergeant Awungjia Rita Atabong, a 13-year veteran correctional officer, repeatedly smuggled drugs into JCI on behalf of multiple incarcerated individuals. Atabong regularly met with associates acting on behalf of incarcerated individuals, receiving contraband packages that she would subsequently smuggle into the correctional facility. Atabong communicated with the inmates using their contraband cell phones and was paid thousands of dollars over several smuggling trips. In one particularly egregious act, Atabong abused her position by tipping off an incarcerated individual that members of DPSCS's contraband interdiction team were engaged in an active operation.
On July 14, 2025, police executed a search warrant at Atabong's residence in Anne Arundel County, and recovered a large amount of contraband packaged to be smuggled into JCI. The items seized included 200 pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine, a plastic bag containing 19.65 grams of the stimulant drug 3,4-Methylenedioxy-a-cyclohexylaminopropiophenone, 7,911 pills containing MDMA and methamphetamine, 78 grams of cannabis, 55 grams of THC-9, 54 grams of psilocin, 733 strips of buprenorphine, tobacco, cellphones with charging cords, and a variety of other items such as rolling papers and lighters.
On May 5, 2026, Atabong pleaded guilty to conspiracy to deliver contraband and misconduct in office and was sentenced by the Honorable Mark W. Crooks to a total of 10 years of incarceration, suspending all but 18 months, to be followed by three years of supervised probation.
Correctional Educator Lakesha Murry exploited her position to smuggle drugs, food, and other contraband into JCI for incarcerated individuals in exchange for money and luxury items, including a Gucci bag. Murry communicated directly with some of her incarcerated students using a contraband cell phone, taking specific requests for prohibited items. Murry also coordinated bringing in contraband food items. Murry would hide items on her person and then distribute them to her conspirators while in the JCI classroom. Security footage captured Murry kissing one of her incarcerated students on at least one occasion. On June 9, 2025, Murry passed cigarettes and 5 pieces of paper soaked with synthetic cannabis to incarcerated individual Kevin Glover while they were in the JCI classroom. On April 21, 2025, a search of incarcerated co-conspirator Allen Mitchell's cell phone uncovered messages between Mitchell and Murry discussing Murry's delivery of unauthorized food to Mitchell.
On May 15, 2026, Murry pleaded guilty to conspiracy to deliver contraband and misconduct in office and was sentenced by the Honorable Mark W. Crooks to a total of five years of incarceration, suspending all but 90 days, to be followed by three years of supervised probation.
Correctional Officer Kathyrn Hawes was engaged in an inappropriate relationship with an incarcerated individual, Artemis Booker. Hawes coordinated with multiple incarcerated co-conspirators through texts and calls from their contraband cell phone. Among the items she provided was a watch, which she sent photos of to Booker's contraband cell phone. When investigators searched Booker's cell, they recovered the watch as well as other prohibited contraband, including a flash drive and tobacco. Upon her arrest at JCI in connection with this indictment, Hawes was found to be hiding additional contraband on her person that she had smuggled into the facility.
On February 5, 2026, Hawes pleaded guilty to misconduct in office and was sentenced by the Honorable Stacy W. McCormack to a total of three years of incarceration, suspending all but the time served, to be followed by three years of supervised probation.
Between February 2026 and April 2026, five inmate co-defendants pleaded guilty to charges including possession of a contraband cell phone and conspiracy to deliver contraband.
The remaining JCI inmate co-defendants, Tavon Williams and Kevin Glover, have a trial date set for May 21, 2026, and May 28, 2026, respectively.
A criminal indictment is merely an accusation of wrongdoing, and a defendant is presumed innocent until the State proves the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
In making today's announcement, Attorney General Brown thanked his Criminal Division, specifically Division Chief Katie Dorian, Organized Crime Unit Chief Paul Halliday, and the Investigations and Prosecutions Support Unit Chief Zachary Norfolk and Assistant Attorney General Colin McDaniels, who are prosecuting these cases. Attorney General Brown also thanked DPSCS for their partnership. Finally, Attorney General Brown thanked the State's Attorney for Anne Arundel County Anne Colt Leitess for assisting with this prosecution.
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Original text here: https://oag.maryland.gov/News/pages/Attorney-General-Brown-Announces-Sentencing-of-Former-DPSCS-Correctional-Staff-in-Contraband-Schemes-at-Jessup-Correctional.aspx
Ga. A.G. Carr's Gang Prosecution Unit Indicts Three for Deadly Assault in Dougherty County
ATLANTA, Georgia, May 16 -- Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Carr's Gang Prosecution Unit Indicts Three for Deadly Assault in Dougherty County
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr today announced that three individuals have been indicted in Dougherty County in connection with the death of 24-year-old Ricky Williams, who was beaten and passed away as a result of his injuries on Jan. 4, 2026. As asserted in the indictment, the defendants are members of the Inglewood Family Gangster Bloods (IFGB), and they are alleged to have committed
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ATLANTA, Georgia, May 16 -- Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Carr's Gang Prosecution Unit Indicts Three for Deadly Assault in Dougherty County
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr today announced that three individuals have been indicted in Dougherty County in connection with the death of 24-year-old Ricky Williams, who was beaten and passed away as a result of his injuries on Jan. 4, 2026. As asserted in the indictment, the defendants are members of the Inglewood Family Gangster Bloods (IFGB), and they are alleged to have committedthe assault in furtherance of the gang. All three are facing various charges, including Felony Murder.
"The violence that's taken place in Dougherty County is absolutely unacceptable, and we're going after those responsible," said Attorney General Chris Carr. "That's why we expanded our Gang Prosecution Unit to Albany, and we're fighting each day to keep Georgians safe. If you're engaged in gang activity and putting families and children at risk, we will find you, arrest you, and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law."
This case was investigated by the Albany Police Department and the Attorney General's Gang Prosecution Unit.
"The Albany Police Department remains committed to working alongside the Attorney General's Gang Prosecution Unit to hold violent offenders accountable," said Albany Police Chief Michael Persley. "The death of Ricky Williams was a tragic and senseless loss, and we are steadfast in our efforts to protect our community from gang related violence. We appreciate the continued partnership that helps ensure those who threaten the safety of our residents are brought to justice."
Inglewood Family Gangster Bloods
The Inglewood Family Gangster Bloods is based out of Inglewood, California, and is one of the oldest Blood sets. It has several subsets, including the 80's (most common in Albany, Georgia) and 77th.
Altogether, Carr's Gang Prosecution Unit, which has a regional office in Albany, has worked with the Albany Police Department to secure nearly 20 convictions in Dougherty County alone with 15 of those convictions involving individuals associated with the Inglewood Family Gangster Bloods. This includes several members and high-ranking IFGB associates who were previously convicted in connection with the trafficking of a missing 16-year-old female. More information about that case can be found here (https://law.georgia.gov/press-releases/2025-04-30/carr-dougherty-county-gang-member-convicted-trafficking-missing-teen).
Dougherty County Indictment
On May 13, 2026, the Attorney General's Gang Prosecution Unit presented evidence to a Dougherty County Grand Jury, resulting in the indictment* of Konterrious Floyd, Levontay McDaniel, and Kawaski Brantley.
Specifically, the defendants are facing the following charges.
Konterrious Floyd (aka "Dan the Man"), 28, of Albany:
* 1 count of Felony Murder
* 1 count of Aggravated Assault
* 10 counts of Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act
* 1 count of Illegal Use of Communication Device
Levontay McDaniel (aka "YBA Jit"), 26, of Sylvester:
* 1 count of Felony Murder
* 1 count of Aggravated Assault
* 10 counts of Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act
* 1 count of Illegal Use of Communication Device
Kawaski Brantley (aka "Hvncho Gotti"), 33, of Hampton:
* 1 count of Felony Murder
* 1 count of Aggravated Assault
* 6 counts of Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act
A copy of the indictment can be found here (https://law.georgia.gov/document/document/051426-dougherty-county-gang-indictmentpdf/download). No further information about the investigation or the indictment may be released at this time by the Attorney General's Office.
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About the Attorney General's Gang Prosecution Unit
In 2022, with the support of Governor Brian Kemp and members of the General Assembly, Attorney General Chris Carr created Georgia's first statewide Gang Prosecution Unit.
Since it began its historic work on July 1, 2022, the Gang Prosecution Unit has investigated and prosecuted cases in Athens-Clarke, Barrow, Bibb, Bryan, Chatham, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Dougherty, Fulton, Gwinnett, Laurens, Lowndes, Muscogee, Richmond, Spalding, Thomas, Upson and Washington counties, with more than 130 convictions secured across the state.
Carr's Gang Prosecution Unit is based in Atlanta, with regional, satellite prosecutors and investigators in Albany, Augusta, Columbus, Macon, Savannah and Southeast Georgia.
The Gang Prosecution Unit is housed in the Attorney General's Prosecution Division, which also includes Carr's Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, his White Collar and Cyber Crime Unit, and his Organized Retail Crime Unit.
*Members of the public should keep in mind that indictments contain only allegations against the individual against whom the indictment is sought. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and it will be the government's burden at trial to prove the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt of the allegations contained in the indictment.
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Original text here: https://law.georgia.gov/press-releases/2026-05-15/carrs-gang-prosecution-unit-indicts-three-deadly-assault-dougherty-county
Ariz. A.G. Mayes Wins Ruling to Keep Public Nuisance Lawsuit Against Fondomonte Moving Forward
PHOENIX, Arizona, May 16 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Attorney General Mayes Wins Ruling to Keep Public Nuisance Lawsuit Against Fondomonte Moving Forward
A Maricopa County Superior Court judge has denied Fondomonte Arizona LLC's request to halt Attorney General Mayes' public nuisance lawsuit over the company's groundwater extraction in the Ranegras Plain Basin, allowing the case to move forward.
"I am grateful for today's ruling, which keeps our lawsuit against Fondomonte on track," said Attorney General Mayes. "My office will
... Show Full Article
PHOENIX, Arizona, May 16 -- Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes issued the following news release on May 15, 2026:
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Attorney General Mayes Wins Ruling to Keep Public Nuisance Lawsuit Against Fondomonte Moving Forward
A Maricopa County Superior Court judge has denied Fondomonte Arizona LLC's request to halt Attorney General Mayes' public nuisance lawsuit over the company's groundwater extraction in the Ranegras Plain Basin, allowing the case to move forward.
"I am grateful for today's ruling, which keeps our lawsuit against Fondomonte on track," said Attorney General Mayes. "My office willkeep fighting to protect the people of La Paz County and hold Fondomonte accountable for the public nuisance we allege they have created due to their overuse of groundwater."
In an order issued today, May 12, 2026, Judge Scott Minder rejected Fondomonte's argument that the case should be paused entirely while the Arizona Department of Water Resources conducts its multi-year Active Management Area study of the basin. The court found that a complete stay would be inappropriate because the State's lawsuit seeks relief -- including an abatement fund -- that goes beyond what the ADWR process can provide.
Attorney General Mayes filed suit in 2024 alleging that Fondomonte, an alfalfa farming operation, has massively increased groundwater pumping in the Ranegras Basin since 2014, causing nearby wells to run dry, degrading water quality, and contributing to land subsidence in the surrounding community. The complaint alleges violations of Arizona's public nuisance statute, A.R.S. Sec. 13-2917.
The court ordered the parties to submit a joint scheduling order by June 15, 2026, that takes the ADWR's AMA process into account. A copy of the order (https://azag.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=cc1fad182b6d6f8b1e352e206&id=88aaa536a7&e=9153ff6c96) is available.
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Original text here: https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-wins-ruling-keep-public-nuisance-lawsuit-against-fondomonte
