Mayor Mamdani Extends Field Lighting This Summer, Adding 4,000 More Hours of Play on Basketball Courts, Soccer Fields and Athletic Fields Citywide

 

Sports lighting will stay on for an extra hour at 50 free and low-cost recreation sites across the five boroughs  

As the Knicks carry New York City’s hopes into the NBA Finals and the city prepares to welcome the world for the World Cup, Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura announced that sports lighting will remain on for an additional hour at 50 locations citywide this summer, extending permitted use until 11 p.m.   

  

Beginning June 11, 2026, through Labor Day weekend, New Yorkers will be able to apply for extended permits at select fields and courts in every borough.   

  

The expanded hours will create more than 4,000 additional hours of evening recreation, giving New Yorkers more opportunities to stay active, connect with their communities and enjoy neighborhood parks. With many residents only able to access athletic fields after work or during cooler evening temperatures, the program will help meet growing demand for recreational space while supporting youth sports, adult leagues and community programming.  

  

“My hope is that twenty years from now we have world-class strikers and power forwards whose journeys began right here in New York City when they found their neighborhood pitches and courts lit up late at night,” said Mayor Mamdani. “These 4,000 additional hours of play time will unlock opportunities for neighbors to enjoy the cool night air, for young New Yorkers to imitate the skills they just watched on TV, to both live in our city and play in our city. Our parks are our backyards, and local sports fields are our stadiums.”   

  

“By adding 4,000 hours of free and low-cost recreation, NYC Parks prove it is one of the City’s most important affordability agencies,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Julia Kerson. “Extended lighting means more people can spend more time outdoors, building community and enjoying their local parks. And for those perfecting their jump shot, it means a little more time under the lights.”  

  

“After the school year ends, summer should be a time when young people — and all New Yorkers — have safe, fun places to gather with friends and family,” said Deputy Mayor for Community Safety Renita Francois. “Too often, we tell kids what not to do with their free time without creating enough opportunities for what they can do. By expanding access to well-lit athletic fields and courts across the five boroughs, the Mamdani administration is investing in places where young New Yorkers can stay active, and most importantly, have fun.”  

  

“New Yorkers are feeling the excitement of an historic sports summer — from the Knicks’ run to the NBA Finals, to the anticipation of this year’s World Cup. At NYC Parks, we’re making sure that excitement translates into more opportunities for people to get outside, stay active and play the sports they love,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura. “By extending lighting hours at select fields and courts across the city this summer, we’re creating more access for young athletes, adult leagues and neighborhood groups who rely on our parks after work or school and during the cooler evening hours. These additional hours mean more than just time on the field — they mean stronger communities, healthier New Yorkers and more opportunities for people to enjoy their local parks. We’re grateful to Council Member Hankerson for his advocacy to ensure our parks and recreational spaces are the best they can be.”  

  

“New York is at the top of the sports world right now. The Knicks have the whole city locked in, FIFA is coming here and you can feel that excitement in every borough,” said Council Member Ty Hankerson, Chair of the Committee on Parks and Recreation. “Our parks are the outlet for that excitement, giving New Yorkers a safe place to carry it from the screen and the stadium into their own neighborhoods. Studies show that safe, active nighttime park programming can help people feel safer and reduce crime, so extending sports lighting is a smart public safety investment. I thank Commissioner Shimamura for listening to our call and giving communities more time and more access. Parks are for everyone, and this summer, New Yorkers will have even more time to enjoy them safely.”     

 

A full list of participating fields is available through NYC Parks permitting offices in each borough.    

 

At nonparticipating locations, standard field permitting hours remain 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. New Yorkers can apply for field permits through the NYC Parks website. Use the Field and Court Permit Availability Map to view current permit availability and seasonal schedules.   

New York State Announces $6.1 Million to Repair and Preserve Homeless Housing Across the State

State Funding Will Rehabilitate Supportive, Transitional, and Emergency Housing in Albany, Niagara, and Suffolk Counties

Supplements New York State's Ongoing Efforts to Address Homelessness and Expand Permanent Supportive Housing Options Across the State

The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) announced $6.1 million has been awarded to six projects that will rehabilitate and preserve 56 units, consisting of 184 beds, of emergency, transitional, and permanent supportive housing in Albany, Niagara, and Suffolk counties for individuals and families that have experienced homelessness.

“The combination of affordable housing and supportive services is the most effective tool we have in addressing chronic homelessness while ensuring all New Yorkers have an opportunity to live independently and thrive,” OTDA Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said. “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State continues to make landmark investments to expand and preserve the supply of permanent supportive housing options across the state, recognizing that stable housing is the foundation for healthier lives and stronger communities.”

The grants—awarded through a competitive process by OTDA’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program (HHAP)—are an important component of Governor Hochul's $25 billion comprehensive Housing Plan that will help create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across New York State, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations. The six projects awarded funding had been constructed with funding previously provided by HHAP.

The SFY 2027 State Budget includes a $153 million appropriation for HHAP, continuing the $25 million increase in funding from SFY 2026 that Governor Hochul secured for the stabilization of existing HHAP projects that meet certain criteria, to shore up the existing supply of supportive housing units. In addition, for several years, HHAP’s budget has included $1 million in funding set aside for emergency shelter repairs and that funding is again included.

The projects awarded funding include:

Long Island

Community Housing Innovations, Inc. (CHI) - $600,000 in HHAP stabilization funds to rehabilitate four single-family homes consisting of 17 beds of permanent supportive housing in Suffolk County for families that have experienced homelessness. The project proposes repairs to the interiors and exteriors of the homes, including new roofs, windows, siding, boilers, hot water heaters, kitchens, bathrooms, and pavement and driveways; upgrades to the electrical system and fixtures; repairs to the fencing and the removal of trees; and an operating and replacement reserve.

Support services provided to residents of these homes include case management, referrals, supportive counseling, and advocacy services as needed.

CHI - $1.35 million in HHAP stabilization funds to rehabilitate nine single family homes consisting of 36 beds of permanent supportive housing in Suffolk County for families that have experienced homelessness. The project proposes repairs to the interiors and exteriors of the homes, including new roofs, windows, siding, boilers, hot water heaters, kitchens, bathrooms, and pavement and driveways; upgrades to the electrical system and fixtures; repairs to the fencing and the removal of trees.

Support services provided to residents of these homes include case management, referrals, supportive counseling, and advocacy services as needed.

CHI - $750,000 in HHAP stabilization funds to rehabilitate five single family homes consisting of 15 beds of permanent supportive housing in Suffolk County for families that have experienced homelessness. The project proposes repairs to the interiors and exteriors of the homes, including new roofs, windows, siding, boilers, hot water heaters, kitchens, bathrooms, pavement and driveways; upgrades to the electrical system and fixtures; repairs to the fencing and the removal of trees.

Support services provided to residents of these homes include case management, referrals, supportive counseling, and advocacy services as needed.

Western New York

YWCA of the Niagara Frontier (YWCA) - $674,737 in HHAP stabilization funds for the moderate rehabilitation of Carolyn’s House, which provides 19 units/78 beds of transitional housing in Niagara County for women who have experienced homelessness and their children.

This building was originally constructed in 1915 and rehabilitated by HHAP in 2005. Proposed work includes repairing or replacing the roof, elevator, fire system, camera system, two 20-year-old boilers, and carpeting.

Support services provided to residents of these homes include individualized case management, referrals, legal advocacy, benefits assistance, employment enhancement, parenting assistance, financial literacy training, and life skills management.

Capital Region

Equinox, Inc. - $750,000 in HHAP stabilization funds to substantially rehabilitate five units/eight beds of transitional housing in Albany for youth who have experienced homelessness. Proposed work includes the substantial rehabilitation of the interior and exterior of the building, including installation of energy efficient mini-split heat pumps and heat pump water heaters; removal of old boilers, baseboard heaters, and abandoned piping; replacement of 36 windows and the roof; masonry repointing and brick repairs; lintel replacement; reconstruction of the basement access and foundation wall; installation of new LED exterior lighting and modernized security camera system; kitchen and bathroom upgrades; driveway and parking reconstruction to improve accessibility; rear yard and ramp replacement; and installation of rooftop solar panels.

Support services provided to residents include case management, referrals for health and mental health care, and assistance securing permanent housing. 

Equinox, Inc. - $2 million in HHAP stabilization funds to substantially rehabilitate 14 units/30 beds of emergency housing at their domestic violence (DV) shelter in Albany for survivors of domestic violence who have experienced homelessness. The shelter was originally constructed in 1900 and rehabilitated by HHAP in 2006. This project proposes the substantial rehabilitation of the interior and exterior of the DV shelter. The scope of work includes restoring the integrity of the building envelope; addressing structural deficiencies; modernizing building systems; window replacement; repairing damaged stained-glass windows; roof replacement; sewer line and backflow system replacement; bathroom, kitchen. and laundry room renovations; replacement of flooring; wiring and lighting upgrades to improve security; replacement and renovation of the front entry door; and construction of a covered outdoor area for children’s play programming.

Support services provided to residents include wrap-around case management to assist in securing permanent housing, legal services, and referrals to counseling and health care.

WORST OF THE WORST: ICE Arrests Rapists, Violent Assailants, and Drug Traffickers

 

ICE officers truly are the best of the best who put their lives on the line to remove criminals from our communities

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested more dangerous public safety threats convicted for rape, domestic violence, and selling heroin and cocaine, among other crimes.

“Our ICE law enforcement officers truly are the best of the best. They put their lives on the line every day to arrest the worst of the worst,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis. “Yesterday, they arrested rapists, violent assailants, and drug traffickers. Despite their best efforts to keep our communities safe, sanctuary politicians continue spreading falsehoods about the men and women of ICE law enforcement and ICE facilities around the country. If you see an ICE officer, thank them for their service.”

Arrests include:

Esteban Morales-Cruz, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for lewd acts with a child under 14 years old in Santa Ana, California.

Gabriel Olivares, a criminal illegal alien from Argentina, convicted for sodomy in Goshen, New York.

Wilson Avila-Perez, a criminal illegal alien from Guatemala, convicted for assault – domestic violence and forgery – possession of a forged instrument in Phoenix, Arizona.

Juan Carlos Herrera-Salazar, a criminal illegal alien from Mexico, convicted for selling heroin and cocaine in Salt Lake City, Utah.

David Livingston Attoh, a criminal illegal alien from Ghana, convicted for aggravated identity theft and conspiracy to commit bank fraud in Baltimore, Maryland.

Americans can see more public safety threats arrested in their communities on our webpage WOW.DHS.Gov.

Indictments, Convictions, and Sentencings in HSTF Prosecutions

 

The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico, W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney, in conjunction with our partner agencies in the Homeland Security Task Force (“HSTF”) announce the following investigative and prosecutorial results for the week of May 26 through May 29, 2026.  The HSTF is a permanent, interagency law enforcement task force created by executive order to combat transnational criminal organizations—including cartels, trafficking networks, and foreign terrorist organizations.  

Indictments:

• On May 28, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a nine-count indictment charging three Dominican nationals with conspiracy and attempt to import cocaine into the United States from the Dominican Republic. According to court documents, on May 15, 2026, defendants José Manuel Clase-Montilla, Daniel Luis Cuevas, and Pedro Emmanuel Carrión-Sánchez knowingly and intentionally conspired to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Specifically, HSTF seized approximately 178 kilograms of cocaine that the defendants were smuggling in a vessel. Defendant Carrión-Sánchez is facing one count of failure to heave because, while being the person in charge of the vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, he knowingly and unlawfully failed to obey an order by an authorized Federal Law enforcement officer to heave that vessel. In addition, the three defendants are each facing an immigration charge of improper entry by alien. Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Luis A. Valentín is in charge of the prosecution of the case. A copy of the indictment is attached to this press release.

Convictions through Guilty Pleas:

• On May 27, 2026, Paola Romero-Marín pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in Criminal Case No. 25-277 (RAM). According to court documents, the defendant attempted to transport kilograms of cocaine through the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. The defendant was arrested on June 13, 2025. AUSA Ryan R. McCabe is in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 27, 2026, Paul Herrera-Rivera, Jazhiel Ocasio-Herrera, Jean Fernández-Garay and Yander Santos-Ramos pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.  Paul Herrera-Rivera, Jazhiel Ocasio-Herrera and Yander Santos-Ramos also pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking in Criminal Case No. 24-453 (MAJ).  According to the indictment, the defendants were charged with participating in a violent drug trafficking organization that operated out of several public housing projects in the Carolina and San Juan areas, including the Sabana Abajo Public Housing Project.  Defendants were arrested on December 11, 2024. The court set defendants’ sentencing date for August 26, 2026. AUSA Laura Diaz and Joseph Russell are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 28, 2026, José David Serrano-Santiago pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances (Count One) and possessing a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy (Count Seven) in Criminal Case No. 25-392 (SCC).  According to the indictment, the defendant was charged with conspiring to distribute controlled substances in public housing projects and other areas in and around Cayey, Puerto Rico, and with using firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.  Defendant was arrested on September 26, 2026.AUSAs R. Vance Eaton and Andrés Orr are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 29, 2026, Christopher J. Fontanez-Vega pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances (Count One) and possessing a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy (Count Seven) in Criminal Case No. 25-392 (SCC). According to the indictment, the defendant was charged with conspiring to distribute controlled substances in public housing projects and other areas in and around Cayey, Puerto Rico, and with using firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.  Defendant was arrested on September 25, 2026. AUSAs R. Vance Eaton and Andrés Orr are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 29, 2026, Melvin Germán-Muñoz pleaded guilty to violations of 18 U.S.C. § 2199 and 8 U.S.C. § 1325(a) in Criminal Case No. 26-160. According to the indictment, the defendant was charged with stowing away on a vessel and improper entry by an alien.  Defendant was arrested on April 17, 2026. The court set defendant’s sentencing for June 29, 2026. U.S. Coast Guard SAUSA Cody A. McKinney is in charge of the prosecution of the case.

Sentencings:

• On May 26, 2026, Yomvier Torres-Ruiz was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach to 121 months’ imprisonment, to be served concurrently with the state-level sentence in Cr. Nos. ISCR-2022-00597; ISCR-2022-00598; ISCR-2022-00599; ISCR-2022-00600 and ISCR-2022-00601. The Court imposed a term of supervised release of five years. The defendant was sentenced for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. According to court documents, defendant was charged on March 22, 2023, in Criminal Case No. 23-114 (RAM), and pleaded guilty on February 25, 2026. AUSA Corinne Cordero-Romo is in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 26, 2026, Luis J. Alvarado-De La Cruz was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Gina Méndez-Miró to five years’ imprisonment for conspiring to distribute between 3.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms cocaine. According to court documents, defendant was charged on May 22, 2024, in Criminal Case No. 24-188 (GMM), and pleaded guilty on February 24, 2026. AUSAs R. Vance Eaton and Andrés Orr are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 26, 2026, Luis Marino Medina-Martínez was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge María Antongiorgi-Jordán to 87 months of imprisonment for drug trafficking. According to court documents, defendant was charged on May 4, 2023, in Criminal Case No. 23-178 (MAJ), and pleaded guilty on February 11, 2026. AUSA Antonio Pérez is in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 27, 2026, Jeorge Jhonney Lara was re-sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge María Antongiorgi-Jordán to 96 months of imprisonment and 5 years of supervised release for conspiring to possess and possessing with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine aboard a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. According to court documents, defendant was charged on April 4, 2023, in Criminal Case No. 23-139 (MAJ), and pleaded guilty on October 31, 2023. AUSA Antonio J. López-Rivera is in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 27, 2026, Antonio López-Olivencia was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Aida Delgado Colón to 33 months of imprisonment and 8 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. According to court documents, defendant was charged on April 9, 2025, in Criminal Case No. 25-184 (ADC) and pleaded guilty on January 26, 2026.  AUSA Laura Díaz González and Andres Orr are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• Ezequiel Soto Bonilla was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Aida Delgado Colón to 60 months of imprisonment and 8 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. According to court documents, defendant was charged on April 9, 2025, in Criminal Case No. 25-184 (ADC) and pleaded guilty on February 12, 2025.  AUSA Laura Díaz González and Andres Orr are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 28, 2026, Juan Ortiz-Mendoza was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Aida Delgado Colon to 144 months of imprisonment and 8 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, the defendant was charged on April 9, 2025, in Criminal Case No. 25-184 (ADC) and pleaded guilty January 30, 2026.  AUSA Laura Díaz González and Andres Orr are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 28, 2026, Jonathan Rodríguez-Acosta was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Aida Delgado Colón to 120 months of imprisonment and 6 years of supervised release for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, the defendant was charged on April 9, 2025, in Criminal Case No. 25-184 (ADC) and pleaded guilty on January 30, 2026.  AUSA Laura Díaz González and Andres Orr are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 28, 2026, Argelis Marcano-Zerpa was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Silvia Carreño-Coll to 30 months of imprisonment for conspiring to import more than five kilograms of cocaine into the United States, jettisoning property subject to forfeiture, and related charges. According to court documents, defendant was charged on March 6, 2025, in Criminal Case No. 25-114 (SCC), and pleaded guilty to the charges on February 19, 2026. AUSA Lani Lear is in charge of the prosecution of the case.

• On May 29, 2026, Wanda Vargas-Álvarez was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Gina Méndez-Miró to 12 months and 1 day of imprisonment followed by supervised release term of 6 years for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 200 to 300 grams of cocaine. According to court documents, defendant was charged on May 22, 2024, in Criminal Case No. 24-188 (GMM), and pleaded guilty on October 21, 2025. AUSAs R. Vance Eaton and Andrés Orr are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

These prosecutions are part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.

HSTF San Juan comprises agents and officers from the following federal partners: FBI, ICE-HSI, CBP (OFO, AMO and Border Patrol), the U.S. Marshals Service for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, DEA, ATF, IRS, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Department of State, and the U.S. Secret Service, the Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands HIDTA, TSA, FAA, and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Districts of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The HSTF also has the following state and local law enforcement partners as participating agencies: the Puerto Rico Police Department; the San Juan, Carolina, Guaynabo, Barceloneta, and Ponce Municipal Police Departments, the Puerto Rico National Guard – Counter Drug Program; the Puerto Rico Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; the Puerto Rico Internal Revenue Service (Hacienda); the Puerto Rico Port Authority; and the Virgin Islands Police Department.

Uzbek Nationals Charged In Human Smuggling And Money Laundering Scheme

 

United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James C. Barnacle, Jr., and Acting Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), Pete Gizas, announced the unsealing of an Indictment charging AKMAL RASULOV and ISKANDER SHUKUROV, both Uzbek nationals, with alien smuggling and money laundering.  RASULOV and SHUKUROV were arrested, SHUKUROV was ordered detained, and RASULOV has been released on bond. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken.  

“Smuggling foreign nationals into the United States is a serious crime that puts every American at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.  “Human smuggling also often involves exploitation, drug trafficking, and sexual abuse.  It must be stopped.  Drug cartels, foreign terrorist organizations, and anyone else who seeks to undermine our sovereignty and security through human trafficking and smuggling will be prosecuted.” 

“Akmal Rasulov and Iskander Shukurov allegedly jeopardized our country’s security by providing foreign nationals illegal entry into the United States for a hefty fee,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge James C. Barnacle, Jr.  “Alongside our federal partners, the FBI is committed to disrupting networks attempting to infiltrate our nation's borders.”

“These charges reflect an alleged calculated effort to move people illegally into this country and wash the profits through our financial system, with no regard for the risks to our communities or our national security,” said HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Pete Gizas.  “By arresting these defendants, we are cutting into the command structure of an alleged smuggling operation that treated our borders as a business model.  HSI New York, as a leading member of the Homeland Security Task Force, will continue to relentlessly pursue human smugglers and the money they need to operate.”

As alleged in the Indictment:

Between at least 2021 and 2025, RASULOV and SHUKUROV operated an alien-smuggling business.  RASULOV, SHUKUROV, and others charged thousands of dollars per person for each foreign national—principally citizens of Uzbekistan—in order to illegally transport them into the United States.  RASULOV, SHUKUROV, and their co-conspirators arranged for the foreign nationals to either arrive at a U.S. port of entry without prior permission to enter the United States, or sneak across a land border without the required examination or inspection by immigration officers. 

RASULOV and SHUKUROV worked with co-conspirators, including a Mexican citizen living in Mexico (“CC-1”).  RASULOV and SHUKUROV repeatedly sent money to CC-1 so that CC-1 would connect aliens and smugglers in Mexico and then facilitate the transportation of the aliens from Mexico into the United States.  RASULOV and SHUKUROV used international wire transfers to pay CC-1 for these services, including transfers from financial accounts in New York, New York. Some of the wire transfers included false information indicating that the payments were for “loan repayment” or “legal fees” to conceal the true purpose of the transactions.

RASULOV, 39, and SHUKUROV, 52, both of Brooklyn, New York, are each charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and conspiracy to commit alien smuggling, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

The statutory maximum and minimum penalties in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge.

Mr. Clayton praised the investigative work of the FBI and HSI.  He added that the investigation is ongoing.   

The case is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Josiah Pertz is in charge of the prosecution.

The charges contained in the Indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the Indictment and the descriptions of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

Union Leaders Convicted of Racketeering, Fraud, and Embezzlement of Union Dues

Today a federal jury convicted a North Carolina couple, a Missouri man, and an Ohio man in relation to a scheme involving theft of union-member dues through the award of no-show jobs, lavish travels and dinners charged to the union, unearned vacation payouts, and an unauthorized $7 million loan made to a union-related bank.

The jury convicted Newton Jones, 72, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, the former President of the International Brotherhood of  Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Forgers, and Helpers (Boilermakers Union), his wife Kateryna Jones, 33, of Chapel Hill, and the former Secretary Treasurer, William Creeden, 78 of Kearney, Missouri, of violation of the Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act. Those defendants, as well as one of the Boilermaker Union’s former Vice Presidents, Lawrence McManamon, 78, of Rocky River, Ohio were convicted of embezzlement from the Union through various means, including:

• Taking elaborate foreign trips that were not related to Union business – all defendants;
• Charging personal expenses to the Union, including shopping trips and dinners out – Newton Jones and Kateryna Jones;
• Paying or overpaying unearned salary and relocation expenses for Newton Jones’s family members – Newton Jones and Creeden;
• Paying out of unearned vacation – Newton Jones and Creeden;
• Paying for unauthorized surveillance of Union employees – Newton Jones and Creeden;
• Making an unlawful $7M loan to a bank at which Newton Jones and Creeden were employed – Newton Jones and Creeden;
• Theft from the Union retirement plan – Newton Jones and Creeden;
• Health care fraud relating to unearned benefits provided to Kateryna Jones – Newton Jones, Kateryna Jones, and Creeden; and
• Wire fraud relating to failure to disclose required payments, outside employment, and conflicts of interest – Newton Jones and Creeden.

“The Boilermakers Union members were supposed to get representation out of their hard-earned money used to pay union dues,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “What they got instead is their money wasted on lavish trips and dinners, and unearned vacation payouts for the union leadership. Union dues must be handled with care and used for the benefit of the dues paying members. Union leadership that steals from the American worker will face prosecution, conviction, and prison time.”

“The absolute hubris and entitlement with which these defendants stole from American workers is disgraceful,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser for the District of Kansas. “While union members were faithfully clocking-in and out of their jobs, these defendants thought they were unaccountable and were callously gallivanting on extravagant trips that spared no expense. With these convictions comes a reckoning, and we will be asking the Court to hold these defendants accountable for their criminal conduct and impose appropriate sentences of incarceration.”    

“By using union funds for their private benefit, the fraud committed by these defendants strikes at the very confidence union members place in their leaders to represent their interests,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Omerod of the FBI Kansas City Field Office. “The evidence presented in trial demonstrated an elaborate and willful deceit of the Boilermakers Union to fund the lavish lifestyle of their former leaders. The FBI will not tolerate this level of financial exploitation against hard working Americans.”

“These union officials clearly violated LMRDA fiduciary requirements with their excessive and extravagant spending and caused great harm to their organization and its members,” said Department of Labor (DOL) Office of Labor-Management Standards Director Elisabeth Messenger. “The conviction of these individuals serves as a strong warning to those who abuse their responsibilities that such violations of union members’ trust will lead to serious repercussions. The department’s new reporting requirements for large unions will go a long way in protecting the financial integrity of labor unions.”

“Investigating corruption and ensuring the financial integrity of private health and pension plans, including union plans, is a priority for EBSA,” said DOL Employee Benefits Security Administration Assistant Secretary Daniel Aronowitz. “In this case, Boilermakers officials put their own interests first and misused funds entrusted to them to provide retirement and health benefits for union members and their families. EBSA will pursue those who engage in criminal schemes to defraud private sector benefit plans. We are very pleased to have had the opportunity to work collaboratively with our law enforcement partners.”

According to evidence presented at trial, over a 15-year period, the defendants, led by Newton Jones and Creeden, embezzled the funds of the Boilermakers Union including:

• Over $5 million in unnecessary luxury international travel;
• Nearly $2 million in salary and benefits to Kateryna Jones and others for no-show jobs, at which they were not required to work, including payment of two years of salary to Kateryna Jones for a period when she resided in Ukraine and was dating Newton Jones;
• Over $100,000 in tuition, rent, and relocation expenses for members of the family of Newton Jones;
• Hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash payments relating to fraudulently claimed vacation time;
• Over $100,000 in restaurant charges by Newton Jones and Kateryna Jones in their hometown;
• Money spent in unauthorized email surveillance of union employees to defend Newton Jones and McManamon from internal union charges; and
• $7 million in unauthorized loans from the Boilermakers Union to the bank at which Newton Jones and Creeden had supposed full-time jobs that required little work and were each paid nearly $500,000 per year while they were also being paid a full-time salary from the union.

Trial evidence showed that Newton Jones hired his wife Kateryna Jones for a job in which she performed little to no work and received nearly $1.8 million in salary over the course of nine years. Newton and Kateryna Jones also embezzled over $160,000 for date night meals in their hometown of Chapel Hill. Newton Jones and William Creeden embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars in salary and benefits for three of Newton Jones’ family members. These defendants also embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars in the form of improper vacation payouts.  

In addition, the couple embezzled millions of dollars in unnecessary and lavish international travel from the dues of union members, including conducting executive meetings for no apparent purpose in extravagant hotels in cities like Paris, France and Rome, Italy. 

The hotel in Paris, France, where the defendants held an executive council meeting for the Kansas-based Boilermaker Union.

Creeden and Newton Jones also used their executive positions in the Boilermakers Union to obtain high-level positions at the Bank of Labor, where the union is the majority shareholder. Earning a full-time salary at the bank while supposedly working full-time at the union, Jones and Creeden were paid nearly $4 million in salary and $1.4 million in retirement benefits from the bank.

A sentencing date has been set for Sept. 1. Lawrence McManamon faces a maximum of penalty of five years in prison on each count. William Creeden, Newton Jones, and Kateryna Jones each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Department of Labor and the FBI investigated the case.

Governor Hochul Issues Proclamation Designating June as Gun Violence Awareness Month in New York State

Sixteen State Landmarks To Be Illuminated Orange on June 5 To Honor Victims, Survivors and Communities Impacted by Gun Violence

New York Continues To See Sustained Progress Reducing Gun Violence Through Prevention, Intervention and Enforcement Efforts

Governor’s FY 2027 Enacted Budget Builds on Those Efforts by Addressing Emerging Threats, Including 3D-Printed Ghost Guns and DIY Machine Guns

Governor Kathy Hochul today issued a proclamation designating June as Gun Violence Awareness Month in New York State. The month-long observance honors victims and survivors of gun violence, supports families and communities impacted by violence, and highlights the ongoing work of law enforcement agencies, community-based organizations and violence prevention professionals working to make New York safer. To mark the beginning of Gun Violence Awareness Month and Wear Orange Weekend on June 5, Governor Hochul also directed 16 landmarks across New York State to be illuminated orange.

“Every New Yorker deserves to live in a safe community free from gun violence. As we honor the lives lost, stand with survivors and support families impacted by gun violence, we also recognize the progress New York has made through sustained investments in prevention, intervention and enforcement,” Governor Hochul said. “Gun violence has declined significantly across our state, but our work is far from over. We will continue to support the law enforcement agencies, community organizations and local leaders working every day to save lives and strengthen communities.”

New York continues to see sustained progress in reducing gun violence. During the first four months of 2026, shooting incidents with injury in communities participating in the State's Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative declined 17 percent compared to the same period in 2025. The number of shooting victims fell 19 percent, while the number of individuals killed by firearm violence declined 43 percent. Compared to 2021, shootings with injuries in GIVE communities have fallen 64 percent. Eighteen of the 28 GIVE communities reported no firearm-related homicides during the first four months of this year.

These continued declines reflect New York's comprehensive approach to public safety, combining data-driven law enforcement strategies, community-based violence prevention programs, support for victims and survivors, and strong gun safety laws.

Governor Hochul has continued to advance that approach through sustained investments in prevention, intervention and enforcement. New York supports law enforcement agencies participating in the GIVE initiative, community-based violence prevention programs such as SNUG Street Outreach, services for victims and survivors, and the work of the New York State Office of Gun Violence Prevention. The FY 2027 Enacted Budget builds on those efforts by providing additional tools to address emerging threats, including 3D-printed ghost guns and DIY machine guns.

Governor Hochul also continues to promote responsible firearm ownership and safe storage practices through the New York State Office of Gun Violence Prevention. Over the past year, the Office has distributed nearly 15,000 free gun locks and more than 22,000 educational brochures statewide, helping New Yorkers safely secure firearms and prevent unauthorized access.

The following landmarks will be illuminated orange on June 5 in recognition of Gun Violence Awareness Month:

• One World Trade Center
• Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
• Kosciuszko Bridge
• The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
• State Education Building
• Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
• Empire State Plaza
• State Fairgrounds – Main Gate and Expo Center
• Niagara Falls
• Franklin D. Roosevelt Mid-Hudson Bridge
• Grand Central Terminal – Pershing Square Viaduct
• Albany International Airport Gateway
• MTA LIRR East End Gateway at Penn Station
• Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
• Moynihan Train Hall
• Roosevelt Island Lighthouse

The Division of Criminal Justice Services provides critical support to all facets of the state’s criminal justice system, including, but not limited to: training law enforcement and other criminal justice professionals; overseeing a law enforcement accreditation program; ensuring Breathalyzer and speed enforcement equipment used by local law enforcement operate correctly; managing criminal justice grant funding; analyzing statewide crime and program data; providing research support; overseeing county probation departments and alternatives to incarceration programs; and coordinating youth justice policy. Follow DCJS on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

 

Commission on Government Efficiency Citywide Public Input Session

 

Meeting Notice
Citywide Public Input Sessions 

TIMES AND LOCATIONS:

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
New York Law School
185 West Broadway
New York, NY 10013

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Fordham University
McShane Campus Center
441 East Fordham Road
Bronx, NY 10458

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Brooklyn Law School
250 Joralemon Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Monday, June 22, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
NYC Department of Design and Construction
1st Floor Multipurpose Room
30-30 Thomson Avenue (enter on 30th Place)
Queens, NY 11101

Tuesday, June 23, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Staten Island University Hospital North
(enter via the Dr. Regina McGinn Education Center)
475 Seaview Avenue
Staten Island, NY 10305

VIRTUAL LOCATION:  See link to Zoom meeting posted at www.nyc.gov/charter.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC INPUT SESSIONS

The New York City Commission on Government Efficiency (“COGE”) will host Public Input Sessions in all five boroughs to discuss proposed changes to the New York City Charter.  COGE is empowered to consider revisions to the Charter for presentation to the voters at the November 3, 2026 general election, or at another designated election date pursuant to law.

What are these Public Input Sessions about?

The Charter provides the structure of City government and sets out key powers of City elected officials and agencies.  After a review of the entire Charter, COGE may recommend changes intended to help City government work more efficiently and better serve all New Yorkers.

The public is invited to hear from experts, testify about any matter of importance to City government, and to suggest changes to the Charter.  You can find out more about the New York City Commission on Government Efficiency by visiting us at our website:  www.nyc.gov/charter.

Who can give input?

These meetings are open to the public, and the public will have the opportunity to testify before members of COGE.  Any member of the public may testify about their ideas for improving the City Charter for up to three (3) minutes.  COGE will hear testimony from people who attend the meeting in person and from people who attend by Zoom.  COGE will hear testimony from individuals who appear in person before hearing testimony from those attending via Zoom.  A group, organization or institution wishing to testify shall select a single designated representative.  New Yorkers from any of the five boroughs may testify.  COGE will attempt to accommodate everyone who signs up to speak at this hearing, but if time does not permit all testimony to be heard, the public is encouraged to utilize other opportunities to testify, including by testifying at subsequent COGE public input sessions or by submitting written testimony to CharterTestimony@citycharter.nyc.gov.

How do I submit written testimony?

The public may submit written testimony at https://tinyurl.com/COGE2026comments instead of or in addition to testifying live at a hearing.

When and where are the hearings?

Doors open to the public, and each Input Session may be accessed virtually via the Zoom link posted to www.nyc.gov/charter, at the following dates, times, and locations:

Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
New York Law School
185 West Broadway
New York, NY 10013

Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Fordham University
McShane Campus Center
441 East Fordham Road
Bronx, NY 10458

Thursday, June 11, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Brooklyn Law School
250 Joralemon Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Monday, June 22, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
NYC Department of Design and Construction
1st Floor Multipurpose Room
30-30 Thomson Avenue (enter on 30th Place)
Queens, NY 11101

Tuesday, June 23, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Staten Island University Hospital North
(enter via the Dr. Regina McGinn Education Center)
475 Seaview Avenue
Staten Island, NY 10305

The public may join the meeting at the Zoom link posted to www.nyc.gov/charter at that same time.

What if I need assistance to observe or testify at the meeting?

American Sign Language and Spanish interpretation will be provided online and on-site. Please make language interpretation and/or other accessibility requests at least 48 hours before the start time of the meeting you plan to attend by emailing  CharterInfo@citycharter.nyc.gov or by calling 212-788-0014 and leaving a voicemail. All requests will be accommodated to the extent possible.