Armed Johnson County Drug Dealers Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison

 

A federal judge sentenced Kaven Lee Stephenson, 37, to 14 years in federal prison for conspiracy to sell and possess with intent to sell fentanyl, possession with the intent to sell 50 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime. The Court already sentenced co-defendant Johnny Brian Guin, 47, to 14 years on March 23, 2026.    

U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle said, “Let this be a warning to all drug dealers. If you peddle poison for profit in our communities, we will take your freedom, your toys, your money, and maybe even your home. Simple Lesson: Drugs Kill; Prison Awaits – Do Right.” 

Between 2023 and 2024, law enforcement executed three search warrants at two homes Kaven Stephenson owned on Massengill Pond Road in Angier, NC. During the execution of the first search warrant in October of 2023, law enforcement located over 50 grams of fentanyl and methamphetamine, crack cocaine, marijuana, psilocybin mushrooms, more than $2,000 cash, an AR-15 rifle with a large capacity magazine, a M5 rifle with a large capacity magazine, a 12-gauge shotgun, and a stolen .22 rifle. Stephenson was arrested on state charges related to these crimes, but he made bail and bonded out just a month later. 

Law enforcement executed a second search warrant in July of 2024 after receiving reports of an armed robbery occurring at Stephenson’s residence. Law enforcement discovered a hidden compartment, or “trap,” built into the dead space of a wall just outside the master bedroom. Inside the “trap,” they discovered 218 grams of methamphetamine, 279 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, a money counter, two 9mm pistols, and over $8,500 cash. In a search of Stephenson’s person and the master bedroom, law enforcement located over $2,500 cash, digital scales, and drug paraphernalia. Again, State law enforcement arrested Stephenson on state charges related to these crimes. Again, he made bail and bonded out. 

In August of 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at another home owned by Stephenson on Massengill Pond Road. They found Stephenson and co-defendant Johnny Guin inside. During the search, law enforcement located over 115 grams of methamphetamine, multiple firearms, and more than $1,500 cash. 

Pursuant to the judgment, all currency, firearms, and Kaven Stephenson’s properties on Massengill Pond Road were forfeited to the United States. 

“Armed drug dealers present a dangerous mix of violence and lawlessness in our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “We’re fortunate to have solid partnerships in place with local, state and federal agencies that recognize these dangers and work to hold these violent offenders accountable.”

Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by ​U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III​. ​The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, ATF, Raleigh Police Department, Cary Police Department, DEA, and the NCSBI collaborated on this investigation. 

D.A. Bragg Announces Indictment In $2 Million Lingerie Loan Fraud

 

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr., announced the indictment of KEVIN JUIN, 35, for allegedly stealing more than $2 million in loans purportedly meant to acquire a high-end lingerie company. JUIN is charged in a New York State Supreme Court indictment with one count of Grand Larceny in the First Degree.[1]

“Business dealings must be handled with integrity in the finance capital of the world,” said District Attorney Bragg. “As alleged, Kevin Juin solicited more than $2 million in purported loans to invest in a lingerie company, while funneling the money to personal accounts to fund a luxurious lifestyle. My Office’s Investigation Division remains committed to rooting out fraud to ensure honesty in financial transactions.”

As alleged in court papers and stated on the record, beginning in January 2025, JUIN orchestrated a loan fraud scheme by convincing a business school classmate to provide over $2 million in short-term bridge loans that would purportedly be used to finalize the acquisition of Honey Birdette, an Australian lingerie company owned by the PLBY Group.

JUIN initially obtained approximately $1.2 million as a bridge loan with 10 percent annual interest and executed a convertible promissory note to repay the loan within 90 days. JUIN also offered his classmate the option of converting up to ten percent of the outstanding loan into common stock in the lingerie company after the deal closed. JUIN subsequently obtained two additional loans from his classmate, promising additional common stock in Honey Birdette, totaling 25 percent, in addition to the 10 percent annual interest on the principal loan amount. Overall, JUIN received $2,015,000 from his classmate.

As further alleged, rather than use the funds in furtherance of any acquisition, JUIN instead used the loans for personal expenses such as rent, luxury watches and jewelry, designer clothing, international travel, OnlyFans subscriptions, dining, private members clubs, and payments to a cleaning lady.

Despite continuously using the loans for personal expenses, JUIN represented to his classmate on dozens of occasions that the deal would be completed imminently. When the loan came due, JUIN provided numerous excuses for his failure to pay and lied about the status of the acquisition and repayment of the loan. JUIN eventually asked his classmate for a fourth loan in exchange for more equity. The classmate did not agree to extend any more funds to Juin until he was paid back per the terms of the first three loans. To date, Juin has failed to repay the loan and only has a few thousand dollars left in his bank account.

[1] The charge contained in the indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. All factual recitations are derived from documents filed in court and statements made on the record in court.

Mayor Mamdani Appoints Edwin Raymond as Sheriff of New York City

 

Retired police lieutenant spent years advancing accountability and integrity in law enforcement 

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani announced the appointment of Edwin Raymond as the new Sheriff of the City of New York. Raymond is a retired police lieutenant who served as Commanding Officer of Brooklyn North Community Affairs and as a platoon commander in the 83rd and 81st Precincts. He joins the Mamdani administration after serving in the New York State Attorney General’s Office as the nation’s first social justice liaison.  

  

Raymond, the child of Haitian immigrants, joined the New York City Police Department (NYPD) at 22 years old. He spent eight years serving as a police officer in Transit District 32 and the 77th Precinct. He was later promoted to sergeant and lieutenant before retiring from the force in 2023. Raymond’s efforts to improve law enforcement practices earned him several honors, including the NAACP’s Courage Under Fire Award.  

  

“Edwin Raymond represents the kind of public servant New Yorkers deserve: principled, courageous and deeply committed to justice,” said Mayor Mamdani. “Throughout his career, he has fought to build a public safety system rooted in effectiveness, accountability and public trust. Edwin understands that true safety comes when government earns the confidence of the people it serves, and I am proud to welcome him to our administration as Sheriff of the City of New York.”  

  

“I’m grateful to now be part of Mayor Mamdani’s administration as the City’s new Sheriff,” said Sheriff Raymond. “Growing up in East Flatbush as the son of Haitian immigrants, I experienced both the public safety challenges facing working-class communities and the inequities that too often undermine trust in government. Choosing a career in public service was my response to those realities. I look forward to continuing that work as Sheriff by helping build a safer, fairer and more accountable city for all New Yorkers.”  

  

The Sheriff is an officer of the court and serves under the Department of Finance (DOF). As Sheriff, Raymond will oversee legal processes and mandates, including matters involving judiciary law, civil practice law and real property actions. The Sheriff is also responsible for seizures of money and property pursuant to warrants and court orders, as well as enforcing mental hygiene warrants, tax laws and laws related to unlicensed cannabis enforcement.  

  

About Edwin Raymond  

  

Edwin Raymond most recently served as the nation’s first social justice liaison in the Office of the New York State Attorney General. In that role, he supported the Chief Investigator in advancing accountability and integrity in law enforcement.  

  

Raymond retired from the NYPD in 2023 after serving as Commanding Officer of Community Affairs for Patrol Borough Brooklyn North (PBBN). Over the course of his 15-year career with the department, he served in a number of roles, including lieutenant and platoon commander.  

  

Raymond holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. 

Governor Hochul Announces Five-Year Labor Agreement with Civil Service Employee Association

Agreement with CSEA Covers More Than 55,000 New York State Employees, One of the Largest Public Employee Unions in the State

Agreements Include Yearly Salary Increases, Increases in Location Pay and Changes in Health Benefits

Contract Subject to Union Membership Ratification

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that her administration has reached a contract agreement with the Civil Service Employee Association (CSEA) for a five-year term running until April 1, 2031. The agreement is subject to ratification by union membership, which includes more than 55,000 New York State employees in a wide variety of roles.

“This agreement is a fair deal for both CSEA members and the State of New York,” Governor Hochul said. “Here in New York State, we value public servants and their dedication in making the Empire State a better place to live for all New Yorkers. I thank the leadership of CSEA for their work in realizing this deal, and I thank the members of CSEA for their commitment and contributions in delivering essential services to the people of New York State.”

CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan said, “We applaud Governor Hochul’s recognition of the hard work CSEA members provide to the state every day through this fair contract. This agreement delivers meaningful wage increases and helps address affordability challenges working people are facing.”

The agreement includes increases in salary for employees in each year of the agreement. The agreement also includes paid prenatal leave, increases in location pay and health insurance changes that reduce costs for employees by eliminating certain co-pays and minimizing reliance on out of network providers.

CSEA represents New York State employees in four bargaining units. The contract agreement must be ratified by CSEA rank and file members.

 

DEC REMINDS NEW YORKERS TO HELP KEEP WILDLIFE AND PEOPLE SAFE: IF YOU CARE, LEAVE IT THERE

 

Fawns, Baby Birds, and Other Young Animals Are Rarely Abandoned and Handling or Moving Animals Carries Risks

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today reminded New Yorkers to appreciate wildlife from a safe distance and resist the urge to touch or move young wildlife. As weather warms and seasons shift, sightings of wildlife are more common. Fawns, baby birds, and other young wildlife may seem abandoned, but their parents are often close by, and well-intentioned interference can pose risks to the animals and humans.

“With spring well underway, young wildlife is beginning to reappear in backyards, neighborhoods, and parks,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “While some might think these baby animals need assistance, human interactions with wildlife typically do more harm than good. Please remember—if you care, leave it there.”

Avoid Interactions with Young Wildlife

Interacting with young wildlife can be problematic for the animals and people. When young wildlife venture into the world, for a brief time they may have limited ability to fly or walk on their own. While one or both parents teach survival skills to their offspring, some young wildlife receive little or no care. DEC reminds the public that young wild animals like fawns and baby birds are rarely abandoned. Parents often place their young somewhere to keep them hidden from predators while they are off collecting food.

Fawns are born during late May and early June, and although they can walk shortly after birth, they spend most of their first several days lying still in tall grass, leaf litter, or sometimes relatively unconcealed. During this period, a fawn is usually left alone by the adult female (doe), except when nursing. Fawns are vulnerable to predators during this period. If human presence is detected by the doe, the doe may delay its next visit to nurse.

Fawns should never be picked up. A fawn's protective coloration and ability to remain motionless help it avoid detection by predators and people. By the end of a fawn's second week of life, it begins to move about, spend more time with the doe, and eat on its own. At about 10 weeks of age, fawns are no longer dependent on milk, although they continue to nurse occasionally into the fall.

Bird nestlings can have closed eyes and can be featherless, spending approximately two weeks in the nest until they begin to outgrow the space. Once they outgrow the nest, nestlings become fledglings, a bird with developed feathers, and begin to flap their wings and learn how to fly. In both stages (nestlings and fledglings) the adult birds are nearby and care for them. If a nestling is found on the ground and cannot be easily and safely returned to the nest, the public is advised to refrain from approaching and instead should call a wildlife rehabilitator.

Fledglings, on the other hand, can hop and flutter on their own, and spend short periods out of the nest on the ground or in low branches. If a young bird is alert, fully feathered, and moving around, people are encouraged to watch from a distance and not intervene.

A Reminder Regarding Avian Influenza

Avian influenza is a viral disease in wild birds such as ducks and geese, gulls, raptors, and shorebirds that is commonly called “bird flu.” DEC’s Wildlife Health Program monitors the occurrence and impact across the state. You can report suspected avian influenza bird mortalities to DEC. Once completed, the form will automatically be forwarded to regional staff who will determine the best course of action to follow. Avian influenza is widespread in wild birds and mammals, so not all reports will result in DEC retrieving the animals for testing and/or disposal.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the recent HPAI detections in birds pose a low risk to the public. People should minimize contact between wild birds, especially waterfowl, and domestic animals to reduce animal and human health risks.

Sick or Injured Animals

Anyone who encounters a wild animal that is injured or obviously orphaned should call a trained and DEC-licensed wildlife rehabilitator. It is illegal to keep wildlife as pets. Wild animals are not well suited for life in captivity and may carry diseases that can be given to people.

Licensed wildlife rehabilitators are the only people legally allowed to receive and treat distressed wildlife, and have the experience, expertise, and facilities to successfully treat and release wild animals.

Additionally, the public should note the increased risk of rabies in mammals and are reminded not to handle species like skunk, foxes, raccoons, or bats directly. Anyone who observes wildlife that appears to be behaving abnormally should contact their closest DEC regional wildlife office or an Environmental Conservation Police Officer. For more information on wildlife health, visit DEC’s webpage.

Additionally, DEC reminds the public that young wildlife are not pets. Keeping wildlife in captivity without authorization from DEC is illegal and harmful to animals and people. Wild animals are not well-suited to life in captivity and may carry diseases that can be transferred to humans. DEC also advises the public to keep domestic pets indoors when young wild animals are present. Many fledgling birds cannot fly well when they first leave the nest and are easy prey for house cats.

Most people have the best intentions when they find wild animals, but if a fawn, baby bird, or other young wildlife is found, please remember, “If You Care, Leave It There.”

For more information and answers to frequently asked questions about young wildlife, visit DEC’s website.

CORRECT THE RECORD: DHS Debunks Sanctuary Politicians’ Smears About ICE’s Delaney Hall Facility in New Jersey

 

Sanctuary politicians’ smears have directly contributed to a coordinated attack against ICE law enforcement officers outside Delaney Hall

Sanctuary politicians and leftist activists have been spreading FALSE information about the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Newark, New Jersey. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released the following statement debunking many of those lies.

“Another day, another hoax about ICE detention facilities. Sanctuary politicians are spreading categorically false smears about ICE’s Delaney Hall facility in New Jersey. These types of smears are inciting violent riots outside the ICE facility in New Jersey,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis. “These sanctuary politicians need to stop with the political theatre. No lawbreakers in the history of human civilization have been better treated than illegal aliens. They are provided 3 meals a day, medical care, and receive full due process.”

Below are some of the most egregious examples of falsehoods being told about Delaney Hall:

CLAIM: There is a lack of medical care for illegal aliens detained at Delaney.

FACT: It is a longstanding practice to provide comprehensive medical care from the moment an alien enters ICE custody. This includes medical, dental, and mental health services as available, and access to medical appointments and 24-hour emergency care. For many illegal aliens, this is the best healthcare they have received their entire lives.

CLAIM: There is an ongoing hunger strike among the inmates at Delaney.

FACT: There is no hunger strike at Delaney Hall. All detainees are provided with 3 meals a day. Meals are certified by dieticians.

CLAIM: ICE custody deaths have reached a record high under the Trump Administration.

FACT: There has been no spike in deaths. Consistent with data over the last decade, death rates in custody under the Trump Administration are 0.009% of the detained population. As bed space has rapidly expanded, we have maintained a higher standard of care than most prisons that hold U.S. citizens – including providing access to proper medical care.

CLAIM: Protesters at Delaney Hall, including U.S. Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.), were shot with pepper balls.

FACT: No individuals were directly struck by pepper ball projectiles. On May 25, 2026, rioters obstructed law enforcement from exiting the ICE facility. Officers issued multiple lawful verbal commands for rioters to clear the area. Rioters refused to follow law enforcement commands and continue to obstruct the exit route. Our law enforcement followed their training and used the minimum amount of force necessary to protect themselves, the public, and federal property.

CLAIM: ICE personnel at Delaney Hall have physically attacked detainees, including with the use of pepper spray.

FACT: No detainees were beaten or attacked by ICE. On May 28, 2026, staff responded to a physical fight involving detainees at Delaney Hall. In accordance with established ICE policies and their training, staff used the minimum amount of force to safely deescalate the situation. Following the incident, all affected detainees were promptly evaluated by on-site medical personnel and were cleared with no serious injuries.

Judge Sentences New Bern Fentanyl Dealer to 12 Years in Federal Prison

A federal judge sentenced Gerard Alexander Brimmer, 30, to over 12 years in prison for selling fentanyl while armed. Brimmer pleaded guilty on February 26, 2026, to one charge of possession with the intent to sell 40 grams or more of fentanyl and one charge of possessing a gun in furtherance of that crime.

“This criminal chose a false path to ‘easy money’ selling deadly poison, fentanyl, to folks in his community instead of making a positive contribution to society,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “He callously risked his own children’s lives by exposing them to fentanyl and his loaded guns. This sentence ensures New Bern will be protected from Brimmer for over a decade. Simple Lesson: Drugs Kill, Prison Awaits – Do Right.”

Craven County Deputies began investigating Brimmer in July of 2023 after a deputy pulled over a vehicle he rode in. A search of the vehicle recovered several baggies of fentanyl and a water bottle that contained a fentanyl solution after Brimmer dumped powder fentanyl into it. Craven County continued investigating Brimmer through a series of controlled purchases of fentanyl in October 2023. At that time, Brimmer sold bright purple-pink fentanyl from his garage. Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Brimmer when he left his house after one of the controlled purchases and found 3.5 grams of fentanyl in his pocket. Brimmer had his 8-year-old and infant children in the car during the stop. Deputies also searched Brimmer’s home and recovered 50 grams of fentanyl in the garage, $1,040, and two loaded guns. The cash included four marked bills from the controlled purchase earlier in the day. 

Brimmer faced a mandatory minimum of 10 years, but the federal judge gave an even longer sentence. At the time of his offense, Brimmer had already been convicted of a felony. The State convicted him of felony possession of cocaine in 2018 and kidnapping and possession of a firearm by a felon in 2021. 

Sheriff Hughes stated, “this conviction demonstrates the successful partnership between the Sheriff’s Office and federal law enforcement in tackling drug trafficking.” Hughes warned that drug dealers will face severe consequences for operating in the area, emphasizing that the office will maintain its collaborative efforts with state and federal agencies to shut down drug operations throughout Craven County.

“Drug networks often fuel gun violence and endanger our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones. “Through collaborative efforts with our local, state and federal partners, we’re making sure that those who threaten our public safety are brought to justice.”

Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Craven County Sheriff’s Office, New Bern Police Department, NC Probation, and ATF investigated the case.

Inmate Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Scheme to Smuggle Contraband into Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn

Defendants “Fished” for Contraband from Fourth-Floor Window of the Federal Prison 

In federal court in Brooklyn, Daryl Campbell was sentenced by United States District Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis to 37 months in prison for orchestrating a scheme to smuggle contraband into the Metropolitan Detention Center (the MDC).  Campbell pleaded guilty in September 2025 to conspiracy to possess contraband.  The sentence imposed today will run consecutive to the 35-year term he is serving for a manslaughter conviction in New York County.  Campbell’s co‑defendants and fellow MDC inmates Ian Diez, Jonathan Guerrero, Abel Mora, and Mayovanex Rodriguez were previously sentenced to terms of incarceration ranging from six months to 30 months.  A sixth co-conspirator, Carl Kelly, is awaiting sentencing.

Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and James C. Barnacle, Jr., Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) announced the sentence.

“The message to inmates from today’s sentencing is clear: go fishing for contraband, and all you will catch is another prison term,” stated United States Attorney Nocella.  “The smuggling of drugs and weapons by inmates compromises the safety and security of the MDC.  Our Office will continue to ensure that any inmates who smuggle contraband will be prosecuted and face the consequences.”

Mr. Nocella thanked the U.S. Bureau of Prisons for its assistance with the investigation.

“Daryl Campbell jeopardized the safety of other inmates and employees by obtaining illegal drugs and weapons while incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Center.  May today's sentencing emphasize the FBI's commitment to holding accountable individuals who smuggle contraband into our federal jails,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Barnacle.

Between April and June 2024, Campbell used a contraband cell phone to send detailed instructions to his co-conspirators on how to bring additional contraband into the MDC.  As the organizer of the scheme, Campbell advised co-conspirators on how to package contraband, to deliver it to the MDC, and to get it into the jail, providing advice and guidance along the way as to how to accomplish each step in the process.  In several voice recordings, Campbell explained his method of throwing a “line” out of a window of the MDC on to which a co-conspirator on the outside was to “hook” contraband, which could then be pulled back inside.  On June 30, 2024, Kelly, Diez, Guerrero, Mora, and Rodriguez attempted to execute Campbell’s scheme.  Kelly approached the front of the MDC and threw a rope made of duct tape up to the fourth floor, where Diez, Guerrero, Mora, and Rodriguez tried to pull it through the window of the recreation room in their housing area.  Inside of the rope, correctional officers found papers laced with MDMB-4en-Pinaca (a synthetic cannabinoid), suboxone, marijuana, a scalpel, a phone charger, lighters, and cigarettes.