DOJ Weekly Roundup: Convictions and Pleas from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Mexico (Sept. 15–26, 2025)

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico released its weekly update detailing federal convictions and plea agreements from September 15 to September 26, 2025. The cases span a range of offenses—from tax fraud and drug trafficking to violent crimes and child exploitation—reflecting the office’s broad jurisdiction and commitment to public safety.

Financial Crimes & Fraud

David Wellington, an Albuquerque man, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for orchestrating a decade-long tax evasion scheme through National Business Services, LLC. Alongside co-conspirator Stacy Underwood, Wellington helped clients hide millions in income by creating shell LLCs and manipulating bank accounts. The scheme concealed over $41 million in deposits, with one client, Jerry Shrock, evading more than $4.3 million in taxes.

Underwood pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and awaits sentencing.

Shrock received five years’ probation and was ordered to pay over $1.5 million in restitution.

Violent Crimes & Assault

Alery Al Reid, of Mentmore, pleaded guilty to multiple felony assaults, including strangulation and causing substantial bodily injury to an intimate partner. His plea covers all counts in a federal indictment and reflects the DOJ’s continued focus on domestic violence enforcement.

Federal Child Exploitation

Dustin Roy Rockmen and Kenzie Roy Rockmen were sentenced for sexually abusing a minor. Dustin received 204 months in prison, while Kenzie was sentenced to 135 months. The brothers were prosecuted under federal child exploitation statutes, and their convictions underscore the DOJ’s participation in Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual abuse.

Firearms & Threats

Perris Jeremiah Arthur, of Vanderwagen, was sentenced to 85 months in prison for firing a rifle during an assault.

Bryson Chee, of Shiprock, faces federal charges for firing multiple rounds at two individuals during a domestic dispute on Navajo Nation land.

Tyler Miles Leveque, an Albuquerque resident, pleaded guilty to using social media to issue violent threats against the President of the United States.

Immigration & Border Crimes

The office also reported 65 prosecutions for illegal reentry, 8 for alien smuggling, and 44 for illegal entry. Additionally, 84 individuals were charged with unauthorized entry onto military property and violations of national security regulations. These cases were prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of U.S. Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations.

Statement from DOJ Leadership

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison reaffirmed the office’s commitment to “upholding the rule of law and protecting New Mexico’s communities from fraud, violence, and exploitation.” The District of New Mexico covers 33 counties and 180 miles of international border, making it one of the most active federal jurisdictions in the Southwest.

For more information or to report federal crimes, visit the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico. 

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