Federal prosecutors in Nebraska have charged 21 people in a series of newly unsealed indictments returned by a grand jury.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska, the indictments include a wide range of alleged crimes, including drug trafficking, child exploitation, weapons violations, fraud, and immigration-related offenses.
Among the most serious charges, a California man is accused of possessing more than five kilograms of cocaine with intent to distribute, which carries a potential sentence of at least 10 years to life in prison if convicted. Several defendants are also facing charges related to child pornography, including production, receipt, and possession, as well as sexual abuse and assault allegations.
Prosecutors say multiple individuals were charged in connection with a conspiracy involving bank fraud and damage to protected computer systems, while others face firearms-related charges, including possession of weapons by prohibited persons and alleged firearm trafficking.
The indictments also include several individuals accused of illegally reentering the United States after deportation.
Federal officials emphasize that indictments are formal accusations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
The cases are being investigated by a range of federal, state, and local agencies.