NewzIntel.com

Blog

  • MIL-OSI USA: San Antonio man sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for transporting 25 illegal aliens inside tanker trailer following ICE Eagle Pass, federal partner investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    DEL RIO, Texas — A San Antonio man was sentenced in a federal court to 10 years in prison for one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens. This investigation was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement with assistance from U.S. Border Patrol.

    Richard Rindeikis, 44, was sentenced July 2 by a federal judge to 120 months for his role in a human smuggling event. Rindeikis was arrested Nov. 18, 2024. He pleaded guilty Feb. 5 to one count for conspiracy to transport illegal aliens.

    “This sentencing is a grim reminder of the extreme measures smugglers will take for profit, endangering the lives of vulnerable individuals in the process,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “Smuggling human beings inside a tanker trailer is not only illegal, but also inhumane. Thanks to the swift work of law enforcement, the victims were rescued before tragedy struck. HSI remains relentless in our mission to dismantle smuggling networks and protect human life at every turn.”

    “This district has seen far too many instances of human smuggling like this one end in tragedy. If not for the excellent work by the U.S. Border Patrol in this case, we may have seen another,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “My office will continue to pursue, prosecute, and seek to punish those who selfishly value profit over human life.”

    According to court documents, on Nov. 18, 2024, Rindeikis was driving a truck connected to a tanker trailer when he was subjected to inspection at a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint near Carrizo Springs. He claimed the tanker was empty and, when he couldn’t locate his driver’s license, was referred to secondary inspection. USBP agents observed that the hatches on top of the tanker trailer were closed and completely secured. When they opened the hatches, they discovered numerous people sitting inside the tanker. A total of 25 illegal aliens from Ecuador, Colombia, El Salvador, Honduras, and Mexico, were removed and Rindeikis was placed under arrest. He was indicted for two counts and pleaded guilty to count one on Feb. 5, 2025.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Duarte II for the Western District of Texas prosecuted the case.

    Members of the public can report crimes or suspicious activity by calling the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or by completing the online tip form.

    For more information about HSI San Antonio and its public safety efforts in Central and South Texas, follow HSI San Antonio on X at @HSI_SanAntonio.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transformed $25M Lincoln Park Pool in Albany Completed

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today celebrated the completion of the $25 million rehabilitation of the historic Lincoln Park Pool in Albany, made possible through $10 million in support from the Governor’s innovative New York Statewide Investment In More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative that expands access to safe swimming, addresses equity gaps by providing recreational opportunities and supports communities across the state with resources to combat extreme heat. This newly transformed facility restores a vital community asset in Albany’s South End that has served families since 1930, bringing modern amenities and full accessibility to the neighborhood. Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS initiative awarded $150 million in 2024 to 37 pool projects across New York State, including more than $28 million to five pools in the Capital Region. NY SWIMS is the largest investment in swimming infrastructure since the New Deal.

    “For nearly a century, Lincoln Park Pool has been a cornerstone of summer in Albany’s South End and today, we are giving it new life for the next generation to enjoy,” Governor Hochul said. “Through our NY SWIMS initiative, we’re investing in accessible and affordable places where families and communities can beat the heat and come together. Our NY SWIMS program ensures that all New Yorkers can get offline, get outside and thrive.”

    The Lincoln Park Pool rehabilitation represents a complete transformation of the nearly century-old facility, featuring a zero-entry pool for accessibility, a half Olympic-style lap pool for competitive swimming, a splash pad for family recreation, and upgraded restrooms with modern amenities. Through NY SWIMS the state is specifically targeting underserved communities that have long needed improved recreational facilities. This $10 million investment in Lincoln Park Pool builds on previous support, including a $262,500 Environmental Protection Fund grant awarded by New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation in 2018 for the planning and design of the project.

    With today’s ribbon cutting, Albany celebrates the restoration of a beloved community gathering place that will serve families throughout the City. The Lincoln Park pool rehabilitation is among the projects specifically targeting underserved communities that lack access to safe swimming facilities. The project exemplifies the “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative’s mission to provide healthy outdoor recreation alternatives for young people and families. As communities nationwide grapple with the mental health impacts of excessive screen time, facilities like this rehabilitated pool offer safe spaces for physical activity and social connection.

    Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages one to four, making facilities like Lincoln Park Pool crucial for water safety education. The pool will provide space for learn-to-swim programming, helping address swimming disparities while offering a safe place for families to cool off during increasingly hot summers due to climate change

    The ribbon cutting comes as NY SWIMS continues to expand, with an additional $90 million allocated in 2025. The increased funding reflects strong legislative support for expanding swimming access across New York State and demonstrates bipartisan recognition of the program’s success and community impact.

    The NY SWIMS Lifeguard Grant Program offers an additional $5 million for reimbursable grants from the Department of State to eligible municipalities to incentivize lifeguard recruitment and retention and is designed to help counties, cities, towns, and villages to increase swimming access through growing their ranks of lifeguards, providing additional opportunities, and expanding their open hours at municipal swimming locations. Albany is using $50,000 in grant funding to invest in training resources and hire three new lifeguard managers at a higher wage, who will oversee daily operations, manage schedules, and serve as direct mentors and additional support for the lifeguard team. These efforts are expected to help the City handle increased demand and extend the swimming season at Lincoln Park Pool.

    Additional State support for projects improving overall Lincoln Park and Albany infrastructure include a $5 million Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) grant provided through the Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program to implement screening and disinfection of combined sewage from the Beaver Creek Sewer District. The project improved water quality by providing treatment for the Albany Pool’s largest combined sewer overflow and will serve to further reduce bacteria and improve water quality in the Hudson River. DEC also provided $1 million in funding through WQIP in 2021 to the Albany Water Board for the Lincoln Park Reflection and Learning Garden to construct green infrastructure elements in the park, diverse ecological and biohabitat, and implement native plantings to mitigate combined sewer surface discharges and odor issues within Lincoln Park.

    Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President & CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, “Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS initiative exemplifies the power of state-local collaboration at its best. Albany’s significant local investment, combined with NY SWIMS funding, has transformed a nearly century-old facility into a modern, accessible community hub that honors its historic roots while meeting today’s needs. This partnership approach is how we maximize public resources and build on existing community assets to create even greater opportunities for families. When state and local governments work together with a shared vision, we can preserve what matters most to neighborhoods while ensuring these vital spaces serve New Yorkers for another generation.”

    New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “The Lincoln Park Pool has long been a cornerstone of summer in Albany, and thanks to Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS grants, we’re thrilled to bring this vital resource back to life. This historic investment provides a modern, inclusive space for the community to cool off, swim safely, and gather with friends and family this summer. We’re excited to build off this pool’s cherished legacy and continue helping New Yorkers enjoy the outdoors and make lasting memories.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “The revitalization of the Lincoln Park Pool through the NY SWIMS initiative is a powerful example of how strategic investment can restore cherished public spaces and ensure they serve the next generation. The Department of State is proud to support Governor Hochul’s vision by providing grants to help communities recruit and retain qualified lifeguards for these recreational facilities, an essential part of expanding access to safe swimming. By investing in this critical workforce, we are working to keep our state’s pools and kids safe.”

    Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “As summers continue to get hotter, and the impacts of climate change create ongoing threats to public health, it is important to ensure that critical community resources like the Lincoln Park Pool and surrounding park spaces are fully supported. DEC is proud to continue our partnership with the City of Albany to support Lincoln Park improvements and we thank Governor Hochul and our state agency partners for helping families cool off safely and keep kids offline to enjoy the outdoors this summer.”

    State Senator Pat Fahy said, “Access to pools and swimming opportunities isn’t a luxury reserved for a few, it’s a lifelong skill that opens doors for our young people. That’s why the Lincoln Park Pool was built during the height of the Great Depression; to provide hope, opportunity, and a safe place to swim and recreate outdoors here in the City of Albany for families and New Yorkers. I’m proud to have been able to secure state funding to support the Lincoln Park Pool’s renovation, and I cannot wait to see our community take advantage of it this summer. I want to thank Mayor Sheehan, Governor Hochul, and so many more who made this project and today’s reopening a reality.”

    Assemblymember Gabriella Romero said, “This aquatic center, located in our Lincoln Park community, is an incredible investment and provides state of the art facilities for our youth to enjoy throughout this summer. It is more important than ever for children to spend time outdoors and connect with their local community. Thank you to Governor Hochul, Mayor Sheehan and others who made this project possible.”

    Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh said, “The rehabilitation of Lincoln Park Pool is a perfect example of what happens when we invest in our communities. As a former Mayor, I know all too well the importance of having a safe and modernized space for New Yorkers, especially our youth, to not only cool off, but to learn the importance of water safety. I was proud to support funding for NY SWIMS in the Legislature, and I thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to expanding access to safe swimming and outdoor recreation across New York State.”

    Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said, “The Lincoln Park Pool has been part of our city’s fabric for almost 100 years, and today, it’s finally getting the second life it deserves. I’d like to thank Governor Hochul for her significant contribution to its restoration through the NY SWIMS grant program. This is a win for public health and equity and I can’t wait to see New Yorkers get back to enjoying the water.”

    Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “The new Lincoln Park Pool is yet another transformative investment in the South End. Since taking office, my administration has invested more than $65 million in our South End neighborhood. We are preventing raw sewage from percolating in Upper Lincoln Park while also cleaning the Hudson River. We renovated the Lincoln Park Basketball Courts, we revitalized the Lincoln Park Bowl, we built the South End Connector, and we are helping the Albany Housing Authority rebuild Steamboat Square. With the new Lincoln Park Pool, my administration continues to send a message to our South End neighbors that we are working tirelessly to reverse decades of historic disinvestment and we will continue to deliver on the promises we make to this community. I am so proud today has finally arrived, and I am so excited our residents have the opportunity to enjoy this state-of-the-art facility.”

    NY SWIMS builds on Governor Hochul’s broader commitment to youth wellness, including the signing of first-in-the-nation legislation protecting children from addictive social media feeds and shielding their personal data from online platforms. The initiative is a key component of the “Get Offline, Get Outside” campaign, which also includes the $56.5 million Summer Youth Employment Program supporting 21,000 young people from low-income families across the state.

    The New York Statewide Investment in More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative represents New York’s largest investment in swimming infrastructure since the New Deal. The program provides grants between $50,000 and $10 million to help municipalities design, construct, rehabilitate, or modernize public swimming facilities, with a focus on supporting disadvantaged and underserved communities that lack access to safe swimming and outdoor recreation opportunities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Secures Agreement Reforming Michigan School District’s Seclusion and Restraint Practices

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Today, the Justice Department announced that it reached an agreement with a Michigan school district to address the discriminatory use of seclusion and restraint against students with disabilities, in violation of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Under the settlement agreement, the Montcalm Area Intermediate School District will end the use of seclusion, reform its restraint practices, and improve special education services for students with disabilities.

    During the period covered by the investigation, with which the school district fully cooperated, students with disabilities were secluded and/or restrained on more than 2,400 occasions. The Department’s investigation also revealed that the district used seclusion and restraint improperly, including using emergency crisis responses as punishment for normal classroom discipline issues.

    “Students with disabilities should never be discriminated against by experiencing the trauma of seclusion or improper restraint,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Parents have the right to expect that the school systems they entrust with educating their children do not instead punish their children for having a disability.”

    “This school district serves the most vulnerable Michigan students, young children with disabilities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexis M. Sanford for the Western District of Michigan. “I commend them for entering into this settlement agreement to provide their students with the care and services they need to get the education they deserve.”   

    Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt, and additional information about the Civil Rights Division’s Educational Opportunities Section’s work to combat disability discrimination including by improper seclusion and restraint is available at www.justice.gov/crt/educational-opportunities-section.

    Members of the public may report possible civil rights violations at www.civilrights.justice.gov/.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Williamsburg Man Pleads Guilty to Sending Threat to Police Officer That Included Images of Child Sexual Abuse

    Source: US FBI

    NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Williamsburg man pled guilty today to distributing obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children.

    According to court documents, on Feb. 14 and 15, a police officer made contact with Xavier Joseph Stafford, 22, and asked Stafford to remove his vehicle from private property in Williamsburg. On Feb. 18, Stafford sent an email to the officer in which Stafford threatened to rape the officer’s daughter. Stafford included two animated images depicting child sexual abuse. The email also included a live photo repeatedly looping several frames of consecutive images of the officer’s home.

    Stafford is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 4. He faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert J. Krask accepted the plea.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Therese O’Brien is prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:25-cr-40.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hayward Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Bankruptcy Fraud and Contempt of Court

    Source: US FBI

    Bernard Seidling Hid Approximately $20 Million in Assets During Bankruptcy, Including More Than One Million in Cash That He Stashed Under His House

    MADISON, WIS. – Bernard Seidling, 74, Hayward, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to seven years in federal prison for bankruptcy fraud and criminal contempt of court. He was also ordered to pay a $500,000 fine. A jury convicted Seidling of these crimes after a four-day trial in federal court in Madison.

    “Seidling was a recurring and shameless financial predator,” said U.S. Attorney O’Shea. “I am grateful to our tireless prosecutors and the many partners who worked to hold him accountable: the U.S. Trustee’s Office, the FBI, the Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspectors.”

    “Mr. Seidling’s sentence reflects the FBI’s commitment to ensuring public trust by pursuing individuals who defraud others for personal gain,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle. “The FBI will continue to work diligently with our partners to pursue justice and combat any fraud which negatively impacts financial institutions and the American people.”

    Seidling filed for bankruptcy in 2022. On the schedules he filed at the beginning of the case, Seidling falsely stated he had no real estate, retirement accounts, trusts, partnerships, or business-related property, and that he had only one bank account with a balance of $195. In reality, Seidling had approximately $20 million in assets hidden behind dozens of sham trusts and partnerships. Seidling’s schedules also stated he had not sold real estate in the past two years, when in fact he sold a waterfront home in Key West, Florida, for more than $3 million in 2021.

    Over Seidling’s objection, the bankruptcy court converted the case from a reorganization to a liquidation. At that point, Seidling began falsely representing that he could not meaningfully participate in the bankruptcy due to his physical and mental health, and Seidling argued the bankruptcy court should indefinitely pause the proceeding. During the period of Seidling’s alleged incapacitation, he continued to manage his businesses, conduct banking activity, and play tennis at a club in Key West, where he lived during the winter months. Seidling also represented himself and participated in state court litigation during this time.

    Regarding the contempt conviction, Seidling violated an order issued by the bankruptcy court. That order prohibited Seidling from transferring assets held by 37 of Seidling’s businesses, plus any other business entity Seidling was associated with, while the bankruptcy proceeded. The order further prohibited Seidling from directing or instructing anyone else to transfer assets. Seidling violated the order by transferring real estate and draining bank accounts. He hid more than $1,000,000 in cash in a crawl space under his house. Seidling also used an unwitting individual to transfer a parcel of real estate.       

    At sentencing, Judge Peterson explained that a number of reasons warranted the above-guideline sentence, including the length and scope of Seidling’s criminal conduct. In addition to the charged conduct, Judge Peterson found that Seidling committed perjury during his testimony at the criminal trial. Judge Peterson commented that he had never seen a more “systematically dishonest defendant” who “resolutely resisted taking responsibility” for his actions.

    Seidling’s criminal history also played a role in the sentence. Seidling had two prior federal convictions: a 1991 conviction for interference with commerce by threats or violence and a 2009 conviction for 50 counts of mail fraud. The 2009 conviction involved Seidling using small claims court to obtain judgments against victims without serving the victims with process. Drawing a connection between that case and the present one, Judge Peterson noted Seidling was skilled at using courts to extort people. Given this history, Judge Peterson found Seidling was a danger to reoffend.

    Throughout the criminal case, Seidling was represented by a court-appointed attorney. In order to obtain representation at public expense, a defendant must represent that he cannot afford representation. Judge Peterson found Seidling’s claim of indigency was false, and the court ordered Seidling to reimburse the U.S. Treasury for the cost of his defense.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The United States also received assistance from the Office of the United States Trustee. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meredith P. Duchemin and Megan R. Stelljes handled the prosecution. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hayward Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Bankruptcy Fraud and Contempt of Court

    Source: US FBI

    Bernard Seidling Hid Approximately $20 Million in Assets During Bankruptcy, Including More Than One Million in Cash That He Stashed Under His House

    MADISON, WIS. – Bernard Seidling, 74, Hayward, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to seven years in federal prison for bankruptcy fraud and criminal contempt of court. He was also ordered to pay a $500,000 fine. A jury convicted Seidling of these crimes after a four-day trial in federal court in Madison.

    “Seidling was a recurring and shameless financial predator,” said U.S. Attorney O’Shea. “I am grateful to our tireless prosecutors and the many partners who worked to hold him accountable: the U.S. Trustee’s Office, the FBI, the Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspectors.”

    “Mr. Seidling’s sentence reflects the FBI’s commitment to ensuring public trust by pursuing individuals who defraud others for personal gain,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle. “The FBI will continue to work diligently with our partners to pursue justice and combat any fraud which negatively impacts financial institutions and the American people.”

    Seidling filed for bankruptcy in 2022. On the schedules he filed at the beginning of the case, Seidling falsely stated he had no real estate, retirement accounts, trusts, partnerships, or business-related property, and that he had only one bank account with a balance of $195. In reality, Seidling had approximately $20 million in assets hidden behind dozens of sham trusts and partnerships. Seidling’s schedules also stated he had not sold real estate in the past two years, when in fact he sold a waterfront home in Key West, Florida, for more than $3 million in 2021.

    Over Seidling’s objection, the bankruptcy court converted the case from a reorganization to a liquidation. At that point, Seidling began falsely representing that he could not meaningfully participate in the bankruptcy due to his physical and mental health, and Seidling argued the bankruptcy court should indefinitely pause the proceeding. During the period of Seidling’s alleged incapacitation, he continued to manage his businesses, conduct banking activity, and play tennis at a club in Key West, where he lived during the winter months. Seidling also represented himself and participated in state court litigation during this time.

    Regarding the contempt conviction, Seidling violated an order issued by the bankruptcy court. That order prohibited Seidling from transferring assets held by 37 of Seidling’s businesses, plus any other business entity Seidling was associated with, while the bankruptcy proceeded. The order further prohibited Seidling from directing or instructing anyone else to transfer assets. Seidling violated the order by transferring real estate and draining bank accounts. He hid more than $1,000,000 in cash in a crawl space under his house. Seidling also used an unwitting individual to transfer a parcel of real estate.       

    At sentencing, Judge Peterson explained that a number of reasons warranted the above-guideline sentence, including the length and scope of Seidling’s criminal conduct. In addition to the charged conduct, Judge Peterson found that Seidling committed perjury during his testimony at the criminal trial. Judge Peterson commented that he had never seen a more “systematically dishonest defendant” who “resolutely resisted taking responsibility” for his actions.

    Seidling’s criminal history also played a role in the sentence. Seidling had two prior federal convictions: a 1991 conviction for interference with commerce by threats or violence and a 2009 conviction for 50 counts of mail fraud. The 2009 conviction involved Seidling using small claims court to obtain judgments against victims without serving the victims with process. Drawing a connection between that case and the present one, Judge Peterson noted Seidling was skilled at using courts to extort people. Given this history, Judge Peterson found Seidling was a danger to reoffend.

    Throughout the criminal case, Seidling was represented by a court-appointed attorney. In order to obtain representation at public expense, a defendant must represent that he cannot afford representation. Judge Peterson found Seidling’s claim of indigency was false, and the court ordered Seidling to reimburse the U.S. Treasury for the cost of his defense.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The United States also received assistance from the Office of the United States Trustee. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meredith P. Duchemin and Megan R. Stelljes handled the prosecution. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twenty-Three Members of an Interstate Car Theft Ring Charged in Federal Court

    Source: US FBI

    Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced today that a second superseding indictment had been unsealed, charging the following 23 individuals for their roles in an interstate car theft ring:

    Name

    Age

    		 Location
    Diaunte D. Shields

    30

    		 Wisconsin
    Geoffrey Harvey

    35

    		 Georgia
    Willie Bullard

    41

    		 Georgia
    Lashawn Davis, Jr.

    25

    		 Wisconsin
    Brandon Mullins

    40

    		 Georgia
    Nakiya Wright

    31

    		 Wisconsin
    Casha Griffin

    31

    		 Illinois
    Brianna Shields

    34

    		 Wisconsin
    Gerrica Baker

    27

    		 Wisconsin
    Deon Brooks

    24

    		 Michigan
    Tashawn Brown-Smith

    28

    		 Wisconsin
    Dequas Crawford-Higgs

    30

    		 Illinois
    Ja Lean Little

    23

    		 Illinois
    Vashawn Milton

    33

    		 Georgia
    Deamonte Lee

    27

    		 Illinois
    Glenn Larsen

    53

    		 Illinois
    Kenneth Kilson

    42

    		 Delaware
    Chaz Holifield

    34

    		 Wisconsin
    Meliek McClarn

    32

    		 Wisconsin
    Tashay Northern

    27

    		 North Dakota
    Esteban Cardenas

    37

    		 Wisconsin

    According to court records, between approximately January 2019 and February 2024, members of the alleged theft ring stole and directed others to steal motor vehicles, transported and arranged for the transportation of stolen vehicles across the nation, created front companies, altered vehicle identification numbers, made fake motor vehicle titles, registered stolen vehicles using those fake motor vehicle titles, and sold those vehicles to others for money and drugs. This investigation tied more than 175 stolen cars, many of which were new and “high end” to the ring. Some of the vehicles were stolen from airports, including Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport, car dealerships, and car manufacturer’s assembly plants.

    “The charges unsealed against these defendants are the direct result of effective collaboration and countless hours of thorough investigative work by dedicated law enforcement professionals,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Frohling. “I commend all involved in pursuing justice for the impacted victims and for seeking to hold the charged individuals accountable for their actions.”

    All twenty-three defendants are charged with conspiring to violate various laws of the United States, including conspiring to receive, transport, and sell stolen vehicles; remove, obliterate, or tamper with motor vehicle identification numbers; and produce and transfer false and fraudulent titles for stolen vehicles. If convicted of the conspiracy charge, each defendant would face up to 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  

                  Twenty-one of the twenty-three defendants are also charged with interstate transportation of stolen vehicles or the receipt, possession, concealment, or sale of stolen motor vehicles that traveled in interstate commerce.  If convicted of one of these charges, each defendant would face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  Diaunte Shields, Brandon Mullins, and Nakiya Wright are also charged with the use of interstate commerce to transmit and transfer fictitious obligations or the presentation or offer of fictitious obligations.  If convicted of one of these charges, each defendant would face up to 25 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. 

                  Diaunte Shields and Lashawn Davis, Jr.  are also charged with drug trafficking crimes. If convicted of one of these charges, they would face mandatory minimum terms of 10 years and up to life in prison. Nakiya Wright is also charged with aggravated identity theft and, if convicted, would face a mandatory term of 2 years in prison. Defendants Diaunte Shields, Casha Griffin, and Nakiya Wright also are charged with conspiring to violate federal money laundering laws, and if convicted of that offense, each of them would face a maximum term of 20 years in prison and up to a $500,000 fine, or twice the value of the property involved. 

                  “Following a multi-year investigation, the FBI successfully dismantled a national auto theft ring that has been ongoing since 2019,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle. “These individuals are part of a criminal organization responsible for hundreds of high-end motor vehicle thefts resulting in millions of dollars in losses. Their criminal activity involves a complex operation of stealing vehicles and transporting them across the country. In Wisconsin, this organization is responsible for drug trafficking multiple kilogram quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl. The FBI and its law enforcement partners will continue working together to stop these crimes and protect the American people.” 

                  “This was a calculated, multi-state operation that went far beyond stealing cars—it was identity theft, forgery, and financial fraud on a significant scale,” said Jason Bushey, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “These defendants didn’t just take vehicles—they exploited people’s identities, manipulated documents, and laundered illegal profits through sophisticated schemes designed to conceal their crimes. IRS-CI special agents followed the money, mapped out the financial structure of this organization, and worked side by side with our partners to bring those responsible to justice. Let me be clear: if you build your enterprise on fraud and deception, we will find you, we will expose you, and we will hold you accountable.”

                   “The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office was proud to be a partner in this endeavor from its inception, with deputy sheriffs and detectives from this agency playing a key role in identifying and capturing members of this crime ring,” said Sheriff Denita R. Ball. “As stated by others, this was not just a ring of car thieves. This group took advantage of innocent people and turned lives upside down. Their actions were calculated and callous. And now they will face the justice they deserve.”

                  This case is the result of a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the Milwaukee County Sherriff’s Office, and the Wheaton Police Department (IL). The Sun Prairie Police Department (WI), Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department (WI), and numerous local and state law enforcement agencies throughout the country provided additional assistance.

    Operation Strike Out was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.

                  Assistant United States Attorneys Kate Biebel and Philip T. Kovoor are prosecuting this case.

                  The public is cautioned that an indictment is merely a charge, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

     # #  #

    For Additional Information Contact:

    Steve Caballero, Public Affairs Officer @ 414-297-1700

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Fugitive at San Francisco International Airport

    Source: US Marshals Service

    San Francisco, CA – On June 25, members of the U.S. Marshals Service Northern District of California arrested in San Francisco a former U.S. Postal Service (USPS) employee wanted for violating pre-trial conditions by unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and fleeing to a foreign country.

    Johnny Q. Nguyen, 49, is alleged to have run a fraudulent mail scheme from July to December 2024, stealing over $90,000 from businesses and charities in Washington and California by sending fake government letters demanding fees. Nguyen allegedly funneled the money through an LLC shell company and laundered the proceeds via transfers and cash withdrawals. Authorities intercepted an additional $395,000 in intended payments.

    In May, Nguyen was indicted by a grand jury in the Western District of Washington on several charges, including mail fraud and money laundering. After a court appearance in the Northern District of California June 17, he was ordered to surrender his passport and restrict his travel. However, on June 24, he used a concealed passport to flee the U.S. on a one-way flight to Vietnam.

    On June 25, the U.S. Marshals learned of Nguyen’s flight and alerted the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service, who intercepted Nguyen on a layover in Taipei, Taiwan, and put him on a return flight to San Francisco International Airport (SFO). U.S. Marshals took him into custody upon arrival at SFO and he was transported and booked into Santa Clara County Jail without incident. 

    On June 26, Nguyen appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan van Keulen for the Northern District of California and was ordered detained and transferred to the Western District of Washington in custody to appear on the charges. The mail fraud and money laundering case is being investigated by the U.S Postal Inspection Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Capture Fugitive Wanted for Seventeen Years

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Corpus, Christi, TX – The Cold Case Unit of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Gulf Coast Violent Offenders and Fugitive Task Force (GCVOTF) – Corpus Christi Division, working in conjunction with the USMS in the Eastern District of Wisconsin, located and arrested in Wisconsin a fugitive on the run for over 17 years.

    Agustin Rivera-Contreras was wanted on a Nov. 7, 2007 arrest warrant issued by a U.S. District Judge in the Southern District of Texas for violating the conditions of supervised release. Rivera-Contreras was under court ordered supervision for aiding and abetting to possess with intent to distribute 2.06 kilograms of cocaine. Additionally, Rivera-Contreras was wanted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for being an alien unlawfully present due to an order of removal.

    On May 9, 2025, the Cold Case Unit submitted a collateral lead request to the Eastern District of Wisconsin. Deputy U.S. Marshals followed up on the lead, which ultimately resulted in Rivera-Contreras’ capture.

    On July 1, Rivera-Contreras’ 17-year run finally ended when Marshals located him at a residence in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, hiding in a closet under a pile of clothes.

    The GCVOTF Cold Case Unit was formed to devote specialized investigative efforts to capturing fugitives who have been on the run for several years.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow has become a blooming garden thanks to the unification of the city and business

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Festival “Gardens and Flowers” — one of the most beloved city initiatives among Muscovites and tourists. Real oases with waterfalls, tropical forests and even bright compositions of bougainvilleas and rose bushes are appearing in the capital. For several years now, the city has been turning into a bright garden, where you can find green ferns in the squares, have lunch in the shade of lemon trees and have a photo shoot against the backdrop of pink flowers.

    As part of a large-scale urban project “Summer in Moscow” Business traditionally joins the festival. More than a thousand organizations, from large banks to small cafes, together decorate the city with bright flowers and green compositions.

    Thus, the capital’s companies transformed the main business center “Moscow-City”, took part in the creation of the green wall of the Moscow Zoo, planted plants on the stairs of the sports complex “VTB Arena”, and decorated Chistoprudny Boulevard with flowers. Soon, landscape projects created by large corporations will appear on Bolotnaya Embankment, Balchug Island and Novaya Basmannaya Street.

    Small and medium businesses are also not standing aside. Restaurants all over the city have opened summer verandas, surrounded by flower beds or small climbing plants. The facades of buildings housing cafes and shops have literally blossomed: each entrepreneur approaches decoration creatively, turning their establishments into real photo zones.

    Thanks to the joint efforts of the city and the capital’s entrepreneurs, people of all ages enjoy the summer, take beautiful photo sessions and enjoy walking along the streets.

    Flagship venues of the Gardens and Flowers festival opened in the center of the capital

    Project “Summer in Moscow” — the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and the new season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156253073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza

    Source: United Nations

    The Secretary-General is appalled by the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Multiple attacks in recent days hitting sites hosting displaced people and people trying to access food have killed and injured scores of Palestinians. The Secretary-General strongly condemns the loss of civilian life. 
     
    In just one day this week, orders to relocate forced nearly 30,000 people to flee, yet again, with no safe place to go and clearly inadequate supplies of shelter, food, medicine or water.
     
    International humanitarian law is unambiguous: civilians must be respected and protected, and the needs of the population must be met.
     
    With no fuel having entered Gaza in more than 17 weeks, the Secretary-General is gravely concerned that the last lifelines for survival are being cut off. Without an urgent influx of fuel, incubators will shut down, ambulances will be unable to reach the injured and sick, and water cannot be purified. The delivery by the United Nations and partners of what little of our lifesaving humanitarian aid is left in Gaza will also grind to a halt. 
     
    He once again calls for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access so aid can reach people who have been deprived of the basics of life for far too long. The UN has a clear and proven plan, rooted in the humanitarian principles, to get vital assistance to civilians – safely and at scale, wherever they are. 
     
    The Secretary-General reiterates that all parties must uphold their obligations under international law. He renews his call for an immediate permanent ceasefire and for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. 
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Announcing winners of The Equalizer Challenge

    Source: United Nations Population Fund

    UNFPA Announces Winners of the Equalizer Challenge to Scale Breakthrough Women’s Health Innovations. Winners include an AI health tracker for pregnant women, a digital menopause platform and a speculum that detects cervical cancer.

    New York, 3 July 2025 – UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, today announced the six winners of the Equalizer Challenge: Scaling Women’s Health Innovations. The initiative supports women-led health enterprises in moving beyond the pilot stage and achieving transformative impact at scale.

    Launched in collaboration with MIT Solve, IE University, and Women of Wearables, and enabled by generous support from the Governments of Luxembourg and Germany, the challenge seeks to close the gender health gap by investing in innovations that reach the most underserved.

    The six winners were selected from 350 submissions across 72 countries, with entries spanning six global regions. Each will receive up to US$ 20,000 in catalytic equity-free funding, along with a six-month capacity development programme that includes biweekly mentorship, expert coaching, and strategic connections to global health and investment networks.

    The selected innovations address a wide range of women’s health challenges, including cervical cancer, menopause, maternal mental health, and digital access to sexual and reproductive health care.

    The six winning solutions are:

    • GICMED (Cameroon) – A smart gynecological speculum device that enables early detection and remote diagnosis of cervical cancer and female genital schistosomiasis through telemedicine in low-resource settings.
    • Take Care Mom (Kazakhstan) – An AI-powered platform providing pregnant women with continuous health tracking, early risk detection, and 24/7 expert support to improve maternal and neonatal health and well-being.
    • Maisha Mothers (Kenya) – A mobile-based maternal health innovation by Thalia Psychotherapy that integrates mental health, family planning, and financial wellness into routine antenatal and postnatal care.
    • OMGYNO (Lebanon) – A femtech platform offering anonymous at-home testing, telemedicine services, and sexual and reproductive health education for women in underserved communities across the Middle East and North Africa.
    • SinReglas (Mexico) –  A digital menopause platform, offering personalized care and workplace services responsive to the health needs of millions of women during all stages of their life cycle, including menopause.
    • Smart Scope® CX (India) – An AI-powered portable device from Periwinkle Technologies that enables community health care workers to detect early-stage cervical cancer and certain benign conditions within 60 seconds without the need for electricity or internet, and facilitates remote triaging.

    These women-led solutions were selected for their scale potential and demonstrated impact. The Equalizer Challenge shows UNFPA’s commitment to supporting women-centric health solutions by closing funding gaps, and helping them develop, gain visibility, and reach the market.Through targeted innovation challenges, UNFPA transforms community-led innovations into high-impact, investable solutions spearheaded by women and young people.

    UNFPA Press Contact: media@unfpa.org 

    Disclaimer: UNFPA is providing support for the Equalizer Challenge with a view to furthering the development and availability of women’s health innovations. UNFPA has not or may not have evaluated, assessed, or tested the innovative solutions or products included or presented in this Challenge. In particular, the inclusion or presentation of any solution or product in this Challenge does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by UNFPA.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Sustainable Development Goals Acceleration Depends on Space Technologies, Deputy Secretary-General Tells Committee

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following are UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed’s remarks at the sixty-eighth session of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, in Vienna today: 

    Let me begin with a simple truth: every phone call you made to get here, every global positioning system (GPS) route that guided your journey, every weather forecast that helped you pack — all of it depended on space.

    Space is not the final frontier.  It is the foundation of our present.   Without satellites orbiting overhead right now, global food systems would collapse within weeks.  Emergency responders would lose their lifelines.  Climate scientists would be flying blind.  And our hopes of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be out of reach.

    This is why your work matters.  This is why the work of this Committee — COPUOS — is not just important, but urgent.  For over six decades, through shifting geopolitics and changing priorities, this Committee has consistently delivered.

    Five space treaties.  Space sustainability guidelines.  The Space 2030 Agenda.  You don’t just talk about space governance — you create it.  But today, we need to shift our focus to scale.

    The United Nations has identified six critical areas for SDG acceleration: food systems, energy transitions, digital connectivity, education and skills, environmental action, and jobs and social protection.

    Every single one depends on space technologies.  This is a paradox when you consider that less than half of UN Member States have a satellite in orbit, yet all 8 billion people on Earth benefit from space services daily. 

    Through your work, and through the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), we can close this divide — not by putting a satellite in every nation’s hands, but by ensuring that the benefits of space technologies reach every community on our planet.

    I’m just coming from the fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville, where the message was crystal clear:  in an era of constrained investment, we must align capital with high-impact solutions.

    Space is one of them.  But impact happens at every level — and I would like to share what I’ve seen.

    At the local level, UNOOSA’s programs are building the next generation of inclusive space leaders.  They’re ensuring equal access for youth and women in developing countries, where small investments create enormous change.  Through these programs, we’re enabling the next Carmen Chaidez, the next Kitaw Ejigu.

    At the national level, UNOOSA helps countries build their space capabilities from the ground up.  Through space law workshops and direct support for emerging programs, nations develop the expertise they need to harness space for their own development priorities.

    The United Nations Platform for Space‑based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER) shows what this looks like in practice.  In Tonga, Tobago, and Ghana, satellite data is being used to create detailed digital models of entire cities.  When disaster strikes, these virtual twins allow Governments to see exactly where help is needed most, deploy resources much faster, and ultimately save more lives.

    Through innovative partnerships, UNOOSA has helped Kenya, Guatemala, [Republic of] Moldova, and Mauritius launch their first satellites.  Each event was a catalyst — for new space agencies, developing robust legislation, and promoting gender equality in the space sector.

    Finally, at the international level, as reinforced by the Pact for the Future, we must work together to ensure COPUOS delivers the governance our rapidly evolving space environment demands of us.

    Here’s what’s happening right now:  low-Earth orbit satellites are multiplying exponentially.  Humanity is preparing to return to the Moon.  We’re exploring beyond like never before.  And your work has never been more vital and urgent.

    We stand at the threshold of potentially historic decision:  the fourth United Nations Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNISPACE IV) in 2027.  This isn’t just another conference.  This could be the milestone that shapes the next sixty years of global space governance. And so I encourage us all to aim high.  And aim even higher.

    The pressing space issues before us — traffic, debris, resources — each present both risk and opportunity for achieving the SDGs.  Each requires the kind of multilateral cooperation that this Committee has proven it can deliver.  We need a strong UNOOSA and a strong COPUOS to lead us into UNISPACE IV and beyond.

    But strength isn’t about institutions — it’s about the people within them and the systems that we run.  As a practical next step, I encourage you to champion the implementation of the UNOOSA Gender Mainstreaming Toolkit for the Space Sector launched last year.  Because when we leave talent on the sidelines, we will all lose.

    Let me leave you with one final message.  The view from space shows no countries, no borders — only one shared planet, our common home.  Let that aspect guide you as you build the governance frameworks for space exploration and use.  Let us ensure that outer space remains safe and sustainable for everyone.  Let us make space a catalyst for achieving our 2030 Goals with 5 years to go.  And let us build governance frameworks that serve not just us, but generations to come.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New Funding to Support Dementia Care in Yorkton

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 3, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan is announcing new funding to help support individuals with dementia in the Yorkton area.

    SaskAbilities is receiving $200,000 annually to deliver its Dementia Friendly Life Enrichment Program. The program helps residents diagnosed with dementia remain in their homes and communities and supports their caregivers.

    “I am proud that we can provide funding to support those living with dementia and their families in the Yorkton area,” Minister Responsible for Seniors Lori Carr said. “The Dementia Friendly Life Enrichment Program is a valuable service which addresses the specialized needs and challenges dementia presents for all affected.”

    This new annualized funding from the province will support staffing, training, travel, supplies and materials so that in person programming can be delivered to residents within 150 kilometres of Yorkton. 

    The program:

    • provides activities in an individual’s home in the Yorkton area;
    • reduces caregiver burnout by providing indirect respite opportunities;
    • connects clients and community organizations to resources within the community;
    • helps people navigate the system to get support; and
    • improves behaviour management that assists seniors living with dementia.

    “We are deeply grateful to the Ministry of Health for their generous support of our Dementia Friendly Life Enrichment Program,” SaskAbilities Yorkton Branch Regional Director Aleks Hoeber said. “This funding allows us to continue to serve individuals living with dementia and their care partners. We look forward to continuing to offer meaningful, person-centered supports that help individuals age at home and in their communities.”

    Hoeber said the program has a positive impact on families by reducing their stress and improving overall wellbeing for those with dementia.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Construction Begins on Two New Group Homes in Biggar

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 3, 2025

    Social Services Minister Terry Jenson joined representatives from Farm in the Dell and the Town of Biggar to announce the start of construction on two new five-space group homes for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Farm in the Dell will also operate a day program that will serve up to 20 individuals.  

    “We are happy to see the start of this important project for Farm in the Dell,” Jenson said. “This project represents our government’s commitment to supporting initiatives which allow individuals with disabilities to live and participate in a supportive environment tailored to their needs.” 

    Announced in September 2024, the continued partnership between the Government of Saskatchewan and Farm in the Dell will expand access to a farm-like model of support for adults with intellectual disabilities. Capital construction will be supported by an investment of up to $2.1 million from the Ministry of Social Services, $500,000 provided by Farm in the Dell and $350,000 from the Town of Biggar.   

    Farm in the Dell is a non-profit organization that strives to enhance the emotional, physical, and spiritual lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities through residential, vocational, recreational and community services within Saskatchewan. It currently operates two group homes, a supported living program and a farm-based vocational program on a farm property near Aberdeen. 

    “We are deeply grateful for the Government of Saskatchewan’s partnership and commitment to our Farm in the Dell expansion project in Biggar, Saskatchewan,” Farm in the Dell Executive Director Lynette Zacharias said. “We look forward to working together on this meaningful initiative to support individuals in our communities by providing a safe and caring home, purposeful work opportunities, and a vibrant social life within a rewarding farm environment.”  

    “The Town of Biggar’s commitment to this worthy project is not only from the heart, but it demonstrates a testament to what a community can achieve when welcoming those that may need a little extra in a familiar and supportive rural setting,” Town of Biggar Mayor Jim Rickwood said. “The joy we feel due to this accomplishment will be returned to us by that same group of people. Our horizons are great, our abilities are enormous, but the spirit we cultivate is Biggar. It is with great pride that the Town of Biggar welcomes Farm in the Dell to our community. We are honoured to be a partner in establishing and providing continued support for this glorious addition to our amazing prairie skyline we call Saskatchewan.”  

    Once completed, the Ministry of Social Services will provide annual operating funding for the group homes and day program in Biggar.   

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Neal Statement on June 2025 Jobs Report

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Richard Neal (D-MA)

    Neal Statement on June 2025 Jobs Report

    Washington, D.C., July 3, 2025

    Ways and Means Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) June 2025 jobs report: 

    “The President and Congressional Republicans are in the process of taking the final step to brazenly rigging the economy for those at the top. In their lockstep march to rob families and reward their billionaire friends, Republicans remain the greatest threat to the people’s health care, their livelihoods, and the resilient labor market that was rebuilt by Democrats, and not long ago was shattering every expectation.  

    “The American people cannot afford the full weight of a Republican trifecta in Washington. Hiring has frozen, GDP is shrinking, costs are rising, hospitals are already closing, and families have been left to wonder if they’ll keep their basic health and food needs. Republicans have assured that under their economy, families and working people bear the consequences.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Neal Statement on June 2025 Jobs Report

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Richard Neal (D-MA)

    Neal Statement on June 2025 Jobs Report

    Washington, D.C., July 3, 2025

    Ways and Means Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) June 2025 jobs report: 

    “The President and Congressional Republicans are in the process of taking the final step to brazenly rigging the economy for those at the top. In their lockstep march to rob families and reward their billionaire friends, Republicans remain the greatest threat to the people’s health care, their livelihoods, and the resilient labor market that was rebuilt by Democrats, and not long ago was shattering every expectation.  

    “The American people cannot afford the full weight of a Republican trifecta in Washington. Hiring has frozen, GDP is shrinking, costs are rising, hospitals are already closing, and families have been left to wonder if they’ll keep their basic health and food needs. Republicans have assured that under their economy, families and working people bear the consequences.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Brilliant Djokovic hits flow state to crush Britain’s Evans

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Seven-times Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic showed that he remains a real threat for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title at the age of 38 with a clinical 6-3 6-2 6-0 second-round destruction of Briton Dan Evans on Centre Court on Thursday.

    The Serb continues to rage against the dying of the light and showed why hehas identified the grass of Wimbledon as his best chance of adding to his extraordinary tally in a superb all-round performance where he looked as sharp and fit as at any time in his incredible career.

    He was never remotely troubled on serve until the final game of the match, while wildcard Evans had to scramble for almost everything on his – saving nine first-set break points before eventually succumbing on the 10th.

    Djokovic continued to dominate as Evans, who beat him in their only previous meeting on clay four years ago, saw his tame sliced backhands repeatedly crashed back past him as the sixth seed romped home.

    Twenty years after first setting foot on the Wimbledon grass Djokovic is the most dangerous of floaters.

    Since losing in the quarter-finals in 2017 he has reached the last six finals, winning the first four but losing the last two to Carlos Alcaraz, and it would be a brave man to bet against him making it seven in a row on Thursday’s evidence.

    “He (Evans) can cause a lot of trouble if you’re not on top of your game, which I think I was to be honest from the very beginning,” Djokovic said.

    “Technically, tactically I knew exactly what I needed to do and I executed perfectly. Sometimes you have these kind of days, where everything goes your way, everything flows and it’s good to be in the shoes and holding a racket on a day like this.”

    The tone was set almost from the start, with Djokovic racing through his service games and Evans having to fight for everything.

    Roared on by a hopeful home crowd the 35-year-old Brit saved four break points in a marathon fourth game, three in the sixth and another two in the eighth, before Djokovic finally broke at the 10th attempt.

    Evans was ranked as high as 21st in the world two years ago, but he has plummeted to 154th and his backhand slice was totally ineffective as Djokovic teed off on it with unerring accuracy.

    The match soon had an inevitability about it as the Serb moved seamlessly through the second set and then raced to a 5-0 lead in the third before Evans finally forced two break points, only for Djokovic to snuff out the danger.

    It put him into the third round for the 19th time – a men’s record in the Open era – at a tournament he loves above all others.

    “I’ve said this a million times before, but I have to repeat it, Wimbledon still stays the most special tournament in my heart, the one that I always dreamed of winning when I was a kid,” he said.

    “It’s the beginning of the tournament, but yes I’m aware of the history on the line and I’m thinking about the big things that I can make in this tournament.”

    REUTERS

  • Brilliant Djokovic hits flow state to crush Britain’s Evans

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Seven-times Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic showed that he remains a real threat for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title at the age of 38 with a clinical 6-3 6-2 6-0 second-round destruction of Briton Dan Evans on Centre Court on Thursday.

    The Serb continues to rage against the dying of the light and showed why hehas identified the grass of Wimbledon as his best chance of adding to his extraordinary tally in a superb all-round performance where he looked as sharp and fit as at any time in his incredible career.

    He was never remotely troubled on serve until the final game of the match, while wildcard Evans had to scramble for almost everything on his – saving nine first-set break points before eventually succumbing on the 10th.

    Djokovic continued to dominate as Evans, who beat him in their only previous meeting on clay four years ago, saw his tame sliced backhands repeatedly crashed back past him as the sixth seed romped home.

    Twenty years after first setting foot on the Wimbledon grass Djokovic is the most dangerous of floaters.

    Since losing in the quarter-finals in 2017 he has reached the last six finals, winning the first four but losing the last two to Carlos Alcaraz, and it would be a brave man to bet against him making it seven in a row on Thursday’s evidence.

    “He (Evans) can cause a lot of trouble if you’re not on top of your game, which I think I was to be honest from the very beginning,” Djokovic said.

    “Technically, tactically I knew exactly what I needed to do and I executed perfectly. Sometimes you have these kind of days, where everything goes your way, everything flows and it’s good to be in the shoes and holding a racket on a day like this.”

    The tone was set almost from the start, with Djokovic racing through his service games and Evans having to fight for everything.

    Roared on by a hopeful home crowd the 35-year-old Brit saved four break points in a marathon fourth game, three in the sixth and another two in the eighth, before Djokovic finally broke at the 10th attempt.

    Evans was ranked as high as 21st in the world two years ago, but he has plummeted to 154th and his backhand slice was totally ineffective as Djokovic teed off on it with unerring accuracy.

    The match soon had an inevitability about it as the Serb moved seamlessly through the second set and then raced to a 5-0 lead in the third before Evans finally forced two break points, only for Djokovic to snuff out the danger.

    It put him into the third round for the 19th time – a men’s record in the Open era – at a tournament he loves above all others.

    “I’ve said this a million times before, but I have to repeat it, Wimbledon still stays the most special tournament in my heart, the one that I always dreamed of winning when I was a kid,” he said.

    “It’s the beginning of the tournament, but yes I’m aware of the history on the line and I’m thinking about the big things that I can make in this tournament.”

    REUTERS

  • Trinidad all set to welcome PM Modi as India eyes stronger Caribbean ties

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed Accra on Thursday for Port of Spain, where he will seek to strengthen India’s historic ties with Trinidad and Tobago during the second leg of his five-nation tour.

    “Leaving for Trinidad & Tobago. Later this evening, I look forward to attending a community programme in Port of Spain. Tomorrow, I will be addressing the Parliament of Trinidad & Tobago. Looking forward to deepening ties with a valued partner in the Caribbean, with whom we share very old cultural linkages,” PM Modi said in a post on X after concluding his two-day visit to Ghana.

    Trinidad and Tobago is PM Modi’s second stop and will be followed by visits to Argentina, Brazil and Namibia. This is his first visit to Trinidad and Tobago as Prime Minister and the first bilateral Prime Ministerial visit to the country since 1999.

    The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold talks with President Christine Carla Kangaloo and Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, who recently began a second term in office, and will address a joint session of Parliament on Friday. Kangaloo was Chief Guest at this year’s Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, while Persad-Bissessar has visited India previously and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award.

    Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that the visit would provide fresh momentum to the longstanding cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries. “The visit comes at an opportune time, as this year, 2025, the country (Trinidad and Tobago) is commemorating 180 years of the arrival of Indian immigrants in T&T,” MEA Secretary (South) Neena Malhotra said at a briefing on Monday.

    Trinidad and Tobago is home to an Indian diaspora that makes up about 40–45% of its 1.36 million people, descendants of immigrants who first arrived in 1845. The diaspora continues to maintain strong cultural and emotional ties with India.

    The trip marks PM Modi’s second visit to the Caribbean in eight months. In November 2024, he travelled to Guyana for the India–CARICOM Summit, where he pledged support for Caribbean nations and met then Prime Minister Keith Rowley. PM Modi congratulated Rowley on Trinidad and Tobago’s adoption of India’s UPI digital payment platform and promised further cooperation in digital transformation.

    India and Trinidad and Tobago are seeking to expand cooperation in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, renewable energy, digital public infrastructure, agriculture, disaster resilience and technology, as well as sports, academics and cultural exchanges.

    Last year, the Prime Minister told Caribbean leaders that India stood firmly for giving voice to the concerns of the Global South, saying smaller nations were among the worst hit by global conflicts and crises.

    PM Modi’s address to the joint session of Parliament is also symbolic of democratic ties between the two nations. “The Speaker’s chair in the Parliament has been a gift by India, which is again a symbolic reminder of the strong democratic and parliamentary traditions between our two countries,” Malhotra said.

    This visit, she added, is also special for both the President and the Prime Minister of T&T, since they are of Indian origin and take pride in calling themselves “daughters of India.”

    “The entire Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago is very enthusiastic about PM Modi’s upcoming visit and a large diaspora interaction event is being planned during the visit. During the visit, the PM will hold high-level discussions with both the President and Prime Minister, and the leaders are expected to cover the entire gamut of our bilateral relations, as well as regional and multilateral aspects,” Malhotra said.

    After Trinidad and Tobago, the Prime Minister will travel to Argentina

    IANS

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Secures Agreement Reforming Michigan School District’s Seclusion and Restraint Practices

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    Today, the Justice Department announced that it reached an agreement with a Michigan school district to address the discriminatory use of seclusion and restraint against students with disabilities, in violation of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Under the settlement agreement, the Montcalm Area Intermediate School District will end the use of seclusion, reform its restraint practices, and improve special education services for students with disabilities.

    During the period covered by the investigation, with which the school district fully cooperated, students with disabilities were secluded and/or restrained on more than 2,400 occasions. The Department’s investigation also revealed that the district used seclusion and restraint improperly, including using emergency crisis responses as punishment for normal classroom discipline issues.

    “Students with disabilities should never be discriminated against by experiencing the trauma of seclusion or improper restraint,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Parents have the right to expect that the school systems they entrust with educating their children do not instead punish their children for having a disability.”

    “This school district serves the most vulnerable Michigan students, young children with disabilities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexis M. Sanford for the Western District of Michigan. “I commend them for entering into this settlement agreement to provide their students with the care and services they need to get the education they deserve.”   

    Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt, and additional information about the Civil Rights Division’s Educational Opportunities Section’s work to combat disability discrimination including by improper seclusion and restraint is available at www.justice.gov/crt/educational-opportunities-section.

    Members of the public may report possible civil rights violations at www.civilrights.justice.gov/.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vice Chairman of China delivers speech at opening ceremony of 13th World Peace Forum

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 3 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Thursday addressed the opening ceremony of the 13th World Peace Forum in Beijing, calling for jointly safeguarding international fairness and justice and improving the global governance system.

    Noting that world peace and development are currently facing serious challenges, Han Zheng said that Chinese President Xi Jinping has put forward a series of proposals including the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind, the Initiative on Global Development, the Initiative on Global Security and the Initiative on Global Civilization, providing China’s blueprint for solving major issues concerning human peace and development.

    The Vice Chairman of the PRC recalled that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN. According to him, China is ready to work with all countries to promote peace and prosperity on the planet and jointly build a more beautiful world.

    Han Zheng put forward four proposals. First, learn from history, jointly safeguard the post-war international order, and firmly uphold international fairness and justice. Second, uphold unity and coordination, and jointly improve global governance. Third, adhere to openness and cooperation, and jointly promote global prosperity and development. Fourth, jointly overcome difficulties and jointly move toward modernization.

    Han Zheng also called for putting development at the center of the international agenda, effectively addressing the development concerns of developing countries, and making efforts to address inequality and imbalance in global development.

    The event was attended by about 400 people, including former senior political figures from foreign countries such as former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and former Belgian Prime Minister, former President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy, diplomats accredited in China, Chinese and foreign experts and scholars. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Hosts Sustainability Summit for Northeast Higher Education

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Nearly all higher education institutions in the Northeast have demonstrated a commitment to sustainability, and most have an Office of Sustainability. While each university has its own unique challenges in pursuing environmental progress, many of these offices face similar issues – How do we get students prepared for green careers? What’s the most efficient way to run a move-out donation program?

    UConn Office of Sustainability Director, Patrick McKee, welcomes guests to the NECSC Summit.

    That’s where the Northeast Campus Sustainability Consortium (NECSC) comes in! The NECSC was established in 2004 to support sustainability officers in advancing progress on university campuses in the northeast and Canadian maritime region. The NECSC is an informal group, but commits to hosting an annual meeting to provide members close networking opportunities, professional development and access to the area’s vibrant sustainability practitioner community. Hosts of the annual gathering are leaders of sustainability in the region.

    Following 2024’s annual summit at Southern New Hampshire University, UConn’s Office of Sustainability and Connecticut College agreed to co-host the event for 2025. The NECSC conference is also an opportunity to highlight the hosts’ sustainability progress and leadership regionally. UConn’s Avery Point Campus was the perfect location – not only is it a gorgeous waterfront campus, it also plays an outsize role in environmental progress for Connecticut.

    In 2021, Avery Point upgraded 121 of their outdoor light fixtures with LED lights which saved 25 tons of carbon dioxide over the course of a year. The Student Center secured LEED Silver Certification in recognition of its energy efficiency in 2023. Avery Point is also home to the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) and Connecticut Sea Grant which act as research hubs for climate resilience, coastal ecosystems, and aquaculture within Long Island Sound. Faculty and students are collaborating with Eversource and Orsted on a $1.25m grant to understand the impact of offshore wind projects on marine habitats, including project Starboard Wind. EcoHusky is the student-run organization that organizes yearly sustainability events for faculty and students including the Earth Day Event, supported by the Office of Sustainability in 2025. EcoHusky was also a part of securing an Environmental and Sustainability Small Grant from the Office of Sustainability in 2022 to install a solar panel and wind turbine on the sailing shed to provide independent, renewable-energy sources for campus buildings. In December of 2024, UConn entered a historical memorandum with CT’s five recognized tribes to establish Avery Point as a Native-American Serving, Nontribal Intuition (NASNTI) to reach at least 10% Native American enrollment and supporting tribal education through academics and community engagement.

    Nearly 100 higher education sustainability staff and faculty members attended the NECSC summit, held June 9-11, 2025. Ranging from Maryland to Maine, attendees hailed from Ivies, state universities and private liberal arts schools. The event kicked off with a keynote address by Dr. Annemarie Seifert, Dean of UConn Avery Point, and was followed by engaging sessions on creating circular economies on campus, geothermal buildings, decarbonization communications and more.

    Leaders of higher ed’s preeminent sustainability networks provided global perspectives on shifting political landscapes for sustainability. Megan Fay Zahniser, Executive Director of the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, and Tim Carter, President of Second Nature, urged attendees to work together and with their home communities to push for continued environmental progress.

    Throughout the event, UConn Dining provided excellent food and low-waste catering. Mike White, Executive Director of UConn Dining Services, spoke about their team’s dedication to reducing food waste, using local and organic produce, and UConn’s partnership with Quantum Biopower which converts food scraps into energy. All attendees enjoyed menus featuring cheese from local farms like Cato Corner in Colchester, and greens from Full Moon Farm in Hampton.

    Guests participated in marine research in Long Island Sound with Project Oceanology.

    The NECSC summit concluded with a marine biology excursion on Long Island Sound. Project Oceanology, a nonprofit marine education and research facility, took guests out on a ship to catch, record, and measure sea life from the sound. They also took the crew up the Thames River for a closer look at the offshore wind assembly pier.

    “It is always uplifting to network, share stories, insights, and best practices as we work to collectively make a larger impact on the planet and in the lives of students,” shares Patrick McKee, Director of the UConn Office of Sustainability. “It was a pleasure co-hosting the NECSC Summit at UConn Avery Point, and we look forward to visiting Rutgers in 2026.”

    To learn more about NECSC and join the mailing list, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Air Force Member Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Sexual Assault at Air Base in England

    Source: US State of California

    James Loubeau, a former U.S. Air Force member, was sentenced today to five years in prison to be followed by 20 months of supervised release for sexually assaulting another service member at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, United Kingdom, in May 2019. In April 2025, Loubeau, 37, of Miami, pleaded guilty to two counts of abusive sexual contact. 

    As part of his guilty plea, Loubeau admitted that, on May 4, 2019, he sexually assaulted the victim on base at Royal Air Force Mildenhall. Loubeau was later discharged from the Air Force in March 2020. The charges were brought under the Military Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Act (MEJA), which establishes U.S. jurisdiction over certain offenses committed abroad by, among others, persons who served with the armed forces but who are no longer subject to military prosecution.

    In May 2019, Loubeau and the victim met at a bar on the Air Force base where the victim consumed several alcoholic beverages. Later, a friend of the victim accompanied the victim back to her on-base housing and helped her get ready for bed. The friend then left and the victim fell asleep alone. Around 2:30 a.m., the victim awoke to find Loubeau on top of her in her bed. The victim almost immediately called two friends to say she had been raped. Surveillance video captured Loubeau after he left the victim’s room to return to his dorm room. A medical examination revealed that the victim had injuries consistent with sexual contact, and DNA testing later linked Loubeau to the sexual assault.  

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Hayden O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Michael Koellner of Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment 512; and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.

    The Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the FBI investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Alexandra Skinnion of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Bertila Fernandez for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals in Oklahoma City Arrest Woman Wanted for Florida Murder

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Oklahoma City, OK – The U.S. Marshals Oklahoma City Metro Fugitive Task Force, along with the Oklahoma City Police Department, acting on a collateral lead from the U.S. Marshals Florida Caribbean Fugitive Task Force, Tuesday arrested a woman wanted in a first-degree murder in Florida.

    Neha Gupta, 36, of Oklahoma City, was taken into custody without incident at about 2:45 p.m. at a residence in the 200 block of NW 152nd Street in Edmond.

    Gupta is alleged to have murdered her 4-year-old daughter, who was found floating in a backyard pool early Friday morning at a residence in the El Portal village of Miami.

    Paramedics rushed the girl from the home, located near NW 90th Street and NW 1st Avenue, to Jackson Memorial Hospital.

    On June 30, a warrant was issued out of Miami-Dade County charging Gupta with first-degree murder.

    “The arrest of Neha Gupta by the U.S. Marshals in Western Oklahoma working a collateral lead is a prime example of good communication and teamwork by dedicated officers,” said U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Oklahoma Johnny Kuhlman. “Ms. Gupta is facing a serious criminal charge and getting her into custody to face that charge was a priority for law enforcement.”

    “This individual is accused of committing a horrendous act and her swift arrest illustrates the professionalism, communication, and teamwork of all agencies involved,” said Gadyaces Serralta, U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Florida. “I extend my sincere gratitude to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Oklahoma City Metro Fugitive Task Force.”

    The Oklahoma City Metro Fugitive Task Force mission is to locate and arrest federal, state and local fugitives. It is made up of law enforcement officers from the following participating agencies: U.S. Marshals Service, Chickasaw Lighthorse Police Department, Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, Comanche County Detention Center, Edmond Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General, Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma City Police Department, Oklahoma Department of Corrections, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Oklahoma State Bureau of Narcotics, Midwest City Police Department, Shawnee Police Department, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    Since 2008, the USMS Florida/Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force has focused resources and efforts on the enhancement of public safety and the reduction of violence within the Florida/Caribbean Region through the identification, investigation, and apprehension of fugitives wanted for egregious crimes against the community, while ensuring the equal application of Justice, Integrity, and Service for all. The FCRFTF has partnership agreements with federal, state and local agencies that operate in Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FCRFTF has apprehended more than 67,000 fugitives since its inception and is always striving to make communities safer. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Air Force Member Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Sexual Assault at Air Base in England

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    James Loubeau, a former U.S. Air Force member, was sentenced today to five years in prison to be followed by 20 months of supervised release for sexually assaulting another service member at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, United Kingdom, in May 2019. In April 2025, Loubeau, 37, of Miami, pleaded guilty to two counts of abusive sexual contact. 

    As part of his guilty plea, Loubeau admitted that, on May 4, 2019, he sexually assaulted the victim on base at Royal Air Force Mildenhall. Loubeau was later discharged from the Air Force in March 2020. The charges were brought under the Military Extraterritorial Jurisdiction Act (MEJA), which establishes U.S. jurisdiction over certain offenses committed abroad by, among others, persons who served with the armed forces but who are no longer subject to military prosecution.

    In May 2019, Loubeau and the victim met at a bar on the Air Force base where the victim consumed several alcoholic beverages. Later, a friend of the victim accompanied the victim back to her on-base housing and helped her get ready for bed. The friend then left and the victim fell asleep alone. Around 2:30 a.m., the victim awoke to find Loubeau on top of her in her bed. The victim almost immediately called two friends to say she had been raped. Surveillance video captured Loubeau after he left the victim’s room to return to his dorm room. A medical examination revealed that the victim had injuries consistent with sexual contact, and DNA testing later linked Loubeau to the sexual assault.  

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Hayden O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Michael Koellner of Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment 512; and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.

    The Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the FBI investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Alexandra Skinnion of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Bertila Fernandez for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense Attorney Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Felony Drug Offense

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Harnett County defense attorney was sentenced in federal court after his guilty plea to a felony drug offense. Jeffrey Stall,45, was sentenced to two years of house arrest and five years of supervised release.

    Stall was initially intercepted during a federal wiretap investigation into a group of drug traffickers that were distributed methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana throughout Sampson, Johnston, and Harnett counties. Through intercepted and coded conversations, Stall spoke with another individual and the two agreed to meet later so that Stall could receive drugs.

    Two days later, law enforcement watched as Stall arrived at an established drug trafficking location, stayed for a short period of time, and then departed. As Stall was driving away, a North Carolina State Trooper executed a traffic stop. Stall was the driver and lone occupant. The trooper immediately observed Stall exhibiting characteristics consistent with intoxication and observed an empty gun holster on the seat. During the traffic stop, a canine alerted on the vehicle. The trooper asked Stall two times whether there was anything in Stall’s vehicle that was illegal. Stall responded with “There shouldn’t be” and “Not that I am aware of.”

    The subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a backpack on the passenger seat. Inside the backpack the trooper discovered 33.65 grams of pure methamphetamine and a loaded .40 caliber handgun.

    As the underlying investigation continued, several individuals were taken into custody and interviewed about their drug trafficking. In these interviews, they revealed that they had provided Stall with user amounts of methamphetamine for extended lengths of time. These individuals stated that their relationship with Stall often started with or involved Stall representing them in a legal capacity. The drug relationship with Stall would then extend beyond the course of the legal representation.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting 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 DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals Service, NC National Guard, NC State Bureau of Investigation, Sampson County Sheriff’s Office, Harnett County Sheriff’s Office, Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, and the Dunn Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyler Lemons prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:24-CR-110-M.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: PANAMA CITY MEN PLEAD GUILTY TO POSSESSING FIGHTING DOGS AND FIREARMS CHARGE

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Fredricus White, 38, and Cornelious Johnson, 41, of Panama City, Florida, pleaded guilty to charges of possessing fighting dogs, while White also pleaded guilty to a charge of possessing firearms and ammunition as a previously convicted felon. The convictions were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    According to court records, White and Johnson entered into a conspiracy to violate the Animal Welfare Act from 2018 through February 2024, by participating in organized dog fighting, to include breeding fighting dogs, participating in gambling involving illegal dog fights, and training dogs to participate in dog fights. White and Johnson were previously arrested in Georgia on state charges of participating in a dog fight in 2022. Federal arrest warrants in February 2024 for the Georgia dog fight led to the discovery of two rural Panama City area properties where White and Johnson had continued to keep, breed, and train fighting dogs. White’s residence was also searched, and three firearms were found. White was prohibited from possessing firearms due to felony convictions in 2009 and 2012.   

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “These defendants engaged in cruel and continued mistreatment of animals, but now they will find themselves locked in a cell for their crimes. I deeply appreciate the dedicated work of our state and federal law enforcement partners to dismantle this heinous enterprise of animal cruelty, which unsurprisingly often increases violence in the community. My office is firmly committed to ensuring the safety of all individuals and ending the cruel infliction of pain on animals purely for sport and financial gain in the Northern District of Florida.”

    The convictions were the result of a joint investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the United States Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General and assisted by the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by attorneys from the Criminal Division of the Tallahassee office with assistance from the Environmental and Natural Resources Division of the Department of Justice. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former D.C. Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services Employee Found Guilty of Sexually Abusing a 17-Year-Old Ward

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON—Kelvin Powell, 63, of Temple Hills, Maryland, was found guilty on all counts by a D.C. Superior Court jury today in connection with the sexual abuse of a 17-year-old minor who was in the custody of the D.C. Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                The jury deliberated for one day following an eight-day trial, and found Powell guilty of sixteen counts, that is, committing four counts of first-degree sexual abuse of a ward, four counts of first-degree sexual abuse of a minor, four counts of second-degree sexual abuse of a ward, and four counts of second-degree sexual abuse of a minor.  D.C. Superior Court Associate Judge Rainey Brandt scheduled sentencing for September 5, 2025.

                According to evidence presented over the course of the trial, Powell served as a Youth Development Representative (YDR) at the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS)’s Youth Services Center (YSC).  DYRS is the District of Columbia government agency responsible for the supervision, custody, and care of young people detained while pending charges for a delinquent act.  As a YDR, Powell was responsible for the care, custody, and control of the juvenile residents being detained at YSC.

                “The Defendant used his position of authority to repeatedly sexually abuse a minor who was in his care and more than four decades younger than him,” said United States Attorney Pirro.  “The power imbalance allowed him to repeatedly victimize a young girl who was under his protection. These crimes were reprehensible.  As shown here, prosecutors in my office and our partners at the FBI and MPD will go to every length to uncover such acts, prove them in court, and hold the offenders accountable.”

                “Powell used his position of trust to prey upon a minor who counted on him for care and protection,” said Assistant Director in Charge Steven Jensen of the FBI’s Washington Field Office. “Today’s verdict is the next step in bringing the full measure of justice to those who would abuse their authority to harm vulnerable children.”

                Between December 2021 through February 2022, Powell used his position and his authority to repeatedly sexually abuse a then-seventeen-year-old minor ward residing at YSC. During that time, Powell repeatedly isolated the minor in areas of YSC that were not covered by video surveillance cameras. In those areas, Powell repeatedly sexually abused the minor by committing sexual acts and sexual contacts to her. In an incident captured by surveillance cameras, Powell sexually abused the minor by groping her clothed buttocks in a hallway at YSC.

                Powell faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years for first degree sexual abuse of a minor, seven and ½ years for second degree sexual abuse of a minor, 10 years for first degree sexual abuse of a ward, and five years for second degree sexual abuse of a ward.

                The case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office with valuable assistance from the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tim Visser, Jessica Wash, and Niki Holmes. Former Assistant United States Attorneys Risa Berkower and Cara Gardner provided critical assistance. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Seeks Recovery of $40,300 in Cryptoscheme That Impersonated Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON – U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro announced today that her office filed a complaint against 40,353 USDT.ETH cryptocurrency stolen in the commission of a  Business Email Compromise Scheme.

                According to the complaint, one or more perpetrators impersonated the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee, fraudulently stole $250,300 worth of crypocurrency from an intended donor, and then laundered the funds through other wallets. The FBI was able to trace and recover $40,300 from this transaction. The complaint seeks recovery of these funds to compensate the victim.

                “All donors should double and triple check that they are sending cryptocurrency to their intended recipient. It can be extremely difficult for law enforcmeent to recoup lost funds due to the extremely complex nature of the blockchain,” said U.S. Attoney Pirro. “Nevertheless, my office and our law enforcement partners stand ready to go toe-to-toe with criminals and make victims whole.”

                “Impersonation scams take many forms and cost Americans billions in losses each year,” said Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen, of the FBI Washington Field Office, which is investigating the case. “To avoid becoming a victim, carefully review email addresses, website URLs, and spelling in any messages you receive. Scammers often use subtle differences to deceive you and gain your trust. Never send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or other assets to people you do not know personally or have only interacted with online or over the phone. Report suspected scams to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.”

                According to the complaint, on Dec. 24, 2024, the victims received an email from someone purporting to be Steve Witkoff, Co-Chair of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee. Legitimate emails from the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee are @t47inaugural.com;  the email received by victim was from @t47lnaugural.com with the lowercase “I” was replaced by a lowercase “L.” Depending on the font, the lowercase “L” can look like the uppercase “I.”

                The imposter Steve Witkoff, a scammer located in Nigeria, instructed the victims to deposit funds into a cryptocurrency wallet ending in 58c52. On Dec. 26, 2024, the victim sent 250,300 USDT.ETH to the crypto wallet believing the funds were going to the Inaugural Committee. Within two hours after receiving the funds from the victim, the funds moved from the 58c52 cryptowallet to other cryptocurrency addresses. Through blockchain analysis, the FBI identified and recovered 40,300 USDT.ETH, which is the property subject to forfeiture in this civil action.

                Members of the public who believe they are victims of a cybercrime – including business email compromise, cryptocurrency scams, romance scams, investment scams, and “pig butchering” fraud scams – should contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov. For more information on business email compromise schemes, please visit: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/business-email-compromise.

                The Department of Justice would like to acknowledge Tether for its assistance in effectuating the transfer of these assets.

                FBI Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the Washington Field Office joined in the announcement. This case is being investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office- Criminal and Cyber Division. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Blaylock, Jr.

    25cv2116

    MIL Security OSI –