Category: AM-NC

MIL-OSI USA: Moran: VA will Not be Impacted by Federal Funding Pause

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – today issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:
“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB’s pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Is no amount of alcohol safe? Understanding risks and public health guidelines

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Scott Lear, Professor of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University

While it may be true that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption, are alarmist statements a good motivator for health messaging, or is there danger to using them? (Shutterstock)

The United States surgeon general recently called for a warning of cancer risk on alcohol labels. And I agree. But the discourse that has come out in the media, by health professionals and health influencers, has been alarmist and a disservice to informing the public on the real cancer risks associated with alcohol.

I’m a professor in Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University and I study how behaviours relate to the disease. I also write a blog on the role health behaviours play in your health.

Alcohol and cancer risk

The surgeon general’s comments follow reports from the World Health Organization and Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health, both of which state there is no safe amount of alcohol you can consume.

This has been repeated by health professionals, those in public health and on social media, where health influencers have described alcohol as a toxin.

But are these alarmist statements a good motivator for health messaging, or is there danger to using them?

Statistically, your risk for cancer goes up from the very first sip of alcohol. That doesn’t mean you will get cancer from drinking alcohol, it just means your chances increase. And as you drink more alcohol, your chances further increase. It’s like betting in roulette: the more numbers you bet on, the more likely you are to win. Or in this case, lose.

Out of 800 women, one drink per week will result in two additional women getting breast cancer.
(Shutterstock)

However, what’s lost in this messaging is how much this risk is. Based on Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health, having one drink per week increases a women’s risk for breast cancer by 1.8 per cent. Approximately one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their life. Therefore, out of 800 women, one drink per week will result in two additional women getting breast cancer. Having one drink per day increases the risk seven-fold. These are real people who might otherwise not get breast cancer if they abstained from alcohol.

While saying no amount of alcohol is safe is true, this can apply to a lot of common activities. In Canada, there are approximately 300 pedestrian deaths per year. Each day, on average, five Canadians die in motor vehicle accidents.

While these numbers are much lower than the number of people who die from cancer each year, it would also be accurate to say there is no amount of walking or driving that is safe. Despite this, people will continue to cross the street and people will continue to drive. But this illustrates the challenge in informing the public about risks and changing behaviour.

Fear in public health messaging

The use of fear in public health messaging should only be used if there’s an effective solution. In the case of alcohol, there is: abstinence.
(Shutterstock)

The use of fear in public health has a long history. But measuring the effect of these campaigns is hard. Graphic images are used on tobacco products to scare people away from smoking. Carefully controlled studies indicate they increase health awareness but may have limited effect on smoking. However, similar graphic images on bottles of sugar-sweetened beverages in controlled studies has been shown to reduce consumption.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, fear was at the forefront of public health efforts to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Indeed, the use of fear in public health messaging seemed to be quite an effective tool in ensuring behavioural compliance in pandemic measures. Community interviews of parents showed fear was at the root of both getting their children vaccinated (fear of the disease) or not (fear of the vaccination).

The use of fear in public health messaging should only be used if there’s an effective solution. In the case of alcohol, there is: abstinence. But the use of fear should also be commensurate with the risk, otherwise it risks having people tune out.

This may be particularly problematic when previous guidelines stated beneficial effects of moderate drinking and current guidelines on alcohol state one to two drinks per day is acceptable. Instead, the public may be best served by communicating the risk in terms the public understands, such as how many more people will get cancer from drinking.

Alcohol should have a warning label on it

Alcohol consumption in Canada is on the decline. In 2022, alcohol consumption decreased by 1.2 per cent compared to 2021. And in 2023, 54 per cent of Canadians reported having no alcohol over the previous week, with younger Canadians drinking less than their older counterparts. These trends are similar in the United States.

More than 40 countries have a warning label on alcohol (although far fewer mention cancer), but Canada and many European countries are not included. They should be. Alcohol is a highly addictive substance that can destroy the lives of those addicted to it and those around them. It impairs judgment and accounts for dozens of deaths per year from drinking and driving.

Pregnant women drinking alcohol also increase their risk of their child having fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Alcohol is also a drug you can overdose from.

Warning labels on alcohol are a good step to reduce health risks, as long as they are clear and informative.

Scott Lear receives funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and Hamilton Health Sciences, and has received funding from the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Novo Nordisk, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

– ref. Is no amount of alcohol safe? Understanding risks and public health guidelines – https://theconversation.com/is-no-amount-of-alcohol-safe-understanding-risks-and-public-health-guidelines-247883

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Holocaust Memorial Day 2025 Speech

Source: Scottish Greens

29 Jan 2025 Peace

Maggie Chapman MSP’s speech at Holocaust

North East Scotland

Justice, Equalities, Social Justice and Human Rights spokesperson

More in Peace

A memorial is an act of remembrance, and today we remember in two senses.

We remember who it was who bore this unutterable pain, each individual and precious human being, those now lost to the world and those who remain with us.

We remember them with love, with sorrow and with anger, reiterating the humanity that their oppressors tried so hard to deny.

And we remember how it happened, and for us as politicians and parliamentarians, that is perhaps a harder memory. For the Holocaust was not an act of insurgency, a violation of domestic law and order. It came about not in spite of political processes: elections, legislation, policy implementation, but through and because of them.

There were some bystanders who knew exactly what was going on. There were others who knew nothing. But in between, across Europe and beyond, was a wide spectrum of simultaneous knowledge and ignorance, of eyes that were closed, faces turned away. Reassurance that rhetoric was only that, that genocidal intent was the expression of legitimate concern, that there was no need to open doors or hearts, that reality was still represented by the diplomacy of gentlemen.

And the bodies of children lay uncovered.

We have learned the story of this deep, deep horror, but have we learned to recognise its narrative when it comes again, with different clothes, different names, different labels?

When the richest man in the world salutes the most powerful man in the world with a gesture that specifically recalls that older story, do we shrug and move on?

When that most powerful man uses the language of cleaning about the dispossession of already dispossessed people, already bereft of their children, do we pretend not to have heard?

Hannah Arendt wrote, in the context of the Holocaust, about the banality of evil. For evil can be banal, can be ridiculous, can come with buffoonery and bluster, without subtlety or nuance. But when it announces itself, we would do well to listen.

And we can listen, as well, to the voices of those with experience, those for whom that experience illuminates the realities of today. Suzanne Berliner Weiss writes:

I am a survivor of the Jewish Holocaust, and understand the system of hate first hand. Hitler’s war against the Jews aimed to eradicate our history and the Jewish people. Nazism Is hatred of the other – it is racism…

Judaism, the religion and its traditions, does not stand for racism.

Conflating Zionism and Judaism is an unforgivable crime against the Jewish people, a crime against the Palestinians, and a crime to humanity.

I was saved from Hitler by world solidarity. I was among the thousands of Jewish children in France who were saved by the solidarity of the Jewish resistance, communities of Christians in Southern France, and the peoples of the world united against Nazism….

To be against Israel’s policies is not anti-Jewish. It is not anti-Semitic. We claim the Palestinians as our sisters and brothers. We are all humanity.

We say: “Not in our name!”

For the victims of the Holocaust, the world closed its eyes, its hearts and its doors until it was too late. Today we remember and honour them, with respect, with love and with bitter regret. Let us not close our eyes, our hearts, our doors in the face of genocide and oppression happening today in Palestine.

Let us not make the same mistakes again.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Palmerston North Police make arrests after three violent incidents

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Palmerston North Police have made arrests following three violent incidents across the city this month.

In the last few weeks, Police have arrested three men aged 22 to 26 following two serious assaults at two bars, and a violent incident outside a petrol station.

In the early hours of New Years Day, Police responded to a bar on Rangitikei Street, following reports of an assault where one person received serious injuries.

The victim has since been discharged from hospital.

A 24-year-old man has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear in Palmerston North District Court on 4 March, on a charge of wounding with intent to injure.

Then, on Monday 27 January, Police responded to a bar on Main Street around 11.30pm where one person received serious injuries consistent with a stab wound.

The victim is expected to be discharged from hospital today.

A 26-year-old man appeared in Palmerston North District Court this week on a charge of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He is due to reappear in court on 10 March.

In a third, separate incident, on 10 January two men received injuries following an incident where one of the men was struck by a vehicle on Ferguson Street, and another person received injuries consistent with stab wounds.

They have both been discharged from hospital.

A 22-year-old man has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before the Palmerston North District Court on 4 March on charges including wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, possessing an offensive weapon, and assault with a blunt instrument.

It has been pleasing to be able to hold people account for these violent actions, and Police will continue to work hard to keep our community safe.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Extension of Form PF Amendments Compliance Date

Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

The Securities and Exchange Commission, together with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), extended the compliance date for the amendments to Form PF that were adopted on Feb. 8, 2024. The compliance date for these amendments, which was originally March 12, 2025, has been extended to June 12, 2025.

Form PF is the confidential reporting form for certain SEC-registered investment advisers to private funds, including those that also are registered with the CFTC as commodity pool operators or commodity trading advisers. This extension will mitigate certain administrative and technological burdens and costs associated with the prior compliance date. This extension will also provide more time for filers to program and test for compliance with these amendments.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Named Ranking Member of Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced she will serve as Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies (Ag-FDA). This Subcommittee oversees funding for the majority of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as well as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“I’m honored to serve in this new role and committed to building on my work to address the high cost of living that so many Granite Staters are experiencing,” said Senator Shaheen. “I look forward to finding new and creative opportunities to improve support for New Hampshire’s rural communities, including by investing in rural housing and water infrastructure, championing our small businesses and small and diversified farmers, continuing my bipartisan efforts to tackle the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs, such as those to treat Type 1 diabetes, as well as funding federal nutrition programs that help Granite Staters put food on the table.”
Shaheen has served on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee since 2012, and formerly chaired the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Subcommittee. She will also serve as a member of the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, Defense, Homeland Security, Labor, Health and Human Services and Education and Related Agencies and State, Foreign Operations and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittees.
Shaheen has long fought to support farmers in New Hampshire, including by successfully helping to secure disaster supplemental funding for farmers impacted by crop losses in 2023. Shaheen also has a strong record of working to improve crop insurance policies to support farmers in New Hampshire and leads legislation to reform the federal government’s crop insurance program. Senator Shaheen has supported more than 230 New Hampshire small businesses who have received over $25 million to lower energy bills and cut costs through USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program. She has consistently fought for increased funding and improved support for rural development programs, including rural water programs.
Shaheen also spearheads efforts to combat rising drug prices and make essential medications more affordable, including leading legislation to lower the cost of prescription drugs and bring generic drugs to market faster. Last Congress, Shaheen introduced bipartisan legislation, the Ensuring Timely Access to Generics Act, that would work to increase competition from generic drugs through better oversight of FDA’s citizen petition process. The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee passed this bill unanimously. As co-chair of the bipartisan U.S. Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen has also consistently worked with FDA on access to diabetes technology and cures for type 1 diabetes. Senator Shaheen’s bipartisan INSULIN Act also includes proposals to expedite FDA approval of biosimilar drugs, which are proven to increase competition and lower drug costs.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Palestine: Hope that the ceasefire will hold – UNRWA Briefing | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

Briefing by Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

———————————

The Commissioner-General of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) Philippe Lazzarini told the Security Council that if full implementation the Knesset legislation begins as expected on Thursday, operations in the occupied Palestinian territory “would be crippled,” and it will “sabotage Gaza’s recovery and political transition.”

At stake, Lazzarini said, “is the fate of millions of Palestinians, the ceasefire and the prospect for a political solution that brings lasting peace and security.”

The UNRWA Commissioner-General said, “tens of thousands of people are now returning to the decimated north to search for the living and to bury the dead. Across the Gaza Strip, Palestinians are turning to UNRWA, the agency they have known all their lives for support.”

Contradicting claims by the government of Israel claims about UNRWA’s role in providing humanitarian assistance, he said, “in fact UNRWA constitute half the emergency response, with all other entities delivering the other half. Since October 2023, we have delivered two third of all food assistance, provided shelter to over a million displaced persons and vaccinated a quarter of million of children against polio.”

Lazzarini told the Council that “the relentless assault on UNRWA is harming the lives and future of Palestinians across the occupied Palestinian territory. It is eroding the trust in the international community, jeopardizing prospects for peace and security.”

He said, “the political attacks on the agency are motivated by the desire to strip Palestinians of the refugee statute, thereby unilaterally changing the long-established parameter for a political solution. The objective is to deny Palestinian refugees the right to self-determination and erase their history and identity.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PsyLZHtWJFI

MIL OSI Video –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Signs the Laken Riley Act

Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

The White House

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GbnTNGLkJOY

MIL OSI Video –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General Appoints Lieutenant General Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes of Brazil Force Commander, UN Stabilization Mission in Democratic Republic of the Congo

Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced today the appointment of Lieutenant General Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes of Brazil as Force Commander of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).

Lieutenant General Gomes succeeds Acting Force Commander Major General Khar Diouf of Senegal, to whom the Secretary-General is grateful for his dedication and service.

Lieutenant General Gomes brings to the position 35 years of experience in crisis response, conflict management and peacekeeping. He has both operational and strategic expertise as well as diplomatic experience. His last position was with his national military, where he served as Deputy Chief of Army Logistics Command. Prior to that, he was the Brazilian Military Attaché to the United States of America.

He previously served as the 7^th Infantry Brigade Commander in Brazil, the Defence Adviser of the Minister of Strategic Affairs of the Brazilian Government and the Chief of Planning and Operations of the 11^th Infantry Brigade. His international experience includes his deployment with the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) (2008-2009) and his appointment as the Chief of the Current Military Operations Service and Policy & Doctrine Team in the Office of Military Affairs of the UN Department of Peace Operations (2017-2019).

Lieutenant General Gomes holds a bachelor’s degree in law from the Federal University, Brazil, and a master’s degree in military science and law from the Brazilian Army Staff College. He is fluent in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Supporting Jasper’s recovery
Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring Jasper residents, businesses and not-for-profits are supported as the community recovers from last summer’s wildfire. Since the beginning of the wildfire, more than $170 million has been provided from across the provincial government to support Jasper residents and businesses as the community recovers and rebuilds.

The donation-matching initiative with the Canadian Red Cross is just one part of the Alberta government’s commitment to help Jasper and its residents recover. To support Jasper’s recovery, the province has provided more than $12 million through a donation-matching initiative with the Canadian Red Cross into the Canadian Red Cross’s 2024 Alberta Wildfires Appeal to support the families and residents most affected by the wildfires.

“Alberta has worked tirelessly with the Canadian Red Cross to help Jasper and Jasperites recover from last year’s wildfire. Initiatives we have collaborated on, such as the small business supports program, have already provided support to over 270 Jasper businesses by using more than $12 million in matching funds from the Government of Alberta. We continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of Jasper as they, and their municipality, recover.

Ric McIver, Minister of Municipal Affairs

Through the Canadian Red Cross’s 2024 Alberta Wildfires Appeal, every $1 donation made was matched with a $1 donation from Alberta’s government over the span of 30 days. The contribution from the province through this donation-matching initiative has helped fundraise more than $40 million to provide affected families, residents, businesses and not-for-profits of Jasper with a variety of supports. These supports include financial assistance, navigation supports and the small business supports program.

The province’s total assistance package of more than $170 million during and after the wildfire includes:
- Up to $149 million in Disaster Recovery Program funding.
- $7.5 million in emergency evacuation payments to more than 6,500 Jasperites.
- More than $12 million in matching funds to support the Canadian Red Cross in providing support to residents and business owners in Jasper.
- $18 million in funding to rebuild a seniors lodge for displaced senior residents of the Pine Grove Manor.
- $2.5 million in tourism support.
- $121,400 in food, financial and operating support to the Jasper Food Bank.
In addition to the assistance already provided, Alberta’s government remains ready to build $112 million worth of homes for displaced Jasperites, but the province cannot do that without land. If the federal government decides to step up and make land available, the province is ready to build the homes. Work with partners will continue to ensure that Jasper families and residents continue to have access to the supports and services they need during the community’s recovery.
MIL OSI Canada News –
January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Public Service Unions File Lawsuit Challenging Trump Administration Efforts to Politicize the Civil Service

Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

WASHINGTON – Today, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), represented by Democracy Forward and Bredhoff and Kaiser PLLC, filed suit against the Trump administration challenging efforts to politicize the civil service through illegal executive orders.

The lawsuit asserts that President Trump illegally exceeded his authority in attempting to unilaterally roll back a regulation that protects the rights of civil servants. The suit also names the Office of Personnel Management for its role in failing to adhere to the Administrative Procedure Act in its attempts to roll back this same regulation.

“AFGE is filing suit with our partner union today to protect the integrity of the American people’s government,” said AFGE National President Everett Kelley. “Together, we can stop the efforts to fire hundreds of thousands of experienced, hard-working Americans who have dedicated their careers to serving their country and prevent these career civil servants from being replaced with unqualified political flunkies loyal to the president, but not the law or Constitution.”

“Schedule F is a shameless attempt to politicize the federal workforce by replacing thousands of dedicated, qualified civil servants with political cronies,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “Our union was born in the fight for a professional, non-partisan civil service, and our communities will pay the price if these anti-union extremists are allowed to undo decades of progress by stripping these workers of their freedoms. Together, we are fighting back.”

“In just the nine days since Trump took office, his administration has repeatedly demonstrated a blatant disregard for the law in service of its political objectives. Its efforts to politicize the non-partisan, independent federal employees who protect our national and domestic security, ensure our food and medications are safe, deliver essential services to people and communities everywhere, and much more is simply and clearly illegal,” said Democracy Forward President & CEO Skye Perryman. “Democracy Forward will continue to meet the Trump administration with legal challenges when it chooses to break the law and harm people and communities.”

###

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union, representing 800,000 workers in the federal government and the government of the District of Columbia.

Democracy Forward is a national legal organization that advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy, public education, and regulatory engagement. For more information, please visit www.democracyforward.org.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Michigan City Man Sentenced to 58 Months in Prison

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SOUTH BEND – Andre Anderson-Dawson, 41 years old, of Michigan City, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

Anderson-Dawson was sentenced to 58 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to case documents, in December 2019, Anderson-Dawson violated a protective order while armed with a stolen firearm. Police recovered the 9-millimeter firearm. Anderson-Dawson, previously convicted of a felony, was prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case. He pled guilty to the federal charge in October 2023, but while on releasee pending sentencing, was allegedly involved in conduct resulting in 3 state court felony domestic battery charges.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Michigan City Police Department and the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Molly E. Donnelly.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Lexington Man Sentenced for Fentanyl Trafficking and Conspiracy to Launder Drug Proceeds

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

LEXINGTON Ky. – A Lexington man, Jamele Mundy, 35, was sentenced on Monday, to 156 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, conspiracy to commit money laundering offenses, and concealment money laundering.

According to his guilty plea agreements and other Court records, Mundy participated in a multi-jurisdictional, international money laundering and drug trafficking organization. In doing so, Mundy received kilogram quantities of fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack” cocaine) for distribution in Lexington. In May 2023, DEA executed a search warrant at a stash house being operated by Mundy. There, they seized 3.132 kilograms of fentanyl, 2.314 kilograms of cocaine base, and $67,315 in cash. The residence also contained plastic blenders with drug residue, a metal kilogram press, heat sealing machines, and a digital scale.

Mundy would process these narcotics for further distribution, using the kilogram press and heat-sealing machine at the residence. He would then collect the money from the sale of these drugs and contact his source of supply, to return the proceeds. Mundy participated in this money laundering of drug proceeds by delivering bulk cash to others, who were responsible for converting it to cryptocurrency and sending those proceeds to members of the drug trafficking organization. In February 2023, Mundy delivered $147,540 in drug proceeds for laundering.

Under federal law, Mundy must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years. Mundy was also required to forfeit the $67,315 that was seized from his residence.

Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Jim Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division, jointly announced the sentence.

The investigation was conducted by the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Bradbury is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

– END –

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Plum Resident with More Than a Dozen Felony Convictions Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Multitude of Drugs and Possessing Firearm

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Plum, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violations of federal drug trafficking and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

Solomon Givens, 55, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville to possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture of para-fluorofentanyl and fentanyl, 100 grams or more of para-fluorofentanyl, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and 28 grams or more of crack cocaine. Givens also pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on October 12, 2021, members of the DEA and Allegheny County District Attorney Narcotics Enforcement Team (DANET) executed a search warrant on an apartment used by Givens, who has 13 prior felony convictions. During the search, investigators recovered 1.5 kilograms of a mixture of para-fluorofentanyl and fentanyl, 399 grams of para-fluorofentanyl, 770 grams of methamphetamine, 746 grams of cocaine, 71 grams of crack cocaine, and drug packaging materials. Investigators also recovered eight firearms from the residence. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for May 29, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the court ordered that the defendant remain in custody.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Ball is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Drug Enforcement Administration and Allegheny County DANET unit conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Givens.

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Drug Trafficker Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Massive Amount of Methamphetamine

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ATLANTA – Gilberto Contreras has pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute nearly 1,000 pounds of methamphetamine.

“Contreras distributed massive quantities of dangerous drugs that posed a significant threat to the health and safety of our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. “Our office is grateful for the diligent work of our federal and local law enforcement partners who work tirelessly to remove these poisons from our streets and to hold accountable those who peddle them.”

“This case represents the continued commitment of the DEA to identify and hold accountable those who engage in the distribution of dangerous drugs, such as methamphetamine,” said Jae Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division.

According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the charges and other information presented in court: On July 2, 2024, DEA special agents received information about a local methamphetamine trafficker with multiple kilograms of methamphetamine for sale. The investigation led agents to a parking lot in Clayton County, Georgia, where the agents encountered Contreras. Law enforcement stopped Contreras’s vehicle a short time later and located a black trash bag containing approximately 44 pounds of methamphetamine. Agents then searched Contreras’s residence and backyard in Ellenwood, Georgia and located approximately 915 pounds of methamphetamine and $40,000 in cash.

Gilberto Contreras, 54, of Ellenwood, Georgia, is scheduled to be sentenced on May 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. before U.S. District Judge Thomas W. Thrash, Jr.

This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with valuable assistance provided by the Clayton County Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Dwayne A. Brown, Jr. is prosecuting the case.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Atlanta recommends parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following web site: www.justthinktwice.gov.

For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Waterford Woman Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Stealing from Addiction and Mental Health Services Nonprofit

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHELE DEVINE, 51, of Waterford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for embezzling from the Southeastern Regional Action Council on Substance Abuse, Inc. (“SERAC”), where she was employed as its executive director. Judge Underhill also ordered Devine to pay a $2,000 fine and perform 300 hours of community service while on supervised release.

According to court documents and statements made in court, SERAC, headquartered in Norwich, is a 501(c)(3) organization that serves 41 towns in southeastern and northeastern Connecticut with substance abuse, problem gambling, and mental health related services. SERAC is primarily funded through hundreds of thousands of dollars in state and federal grants from the State of Connecticut’s Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Devine was the executive director of SERAC until July 2022. Beginning in approximately 2008, Devine spent thousands of dollars on purchases that did not relate SERAC but instead were personal expenses for Devine and her family, including thousands of dollars spent on home appliances; travel; timeshare fees at a Connecticut resort; stays at the Canyon Ranch in the Berkshires, Massachusetts; and private school donations.

Judge Underhill ordered Devine to pay $397,064.93 in restitution.

Devine was arrested on August 3, 2023. On October 21, 2024, she pleaded guilty to wire fraud.

Devine, who is released on a $25,000 bond, is required to report to prison on March 12.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, with the assistance of the New London State’s Attorney’s Office and the State of Connecticut Office of the Attorney General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Ernst Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Expand Affordable Child Care Availability, Support Child Care Providers

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), a member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Committee Chair Joni Ernst (R-IA) introduced the Small Business Child Care Investment Act. This bipartisan legislation would increase the availability of affordable, high-quality child care for working families by allowing non-profit child care providers, that qualify as small businesses, to participate in Small Business Administration loan programs.
A recent report labeled the entire state of Nevada as a “child care desert,” and found that nearly 75 percent of children below the age of five don’t have access to a licensed child care provider. The report deemed the cost of child care a “huge concern” in Nevada and found it often to be more expensive than college tuition.
“The lack of affordable child care options in our communities hurts hardworking families at a time when they are already being squeezed by rising costs,” said Senator Rosen. “Our bipartisan bill will help increase the number of child care providers in Nevada and across the country by bolstering non-profits with access to much-needed federal resources, giving families greater access to care. I will continue working to lower costs of the everyday essentials that Nevadans rely on.”
“Finding affordable and high-quality childcare is one of the most pressing issues facing small businesses looking to hire and retain capable staff,” said Senator Ernst. “As chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, I’m proud to help alleviate the pressure on hardworking families, especially in rural areas. This commonsense legislation will clear the Washington red tape, expand options, and drive down costs in Iowa and across the country.”
“The Small Business Child Care Investment Act is a game-changer for families and communities across the United States. By empowering nonprofit child care providers to access critical small business loan programs, this legislation ensures they have the resources to expand, improve and sustain the high-quality child care that working families depend on. At Save the Children, we know that accessible and affordable child care is essential not only for children’s healthy development but also for economic stability. We applaud this bipartisan effort and urge swift action to make these vital investments a reality for families nationwide,” said Christy Gleason, Vice-President for Policy, Advocacy, and Campaigns at Save the Children.
“For too many parents balancing work and family responsibilities, finding reliable child care remains a significant challenge,” said Sarah Rittling, Executive Director of the First Five Years Fund. “We are thankful to Senators Rosen and Ernst for their bipartisan work on this innovative bill to support small, non-profit child care providers and expand access so more children and families can find and afford the care they need.”
“Access to quality child care providers is critical for hardworking families and a strong, stable economy. Yet across the country, providers are struggling to deliver care on razor thin margins and with limited resources. Increasing access to capital by allowing these nonprofit child care businesses to utilize Small Business Administration loans will support providers looking to enter the child care space, expand services, and increase quality. These resources can be especially crucial in rural communities where access to child care fails to meet the needs of many working families. We applaud Sens. Rosen (D-NV) and Ernst (R-IA) for their leadership and making child care more accessible with the introduction of the Small Business Childcare Investment Act,” said Michele Stockwell, President of the Bipartisan Policy Center Action.
“United Way of Southern Nevada is a long-standing partner of Nevada Ready! State Pre-K, a program enabling hundreds of children from qualifying families to attend preschool at no cost. We have seen firsthand the positive impact that affordable high-quality care and education options have provided not only for our children, but entire families,” said Julie Houchins, Senior Director of Early Education at the United Way of Southern Nevada. “The Small Business Child Care Investment Act allows nonprofit childcare and early education providers to grow their capacity so they can meet the needs of working families in Nevada. We are very grateful for this bipartisan effort that will help local children, parents, and businesses alike.”
The bipartisan Small Business Child Care Investment Act would:
Ensure that qualified non-profit providers have equal access to key SBA loan options that allow providers to invest in and expand their operations, which creates local jobs and gives working families more options for affordable and quality child care;
Ensure non-profit providers can access the larger and more flexible loan programs like 7(a) and 504 that can be used for real estate, construction, remodeling, and other expenses critical to maintaining and expanding high-quality child care operations.
Senator Rosen continues working to lower child care costs for Nevada’s hardworking families. Last year, she joined a bipartisan bill to provide child care services for police officers and support law enforcement families. During a confirmation hearing in the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Rosen secured a commitment from General David Allvin, Air Force Chief of Staff, to cut red tape in a program designed to make child care available for military families like Airmen at Nellis and Creech Air Force Bases who work overnight shifts. Additionally, Senator Rosen joined in helping to introduce the Child Care for Working Families Act, legislation that would help lower child care costs for an average American family to no more than $10-a-day.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Labrador Announces Settlement in Medicaid Fraud Case

Source: US State of Idaho

[BOISE] – Attorney General Raúl Labrador announced a $219,321.25 settlement in a Medicaid fraud investigation into Precision Diagnostics for allegedly false claims between January 2013 and December 2022, submitted to the Idaho Medicaid Program. Claims for medically unnecessary drug analysis tests were allegedly submitted by doctors that received free drug-testing supplies from Precision Diagnostics in exchange for laboratory testing referrals in violation of state and federal anti-kickback laws. This state settlement was part of a larger nationwide investigation into Precision Diagnostics and a settlement totaling $27 million dollars.
“It is essential that all agents and actors of Medicaid are held to the highest standard of scrutiny when conducting business with taxpayer dollars,” said Attorney General Labrador. “This settlement returns funds back into the program designed to provide health services to Idahoans, not to fraudulently line the pockets of contractors and providers.”
The case was investigated by the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Medicaid Division. Precision Diagnostics has already submitted the first of five annual restitution payments and Idaho’s share of $69,220.28 will be returned to the Medicaid Division.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Capito to Chair Labor, HHS, Education Appropriations Subcommittee

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) today announced that she will serve as the chairman of the Senate Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees funding across a large range of programs within the U.S. Departments of Labor, Education, Health and Human Services (HHS), and other independent agencies. Senator Capito previously served as ranking member of the subcommittee during the 118th Congress.
“I’m honored to continue my efforts—now as chairman—on the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee to represent the needs of West Virginians. In this impactful role, I will strive to ensure the funding we provide is used in the most efficient and effective manner and that critical oversight is provided.
“Additionally, I look forward to working with committee leadership and members in this new role to support many priorities that are important to my state of West Virginia, such as Alzheimer’s research, efforts to end childhood cancer, fighting the addiction crisis, the wellbeing of our miners, and supporting the education and research missions of our schools and universities. Regardless of the scope or challenges, I will approach this opportunity with the objective of ensuring the voices and priorities of West Virginia are heard and understood. I appreciate the support of Chairman Collins in this role and I am excited to work together in our Republican Congress to advance the goals of the Trump administration,” Chairman Capito said.
In addition to her chairman role, Senator Capito will continue serving on the following Appropriations Subcommittees: Defense; Homeland Security; Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies.
In addition to the Appropriations Committee, Senator Capito will continue serving on the Committee on Environment and Public Works as chairman; the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; and the Committee on Rules and Administration.
This is the fourth Appropriations Subcommittee Senator Capito has been a chairman of as a member of the committee during her time in the Senate. She previously chaired the Homeland Security, Financial Service and General Government, and Legislative Branch subcommittees.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of murdering former girlfriend in Croydon

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

A man has been convicted of the murder of his ex-girlfriend in Croydon.

Hussain Haron, 24 (17.09.00) of London Road, Mitcham was found guilty of the murder of Felecia Cadore on Wednesday, 29 January at Snaresbrook Crown Court, following a six-day trial.

Police were called to a report of an altercation at an address in Grenaby Avenue, Croydon on 9 June 2023.

Felecia, aged 29, was found with stab wounds and was taken to hospital in a critical condition. She sadly died from her injuries on 14 June 2023.

The court heard that Haron climbed through the window of the address in the search of Felecia. Following an altercation between the two, Haron grabbed a knife and violently stabbed her.

He was arrested later that afternoon and was found in possession of the knife he used to attack Felecia.

Despite claiming he was acting in self-defence, Haron was found guilty of murder by the jury.

He is due to be sentenced at the same court on Friday, 31 January.

Detective Chief Inspector Craig Magee, from Specialist Crime, said: “Today, justice has been served following the conviction of Hussain Haron for the murder of Felecia Cadore in June 2023. It is an example of the devastating impact violence against women and girls can have.

“The verdict is a result of officers working meticulously and tirelessly to secure evidence. It is also testament to the courage of the witnesses who helped establish the facts, and bravely stood in the court room to give their evidence.

“It has been 18 months since Felecia was killed. I hope that today’s verdict provides her family with some comfort and allows them to begin to process the effect this brutal crime has had. We will continue to support the family of Felecia following this horrific attack.”

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: King to White House: Measured Approach to Implementation of Hiring Freeze Will Prevent Harmful Impacts on Maine’s Veterans

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME), a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC), is highlighting the catastrophic consequences that could result from the immediate federal hiring freeze enacted by the new administration. In a letter to President Donald Trump, King specifically expresses his concerns about the impact this hiring freeze will have on access to healthcare and critical services for veterans in Maine.
King wrote, “Our veterans deserve access to the best quality health care, the benefits they earned, and someone to answer the phone when they call for help. I worry that this hiring freeze will have harmful impacts on the VA and their ability to continue providing critical services to our veterans. As a former governor who implemented a hiring freeze for state employees, I encourage your administration to take a measured approach to implementation.”
“As you know, the VA provides various services to millions of veterans—from health care to life-saving assistance from the Veterans Crisis Line. VA employees across the Department dedicate their careers to caring for our veterans,” King continued. “Without a broad exemption, I worry that any hiring freeze would hurt access to veterans’ benefits, including health care. For example, if support staff are not there to help schedule appointments or address IT issues, veterans will not be able to get care; if claims processors aren’t processing disability claims, veterans will not receive benefits; if there aren’t enough doctors and nurses, veterans will not have access to health care; if the National Cemetery Administration isn’t properly staffed, veterans will not have access to burial benefits.”
“I appreciate new guidance from Acting VA Secretary Todd Hunter that clarifies that more than 300,000 health care positions at the VA will be considered essential to department operations, and therefore exempt from the hiring freeze. I urge you and the VA to ensure that all positions within the VA are considered as essential, so that we can continue to hire dedicated employees to serve and care for our veterans,” King concluded.
Representing one of the states with the highest rates of veterans per capita, Senator King is a staunch advocate for America’s servicemembers and veterans. In the committee cabinet nomination hearing, King questioned nominee Doug Collins of his concerns over using artificial intelligence (AI) to determine the status of a veteran’s earned benefits. In the exchange, he pressed Collins for his commitment to ensure veterans’ access to benefits will not be adversely impacted by AI technologies. In 2024, Congress also passed Senator King’s bipartisan legislation to improve veterans’ access to health care and benefits.
The full text of the letter can be found here and below.
+++
Dear President Trump:
I write regarding the January 20, 2025, Presidential Memorandum instituting an immediate hiring freeze of civil service federal employees. While the intended goal of the hiring freeze is to allow the government time to evaluate the size of the current workforce, I have concerns about the impact this hiring freeze will have on our nation’s veterans, especially those in Maine. That is why I urge you to provide a full exemption to all Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) personnel to ensure continued services to our nation’s heroes.
Our veterans deserve access to the best quality health care, the benefits they earned, and someone to answer the phone when they call for help. I worry that this hiring freeze will have harmful impacts on the VA and their ability to continue providing critical services to our veterans. As a former governor who implemented a hiring freeze for state employees, I encourage your administration to take a measured approach to implementation.
As you know, the VA provides various services to millions of veterans—from health care to life-saving assistance from the Veterans Crisis Line. VA employees across the Department dedicate their careers to caring for our veterans. Without a broad exemption, I worry that any hiring freeze would hurt access to veterans’ benefits, including health care. For example, if support staff are not there to help schedule appointments or address IT issues, veterans will not be able to get care; if claims processors aren’t processing disability claims, veterans will not receive benefits; if there aren’t enough doctors and nurses, veterans will not have access to health care; if the National Cemetery Administration isn’t properly staffed, veterans will not have access to burial benefits.
I appreciate new guidance from Acting VA Secretary Todd Hunter that clarifies that more than 300,000 health care positions at the VA will be considered essential to department operations, and therefore exempt from the hiring freeze. I urge you and the VA to ensure that all positions within the VA are considered as essential, so that we can continue to hire dedicated employees to serve and care for our veterans.
Veterans deserve the best care and we must deliver on the promises made to them. I look forward to working with you on this important matter.
Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Named Lead Democrat On Appropriations Subcommittee Responsible For Funding State Department, Key Programs That Provide Economic Support, Security Assistance, Live-Saving Aid

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today was named Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations. Schatz is also a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
“This new role will put me in a better position to continue the hard work of strengthening U.S. diplomacy overseas. I’m committed to working with Chairman Graham and my committee colleagues to stand by our friends, partners, and allies around the world, honor our international commitments, and deliver much-needed humanitarian aid to those most in need,” said Ranking Member Schatz.
The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations is responsible for appropriating billions of dollars in funding for the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and other critical agencies and programs that provide humanitarian aid, global health support, and economic and security assistance, among other things to those in need around the world.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Schakowsky Introduce Mentoring To Succeed Act

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
January 29, 2025
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), along with U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), today introduced the Mentoring to Succeed Act in recognition of January as National Mentoring Month. U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), and Lori Trahan (D-MA-03) introduced companion legislation in the House earlier this week. This legislation creates a strong, sustainable support system through mentorship to ensure that children who experience barriers like poverty, disability, adverse childhood experiences, or drug or alcohol abuse, can successfully transition to high school, college, and the workforce. The Mentoring to Succeed Act would strengthen investments in mentorship programs to help youth facing risk develop the academic, social, and workforce skills that lead to success.
“Across Illinois and the country, young kids, especially from underserved communities, face obstacles like community violence and underfunded schools that have a dramatic impact on their ability to graduate from high school and transition to college and the workforce. But with the guidance of a mentor, youth could lean on a trusted adult to help them navigate these challenges,”said Durbin. “I’m introducing the Mentoring to Succeed Act to ensure that our most vulnerable children have the opportunity to succeed and achieve their full potential with the guidance of a mentor.”
“Too many young people, particularly young people of color, don’t have access to the academic or economic opportunities that everyone deserves,” Duckworth said. “At the same time, too many struggle with violence in their communities and other obstacles that stifle their dreams and their ambitions. Our nation’s children deserve a chance to reach their full potential, and mentoring programs have been proven to help students do just that. I’m proud to join my colleagues in re-introducing this legislation to help ensure every child gets the guidance and resources they need to succeed in school, in the workforce and in life.”
“Across the country, young kids lack access to the resources they need to thrive academically and succeed post-graduation,” said Booker. “Mentorship programs have a proven track record of helping young people stay on track and achieve their dreams by providing a stable support system for the kids who don’t have one at home. The Mentoring to Succeed Act will expand access to high quality, trauma-informed mentorship programs and help at-risk kids receive the help, support, and skills they need to pursue their aspirations.”
“In celebration of National Mentoring Month, I am proud to reintroduce the Mentoring to Succeed Act in the House of Representatives,” said Schakowsky. “Whether it be the gun violence epidemic, the ongoing threat of climate change, the rising cost of college education, or anything in-between, today’s students are dealing with a lot and deserve access to a support system. TheMentoring to Succeed Act will give students that support system – through a mentor – helping them get the resources and support they need to thrive in school, the workforce, and beyond.”
A study by MENTOR found that 70 percent of today’s young people could remember a time when they wanted a mentor for support but did not have one. As a result, these youth missed out on the powerful effects of mentoring that have been shown to make a child more likely to enroll in college, participate regularly in sports and extracurricular activities, volunteer in their communities, and hold leadership positions. Researchers at the University of Chicago found that Youth Guidance’s school-based mentoring program, Becoming a Man, reduced rates of arrests for violent crime, improved school engagement, and increased high school graduation rates.
Mentoring programs help youth develop valuable workforce skills that employers are seeking and prepare young people for future apprenticeships, internships, and workforce-based learning opportunities. A 2024 study found that 84 percent of employers say job candidates must demonstrate social and emotional skills, such as communication and problem-solving—with the majority of employers stating that these types of skills were the most important. The federal government can strengthen investments in mentoring programs to help youth facing significant barriers develop the academic, social, and workforce skills that lead to success in career and life.
The Mentoring to Succeed Act would:
Invest in Mentoring Programs. Establish a three-year, competitive grant program that provides federal funding to establish, expand, or support mentoring programs.
Help Youth Overcome Adversity and Trauma. Provide grant recipients with funding to train mentors in trauma-informed practices and interventions to increase resilience in youth and reduce juvenile justice involvement.
Strengthen Workforce Readiness. Support partnerships with local businesses and private companies to help youth facing risk with hands-on career training and career exploration.
Close the Opportunity Gap. Give preference to applicants that develop a plan to help prepare youth facing barriers for college and the workforce.
Support Capacity Building. Support partnerships with nonprofit, community-based, and faith-based organizations to increase the number of youth facing risk served.
Enhance Youth Success. Provide grant recipients with funding for program evaluation and identification of successful strategies.
The Mentoring to Succeed Act is endorsed by MENTOR; Big Brothers Big Sisters of America; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa; Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson, and Union Counties; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago; Big Brothers Big Sisters of the National Capital Area; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound; Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego County; Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Triangle; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah; Jewish Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Boston; Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago; Boys & Girls Club of Livingston County; College Mentors for Kids; Friends of the Children; Girls Inc. of Chicago; Instituto del Progreso Latino; National Alliance of Faith and Justice; National Organization of Concerned Black Men; Partners for Youth with Disabilities; Sisters Circle; Union League Boys and Girls Clubs; Year Up United; and YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago.
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MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Votes ‘No’ On Advancing President Trump’s Pick To Be Attorney General, Pam Bondi

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
January 29, 2025
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today voted against advancing President Trump’s pick to be Attorney General of the United States, Pam Bondi, in the Senate Judiciary Committee executive business meeting this morning. The Committee voted to advance her nomination on a party-line vote of 12-10.
Key Quotes:
“If you want to know the role of the Department of Justice under President Trump, just listen to his words. He said ‘I have the absolute right to do what I want to do with the Justice Department.’ He not only uses the Justice Department to advance his political interests but he has also promised to seek ‘retribution’ against ‘the enemy within.’ The President has repeatedly threatened to weaponize the justice system against those he feels have wronged him and that’s a long list. It includes career prosecutors, military officials, and his own former political appointees. Unfortunately, we are seeing these threats emerge in real time.”
“Given the massive upheaval that President Trump has caused at the Justice Department in just the first few days in office, the next Attorney General will have their work cut out for them. As I said during Ms. Bondi’s hearing, it is absolutely critical that any nominee for this position be committed first and foremost to the Constitution and the American people—not the President and his political agenda. Unfortunately, I am unconvinced that Ms. Bondi shares my belief. She is one of four personal lawyers of President Trump that he has already selected for top positions at the Department of Justice. And she has echoed President Trump’s calls for exacting revenge on his political opponents.”
“Ms. Bondi undermined our democracy by joining in President Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election. It appears she does not regret this decision, as she refused before this Committee repeatedly during her hearing to acknowledge that President Trump actually lost the vote in 2020. During her hearing, I asked if she was familiar with the January 2021 phone call in which President Trump called on the Republican Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger [to] ‘find 11,780 votes.’ Ms. Bondi denied having ever listened to that phone call. However, in August 2023, she appeared on a news program and defended President Trump’s conduct with Raffensperger. She stated that his actions were ‘not a crime’ and were instead ‘free speech.’ She condemned the criminal charges that had been filed against President Trump due to his conduct on this call where he asked the Georgia Secretary of State to ‘find 11,780 votes.’ I asked Ms. Bondi to explain why she spoke so authoritatively on the legal strength of a case when she was, according to her own claim before this Committee, unfamiliar with the evidence. Her explanation was that she was on television, not in a court of law.”
“It is deeply concerning that someone seeking the role of Attorney General believes it is appropriate to comment publicly on a criminal case without conducting even a minimal assessment of the evidence against the defendant. The role of Attorney General is a serious one. It requires someone who is committed to the facts and the law—not someone who is willing to say whatever is most politically expedient.”
“During Ms. Bondi’s hearing, I was shocked to hear her speak of a ‘peaceful transition of power’ in 2021. In written questions, Ms. Bondi attempted to walk that statement back, instead referring to ‘a smooth transition of power.’ I was at the Capitol on January 6, 2021. The events of that day were neither peaceful nor smooth. You don’t have to take my word for it. The 140 law enforcement officers who were assaulted by President Trump’s supporters on January 6 can attest to what actually happened. Ms. Bondi also refused to comment on possible pardons for January 6 rioters who violently assaulted police officers. One of my Republican colleagues—a friend on this panel—dismissed my question on the subject and said it was ‘an absurd and unfair hypothetical,’ to even ask if President Trump was going to grant pardons to those who assaulted police officers. Now we know what happened.”
“I went into Ms. Bondi’s hearing with an open mind for obvious reasons… There remains one basic question that I wanted answered—whether she would be willing to tell President Trump and wealthy special interests ‘No’ if faced with pressure to use her position as Attorney General to benefit those parties. In light of the Trump Administration’s actions over the course of the past week, that question is even more critical. And I did not receive a satisfactory answer from Ms. Bondi. Since Watergate, there has been bipartisan support for the idea that the Justice Department must be independent from the White House. President Trump’s conduct during his first term underscored the need for this independence. I do not believe that Ms. Bondi will provide it.”
“I hope she proves me wrong, but I cannot support her nomination.”

Video of Durbin’s opening statement is available here.
Audio of Durbin’s opening statement is available here.
Footage of Durbin’s opening statement is available here for TV Stations.
Ms. Bondi was previously a registered lobbyist with the Washington, D.C.-based firm Ballard Partners. In that role, she has represented wealthy special interests and foreign governments, presenting serious potential conflicts of interest if she is confirmed as Attorney General. In response to Question 22 of the Senate Judiciary Questionnaire regarding conflicts of interest, she only listed two potential conflicts of interest: her work for the America First Policy Institute and her brother’s legal practice.
To view Durbin’s questions to Ms. Bondi in her confirmation hearing click here.
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MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Scott, Cassidy, Lead Colleagues in Reintroducing Bill to Expand School Choice, Educational Opportunity

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.), co-chair of the Congressional School Choice Caucus and member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), chair of the Senate HELP Committee, led 16 Republican colleagues in introducing the Educational Choice for Children Act (ECCA), bicameral legislation to expand education freedom and opportunity for students. Specifically, it provides a charitable donation incentive for individuals and businesses to fund scholarship awards for students to cover expenses related to K-12 public and private education.
“When you give parents a choice, you give kids a better chance at achieving their dreams,” said Senator Scott. “By empowering families with more education resources and freedom, this bill will unlock opportunities that have been out of reach for students across America who deserve every chance to succeed and a schooling system that fosters their potential.”
“Parents want to see their child succeed. Giving them the ability to make decisions over their child’s education puts that child’s needs first,” said Dr. Cassidy. “More freedom empowers parents and allows American children to thrive in school.”
The Educational Choice for Children Act:
Provides $10 billion in annual tax credits to be made available to taxpayers. Allotment of these credits to individuals would be administered by the Treasury Department.
Sets a base amount for each state and then distributes the credits on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Uses a limited government approach with respect to federalism, thus avoiding mandates on states, localities, and school districts.
Includes provisions that govern Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), as SGOs are given the ability to determine the individual amount of scholarship awards.
An estimated two million students in any elementary or secondary education setting, including homeschool, are eligible to receive a scholarship. Eligible use of scholarships awards includes tuition, fees, book supplies, and equipment for the enrollment or attendance at an elementary or secondary school.
Senators Scott and Cassidy were joined by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), John Thune (R-S.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.) in introducing the bill.
The Educational Choice for Children Act has received the endorsement from former U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos; former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Dr. Mick Zais; former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr; Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley; LA Kids Matter; Louisiana Family Forum; Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors; ACE Scholarships Louisiana Founder Eddie Rispone; ACE Scholarships; Invest in Education Coalition; ACSI Children’s Education Fund; America First Policy Institute; American Association of Christian Schools; American Federation for Children (AFC); American Principles Project; Americans for Tax Reform; Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI); Black Mothers Forum; U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB); Catholic Education Partners; CatholicVote; Center for Education Reform; Children’s Scholarship Fund; Club for Growth; Coalition for Jewish Values; Agudath Israel of America; Orthodox Union Advocacy; Republican Jewish Coalition; Concerned Women for America; Council for American Private Education (CAPE); Defense of Freedom Institute (DFI); Family Policy Alliance; Foundation for Excellence in Education (ExcelinEd); Freedom Foundation; Heartland Institute; Heritage Action for America; Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA); Independent Women’s Forum; Mountain States Policy Center; Parental Rights Foundation; Parents Defending Education Action; Partners in Mission; Project 21; Protect the First; 60Plus Association; Former Virginia & Florida Secretary of Education Gerard Robinson; and several other conservative leaders.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Defence Secretary speech at the ADS Annual Dinner: 28 January 2025
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Defence Secretary John Healey addressed the ADS Annual Dinner on 28 January 2025.
Good evening. Let me begin by thanking Kevin and his team at ADS for hosting this splendid event and for their work in promoting an industry that is the foundation for our way of life.

ADS is going from strength to strength, with a double digit increase in your membership last year.

You represent a commitment to innovation and excellence that are hallmarks of the British business spirit.

Yours is an industry which proves that we are still – at heart – a nation of makers and inventors. I know recent times haven’t been easy. And as Defence Secretary, I am grateful to you all.

This event brings us together from across the UK, across the industry and across the political divide.

I welcome this because defence policy and procurement commitments reach beyond political cycles.

I believe I’m the first Defence Secretary who’s spoken at this dinner, and tonight, you have two for the price of one with me as the warmup act for Penny Mourdant’s after dinner speech.

Penny is someone with a lifelong connection and commitment to our armed forces, who rose to become the first woman ever to hold the role of Defence Secretary.

I’ve had the privilege of six months in the role, part of a government taking on profound challenges in our economy, our public finances and our national security.

Yet, as a new government, we’ve already:

Stepped up and speeded up support for Ukraine…

Increased defence spending by nearly £3 billion…

Launched a first of its kind Strategic Defence Review…

Given service personnel the largest pay rise in over 20 years… and still dealt with a multi-billion in-year deficit…

Signed the landmark Trinity House Agreement with Germany…

Secured a huge deal to buy back over 36,000 military homes to improve forces housing and save taxpayers billions…

Set new targets to tackle the recruitment crisis…

Begun a transformational MOD reform programme…

And got the Armed Forces Commissioner Bill through the House of Commons to improve service life.

The point I want to make is that this is a new government that is delivering for defence.

Something which I was able to underline last Friday at Rolls Royce, announcing a major new contract over 8 years, which will boost British jobs, business and national security.

There’s incredible work being done there in Derby, by an incredible team, some of whom are here this evening.

It’s a big investment, but behind the numbers are 200 apprentices a year who now feel they have a future.

And suppliers – 92 per cent of which are British based – who now feel like have certainty.

What really struck me – and it happens every time I visit a defence site – is the deep sense of pride and purpose.

Defence workers are right to feel that way. Their efforts keep us all safe.

And as an industry, you also invest huge sums in research and development. One of the great strengths of the defence industry is that you force us to reach for the future.

Down the years, you’ve been responsible for some of the most significant innovations in history. Designed for times of war but which often produce lasting benefits for wider society well beyond the battlefield.

As a nation, we’re good – and rightly so – at taking pride in the professionalism of our soldiers, sailors and aviators.

But we know that that they are only as effective as the industry which equips them.

We must be better at celebrating the role of the coders, programmers, scientists and engineers who provide our forces with the tools they need to protect us.

It’s why I want us to not only change the way we work with the defence industry, but also change the way we see the defence industry.

On the way we work with industry, I hope the last few months serve as a glimpse of type of partnership we want to forge.

From industry involvement – for the first time ever – in our war gaming, to the creation of the new Defence Industrial Joint Council.

And on the way we see industry, we know we have much to do.

Right now, there’s growing security concerns for defence firms at university careers, you attend to offer young people a route to a better life.

You’re facing harassment and intimidation, forced to cancel events on campus. This is wrong.

This attitude takes for granted the privileged position we enjoy in Britain – to live in freedom and security… security our defence industry guarantees.

So, today – alongside the Business and Education Secretaries – I’ve written to Universities UK for assurances about your safety on campuses.

We’re also seeing defence firms ranked alongside tobacco and gambling in Environmental, Social and Governance audits. And pension funds divest from you.

I have no doubt the intentions are well-meaning. But they’re fundamentally flawed.

We don’t stop wars by boycotting our defence industry.

We stop wars by backing it.

Let’s not forget that national security is a pre-condition for economic security, investor confidence and social stability.

I will always be a fierce advocate for you in the Department, to wider government, to the City, to the British public and to whoever needs to hear it.

My challenge to you – as an industry – is to be louder and confident about your role.

As my friend – Jonny Reynolds– said to the President’s Reception earlier:

“You are exceptional in your importance… in helping to safeguard our national security and our way of life.

“But you are also exceptional in your contribution to our economy. Nearly half a million well paid jobs are directly owed to aerospace, defence, security and space sectors.”

To meet the challenges of this new era of threats, you’ve seen the direction we want to take with our Defence Industrial Strategy Statement of Intent.

And let me thank everyone who’s shared their insights so far in submissions to both our industrial strategy, and SDR consultations.

I know – for some – our Statement of Intent may have been met with a degree of scepticism. You’ve been here before… I get that…

New government, new ideas.

But old habits die hard and entrenched interests dig in.

Previous industrial strategies have produced policies – many of them good – but there wasn’t the plan, the structures and the relentless attention to reform needed to make change happen.

So, why will this be different?

First, it has to be different.

The war in Ukraine confronts us with the deep truth that when a country faces conflict or is forced to fight, its armed forces are only as strong as the industry which stands behind them…

That innovation and production capacity is a major part of our nation’s – and our alliance’s – deterrence.

And that industry’s constant purpose is to give the nation’s war fighters the advantage over our adversaries.

The last Defence Industrial Strategy was published in 2021, a year before Putin shattered the peace in Europe.

Ours will hardwire in these lessons and so too will the Strategic Defence Review.

Second, I’m driving deep reform to defence.

It doesn’t make news headlines, but it’s an essential foundation for implementing both the SDR and Defence Industrial Strategy.

For industry, it means you’ll be brought in earlier to the conversation on how we should fight…

We’ll ask you how you can help solve our problems rather than giving you a requirement to deliver.

You’ll also see the creation of a new role, the National Armaments Director, soon-to-be one of the most senior roles in UK Defence, sitting alongside the Chief of the Defence Staff and Permanent Secretary.

Their responsibilities will include:

Repairing a broken procurement system…

Ensuring our armed forces have what they need to fulfil their duty of protecting our nation…

And championing your industry at home and abroad.

Third, defence is part of our bigger British drive for growth – the government’s number one mission.

The Chancellor is speaking tomorrow about how we are going to meet this challenge.

But the message I want to reinforce is that defence is an engine for driving economic growth.

Fourth, we’ve proved we can do it by supporting Ukraine through Taskforce KINDRED and HIRST.

From the onset, when it took 287 days after Putin invaded to sign contracts for new NLAWs…

… to today, when we’ve created industrial bases for new capabilities – virtually from scratch…

Supplying – at scale – one of the most effective drone systems in Ukraine.

Restarted artillery barrel manufacturing in the UK to deliver hundreds to the front line.

Enhancing our own capabilities through Stormer and Starstreak…while Gravehawk, Snapper and Wasp have all been developed with breathtaking speed.

I don’t just want this to be the government’s new Defence Industrial Strategy, it needs to be a national endeavour… private and public… SMEs and primes… innovators and educators… trade associations and trade unions…

All creating a defence industry which is better and more integrated…

One that can keep our armed forces equipped… and innovating at wartime pace, ahead of our adversaries.

The Shadow Defence Secretary is familiar with the challenges.

I know he will play his part in holding us to account.

And I trust he – and his Party – will play their part in backing reforms that strengthen our country’s defence and its defence industry.

This is new era of threats, demands a new era for defence.

Change is essential, not optional.

Our success rests on a new partnership with innovators, investors and industry.

Our government is determined to meet the challenge, determined to deliver for defence.

Together, we will make Britain secure at home and strong abroad.

Thank you – enjoy your evening and I look forward to working with you over the coming years.

Updates to this page

Published 29 January 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defendant Extradited To Face Charges Related To International Bank Fraud And Money Laundering Ring That Caused Over $60 Million In Losses

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Members of the Charged Conspiracy Opened Bank Accounts for Over 1,000 Fake Businesses to Receive and Launder the Proceeds of Fraudulent Schemes, Causing Actual Losses of Over $60 Million and Intended Losses of Over $150 Million

Danielle R. Sassoon, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Patrick J. Freaney, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the United States Secret Service (“USSS”), announced today that ERICK JASON VICTORIA-BRTIO was extradited from the Dominican Republic and will appear in a federal courtroom in Manhattan later today. VICTORIA-BRITO is charged in a two-count Indictment with conspiring to commit bank fraud and money laundering from December 2017 through November 2022. In connection with the scheme, VICTORIA-BRITO and other members of the charged conspiracy registered over 1,000 fake businesses, used those fake businesses to open bank accounts to receive money stolen through business e-mail compromise schemes, and then laundered that money. Members of the conspiracy caused over $60 million in actual losses and attempted to steal over $150 million.

U.S. Attorney Danielle R. Sassoon said: “As we allege, Erick Jason Victoria-Brito and his co-conspirators ran an international bank fraud and money laundering scheme designed to help carry out business email compromise scams. These scams cause significant harm to businesses, nonprofits, and even local governments. As the successful extradition of Erick Jason Victoria-Brito shows, this Office and our partners will not rest until every individual responsible is held accountable.”

USSS Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Freaney said: “This alleged scheme rained down financial ruin upon unwitting businesses and individuals. While the suspects operated with impunity across the nation and beyond, the U.S. Secret Service and its partners remained steadfast in building a strong case — no matter where the evidence took them. I commend the investigators and prosecutors for their commitment to disrupting this type of insidious fraud on behalf of all those victimized by it.”

As alleged in the Indictment, Superseding Indictments, and court filings:[1]

From at least December 2017 through at least November 2022, a group of individuals perpetrated a massive, international bank-fraud and money-laundering scheme (the “Fraud and Money Laundering Scheme”) designed to obtain and launder the proceeds of business e-mail compromise schemes. In a business email compromise scheme, a scheme member fraudulently induces a company or individual to send money to a bank account controlled by that scheme member or the scheme member’s compatriots.

The Fraud and Money Laundering Scheme operated across borders and preyed on businesses large and small. Between 2020 and 2021 alone, participants in the scheme stole tens of millions of dollars, targeting victims that included a major American sports organization, a publicly traded healthcare company, and a prominent international nonprofit organization, along with multiple city governments, law firms, construction companies, and investment funds. Participants in the Fraud and Money Laundering Scheme registered over 1,000 fake businesses, then used those businesses to open bank accounts. Those bank accounts then received the proceeds of business email compromise schemes. Once the stolen funds reached those fraudulent bank accounts, participants in the Fraud and Money Laundering Scheme worked quickly to take advantage of the international banking system by either withdrawing the money or helping to launder it by wiring it to overseas banks, thereby preventing victims from recouping their losses. The co-conspirators accomplished that primarily by wiring stolen money to banks in China, outside the reach of American banks. During the course of the charged conduct, members of the conspiracy participated in inflicting over $60 million in actual losses and attempted to inflict losses of over $150 million.

* * *

VICTORIA-BRITO, 30, of Hollywood, Florida, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

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

Ms. Sassoon praised the outstanding investigative work of the New York City Police Department, USSS, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations. Ms. Sassoon further thanked the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations for their assistance.

This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas S. Burnett and Amanda C. Weingarten are in charge of the prosecution.

The charges contained in the Indictment and Superseding Indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and Superseding Indictment, and the description of the Indictment and Superseding Indictment set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described herein should be treated as an allegation.

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Ecuadorian National Pleads Guilty To Armed Fentanyl Trafficking

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Alberto Ismael Salinas Valencia (20, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Salinas Valencia, who is present illegally in the United States, faces a minimum penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to the plea agreement, between August 2023 and August 2024, Salinas Valencia ran an online business selling firearms, fentanyl, and cocaine in the Orlando area. An undercover law enforcement officer found Salinas Valencia’s online store and set up several undercover transactions. Over the course of the investigation, Salinas Valencia sold the undercover officer several firearms, including two machineguns, fentanyl pills, and cocaine.

Examples of firearms and pills Salinas Valencia sold to the undercover officer

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard Varadan.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: ‘Keeping America Left-of-Boom Safe’

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

The FBI is the lead federal agency for responding to WMD threats. The Bureau’s program has existed since 1995, but in 2006 it shifted to a more operational posture as the Weapons of Mass Destruction Directorate inside the Bureau’s National Security Branch. The directorate, located at FBI Headquarters, develops the overall policy, guidance, and countermeasures for operators in the field. In FBI field offices across the U.S., WMD coordinators put it all into action.

“We’re the boots on the ground,” said Caviggiola.

Their primary roles include training first responders, partners, and even fellow agents and task force officers on the different modalities of WMD investigations—chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive, often referred to as CBRNE. They are subject matter experts who coordinate the tactical responses when WMDs are suspected.

In the Vermont case, for example, WMD coordinator Tom Stewart led all the responding agencies through the FBI’s Threat Credibility Evaluation (TCE) to determine the gravity of the threat and develop a plan of action. While the TCE process follows strict guidelines established by national policy for interagency responses, the FBI also developed a 14-point checklist—available on an FBI phone application—that helps WMD coordinators and first responders evaluate and process scenes that may not rise to the level of Headquarters involvement.

“We’re constantly in a state of being an investigator and being an educator,” Stewart said. Indeed, many WMD coordinators wear multiple hats: the full cadre includes SWAT operators, special agent bomb technicians, and members of evidence response teams (ERT) and hazardous evidence response teams (HERT). Like each of those disciplines, WMD coordinators receive extensive training and certifications before stepping into the uniquely dangerous role.

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Just Stop Oil protesters charged

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Two Just Stop Oil protesters have been charged, after they allegedly disrupted a theatre performance in central London.

Richard Weir, 60, (05.12.1964), of Hotspur Street, Tynemouth, Nottinghamshire and Hayley Walsh, 42 (01.05.1982), of Grantham Road, Radcliffe on Trent, Nottinghamshire were charged with aggravated trespass on Tuesday, 28 January.

The charges relate to an incident at Theatre Royal in Drury Lane, WC2, where at around 20:00hrs two Just Stop Oil protesters entered the stage area.

They are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 25 February.

MIL Security OSI –

January 30, 2025