NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jefferson County Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Attempting to Meet a Minor for Sex

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Jefferson County man was sentenced today on a charge of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples.

    U.S. District Court Judge Anna Manasco sentenced Robert Elton Trimble, 38, of Kimberly, to 120 months in prison, followed by a life term of supervised release.  In June, Trimble pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to coerce or entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. 

    According to court documents, on October 16, 2023, Trimble made contact with an individual he believed was a 15-year-old girl on a social networking app. After learning her age on day one, Trimble continued to communicate with the “child,” asking her questions about school, telling her about his work, and requesting photos.  Within two weeks, Trimble turned their conversation sexual by asking the “child” about her sexual experiences and discussing plans to meet her. On November 21, 2023, Trimble arrived for the meeting and was arrested.  Only then did he discover that he actually had been communicating with an undercover officer.  

    FBI Birmingham’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated the case along with the Homewood Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Leann White prosecuted the case.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the National Children’s Advocacy Center have partnered and released a digital series to educate parents and caretakers about sextortion and how they can help prevent kids and teens from being victims. This series offers three-to-five-minute videos about current online safety topics and provides essential information about the true dangers of online activities.

    The videos can be accessed from the following locations:

    https://www.nationalcac.org/sextortion-prevention/

    https://www.youtube.com/@nationalcac

    If you suspect or become aware of possible sexual exploitation of a child, please contact law enforcement. To alert the FBI Birmingham Office, call 205-326-6166. Reports can also be filed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children or online at www.cybertipline.org.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: US Attorney Announces District Election Officer for Alaska Ahead of Election Day

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – United States Attorney S. Lane Tucker announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Morgan J. Walker will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSA Walker has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Alaska, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    United States Attorney Tucker said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).

    United States Attorney Tucker stated that: “The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to vote can exercise that right if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Walker will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The public can contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov, or contact the local FBI Anchorage Field Office at (907) 276-4441.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    United States Attorney Tucker said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Doctor Sentenced to Prison for Health Care Fraud

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    TUCSON, Ariz. – Linh Cao Nguyen, M.D., 51, of Peoria, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge John C. Hinderaker to 24 months in prison. Nguyen pleaded guilty to Health Care Fraud on March 19, 2024.

    Over the course of several years, Nguyen engaged in a scheme to defraud various health care benefit programs, including Medicare, TRICARE, AHCCCS, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and UnitedHealthcare. As part of his scheme, Nguyen knowingly caused the submission of thousands of false billing claims. Nguyen also falsely created patient records to conceal and avoid detection of his fraudulent scheme. The fraudulent claims identified a medical doctor as the treating provider when, in fact, another provider such as a nurse practitioner, social worker, unlicensed psychology intern, or wound care nurse provided the service independently. By billing the medical service as if it were provided by a physician, Nguyen falsely inflated the amount his company was to be paid for the service.

    The total loss to the insurance companies from Nguyen’s scheme was approximately $3.7 million. As part of his sentence, Nguyen was ordered to pay over $1.1 million in restitution to the private insurance companies. Nguyen also was required to pay over $2.5 million to the government in a separate civil agreement.

    The United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-21-02716-TUC-JCH
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2024-144_Nguyen

     

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Los Angeles County Man Sentenced to 12 Years and Nine Months in Prison for Child Exploitation Conspiracy with Yuba County Man

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Pedro Luis Millan, aka Peter Millan, 38, of Montebello, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta to 12 years and nine months in prison for conspiracy to sexually exploit a child, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

    According to court documents, in May 2021, Millan conspired with Brent Hooton, 51, of Marysville, to produce an image of a severely autistic child who was under the age of 12 engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Hooton produced the image and then sent it to Millan and other users over the Kik messaging app. Millan received that image, as well as additional sexual abuse images of the same child victim, from Hooton over the Kik app.

    This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case.

    On Aug. 27, 2024, Hooton was sentenced to 27 years in prison for sexual exploitation of a child and distribution of child pornography.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alleged Bay Area Fentanyl Distributor Extradited From Honduras

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    OAKLAND – The government of Honduras extradited Javier Marin-Gonzales, a Honduran national, to the United States this week to appear on charges stemming from his alleged involvement in the distribution of fentanyl in the San Francisco Bay Area. The extradition marks the fifth extradition of an alleged drug distributor from Honduras to the Northern District of California this year.

    On Aug. 2, 2023, a federal grand jury indicted Marin-Gonzales, 25, at the time a resident of Oakland, in connection with the alleged distribution of fentanyl on three separate occasions.   The investigation in this case led to charges against multiple East Bay-based defendants who allegedly traveled into the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco to engage in drug dealing.

    According to court documents, at the time of the indictment, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) learned that Marin-Gonzales had traveled back to Honduras.  The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Honduran authorities, the FBI, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to secure the arrest and extradition of Marin-Gonzales. Marin-Gonzales arrived back in the United States on Oct. 23, 2024.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kandis A. Westmore today for arraignment on the indictment and further proceedings.  A detention hearing for Marin-Gonzales is scheduled for Oct. 30, 2024.

    “We appreciate our law enforcement partners’ efforts, here and abroad, to bring to justice those who are charged with peddling deadly drugs in our communities,” said United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey.

    “This arrest and extradition marks a significant step in our ongoing fight against the distribution of dangerous drugs like fentanyl,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Tripp. “By bringing Marin-Gonzales to face justice in the United States, we are sending a clear message: those who profit from the trafficking of deadly substances will be held accountable, no matter where they operate. The FBI remains committed to working with our domestic and international partners to disrupt drug networks that threaten the safety and well-being of our communities.”

    “We remain steadfast in our commitment to hold accountable drug traffickers operating in the Tenderloin,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Bob P. Beris. “The extradition of Marin-Gonzales is another example of how strong global partnerships keep our communities safe.”

    The indictment charges Marin-Gonzales with the distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B)(vi).

    An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  If convicted, Defendant faces a maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a fine of $5,000,000, a lifetime of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.  However, any sentence following a conviction would be imposed by a court only after considerations of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

    The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey, FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Tripp, and DEA Special Agent in Charge Bob P. Beris.

    This prosecution 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.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Bisesto is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Sara Slattery and Andy Ding.  The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI SAFE Streets Task Force, DEA, and the Concord Police Department.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Return to Nature Funeral Home Owners Plead Guilty in Federal Court

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Jon Hallford, 44, and Carie Hallford, 47, pleaded guilty today to one count each of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

    According to the plea agreements for each, the Hallfords were the co-owners of Return to Nature Funeral Home, which operated both in the Colorado Springs area and in Penrose, Colorado. In October 2023, residents in the Penrose area reported a foul odor emanating from the Return to Nature facility. After obtaining a search warrant, FBI, CBI, and local law enforcement investigators found the remains of approximately 190 deceased persons inside the building in various states of decomposition.  Some of the remains discovered had dates of death as far back as 2019.  As part of their fraud scheme, the Hallfords misled customers of the funeral home into believing that the remains of their loved ones would be buried or cremated per their wishes and the terms of the parties’ contracts.

    As part of their plea agreements, the Hallfords also admitted that they conspired together to defraud the U.S. Small Business Administration of over $800,000 in COVID-19 pandemic relief funds, which they obtained under the government’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program.

    Sentencing will be held at a later date. Each defendant faces up to twenty years in federal prison.

    United States District Court Judge Nina Y. Wang presided over the hearing. The FBI Denver Field Office and The United States Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General investigated the case.  Several other state and local law enforcement agencies including the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, the Colorado Springs Police Department, the El Paso County Coroner’s Office, the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office, and the Fremont County Coroner’s Office have made significant contributions to this case. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Tim Neff and Craig Fansler.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy announces $4.7 million in Hurricane Laura aid for Lake Charles church

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced a $4,680,568 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant for Louisiana disaster aid.

    “Hurricane Laura devastated Lake Charles, leaving churches like the Church of the King with heavy storm damage. This $4.7 million will benefit the people of Lake Charles as they work to recover from the pain Laura caused,” said Kennedy.

    The FEMA aid will fund the following:

    • $4,680,568 to the Church of the King in Lake Charles, La. to replace its sanctuary building due to Hurricane Laura damage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of President Joe  Biden’s Call with President Bola Tinubu of  Nigeria

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria.  President Biden offered his condolences on the recent flooding that has impacted northeastern Nigeria and underscored his appreciation for President Tinubu’s leadership in securing the release on humanitarian grounds of American citizen and former U.S. law enforcement official Tigran Gambaryan last week.  The two leaders also spoke about the value of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership in addressing global challenges and advancing security and prosperity across multiple sectors. In particular, President Biden expressed appreciation for cooperation on law enforcement, including through the recently announced Bilateral Liaison Group on Illicit Finance and Cryptocurrencies, for collaboration on new and innovative technologies, and on shared interests in reforming international organizations to reflect African voices.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City Council Celebrates National Care Leavers Week with a Supportive Programme of Events

    Source: City of Liverpool

    During National Care Leavers Week (28 October – 3 November), the Council is proudly recognising the achievements of care-experienced young people with a week that promises a mix of enriching activities designed to uplift and empower care leavers.

    These activities include:

    • A relaxing mindfulness session, providing care leavers with the chance to unwind, de-stress and learn techniques for nurturing mental wellbeing.
    • Workshops on team building, skills identification and effective communication from organisations Thrive and Catch 22.
    • A dedicated workshop will provide insights into recognising and managing mental health challenges, offering a safe space for open discussions and resources for seeking help.

    We encourage care leavers from across the city to get involved. Find out more here.

    Liverpool’s commitment to supporting care leavers extends beyond the events of National Care Leavers week.

    Recent initiatives such as the Care Leavers’ Conference at St George’s Hall, hosted by Liverpool City Council and the Lord Mayor of Liverpool Cllr Richard Kemp, successfully brought together businesses and organisations to raise awareness and create new opportunities.

    Looking ahead, the Council is also preparing for the Celebration of Achievements, an annual event recognising the accomplishments of care leavers, from educational successes to personal milestones.

    To further mark National Care Leavers’ Week, Liverpool will light up its civic buildings in blue on Wednesday 30 October, symbolising our solidarity with care leavers across the city.

    Liz Parsons Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care said: “Liverpool City Council firmly believes that every young person leaving care deserves a bright future.

    “This celebration is an opportunity for the public, professionals, carers, decision-makers and the media to come together, celebrate our care leavers and their achievements and raise awareness of the challenges that our young people can face.

    “Through continued support and empowerment our young people can achieve their full potential.”

    Mollieanne, who is care-experienced herself, is a passionate advocate for other young people who have been in care. She added: “Celebrating and supporting care leavers is so important because it reminds us that we are valued, and our achievements matter. National Care Leavers Week isn’t just about recognition, it’s about empowering us to believe in ourselves, showing that we’re not alone, and that there are people who care about our future.

    “It’s a chance to come together, share our stories, and find strength in knowing that our experiences make us resilient. When we feel supported, we can overcome any challenge.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Accountability for Ottawa’s carbon tax double standard

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    [embedded content]

    Alberta’s government is standing up against the federal government’s carbon tax exemption for heating oil to protect Albertans from the double standard Ottawa has created with the carbon tax, which means Albertans continue to pay carbon taxes to stay warm in winter.

    Last fall, after years of insisting that the carbon tax is applied equally across Canada, the federal government exempted the carbon tax for heating oils, which are used predominantly in Atlantic Canada and Quebec. Over the last year, the federal government has refused multiple requests to grant a similar carve-out on other heating methods from Alberta and others across the country who are also facing rising costs of living.

    Alberta’s government will now take this fight to the courts. Alberta filed an application seeking judicial review of the exemption with the Federal Court on Oct. 29, asking the court to declare that the exemption is both unconstitutional and unlawful. The application argues that Ottawa’s carbon tax exemption for heating oil is unconstitutional and inconsistent with the Government of Canada’s stated purpose for enacting the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act.

    “Last year, Ottawa decided Canadians in the East deserved a three-year break from paying the carbon tax on their home heating costs. While we’re happy for these Canadians, Alberta, Saskatchewan and other provinces who heat their homes with natural gas have been deliberately excluded from these savings. Albertans simply cannot stand by for another winter while the federal government picks and chooses who their carbon tax applies to. Since they won’t play fair, we’re going to take the federal government back to court.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    While the Supreme Court of Canada previously found the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act was constitutional, it found that Canada’s jurisdiction to regulate greenhouse gas emissions was limited to the ability to create minimum national standards for carbon pricing for the purpose of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    Alberta strongly opposes the federal carbon tax exemption on heating oil, as the federal government is no longer creating minimum national standards that apply evenly across the country, and is instead creating a regime that favours one region and fuel type over others.

     “This exemption is not only unfair to the vast majority of Canadians, but it is also unlawful as the federal government does not have the authority to make special exemptions for certain parts of the country under the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act. The federal government isn’t even following its own laws now. Someone needs to hold them accountable, and Alberta is stepping up to do just that.”

    Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General

    The federal carbon tax adds to the rising cost of living for all Canadians. By 2030, it will cost Canadians $25 billion every year, in addition to lowering the gross domestic product (GDP) by $9 billion. In addition, the Bank of Canada has estimated that the federal carbon tax increases inflation by 0.15 per cent year over year.

    Quick facts

    • Since Apr. 1, 2024, Albertans have been paying around 35 cents in federal taxes on every litre of fuel – along with the carbon tax, that also includes the federal excise tax and the GST.
    • The following percentage of households use home heating oil by province:
      • Forty per cent in Prince Edward Island
      • Thirty-two per cent in Nova Scotia
      • Eighteen per cent in Newfoundland and Labrador
      • Seven per cent in New Brunswick
      • Four per cent in Quebec
      • Two per cent in Ontario
      • One per cent in British Columbia
      • Less than one per cent in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba

    Related news

    • Readout: Premier meets with Prime Minister (March 13, 2024)
    • Rebranding the carbon tax won’t fix a failure: Statement (February 14, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rahui – Eastbourne, Lower Hutt

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A rahui has been placed near Eastbourne, Lower Hutt, after the recovery of Terrence Jameson’s body from the water on Monday.

    Yesterday evening Te Āti Awa representative Kura Moeahu (Chairman of Waiwhetū Marae and Te Rūnanganui o Te Āti Awa) performed karakia where Mr Terrence Jameson was located the previous day at Point Arthur.

    The rāhui has been laid down which takes effect immediately from Lion’s Rock heading out to Mākaro (Ward Island) then diagonally south towards the point closest to Lake Kōhangapiripiri.

    Out of respect for Mr Jameson’s whānau, Te Āti Awa iwi asks that kaimoana not be taken and recreational activities not take place in this area until the rāhui is lifted on Saturday 2 November at 7am.

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Speech by FDIC Chairman Martin J. Gruenberg to the Center for Financial Studies at Goethe University Frankfurt – “A Tale of Two Unions – Deposit Insurance in the United States and Europe”

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

    CategoriesBusiness, Commerce, MIL-OSI, United States Federal Government, United States Government, United States of America, US Commerce, US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC, US Federal Government, US Insurance Sector, USA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis, Federal Delegation Celebrates $66.4 Million from U.S. Department of Transportation to Improve Safety and Expand Colorado Rail

    Source: US State of Colorado

    Total Funding of $94.3 million will help improve safety of freight operations today in Colorado by adding Positive Train Control and crossing improvements to the Front Range Rail Corridor preparing Colorado for fast, convenient, and safe passenger rail service

    WESTMINSTER – Today, Governor Polis, Senator Michael Bennet, Congressman Joe Neguse, Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen, Colorado Department of Transportation Executive Director Lew, Longmont Mayor Joan Peck, Erik Davidson, RTD Board Chair and local officials celebrated funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation, to improve rail transportation and safety infrastructure in Colorado. Colorado received $66.4M in grant funding from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), with the state matching almost $28 million from the State’s IIJA match fund to improve safety on the BNSF line north of Denver and helping to proactively prepare the state for fast, convenient, and safe passenger rail service.

    “Today’s grant will make freight rail traffic in some of our busiest growing communities safer quickly while providing critical building blocks for Passenger Rail.  This major funding will help achieve important priorities like complying with longstanding federal standards and improving the safety of rail crossings, which can be the sites of dangerous incidents. With more than $66 million in federal support from the Biden-Harris administration, the future of Colorado’s rail network is a clear priority for the federal government, as it should be. We thank Senators Hickenlooper and Bennet, Congressman Neguse and Congresswoman Pettersen, the BNSF Railway, and our communities for their support of this important project,” said Governor Jared Polis.

    “A unified statewide effort with the Polis Administration has made this important milestone possible.  We appreciate the unwavering support of our Congressional delegation, along with that of local partners in communities across the state. The Biden-Harris Administration has consistently recognized the state’s seriousness about freight safety and passenger rail, recognizing the Front Range Passenger Rail corridor for the National Corridor ID program, and now by providing this grant to improve the safety of freight operations while also opening doors for future passenger rail. We appreciate their efforts and the time that their leadership has consistently dedicated to our efforts,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew.

    “This is a major step forward for Colorado and the future of safe freight and passenger rail in our state. We are thankful to our federal partners, BNSF Railway, members of Congress and local leaders for their relentless efforts to secure this major funding from the Biden-Harris Administration,” said John Putnam, Senior Advisor, Colorado Department of Transportation.

    This grant to improve the BNSF Front Range Subdivision is one of four Colorado projects to receive CRISI awards announced today. Colorado State University – Pueblo was awarded almost $12 million to enhance the ability to test hydrogen and compressed natural gas advanced technology trains at the FRA Transportation Technology Center in Pueblo.  San Luis Central Railway and Omnitrax were awarded funds to replace ties to increase safety and reduce maintenance costs for short lines in rural Colorado.  

    “The Colorado Department of Transportation’s Modernizing Rail on the Front Range project will improve existing rail operations along the Front Range by delivering improvements to several highway grade crossings, constructing a new passing siding, and deploying the safety overlay of positive train control across a portion of the corridor,” said Jim Tylick, Assistant Vice President Passenger Operations at BNSF. “We appreciate the early collaboration with the Front Range Passenger Rail District, CDOT, and the FRA as intercity passenger rail is considered along the Front Range in Colorado. We know the projects identified in this grant will benefit the rail corridor today while also providing benefit in the future as passenger rail is explored.”  

    In April, Governor Polis joined U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to visit the Floyd Hill Project, a seven-mile stretch of I-70 from exit 248 northwest of Evergreen to exit 241 in eastern Idaho Springs that works to eliminate a bottleneck on one of the most congested stretches of the I-70 Mountain Corridor. This project was announced in October of 2022, and made possible by state and federal investments including a $100 million grant from the Biden administration.

    In December 2023, Front Range Passenger Rail was included in the Federal Rail Administration’s Corridor Identification and Development program, which brought additional federal support for Colorado ahead of today’s grant award. Since the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Colorado has won more than $400 million in competitive grant awards to support key infrastructure projects across the state.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Parson Signs Executive Order 24-13 Declaring Drought Alert in Missouri

    Source: US State of Missouri

    OCTOBER 29, 2024

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-13, declaring a drought alert in Missouri until March 31, 2025.

    Currently, the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that all or portions of at least 88 Missouri counties are experiencing moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions. The Executive Order declares a Drought Alert in these Missouri counties and any additional county that begins experiencing moderate drought conditions. 

    “While the weather did improve this spring, allowing us to let our previous drought alert expire, the last few months have been dry, forcing us to reissue a drought alert in Missouri,” Governor Parson said. “Despite all our challenges, from droughts to floods and everything in between, Missourians have remained strong. This Executive Order will again allow us to step in and direct resources to those struggling with the consequences of drought, while allowing for vigilant monitoring of conditions over the winter months.”

    In response to this Executive Order, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources will activate the Drought Assessment Committee, a workgroup set up to assess drought levels and work with impact teams on response and recovery recommendations.

    During drought, local condition reports are crucial to understanding impacts to provide timely and appropriate assistance. Citizens can submit information about local drought conditions at Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR).

    A variety of helpful resources are online at www.dnr.mo.gov/drought. The Department of Natural Resources is adding information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities as it becomes available. The one-stop drought website features a link to CMOR, current drought-related news, the current United States and Missouri drought maps, the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, and other resources, including information on previous droughts.

    To view Executive Order 24-13, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bringing Affordable, Supportive Housing to the Bronx

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of St. James Terrace, a new $64 million development adjacent to the historic St. James Episcopal Church with 102 affordable apartments, including 51 with on-site supportive services for people struggling with homelessness and a Community Center that will offer a variety of programs and a weekly food pantry. In the past five years, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has financed 14,000 affordable homes in The Bronx. St. James Terrace continues this effort and complements Governor Hochul’s $25 billion five-year Housing Plan which is on track to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide.

    “St. James Terrace is the product of a caring community,” Governor Hochul said. “The church recognized the value of the underused property and has put it to the best use for our most urgent need – creating new, affordable, supportive homes for those most in need, along with a community facility and home for a food pantry. We thank St. James Episcopal Church and all our partners for helping to bring urgently-needed housing to The Bronx.”

    The nine-story building includes a new, ground-floor community facility that will provide a range of services and programs benefiting residents and the community at large, including a weekly food pantry and hot meal service, financial and wellness seminars and an after-school program that will provide tutoring and snacks to school-aged children in the neighborhood.

    A landscaped courtyard connects the church and the residential building, and residents will have access to a rooftop terrace, lounges, multi-purpose rooms, a laundry room, bicycle storage, fitness room and office and social service space for use by Concern for Independent Living’s social service staff.

    State financing includes $28 million in federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, $10.6 million in subsidy from HCR and $6 million from HCR’s Office of Resilient Homes and Communities Affordable Housing Fund Program, which was designed to increase the supply of affordable housing in areas less prone to flooding. The project received $433,000 in program development funding from the New York State Office of Mental Health. The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance is administering a $4.9 million Homeless Housing and Assistance Program contract to provide capital subsidy for the development of St. James Terrace’s permanent supportive housing. Concern Housing led the development team.

    The supportive apartments are affordable to individuals with income at or below 50 percent of the Area Median Income and benefit from Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative awards which are administered by OMH. Support services, provided by Concern for Independent Living, include case management, care coordination, self-sufficiency and mental health support. Referrals for supportive housing are provided by the New York City Department of Homeless Services and local hospitals and health homes. In addition, the development benefits from a Homeless Housing Assistance Program contract administered by the New York State Office for People with Temporary Disabilities.

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Not only does St. James Terrace bring more than 100 homes to this neighborhood, but it allows the church and other organizations to expand services to children and adults and provides a solid base of support for the entire community. This $64 million investment underscores our ongoing commitment to The Bronx that includes both housing and a new community center that will provide a food pantry and hot meal service – creating a meaningful development that will benefit the borough for years to come.”

    New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “Supportive housing is a critical component of our efforts to ensure New Yorkers living with mental illness have a stable place to call home. St. James Terrace will provide a beautiful new residence and life-changing services that will help individuals live and thrive in the Fordham neighborhood of the Bronx. This project, like many other supportive housing developments taking root with State funding, are demonstrating Governor Hochul’s steadfast commitment to ensuring all New Yorkers have access to safe, affordable housing.”

    New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “The opening of St. James Terrace provides formerly homeless individuals with much-needed safe, affordable housing and easy access to essential support services they need to build and maintain stable lives. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for rightly recognizing the power of supportive housing to transform the lives of some of our most vulnerable fellow New Yorkers and to Concern Housing and all of the state and local partners who supported this project.”

    State Senator Gustavo Rivera said, “I commend the opening of St. James Terrace in the Bronx, which will provide families with an affordable place to live along with the supportive services they need to achieve long-term stability. It is essential that we continue to prioritize affordable housing in our City.”

    Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia said, “We don’t just need affordable housing; we need affordable and supportive housing that will enable its residents to get back on their feet and regain their independence. St. James Terrace will do just that. This project sends a message that we are committed to addressing the homeless crisis across New York City’s five boroughs and doing so in a way that will move the needle for those who are most acutely impacted.”

    Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson said, “Affordable housing is crucial in addressing the housing crisis in the Bronx. The completion of St. James Terrace is a significant step forward, providing 102 new homes and essential services for our most vulnerable residents. I want to thank Governor Hochul, St. James Episcopal Church and everyone else who was involved in bringing this project to fruition.”

    Concern Housing Executive Director Ralph Fasano said, “St. James Terrace represents not only the hard work and dedication of all those who made this possible, but also a brighter future for the members of the community who will call it home. New York City is in desperate need of more affordable and supportive housing and we are grateful for our partners who have helped make this moment possible. Providing a stable place to live against this beautiful and historic backdrop is an immense source of pride for our organization.”

    Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda
    Governor Hochul is committed to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. As part of the FY25 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives for Upstate communities, new incentives and relief from certain State-imposed restrictions to create more housing in New York City, a $500 million capital fund to build up to 15,000 new homes on State-owned property, an additional $600 million in funding to support a variety of housing developments statewide and new protections for renters and homeowners. In addition, as part of the FY23 Enacted Budget, the Governor announced a five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan, to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. More than 45,000 homes have been created or preserved to date.

    The FY25 Enacted Budget also strengthened the Pro-Housing Community Program which the Governor launched in 2023. Pro Housing Certification is now a requirement for localities to access up to $650 million in discretionary funding. To date, more than 200 communities have been certified, including New York City.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brothers From New York Arrested for Assaulting Law Enforcement with a Weapon and Other Charges During January 6 Capitol Breach

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

                WASHINGTON — Two brothers from New York were arrested today for allegedly assaulting law enforcement with a weapon and other charges related to their alleged conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. Their alleged actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                Reynold Robert Voisine, 47, of Nicholville, New York, and Roger Alyre Voisine, Jr., 48, of Canton, New York, are each charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with felony offenses of civil disorder; assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers with a deadly or dangerous weapon; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon; and engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon.

                In addition to the felonies, the two brothers are also charged with misdemeanor offenses of disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, impeding passage through the Capitol grounds or buildings, and act of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings.

                The FBI arrested the two men today in Plattsburgh, New York, and they will make their initial appearance in the Northern District of New York.

                According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, the Voisine brothers, Roger and Reynold, attended former President Trump’s rally in Washington, D.C., before marching toward the Capitol building and eventually arriving on the West Front of the Capitol grounds. Roger Voisine, distinguishable by a GoPro mounted on a stick, a tripod tucked in his jacket, and a camouflage-patterned backpack, donned a paintball mask as he approached the Lower West Plaza. Reynold Voisine, also present in the area, was seen wearing a paintball mask on his head during the riot.

                By the afternoon, the situation on Capitol grounds had escalated, and it is alleged that both brothers played active roles in the day’s violence. At approximately 3:20 p.m., Reynold Voisine was seen among the crowd as rioters viciously assaulted an officer, dragging the officer from the Lower West Terrace Tunnel and into a mob of rioters. As the attacks continued throughout the day, Reynold remained in the vicinity, using a handheld radio to communicate while the mob assaulted officers inside the Tunnel. The Tunnel was the site of some of the most violent attacks against law enforcement that day.

                By 4:25 p.m., Reynold Voisine made his way to the mouth of the Tunnel, where rioters were launching a variety of weapons at the police, including a crutch, a hockey stick, a baton, and multiple poles. It is alleged that Reynold participated in these attacks against officers, first by throwing a crutch at the officers and then by hurling a blue pole that struck police officers. After throwing the pole, he threw the crutch again, which ricocheted off another rioter and hit the officers. Later, Reynold used a stolen riot shield to ram into the police line.

                Around the same time, it is alleged that Roger Voisine was also engaged in direct assaults on police. Court documents say that Roger threw a length of pipe at the officers, pushed into their shields alongside other rioters, and attempted to drag one officer into the crowd. It is further alleged that Roger continued his violent actions by throwing a black rod at the police, hitting one officer’s shield, and later throwing three shoes at various officers. At one point, Roger picked up a wooden table leg with protruding nails, swung it twice at officers, and then aggressively threw it at another officer.

                In addition to these physical assaults, Roger allegedly used a spotlight to shine directly into the eyes of police officers, further hindering their ability to defend themselves against the mob. Throughout the chaos, Roger remained at the front lines of the mob, holding his GoPro in a manner that suggested he was documenting the event.

                This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York.

                This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Albany and Washington Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the Tampa FBI, U.S. Capitol Police, and the Metropolitan Police Department.                                                     

                In the 45 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,532 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 571 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

                A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Peoria Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Prison for Multi-Year Fraud Scheme

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

    PEORIA, Ill. – A Peoria, Illinois, man, Chad Duane Campen, 35, was sentenced on October 24, 2024, to 135 months (11.3 years) following his convictions for bank fraud (one count), wire fraud (three counts), illegal monetary transaction (one count), bankruptcy fraud (one count), and false statements under oath (one count).

    At the sentencing hearing before U.S. District Judge James E. Shadid, the government presented evidence that Campen successfully swindled dozens of individuals and financial institutions between 2013 and 2021. During the course of the sentencing, the court heard from several of Campen’s victims who described themselves as “survivors” of Campen’s crimes. Campen pretended to be engaged in various business ventures ranging from farming to the construction of a solar farm. Via this elaborate scheme, Campen obtained loans from multiple banks using each fraudulent loan to not only enrich himself but also to pay off his previous victim. By the time his scheme collapsed, the government showed that Campen had obtained more than $17 million from these banks, of which almost $5 million was still outstanding.

    Campen, however, did not limit himself to stealing from banks, he also defrauded individuals. Witnesses, victim letters, and other evidence demonstrated how Campen would pretend to befriend people over the course of years and be welcomed into their families and homes only to steal from them. Campen caused a family farm to have its equipment repossessed after he claimed their equipment as his to secure one of his fraudulent loans. In another instance, Campen offered to assist an elderly man, gained access to his home, and stole more than $50,000 from him. And Campen convinced a family to invest in a purported farming opportunity. The family took out a loan using their own farm as collateral. When Campen’s fraud scheme collapsed, the family not only lost the money they had given Campen, but their farm—which had been in their family for more than 100 years—had to be sold.

    Another victim of Campen’s fraud was the Village of Bartonville, Illinois. Campen with co-conspirator Richard Weiss, convinced the Village to extend loans and additional funds to tear down the old Bowen Building in Bartonville. Campen lied to the Village and made promises that he could recoup the Village’s loan and investments through the sale of materials from the building. Campen secured these funds by falsely claiming that he already had buyers lined up for the stone for the building. As a result of Campen’s fraud, the Village lost the equivalent of half of all its property tax revenue for an entire year.

    Campen’s co-conspirator in certain acts connected with that fraud, the owner of the Bowen building, Richard Weiss, 62, of Pekin, Illinois, was charged in a separate case in February 2024 with bank fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering, related to his and Campen’s receipt of funds from the Village. He pleaded guilty to both counts in February and was sentenced the same day as Campen to 15 months of imprisonment. Weiss’s sentence took into account his unique personal characteristics and significantly smaller role in the offense. In imposing the sentence, Judge Shadid noted that Weiss himself was a victim of Campen’s fraud.

    As Campen’s scheme began to unravel, he tried to use the mechanisms of bankruptcy court to delay his creditors and prevent discovery of his fraud. Campen committed additional fraud in the bankruptcy court by filing counterfeit documents and making false statements in his pleadings and under oath. Campen’s fraud was quickly detected by the professionals with the Office of the United States Trustee for Region 10, who added to the growing investigation of Campen by providing a criminal referral to the United States Attorney’s Office.

    A seventeen-count indictment was filed January 19, 2022, and Campen was arrested and detained five days later. Although he has filed several motions and appeals requesting bond, he has remained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service since his arrest. Campen entered into a written plea agreement in March 2024, pleading guilty to seven of the seventeen counts.

    The statutory penalties for the charges are:

    Charge

    Imprisonment Time

    Supervised Release
    Bank Fraud (Ct. 5) Not more than 30 years 5 years
    Wire Fraud (Cts. 6, 12, 13) Not more than 20 years 3 years
    Illegal Monetary Transaction (Ct. 14) Not more than 10 years 3 years
    Bankruptcy Fraud (Ct. 16) Not more than 5 years 3 years
    False Statements Under Oath (Ct. 17) Not more than 5 years 3 years

    During his term of supervised release, Campen is to refrain from engaging in any occupation, business or profession related to the banking industry, including, but not limited to, employment by a bank or any other financial institution.

    “The defendant’s repeated acts of fraud caused great damage not only to financial institutions, but also to members of our community, including but not limited to the Village of Bartonville and its taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Harris. “Our office is committed to protecting individuals and banks from predatory acts like those of the defendant and will vigorously pursue such cases. We are grateful to our federal law enforcement partners, the Internal Revenue Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as well as the Office of the United States Trustee for Region 10.”

    “Today’s sentence will go a long way in protecting the integrity of the bankruptcy system,” said Nancy J. Gargula, United States Trustee for Indiana and the Central and Southern Districts of Illinois (Region 10).  “We are grateful to U.S. Attorney Harris and our law enforcement partners for their commitment to protect the interests of creditors and the public.”

    “Driven by an unquenchable thirst for ill-gotten gains, Chad Campen embarked on an eight-year fraud spree which led to devastating results for those who put their trust in him,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson. “This sentence sends a clear message about the consequences of greed and demonstrates the resolve of the FBI and our law enforcement partners to follow the money trail and ensure justice.”

    “Over several years, Chad Campen defrauded dozens of victims, creating severe economic distress for families and straining resources for institutions that fell victim to his fraud scheme,” said Marta C. Grijalva, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “This sentencing reflects the consequences of actions that caused significant financial pain to not only institutions and communities, but also individual families. That is why IRS Criminal Investigation and its fellow law enforcement partners remain committed to safeguarding the financial security of our communities and holding accountable those who exploit the system for personal gain.”

    The case investigation was conducted by the IRS Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. The bankruptcy fraud charge was referred for criminal prosecution by the Office of the United States Trustee for Region 10, Nancy J. Gargula. The U.S. Trustee Program is the component of the Justice Department that protects the integrity of the bankruptcy system by overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce the bankruptcy laws. Region 10 is headquartered in Indianapolis, with additional offices in South Bend, Indiana, and Peoria, Illinois. Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas F. McMeyer represented the government in the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jamestown Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Charge

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

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Willie C. Graham, 43, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of imprisonment of 40 years, and a fine of $5,000,000.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna M. Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that on September 6, 2023, Jamestown Police officers initiated a traffic stop on a car that Graham was a passenger in. Officers located numerous items of drug paraphernalia in the car, as well as a quantity of fentanyl on Graham’s person.

    On March 2, 2024, Graham was a passenger in a car that fled from law enforcement officers trying to conduct a traffic stop. A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of 11.6 grams of methamphetamine drug paraphernalia, and $1,134.00 cash.

    On April 30, 2024, Jamestown Police officers located and arrested Graham. At the time of his arrest, he was in possession of 10 assorted bank and benefit cards, some of which were issued to individuals other than Graham, a quantity of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and $185.

    The plea is a result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

    Sentencing is scheduled for February 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.

    # # # #

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford Requests Information on Arrest of Afghan Nationals Allegedly Plotting Election Day Terrorist Attack

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
    OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee,  in sending a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas requesting information concerning the recent arrest of two Afghan nationals in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, who were allegedly plotting an Election Day terrorist attack on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS).
    “This alarming incident adds to a growing list of similar security breaches, raising serious concerns about the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) ability to effectively protect our homeland. The screening and vetting processes under the Biden-Harris Administration are clearly failing, allowing criminals and individuals with terrorist links to exploit vulnerabilities in the system. Given the significant threat to American lives, it is imperative that we receive detailed information to fully understand the scope of these issues,” wrote the Senators.
    According to the unsealed criminal complaint referenced in the letter, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi entered the United States using a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV), shortly after the Biden-Harris Administration’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. After entering the United States, Tawhedi promoted ISIS propaganda, sent funds to known charities linked to ISIS support networks, and liquidated all assets to purchase weapons; with the remaining funds intended for the ISIS Treasury. The Senators stressed this alarming incident adds to a growing list of similar security breaches, raising serious concerns about DHS’s ability to effectively protect our homeland. Senators Rick Scott (R-FL) and Roger Marshall (R-KS), both members of the Homeland Security Committee, also signed the letter.
    You can read the full letter HERE or below:
    Dear Secretary Mayorkas:
    We, as Members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), are writing to request information concerning the recent arrest of two Afghan nationals in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, who were allegedly plotting an Election Day terrorist attack, on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS). According to the unsealed criminal complaint, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi entered the United States on September 9, 2021, using a Special Immigration Visa (SIV), shortly after the Biden-Harris Administration’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan.
    After entering the United States, Tawhedi promoted ISIS propaganda, sent funds to known charities linked to ISIS support networks, and liquidated all assets to purchase weapons; with the remaining funds intended for the ISIS Treasury. Tawhedi was working with a juvenile coconspirator with legal permanent resident status who had entered the United States on March 27, 2018, using a SIV. According to reports, the two Afghan nationals planned to carry out a violent, armed attack on Election Day.
    This alarming incident adds to a growing list of similar security breaches, raising serious concerns about the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) ability to effectively protect our homeland. The screening and vetting processes under the Biden-Harris Administration are clearly failing, allowing criminals and individuals with terrorist links to exploit vulnerabilities in the system. Given the significant threat to American lives, it is imperative that we receive detailed information to fully understand the scope of these issues.
    For this reason, we request the following information as soon as possible, but no later than November 8, 2024:
    All DHS records, including component records and complete Alien Files (A-Files), related to all of the individuals arrested in connection with this terrorist plot, including their immigration status and criminal history;
    All communications from or between DHS, CBP, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) regarding these individuals, including but not limited to their immigration status and criminal history;
    All documents and communications regarding the arrival and entry of these individuals in the US;
    Any addresses provided by these individuals upon entering the US;
    All documents and communications related to these individuals’ personal information processed through international and national criminal databases;
    All documents and communications related to any asylum or protection claims made by these individuals, including the type and reason provided;
    All communications that DHS, CBP, or ICE had with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in relation to these individuals, including but not limited to any arrests or detainments by any state jurisdiction; and
    All documents and communications detailing their transit through other countries;
    All documents sufficient to show all derogatory information in the Terrorist Screening Data Set associated with the two Afghan nationals arrested on October 7, 2024.
    Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bennet, Hickenlooper, Bipartisan Colleagues Push for More Temporary Work Visas to Help Small Businesses in Colorado

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet
    Denver — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper joined U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), alongside 37 of their bipartisan colleagues, to urge the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to release the maximum allowable number of additional temporary, non-agricultural (H-2B) visas for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 to support local economies and fill needed roles for American small businesses.
    “Many employers turn to the H-2B program to meet their workforce needs to not only sustain their businesses, but also support their American workers,” wrote Bennet, Hickenlooper, and the senators. “The H-2B program places requirements on employers to recruit U.S. workers, who are intentionally prioritized by the program and also receive demonstrated, positive impacts from their seasonal colleagues. In fact, a 2020 Government Accountability Office report concluded that ‘counties with H-2B employers generally had lower unemployment rates and higher average weekly wages than counties that do not have any H-2B employers.”
    In Colorado, more than 8,400 temporary H-2B visas were requested by over 250 employers in Fiscal Year 2021 – reflecting a strong demand for H-2B workers in the state. In the letter, the senators highlight recent data from DOL’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Surveys illustrating the workforce struggles of seasonal businesses nationwide. The rate of job openings have increased annually for top five H-2B occupations. Landscaping, hospitality, and the ski industry – all key to Colorado’s economy – are among the industries with the highest share of certified H-2B workers.
    “As you know, the FY 2025 H-2B first half fiscal year cap was met on September 18, 2024—roughly three weeks earlier than the cap was met in FY 2024. The result is that seasonal employers whose peak seasons are in late fall and winter are capped out before their period of seasonal need begins. Absent cap relief, these employers will be unable to receive temporary, U.S. government-vetted guest workers,” continued the senators.
    In addition to Bennet, Hickenlooper, King, and Rounds, U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Chris Coons (D-Del.), John Cornyn (R-Teas.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), George Helmy (D-N.J.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Joe Manchin (I-W.V.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Thune (R-S.D.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) and Tim Scott (R-S.C.) also signed the letter. 
    Bennet and Hickenlooper have previously pushed DHS and DOL to increase the availability of H-2B visas and worked to ensure that the visa program is efficient and effective. In 2022, they welcomed an additional 35,000 H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas. 
    The text of the letter is available HERE and below. 
    Dear Secretaries Mayorkas and Su:
    We write on behalf of seasonal businesses in our states—including employers of housekeepers in tourist destinations, landscapers with defined seasons, seafood processors with short harvesting windows, and fairs and carnivals—who are struggling to hire a sufficient number of temporary, seasonal laborers to support their operations.  
    In light of these labor shortages, we strongly urge the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of Labor (DOL), to utilize the authority provided by Congress in the FY2025 Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act to release the maximum allowable number of additional H-2B visas for Fiscal Year 2025, as you did for Fiscal Year 2024. These visas will help employers handle their labor challenges, and provide additional certainty regarding their workforce planning decisions in the coming months. We urge you to promptly publish a temporary rule implementing the release of these supplemental visas.
    Many employers turn to the H-2B program to meet their workforce needs to not only sustain their businesses, but also support their American workers. The H-2B program places requirements on employers to recruit U.S. workers, who are intentionally prioritized by the program and also receive demonstrated, positive impacts from their seasonal colleagues. In fact, a 2020 Government Accountability Office report concluded that “counties with H-2B employers generally had lower unemployment rates and higher average weekly wages than counties that do not have any H-2B employers.” 
    The most current employment data illustrates the workforce struggles of seasonal businesses nationwide. The Department of Labor’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Surveys (JOLTS) show the rate of job openings have increased year over year for the industries that represent the top five H-2B occupations. As you know, the FY 2025 H-2B first half fiscal year cap was met on September 18, 2024—roughly three weeks earlier than the cap was met in FY 2024. The result is that seasonal employers whose peak seasons are in late fall and winter are capped out before their period of seasonal need begins. Absent cap relief, these employers will be unable to receive temporary, U.S. government-vetted guest workers. 
    Congress has acknowledged this seasonal labor shortage by providing DHS with the authority to lift the H-2B visa cap for each of the past eight fiscal years. Given the growing demand for H-2B workers as employers continue to struggle with staffing shortages, we encourage you to promptly promulgate a temporary final rule for FY 2025 along the same lines as the FY 2024 rule.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cortez Masto Announce Funding to Increase Women’s Access to Skilled Trades Apprenticeship Programs in Southern Nevada 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    LAS VEGAS, NV – U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) announced more than $700,000 in federal grant funding to increase women’s access to skills training in Southern Nevada to enhance their participation in construction apprenticeship programs. The funding, awarded to the Southern Nevada Building Trades Union, will help recruit, train, and retain more women in their construction training programs. The funding comes from the Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations grant program, which supports programs that train women for union jobs and nontraditional occupations.
    “Skills training programs and apprenticeships open the door to good-paying jobs without having to get a four-year college degree, and I’m working to make these opportunities available to more Nevadans,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to announce hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal funding are being awarded to the Southern Nevada Building Trades Union to expand access for more women in their apprenticeships programs. I’ll keep working to support Nevada’s workforce and economy.”
    “Apprenticeships are a great way for hardworking Nevadans of all walks of life to build opportunity and access good-paying, union jobs,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This grant will allow Southern Nevada Building Trades to expand their apprenticeship programs, and will help more women, especially women of color, build union careers and provide for their families. I’ll always fight to make sure Nevada’s workers have everything they need to build the infrastructure of the future.”
    “We are proud to be awarded the first federal grant in the history of the Southern Nevada Building Trades through the Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations (WANTO) program,” said Vince Saavedra, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Southern Nevada Building Trades. “This $710,000 award will help us launch stipend programs for childcare, transportation, and create other critical support services, removing barriers for women to join and thrive in the union trades. With major projects like Brightline West, the Athletics Stadium, and others on the horizon, growing our skilled workforce is more important than ever. This grant is just the beginning as we continue to work to expand access to union apprenticeships and build a stronger future for all.”
    Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto have been working to support Nevada’s workers and ensure they have access to the training they need. Earlier this year, both senators announced that they secured nearly $16 million in federal funding for community projects to bolster workforce development in critical sectors throughout the state, including mental health care, nursing, and education. They also announced the delivery of federal funding they secured for workforce development to fill in-demand jobs in Southern Nevada. Senator Rosen recently announced $4 million to support registered apprenticeships and skilled workforce development in Northern Nevada and introduced legislation to bolster the housing construction workforce and a bill to provide Nevadans skills training in high demand fields like manufacturing, construction, and IT.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner and Kaine Announce Funding to Expand Rail Service Across Virginia

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $13,317,000 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation to expand and secure rail service across Virginia. This funding was made possible by the bipartisan infrastructure law, landmark legislation championed by both senators.

    “Thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure law, we’re unlocking investments in rail across the Commonwealth, which create jobs, cut costs, and give you the freedom to get where you need to go,” said the senators. “These investments will build on our work expanding funding for Amtrak and addressing rail bottlenecks across the country, creating a future where passenger rail is more affordable, reliable, and accessible for all Virginians, including folks in communities like Bedford.”

    The funding is broken down as follows:

    • $6,000,000 for the Buckingham Branch Railroad Company to replace old rail tracks and ties across central Virginia. The project will make freight rail service more resilient, efficient, and secure and reduce the risk of derailments by resurfacing approximately 83 miles of track and seven grade crossings.
    • $5,836,000 for the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority to improve the Richmond Staples Mill Amtrak Station by upgrading two platforms, adding one platform canopy, and promoting accessibility. This will make the station ADA compliant and will create a better and safer passenger experience. It will also support Staples Mill’s addition of 10 Amtrak trains per day, rapidly scaling up the number of passenger rail options available to Richmonders.
    • $1,481,000 for the Town of Bedford to develop plans for a new intercity passenger rail station. This funding will allow for initial engineering and environmental work on the proposed station, which could connect Bedford to passenger rail service for the first time in several decades.  

    The funding is made possible by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which is supported by several recent government spending bills and the bipartisan infrastructure law, all of which were strongly supported by the senators.

    Warner and Kaine have consistently supported and led efforts to expand passenger rail across the Commonwealth. Sens. Warner and Kaine advocated directly for the funding for Staples Mill Station and Bedford. In 2021, Warner and Kaine wrote and passed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which has brought over $8.4 billion in federal funding to Virginia for hundreds of projects. In December 2023, Sens. Warner and Kaine announced $500,000, also courtesy of the infrastructure law, to explore the possibility of creating an infill stop in Bedford. Last week, the senators broke ground on the Long Bridge Project, a major effort to invest in rail in Virginia by easing one of the worst rail bottlenecks in America while creating 36,000 jobs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sheffield extends hand of friendship to Nablus A Declaration of Friendship has been signed between the City of Sheffield and the City of Nablus on the West Bank in Palestine, at a virtual ceremony today (Tuesday 29th October 2024). 29 October 2024

    Source: City of Sheffield

    Cllr Johnson, Cllr Hunt, the Lord Mayor and Cllr Mohammad signing the declaration

    A Declaration of Friendship has been signed between the City of Sheffield and the City of Nablus on the West Bank in Palestine, at a virtual ceremony today (Tuesday 29th October 2024).

    The declaration outlines the intention of both cities to promote friendship, understanding and exchange experience and knowledge in different fields and areas, including education and environment. 

    The agreement is a statement of intention and is not legally binding and will be reviewed every 12 months by both parties.

    Councillor Jayne Dunn, Lord Mayor of Sheffield City Council, said:

    “I am delighted that today we have entered into a Friendship Agreement with the City of Nablus.

    “In recent years, our two cities have developed strong cultural and educational links and that is why we believe extending a hand of friendship is appropriate.

    “I look forward to seeing what our two societies can learn from each other.”

    In November 2023, Sheffield City Council’s Strategy and Resources Committee agreed on a Partner City Policy. In this policy, the Council committed to producing an annual review of all their relationships with international cities.

    This review provided the Council with the opportunity to address any requests that had been made to establish relationships with Sheffield, with the only outstanding request coming from Nablus.

    In the past five years, Sheffield and Nablus have already established cultural and educational links.

    Going forward, connections will be developed in areas that both cities share similar aims and goals, including youth services and their sports offer.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Protecting reproductive freedom by preventing abuse of charitable status

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Concerns have been raised that some registered charities that offer reproductive health services to women, including pregnancy options counselling, may be spreading misinformation by presenting themselves as neutral, full-service pregnancy support service organizations when they are in fact anti-choice organizations that push women away from accessing the reproductive care of their choice.

    October 29, 2024

    Registered charities are provided federal, as well as provincial or territorial, supports under the tax system that includes an exemption from income tax and the ability to issue official donation receipts for any gifts that they receive. In return, all registered charities are expected to follow the rules and principles set out in the Income Tax Act to ensure that they are operating for charitable purposes and providing activities for the benefit of the public.

    Concerns have been raised that some registered charities that offer reproductive health services to women, including pregnancy options counselling, may be spreading misinformation by presenting themselves as neutral, full-service pregnancy support service organizations when they are in fact anti-choice organizations that push women away from accessing the reproductive care of their choice.

    By concealing the true nature of their services, these anti-choice organizations are restricting the rights of vulnerable pregnant women to choose the reproductive care appropriate to them and their circumstances.

    To address these concerns, the federal government intends to introduce legislation to amend the Income Tax Act and Income Tax Regulations to require registered charities that provide services, advice, or information in respect of the prevention, preservation, or termination of pregnancy to disclose where they do not provide specific services, including abortions or birth control.  Disclosure of such information would be required in any form of public communication that advertises these services. This legislation would also require that reproductive health charities explicitly disclose this information on their annual information return, which is publicly available on the website of the Canada Revenue Agency.

    In specific terms, if adopted by Parliament, the legislation would require that any registered charity whose purpose or main activity is to provide reproductive health services would be required to disclose where applicable:

    • If it does not provide abortion services, it must disclose that it does not provide abortion services;
    • If it does not provide abortion services and it does not provide information on abortion services, it must further disclose that it does not provide information on how to obtain such services;
    • If it does not provide abortion services and it does not provide the contact information for a provider of such services, it must further disclose that it does not provide the contact information for a provider of such services;
    • If it does not provide birth control services or does not provide a range of birth control services, it must disclose whichever case applies;
    • If it does not provide birth control services or does not provide a range of birth control services, it must further disclose if it does not provide information on how to obtain a range of birth control services; and,
    • If it does not provide birth control services or does not provide a range of birth control services, it must further disclose if it does not provide the contact information for a provider of a range of birth control services or providers that collectively provide such a range of services.

    Birth control services in this context would mean services relating to the provision or prescription of medications, devices or medical procedures that aid in the prevention of conception and are recognized in Canada. 

    Under this legislation, a registered charity that provides reproductive health services would need to disclose if, at a minimum, it does not provide the contact information for an abortion services provider and a birth control service provider.  

    For the purposes of this legislation, a public communication would generally include any advertisement, such as bus ad, poster, billboard, social media posts, or websites, put out by the charity or on the charity’s behalf, or any other communication aimed at the public, that advertises the information, advice, or services that it provides relating to the prevention, preservation, or termination of pregnancy.

    Where a charity fails to meet the requirements specified in the legislation, the Minister of National Revenue would be permitted to revoke its registration. 

    These changes would come into force 90 days after Royal Assent, with the new information disclosure requirements applying as of the 2025 taxation year. 

    Related product

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada protecting reproductive freedom and covering essential health care costs

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Every woman should be free to make her own decisions about her own body. Every woman in Canada should have access to the health care she needs.

    October 29, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

    Every woman should be free to make her own decisions about her own body. Every woman in Canada should have access to the health care she needs.

    Today, however, concerns have been raised that some registered charities that offer reproductive health services to women, including pregnancy options counselling—and that are provided federal supports under the tax system—may be spreading misinformation by presenting themselves as a neutral, full-service pregnancy support service organization, when they are in fact anti-choice organizations that push women away from accessing the reproductive care of their choice. By concealing the true nature of their services, these organizations, known as crisis pregnancy centres, are restricting the rights of vulnerable pregnant women to choose the reproductive care appropriate to them and their circumstances.

    The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, alongside the Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, and the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant, today announced new action to protect reproductive freedom and updated on the government’s progress covering the costs of contraception, dental care, and diabetes medications for Canadians.

    First, the federal government will introduce legislation to require more transparency from charities providing pregnancy counselling. Specifically, registered charities whose purpose or one of their main activities is to provide pregnancy and reproductive health supports and services, including pregnancy options counselling, would be required to explicitly disclose if they do not provide abortions, birth control, or referrals to these services. Organizations that do not clearly and prominently provide the required transparency risk losing charitable status.

    This measure aims to improve the distribution of accurate information in reproductive health care and builds on other measures that the government is taking to improve health care for all Canadians.

    Second, the Minister of Health announced that more than 2.7 million Canadians are now covered by the Canadian Dental Care Plan and nearly 1 million of them have already had their dental visits covered. Already, the Canadian Dental Care Plan has covered $732 million in dental expenses for Canadians, or about $730 per covered Canadian this year. The government is on track to cover 9 million Canadians, currently without dental insurance, in 2025.

    Third, the Minister of Health highlighted that the Pharmacare Act has received Royal Assent on October 10, 2024. The passage of this legislation enables the federal government to reach agreements with provinces and territories to provide free contraception and diabetes medications. Once agreements are reached, coverage through existing provincial and territorial programs would be enhanced to provide free contraceptives and free life-saving diabetes medications, saving Canadians $300 per year and $1,700 per year, respectively.

    Fourth, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance announced that in October, the federal government transferred $4.34 billion for health care to provinces and territories. In 2024-25, Canada Health Transfer payments will total $52.1 billion—equivalent to $1 billion every week. The federal government is providing $200 billion over 10 years for provinces and territories to increase access to family doctors, reduce wait times for surgery, and enable patients and their health care teams to share data.  

    Katherine Cuplinskas
    Deputy Director of Communications
    Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance
    Katherine.Cuplinskas@fin.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Matt Gaetz Introduces “JAIL for Alien Voters Act” to Punish Illegal Alien Voters with Felony Charges

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Matt Gaetz (1st District of Florida)

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL-01) will introduce the “Judicial Action to Impose Liability for Alien Voters Act,” also known as the JAIL for Alien Voters Act, following President Donald Trump’s warning to illegal aliens: “[i]f you vote illegally, you are going to jail!” The legislation, if enacted, would make voting by an illegal alien a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison or a $10,000 fine, which is in line with the criminal penalty for U.S. citizens unlawfully voting.

    Earlier this month, in response to the Biden-Harris Department of Justice (DOJ) suing the Commonwealth of Virginia for removing illegal aliens from its voter rolls, Rep. Gaetz introduced the “National Motor Voter Clarification Act,” which would ensure that states can remove illegal aliens from their voter rolls at any time. These two pieces of legislation would help to secure U.S. elections against voting by the tens of millions of illegal aliens who have entered illegally through the U.S.-Mexico border during the Biden-Harris administration.

    The legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Andy Ogles (TN-5), Andy Biggs (AZ-5), Mike Collins (GA-10), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and Barry Moore (AL-02).

    “President Donald Trump is right: illegal aliens who vote in our elections should be in jail. It is unacceptable that illegal aliens get lighter sentences for defrauding our elections than U.S. citizens. My legislation, the JAIL for Alien Voters Act, will create parity in punishment for those who commit voter fraud, regardless of immigration status. It’s common sense that U.S. citizens should be the only ones voting in U.S. elections.” said Congressman Gaetz.

    Full text of Congressman Gaetz’s bill can be found HERE. Additionally, exclusive coverage of the bill by Fox News can be found HERE.

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    For updates, subscribe to Congressman Gaetz’s newsletter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mast Demands Answers on Pentagon’s Promotion of Iranian Influence Agent

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressmen Brian Mast (FL-18)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brian Mast (FL-21) demanded Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin explain why the Pentagon has promoted an alleged member of a covert Iranian influence network to a senior post overseeing military training. Congressman Mast is further demanding the Pentagon open an investigation into the individual and other employees who may have lied about their ties to Iran to obtain a security clearance.

    “Promoting an Iranian influence agent to a position that oversees the education and training of America’s elite warriors is the equivalent of giving the Ayatollah access to how we train our troops and what weapons systems they use,” said Congressman Mast. “This has grave national security implications given the Islamic Republic of Iran has sought to assassinate President Donald Trump and interfered in the 2024 elections to benefit President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.” 

    Congressman Mast raised those concerns in a letter to Secretary Austin amid news of Ariane Tabatabai’s promotion to deputy assistant secretary of defense for force education and training. In 2023, Semafor reported that Tabatabai was part of a long-running covert Iranian influence campaign within the United States. 

    The Biden administration appointed Tabatabai to work under Special Envoy for Iran Robert Malley — whose security clearance was revoked and is under investigation for leaking classified information to Tehran. Tabatabai, herself, has been investigated by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency for her ties to Iran. The results of that investigation have not been made fully clear. 

    Tabatabai’s tenure in the Pentagon has coincided with the leak of U.S. intelligence and other security documents relating to Israel’s defense capabilities. In particular, U.S. intelligence about Israeli retaliatory strike plans on Iranian nuclear facilities were leaked on Telegram channels connected to Tehran.

    Given the severity of that breach, Congressman Mast is demanding investigations into every individual employed by the Pentagon and other federal agencies that have ties to Iran — including Tabatabai. A copy of the letter can be found here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pallone Delivers $54.9 Million Federal Boost for Zero-Emission Ferry Project, Driving Cleaner Transit Solutions for Highlands and Central New Jersey

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)

    Major Investment Made Possible Through Historic Inflation Reduction Act Championed by Pallone

    Highlands, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. has announced a major win for central New Jersey with $54.9 million in federal funding from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Ports Program to advance zero-emission high-speed ferries through Seastreak, LLC. This award will support the deployment of zero-emission ferries and essential charging infrastructure, aimed at cutting dangerous pollution and easing travel between New Jersey and Manhattan. Pallone, who helped author the Inflation Reduction Act as the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, championed Seastreak’s proposal as a model for clean, efficient transit in coastal communities.

    “Bringing these federal dollars back to New Jersey means cleaner air, less traffic on our busiest routes, and a long-term boost for communities like Highlands,” said Pallone. “This project is about more than cutting dangerous pollution; it’s about strengthening our local economy and supporting sustainable transit solutions that benefit residents and businesses alike. Projects like this put New Jersey on the cutting edge of homegrown, clean energy.”

    Headquartered in Atlantic Highlands, Seastreak operates a vital ferry service for thousands of central New Jerseyans daily. This funding allows the company to take a critical first step in its fleet overhaul, advancing zero-emission technology and setting a national example in coastal air quality improvement. The project also includes workforce development initiatives, such as training partnerships with local schools and industry groups.

    “Seastreak is committed to being the one of the most environmentally friendly passenger ferry operators in the country,” said James D. Barker, Seastreak Vice President. “High-speed electric ferry technology is a new and quickly evolving space. With this grant, we are excited to contribute to a new frontier in maritime technology while continuing our efforts to improve air quality within the communities we serve. We’re grateful for Congressman Pallone’s work in Congress to make this project possible.”

    Additionally, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) will receive $344 million to expand zero-emission equipment across port operations. Programs like the ZE Equipment for Ports (ZEEP) Voucher Incentive Program and Green Drayage Accelerator (GDA) will help replace polluting cargo vehicles and install new charging stations to reduce harmful port emissions affecting neighboring communities.

    EPA announced the selection of 55 applicants across 27 states and territories to receive nearly $3 billion nationwide through EPA’s Clean Ports Program.

    “Our nation’s ports are critical to creating opportunity here in America, offering good-paying jobs, moving goods, and powering our economy,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Today’s historic $3 billion investment builds on President Biden’s vision of growing our economy while ensuring America leads in globally competitive solutions of the future. Delivering cleaner technologies and resources to U.S. ports will slash harmful air and climate pollution while protecting people who work in and live nearby ports communities.”

    The EPA’s Clean Ports Program, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, reduces climate pollution from our nation’s ports.  It aims to cut harmful diesel pollution, including criteria pollutants, greenhouse gases, and air toxics, both at ports and in near-port communities by funding transformative infrastructure deployment and air quality planning. The EPA will work closely with Seastreak and PANYNJ to finalize agreements, ensuring these projects fulfill their commitment to cleaner, healthier communities across the New Jersey region.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Beatty, Nadler & Williams Urge CMS to Protect Pregnant Patients’ Rights in Drug Testing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

    WASHINGTON, DC –  Today, Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05) led Representatives Barragán (CA-44), Brown (OH-11), DeGette (CO-01), Schakowsky (IL-09), and Watson Coleman(NJ-12)in a letter to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) requesting CMS include guidance on informed consent prior to drug testing of pregnant patients in the proposed obstetric care Medicare Conditions of Participation (CoPs) included in the proposed CY2025 Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS).

    The risk of arrest, prosecution, or family separation following a positive toxicology test makes patients afraid to access health and medical services during pregnancy, putting them and their fetus at an increased risk of harm. While the Supreme Court determined in 2001 that diagnostic tests on pregnant patients without the patient’s consent constitutes an unreasonable search, drug testing of pregnant patients without their consent is still a relatively common practice.

     

    The members write: “As members of Congress committed to improving the health and safety of our pregnant, birthing, and postpartum constituents, we write to commend the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for promulgating a thoughtfully considered proposed rule that establishes obstetric care Medicare Conditions of Participation (CoPs) for hospitals and critical access hospitals (CAHs). As part of our efforts to advance the health and safety of all patients, we encourage CMS to incorporate guidance into the final rule that reduces roadblocks for pregnant patients with substance use disorder (SUD) seeking prenatal care.

     

    SUD is a leading cause of maternal death and can also have severe health consequences for infants. However, research has shown that increasing prenatal care for pregnant people with SUD can improve both maternal health outcomes and birth outcomes.”

     

    In an effort to improve maternal and fetal health outcomes, the letter requests that CMS:

    1. Provide guidance for providers on how to obtain informed consent for drug testing during the prenatal period and during labor and delivery.
    2. Prohibit drug testing of people during pregnancy and labor and delivery without the patient’s informed consent.
    3. Enhance provider training requirements regarding SUD during pregnancy.

     

    The members continued:“CMS should include guidance for medical providers in the obstetric care CoPs on obtaining informed consent for drug toxicology testing during the prenatal period and during labor and delivery. The risk of arrest, prosecution, or family separation following a positive toxicology test makes patients afraid to access health and medical services during pregnancy, putting them and their fetus at an increased risk of harm.

     

    Maternal toxicology testing often takes the form of a verbal screen or urine test to monitor for conditions such as diabetes or preeclampsia. However, many pregnant patients are not informed that the urine tests can also be used to screen for substance use. Additionally, doctors have reported that because urine tests are regularly provided in prenatal care, patients are not given an option to refuse urine drug testing… 

     

    …This high occurrence of drug testing of people during pregnancy and labor and delivery without informed consent is concerning, as experts warn that nonconsensual drug testing can undermine trust between patients and providers. In fact, research found that the most common strategy that pregnant patients with SUD employ to avoid their provider detecting their substance use is to skip medical visits or avoid prenatal care altogether…

     

    …. Ensuring that pregnant patients are aware of all potential ramifications that could result from any medical test in advance of a patient consenting to that test will assuage fears and encourage patients to seek essential prenatal care. Therefore, CMS should incorporate guidance into the obstetric care CoPs that specifically prohibits drug testing of pregnant, birthing, and postpartum patients without their informed consent. CMS should ensure that any updated guidance related to informed consent and drug testing of pregnant patients is not redundant with or in conflict with current requirements mandated by existing state or federal policy.”

     

    “Hospitals must be places of care and comfort, not fear. Our research shows that the majority of pregnancy-related criminal cases begin in a health care setting,” said Pregnancy Justice President Lourdes A. Rivera. “Ensuring that providers obtain informed consent before unnecessarily drug testing patients is one important step in building trust and improving maternal health outcomes. We are thrilled that Reps. Nadler, Beatty, and Williams are urging this vital guidance to protect pregnant people from criminalization and family separation.”

     

    The full letter can be found here. 

     

    For media inquiries, please contact Cassandra.Johnson@mail.house.gov.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Arrington Meets with Constituents Across West Texas

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19)

    Lubbock, TX – House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) recently concluded a West Texas Tour, during which he visited various areas of his Congressional District to tour hospitals, meet with small business owners and local leaders, and speak with constituents about their concerns.

    Andrews County

    “I had a great time in Andrews County visiting with local leaders discussing the economic hardships facing our communities,” said Chairman Arrington. “Biden and Harris have launched an all-out assault on Rural America – our agriculture and energy economy, our working families, and our values – and communities like Andrews are paying the price. We need to rein-in Washington, return to pro-energy policies, and put an end to the welfare state by unleashing the full potential of the American economy and, most importantly, the American people.”

    Gaines County

    “I had a great time meeting with friends and fellow West Texans at a townhall in Gaines County, answering questions and speaking about the direction of our country,” said Chairman Arrington. “We all agree, there needs to be a sense of urgency because our nation is at a historic inflection point: we will either renew our faith in God and freedom or submit to the rise of socialism and the tyranny of a woke and weaponized federal government.”

    Martin County

    “Our great nation does not reap the benefits of energy independence and food security without excellent rural health care keeping our hard-working, freedom-loving workers in Rural America healthy and taken care of, and nobody understands this better than the Martin County Medical Hospital District,” said Chairman Arrington. “Recognized as one of the Top 20 Critical Access Hospitals in 2023 and 2024, we take great pride in having one of the best hospitals in the country right in our backyard. Keep up the great work!”

    Howard County

    “I had the privilege of joining the Big Spring Economic Development Corp and Big Spring Chamber of Commerce for a Howard County Community Roundtable,” said Chairman Arrington. “Communities like Big Spring have suffered under the skyrocketing inflation, excessive regulation, and woke policies that have become the hallmark of the Biden-Harris administration. Fortunately, we have the opportunity to chart a new path and restore prosperity for hardworking families.”

    Mitchell County

    “I had the privilege of speaking to the Mitchell County Farm Bureau about the importance of supporting our cowboys and plowboys in West Texas and ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed,” said Chairman Arrington. “Unfortunately, in Washington, many politicians take Rural America and the men and women who feed, fuel, and clothe our nation for granted. That’s why I’ll never stop fighting for them and making sure our hardworking farmers and ranchers have a voice in our nation’s capital.”

    Taylor County

    “Great to join my friends at Hendrick Medical Center who recently celebrated their 100th year anniversary of faithful service to Abilene and the Big Country,” said Chairman Arrington. “Hendrick’s story is one of resilience and community support, and, since the beginning, Hendrick Health has always been driven by its Christian mission to provide compassionate care to all in need. I’m thankful for their commitment to providing healthcare to a growing region and delivering exceptional care to thousands of West Texans every year.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –