NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND, MANNION DEMAND ANSWERS ON TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S POTENTIAL PLANS TO CLOSE SYRACUSE USDA OFFICES, LAYOFFS OF USDA STAFF WHO SERVE NEW YORKERS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Closure Of Offices Could Mean End To Programs That Provide Grants And Loans To Farmers, Help Rural Communities Recover From Natural Disasters

    Today, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and Representative John Mannion are demanding answers on the Trump administration’s reported plans to potentially close the statewide offices for the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), and USDA Rural Development (RD) in Syracuse. President Trump and Elon Musk’s so-called “Department of Government Efficiency” is terminating the lease for the building that houses these three agencies, leaving the future of the programs they administer uncertain. The administration has also laid off a number of workers, leaving New Yorkers unable to reach New York-based staff at the USDA over the phone.

    “We are writing to express our concern regarding reports of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) plans to close the statewide offices for the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), and USDA Rural Development (RD) in Syracuse, New York,” wrote the members. “These USDA agencies provide vital services to agricultural producers, scientists, and rural communities across New York. The planned termination of the lease for the Syracuse office space, as well as the recent staffing cuts in New York, could severely hamper rural New Yorkers’ ability to access crucial federal resources and assistance from the USDA. We urge you to not only keep the USDA’s NRCS, FSA, and RD office space in Syracuse open but to also ensure that the agencies have adequate staffing at their service centers to meet rural New Yorkers’ and farmers’ needs.”

    The full text of the representatives’ letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and Acting Administrator of the General Services Administration Stephen Ehikian is available here or below: 

    Dear Secretary Rollins and Acting Administrator Ehikian,

    We are writing to express our concerns regarding reports of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) plans to close the statewide offices for the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), and USDA Rural Development (RD) in Syracuse, New York. Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has touted $498,273 in savings by terminating the lease through the General Services Administration (GSA) for the 33,548-square-foot space, which houses three critical USDA agencies for New Yorkers. However, this disastrous course of action imperils all three agencies’ ability to assist rural New York communities and our state’s farmers.

    It is our understanding that NRCS was the primary lease holder for the Syracuse office space, and by terminating this lease, DOGE has also recklessly harmed the work of FSA and RD throughout New York State. In recent weeks, these agencies have lost staff at the Syracuse offices and statewide to the buyout, layoffs, and paid administrative leave, which wastes taxpayer money and forces valuable employees to sit on the sidelines.

    These USDA agencies provide vital services to agricultural producers, scientists, and rural communities across New York. The Farm Service Agency offers financial assistance and loans to farmers and ranchers for conservation needs, post-disaster recovery, and income support. The NRCS manages and provides technical assistance to farmers, ranchers and landowners in New York for key conservation programs that mitigate the impacts of natural disasters, enhance water quality, safeguard wildlife habitats, and reduce soil erosion. USDA RD offers important loans, grants, loan guarantees, and technical assistance to residents, farmers, businesses, non-profits, and municipalities across rural areas in New York. Its programs create jobs, advance economic development, and support essential services, ranging from water, communications infrastructure, health care, and housing. The planned termination of the lease for the Syracuse office space, as well as the recent staffing cuts in New York, could severely hamper rural New Yorkers’ ability to access crucial federal resources and assistance from the USDA.

    Apart from the impact that this closure could have on those who are serviced by the Syracuse office, we are also concerned about the employees who work for NRCS, FSA, and RD throughout New York. This closure would affect—and recent terminations have affected—the USDA staff who have remained dedicated to providing New Yorkers with valuable information and high-quality services.

    Therefore, we urge you to not only keep the USDA’s NRCS, FSA, and RD office space in Syracuse open but to also ensure that the agencies have adequate staffing at their service centers to meet rural New Yorkers’ and farmers’ needs. We request a written response by March 31, 2025, to address the following questions and concerns:

    1. Please share why the proposed closure of the USDA’s Syracuse office space is under consideration.

    a. How would the potential closure of the Syracuse offices impact USDA’s capacity to serve New Yorkers?

    b. Additionally, how would the closure of the statewide Syracuse offices impact the coordination and collaboration across the USDA and with local service centers?

    c. In light of the Trump administration’s return-to-work requirements, where would employees at the Syracuse offices be relocated to? Does the administration have plans to close any of the local service centers across the state?

    2. We have received multiple reports that constituents have had difficulty reaching New York-based staff at the USDA over the phone. Please share current USDA staffing arrangements for New York. What plans does the administration have to restore staffing capacity in-state and ensure that New Yorkers continue to have access to the essential resources and programs overseen by FSA, NRCS, and USDA RD?

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Supports Legislation to Repeal EV Mandates and Protect Consumer Choice

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) recently led and joined in co-sponsoring several pieces of legislation to repeal various Biden-Harris Administration’s policies under the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that implemented de facto electric vehicle (EV) mandates and restricted consumer choice and competition in the automotive market. 

    “The previous Administration put forward regulations that would essentially mandate the mass production of electric vehicles and a phase-out of gas-powered cars and trucks,” said Crapo.  “Idahoans deserve access to affordable, reliable vehicles fueled by American-made energy products.  We should block any efforts that restrict affordable choice for families and push our country toward greater dependence on China.”

    Crapo led reintroduction of the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act, which would repeal the EPA’s tailpipe emissions rule finalized under the Biden-Harris Administration.

    Crapo was joined by Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) in introducing a comprehensive legislative strategy to protect consumer choice in the automobile market.  As part of this effort, Crapo co-sponsored each of the additional pieces of legislation, including:

    • Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act, led by Senator Mullin, which would prevent the implementation of the Biden EPA’s Advanced Clean Cars II regulation, which bans the sale of all conventional gasoline-powered cars by 2035.
    • Freedom to Haul Act, led by Senator Sullivan, which would safeguard the trucking industry from impractical and costly mandates by preventing the implementation of the EPA’s “Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles-Phase 3” rule, a de facto EV mandate on the trucking industry.
    • Stop California from Advancing Regulatory Burden (CARB) Act, led by Senator Lee, which would eliminate the Clean Air Act waiver exemptions that allow California and other states to dictate national emissions standards.  California has over 100 active waivers that set higher emissions standards than the EPA, increasing costs and decreasing consumer choice in vehicles.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Moran Statement on Michelle Bowman’s Nomination for Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today applauded President Donald Trump’s appointment of Michelle Bowman to serve as the Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision:

    “While wielding significant power in the nation’s capital, Governor Bowman remains rooted in her home state and exemplifies the characteristics Kansans appreciate: independence, integrity, courage and a demonstrated record of service to her state and her country,” said Sen. Moran. “Since being appointed to the board in 2018, Governor Bowman has been a steadfast champion of community banks, and she understands the role that relationships play in business from her experience working at and supervising a small lender. Her perspective is desperately needed at the Federal Reserve, and I look forward to her confirmation.”

    Michelle Bowman was appointed to serve as a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors in 2018. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Kansas State Bank Commissioner.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Moran, Baldwin, Capito, Kaine, Mullin, Hickenlooper Announce Senate 340B Bipartisan Working Group

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) welcomed Sens. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) as new members of the Senate 340B bipartisan working group.

    The 340B program was established to provide certain non-profit health care providers, hospitals and clinics a discount on outpatient drugs. These covered entities then use these savings to provide more comprehensive services to eligible patients and their communities. The Senate 340B working group was founded to advance bipartisan policy solutions that would make certain the program can continue to achieve its intended goal of supporting hospitals serving vulnerable populations like rural communities.

    “The 340B program fulfills a critical purpose of keeping costs low for eligible health care providers and the patients they serve,” said Sen. Moran. “After making significant progress last year, I am pleased to continue the efforts of the Senate 340B bipartisan working group, and add new members, with the shared goal of strengthening the 340B program to ensure its long-term viability. I am grateful for Sen. Thune’s past leadership of this group and look forward to building upon past efforts with this new working group.”

    “The 340B program is crucial in helping ensure that Wisconsinites – especially in rural and hard to reach areas – get the medication and care they need,” said Sen. Baldwin. “I am proud to work with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to strengthen this program and better ensure all Wisconsin can get the health care they need at a price they can afford.”

    “As a long-time member of the Working Group, I welcome our new members and thank our past members for their dedication and work on this important issue,” said Sen. Capito. “The 340B program is vital for my state and I look forward to introducing legislation that provides clarity, transparency, and accountability to ensure the program remains strong.”

    “I often hear from Virginia health care providers, especially those serving rural areas, about the instrumental role the 340B program plays in ensuring that patients can access the medicines they need,” said Sen. Kaine. “That’s why I’ve long appreciated that support for 340B comes from both sides of the aisle, and I’m looking forward to joining this working group so we can make this program even stronger.”

    “Together, we’re working to restore integrity and intent to the 340B program,” said Sen. Mullin. “I appreciate this working group’s transparent and thoughtful process and look forward to driving results for American families.”

    “The 340B program provides lower-cost prescription drugs for millions of Americans and is a lifeline for our community health care providers,” said Sen. Hickenlooper. “We’re working together to make the program more transparent and resilient, so it supports those who need it most.”

    Past work by the Senate 340B bipartisan working group:

    • In February 2024, the 340B working group released a legislative discussion draft and supplemental request for information which included solutions to improve the 340B program.
    • In 2023, the working group requested feedback from stakeholders on ways to improve the 340B program through bipartisan policy solutions.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Moran Statement on USDA’s Rollout of Economic Assistance for Agricultural Producers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry – released the following statement after U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the rollout of the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP), which will provide $10 billion in economic assistance for agricultural producers:

    “Kansas farm families are facing high input costs and low commodity prices, and last year Congress passed economic assistance to make certain our producers can continue planting and feeding the nation amidst uncertain market conditions,” said Sen. Moran. “During her confirmation hearing, I urged Secretary Rollins to prioritize distributing economic assistance to farmers and ranchers across the country. I appreciate Secretary Rollins following through on her commitment and look forward to our farmers receiving the help they require.”

    To streamline and simplify the delivery of Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP), the Farm Service Agency (FSA) will begin sending pre-filled applications to producers who submitted acreage reports to FSA for 2024 eligible ECAP commodities soon after the signup period opens on March 19, 2025. Producers do not have to wait for their pre-filled ECAP application to apply and can visit fsa.usda.gov/ecap to apply or contact their local FSA office to request an application once the sign-up period opens. 

    More information on the ECAP can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Moran, Marshall, Hawley Introduce Legislation to Provide Reliable, Affordable Energy to Kansas & Missouri

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) introduced legislation to help provide stable energy rates and a reliable electric grid to states in the Southwestern Power Administration (SWPA), including Kansas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas.

    The Southwestern Power Administration Fund Establishment Act would give SWPA the authority to operate on a self-funding, revolving Treasury fund to help provide the administration with a long-term, reliable financing source. This would give SWPA more stable funding in order to lower customer rates, which can be highly volatile due to market demand and weather. Furthermore, this legislation would provide SWPA more clarity to help plan long-term infrastructure improvements and power replacement and allow SWPA to avoid drastic and unnecessary spikes in power rates charged to its wholesale customers in an extreme or multi-year regional drought situation.

    “It is critical that Kansans have access to reliable electricity at stable rates, especially during extreme and dangerous weather,” said Sen. Moran. “This legislation will provide funding stability that will allow energy providers to make needed infrastructure improvements and prevent Kansans from suffering mass power outages.”

    “Kansans – especially our farmers and ranchers – need reliable and affordable power,” said Sen. Marshall. “Consumers have suffered from high energy costs for too long, and this bill will help deliver stable and affordable power while improving our power grid infrastructure. I am proud to stand with Senators Jerry Moran and Josh Hawley in supporting this important legislation.”

    “After the devastating tornadoes last weekend that left victims without power for days, Missourians deserve consistent and affordable energy,” said Sen. Hawley. “This legislation will ensure that every Missourian has access to power they can rely on.”

    “Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. and its member co-ops have strongly supported the Southwestern Power Fund Establishment Act for its ability to provide appropriated dollars that will improve grid reliability while helping to stabilize rates,” said Lee Tafanelli, CEO, Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. “We thank our home state Sens. Moran and Marshall for bringing forward legislation that will have a positive impact on our rural electric cooperatives and their consumer-members.”

    “Federal hydropower is a reliably renewable generation resource,” said Nicki Fuller, Executive Director, Southwestern Power Resources Association. “This legislation recognizes the value of protecting that resource throughout the six-state region, making sure that these important assets are maintained. This legislation would go a long way toward ensuring grid reliability and affordably throughout the region for millions of homes, farms and small businesses. I thank Sens. Moran and Marshall for introducing this important bill that represents good business sense.”

    “NRECA supports the Southwestern Power Administration Fund Establishment Act. The self-financed revolving loan fund authorized by this bill would allow the Southwestern Power Administration to better manage infrastructure needs while being more responsive to market conditions and electric demands created by extreme weather events.” – National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

    “The American Public Power Association applauds the introduction of the Southwestern Power Fund Establishment Act. Since 1943, not-for-profit public power utilities and rural electric cooperatives have successfully partnered with the Southwestern Power Administration (SWPA) to bring reliable hydropower produced at Army Corps dams to millions of customers in Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. While SWPA customers pay all costs of generating and transmitting the electricity in their power rates, a complicated funding process has increasingly failed to provide the financial certainty necessary to steady power rates to customers during drought and extreme weather events. The Southwestern Power Fund Establishment Act would streamline this process in a manner that would help avoid rate spikes and economic hardship for communities served by public power utilities and rural electric cooperatives while continuing to ensure that SWPA customers pay all costs associated with generating and transmitting hydropower produced at Corps dams. It is a win-win for the federal government and communities served by not-for-profit electric utilities.” – American Public Power Association

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Moran, Marshall, Rep. Davids Urge USPS Postmaster General to Construct a New Facility in Olathe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) and U.S. Representative Sharice Davids (D-Kan.) today called on United States Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to continue to prioritize joint efforts between the City of Olathe and the USPS to relocate the downtown postal facility and construct a new, efficient and modern facility.

    In an effort to revitalize the downtown area, the City of Olathe is partnering with the USPS to relocate and modernize the current post office in Olathe.

    “We appreciate the progress to date, and we understand the uncertainties USPS may be currently facing,” wrote Sens. Moran, Marshall and Rep. Davids. “However, we wish to again express our strongest support for the project and remind you that each of us remains committed to following the process closely.”

    The full letter can be found here and below.

    Dear Postmaster DeJoy:

    We write regarding the proposed partnership between the USPS and Olathe, Kansas concerning the relocation of the downtown postal facility and construction of a new, efficient and modern facility in its place.

    We appreciate the progress to date, and we understand the uncertainties USPS may be currently facing. However, we wish to again express our strongest support for the project and remind you that each of us remains committed to following the process closely.

    As we have stated before, we believe this type of project can be a model for innovative partnerships benefiting both the USPS and local communities.  We believe it will be achievable in quick order, and it will send a strong message to those legislatively engaged in USPS related issues.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Releases Report on Deaths of Dhal Apet and Lueth Mo

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) today released its report on the deaths of Dhal Apet and Lueth Mo, who died on September 6, 2023 following an encounter with a member of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) in DeWitt, Onondaga County. After a thorough investigation, which included review of nearby home security camera footage and 911 calls, interviews with civilian witnesses, ballistic and trace evidence analysis, video enhancement, consultation with experts in both shooting reconstruction and use of force, and comprehensive legal analysis, OSI concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officer’s actions were justified under New York law.

    On the morning of September 6, an OCSO deputy responded to a 911 call in which the caller said he was seeing what he considered to be “suspicious activity” by people moving objects between two parked cars in a parking lot in a residential neighborhood in DeWitt. The responding deputy had been investigating a nearby burglary earlier that morning, and the 911 call appeared to relate to that burglary.

    When the deputy arrived at the parking lot, one of the cars immediately drove away. The deputy drove his police car nose to nose into the second car to prevent it from leaving, and parked. Mr. Mo was in the front passenger seat of car, and Mr. Apet was in the back seat. As the deputy got out of his police car, the driver of the car that Mr. Apet and Mr. Mo were in backed up and then drove forward, toward the deputy, apparently attempting to flee. The deputy fired his gun three times into the moving car.

    The car drove away and was later found on Mooney Avenue in Syracuse, with Mr. Apet and Mr. Mo inside. Mr. Apet was pronounced dead at the scene, and Mr. Mo was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead later that morning.

    Under New York’s justification law, a police officer may use deadly physical force when the officer reasonably believes it to be necessary to defend against the use of deadly physical force by another. Justification is a defense to criminal charges, and the prosecutor must disprove justification beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    In this case, a car whose occupants were suspected of involvement in an earlier burglary was driving toward the deputy, who was standing in or near its path. Based on enhanced video, civilian statements, expert consultation on the path of the car and the position of the deputy, and expert consultation on the use of force, OSI concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that the deputy reasonably perceived the car to be about to collide with him, nor disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that the deputy reasonably believed that firing into the car was a way to prevent himself from being harmed. Therefore, OSI determined that criminal charges would not be pursued in this matter.

    OSI recommends that OCSO – and all police agencies – should equip officers with body-worn cameras and police vehicles with dashboard cameras. OCSO and all police agencies should also implement policies and training to ensure that police interactions such as these are captured on these cameras to aid in possible investigations such as this one.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 11 Charged in Twin Cities Drug Trafficking, Kidnapping Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – A federal grand jury returned a five-count indictment against 11 individuals associated with a transnational Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) tied to a Mexican cartel in a drug trafficking and kidnapping conspiracy, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. 

    As alleged in the indictment, beginning in July 2023 through January 2025, 11 defendants conspired to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. The DTO leaders arranged for large quantities of methamphetamine to be delivered from Mexico to the Twin Cities area, via the mail and driven by cars and trucks. Once delivered, the Minnesota-based defendants broke large quantities of methamphetamine down into smaller, distributable quantities and sold it to customers throughout the Twin Cities region.  In January 2025, an individual owed a DTO leader in Mexico a substantial amount of money, which they could not pay. Four of the co-defendants lured this individual to a location in St. Paul, Minnesota. They kidnaped the victim, beat the victim, chained the victim to a pole, and the held the victim against their will.  During the kidnaping and beating, a DTO leader instructed one of the defendants over a messaging application, “you are breaking his hands. Break them good.” 

    “This case highlights the inherent danger that transnational drug cartels bring to our country,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “This mob-style violence has no place in America, it has no place in Minnesota, and those who engage in it will be charged federally.”  

    The following individuals have been indicted for the following crimes and have made their initial appearance in federal court:
    •    Richar Sanchez Mujica, 30, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, conspiracy to kidnap, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 
    •    Donovan Rey Lopez, 21, of Minneapolis is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 
    •    Erling Soren Holdahl, 48, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to kidnap. 
    •    Dostin Elizander Ortiz-Garcia, 29, of Burnsville, Minnesota, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
    •    Jonathan Salvador Juarez-Ferrer, 25, of Minneapolis, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
    •    Timothy Duane Ripley, 45, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to kidnap.
    •    Kendra Sue Johnson, 39, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to kidnap.

    Four other members of the conspiracy have not yet made their initial appearances.

    This case is the result of cooperation between Homeland Security Investigations, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the St. Paul Police Department’s Violent Crime Enforcement Team, The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Minneapolis Police Department, Ramsey County, and the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force.  It is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to eliminate cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael P. McBride is prosecuting the case. 

    An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduras Man Sentenced for Illegal Reentry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Honduras pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of illegal reentry of a removed alien and was sentenced to time served and removal from the U.S. on his conviction, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Saul Enrique Padilla-Mejia, 38.

    According to information presented to the Court, Padilla-Mejia was previously removed from the United States on August 13, 2019, and returned to Honduras. On February 4, 2024, the Pennsylvania State Police charged Padilla-Mejia in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County with various traffic offenses as well as driving under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol content of .16% and greater. Those charges remain pending, according to the public docket. Immigration authorities determined that Padilla-Mejia was illegally present in the United States and took him into immigration custody on October 30, 2024. Padilla-Mejia will remain detained until his deportation from the United States.

    Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Padilla-Mejia.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: LeddarTech Announces Receipt of Nasdaq Deficiency Notice

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    QUEBEC CITY, Canada, March 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech® Holdings Inc. (“LeddarTech” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: LDTC), an automotive software company that provides patented disruptive AI-powered low-level sensor fusion and perception software technology, LeddarVision™, today announced that it has received a letter from the Listing Qualifications Department of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC indicating that, based upon the closing bid price of the Company’s common shares for the 30 consecutive business day period from February 4, 2025 through March 18, 2025, the Company did not meet the minimum bid price of US$1.00 per share required for continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market (the “Listing Requirement”). The letter also indicated that the Company will be afforded a period of 180 calendar days to regain compliance.

    The Company intends to actively monitor the closing bid price of its common shares and will evaluate available options to regain compliance with the Listing Requirement. However, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to regain compliance with such Listing Requirement or maintain compliance with any of the other Nasdaq Capital Market continued listing requirements.

    The letter has no immediate effect on the listing of the Company’s common shares, which will continue to be listed and traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “LDTC,” subject to the Company’s compliance with the other continued listing requirements of the Nasdaq Capital Market.

    The foregoing also should be read in conjunction with the disclosures set forth in the Company’s Report of Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and under the Company’s SEDAR+ profile on the date hereof, and the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended September 30, 2024 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and under the Company’s SEDAR+ profile on December 26, 2024, including the disclosures set forth under “Item 3.D – Key Information – Risk Factors” contained therein.

    About LeddarTech

    A global software company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Quebec City with additional R&D centers in Montreal and Tel Aviv, Israel, LeddarTech develops and provides comprehensive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software solutions that enable the deployment of ADAS, autonomous driving (AD) and parking applications. LeddarTech’s automotive-grade software applies advanced AI and computer vision algorithms to generate accurate 3D models of the environment to achieve better decision making and safer navigation. This high-performance, scalable, cost-effective technology is available to OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers to efficiently implement automotive and off-road vehicle ADAS solutions.

    LeddarTech is responsible for several remote-sensing innovations, with over 170 patent applications (87 granted) that enhance ADAS, AD and parking capabilities. Better awareness around the vehicle is critical in making global mobility safer, more efficient, sustainable and affordable: this is what drives LeddarTech to seek to become the most widely adopted sensor fusion and perception software solution.

    Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook and YouTube.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this Press Release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which forward-looking statements also include forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws), including, but not limited to, statements relating to LeddarTech’s anticipated strategy, future operations, prospects, objectives and financial projections and other financial metrics. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend” and other similar expressions among others. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: (i) our ability to continue to maintain compliance with Nasdaq continued listing standards following our transfer to the Nasdaq Capital Market; (ii) our ability to timely access sufficient capital and financing on favorable terms or at all; (iii) our ability to maintain compliance with our debt covenants, including our ability to enter into any forbearance agreements, waivers or amendments with, or obtain other relief from, our lenders as needed; (iv) our ability to execute on our business model, achieve design wins and generate meaningful revenue; (v) our ability to successfully commercialize our product offering at scale, whether through the collaboration agreement with Texas Instruments, a collaboration with a Tier 2 supplier or otherwise; (vi) changes in our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs and plans; (vii) changes in general economic and/or industry-specific conditions; (viii) our ability to retain, attract and hire key personnel; (ix) potential adverse changes to relationships with our customers, employees, suppliers or other parties; (x) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (xi) the outcome of any known and unknown litigation and regulatory proceedings; (xii) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, acts of terrorism, outbreak of war or hostilities and any epidemic, pandemic or disease outbreak, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors; and (xiii) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in LeddarTech’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risk factors contained in LeddarTech’s Form 20-F filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Except as required by applicable law, LeddarTech does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Chris Stewart, Chief Financial Officer, LeddarTech Holdings Inc.
    Tel.: + 1-514-427-0858, chris.stewart@leddartech.com

    Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

    LeddarTech Holdings Inc. is a public company listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LDTC.”

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Las Vegas, Rosen Hosts Roundtable Discussion with Nevada Federal Workers Amid Trump Mass Firings

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    Discussion Included Federal Workers From Multiple Critical Agencies That Serve Veterans And Keep Nevadans Safe
    LAS VEGAS, NV – Amid the Trump Administration’s mass firings, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) held a roundtable discussion in Las Vegas with federal workers. During the discussion, Senator Rosen heard directly about the devastating impact the Trump Administration and Elon Musk are having  on federal workers and agencies that are critical for serving veterans and keeping Nevadans safe.
    “Federal workers in Nevada go to work every day to serve our communities, doing everything from keeping our airports safe to making sure our veterans get the care they deserve,” said Senator Rosen. “It’s outrageous that the Trump Administration and Elon Musk are slashing federal resources and firing federal workers without a care of how this will affect Nevadans’ ability to get the services they rely on, all while working to give more tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy. I sat down with federal workers in Las Vegas today to hear about their experiences and discuss how I’m fighting back against these reckless, illegal actions.”
    Senator Rosen has been a vocal opponent of the Trump Administration’s efforts to cut critical programs Nevadans rely on, all while trying to give further tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy. She has pushed multiple Departments under the Trump Administration for detailed, public information regarding the impacts of President Trump’s federal funding freeze, hiring freeze, and terminations on Nevada – including the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Forest Service, the Social Security Administration, the National Nuclear Security Administration, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Last week, Rosen helped introduce a bill to protect veterans, military spouses, and VA employees indiscriminately targeted in Elon Musk’s DOGE cuts at the VA and across the federal government.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Las Vegas, Rosen Discusses Devastating Impact of Trump’s Tariffs with Local Construction Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    LAS VEGAS, NV – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) hosted a roundtable discussion with members of the Southern Nevada Building Trade Union (SNBTU) to hear about how Trump’s broad-based tariffs are impacting the construction industry, including by increasing costs on the materials needed to build affordable housing. In their discussion, Senator Rosen noted how these tariffs are hurting hardworking Nevada families and hindering our ability to address the nation’s affordable housing crisis. Earlier this month, she sent a letter urging the Trump Administration to reverse course on imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico to prevent housing prices from rising even further. Senator Rosen and the SNBTU members also discussed her work in Congress to protect workers and the importance of investing in workforce training programs like registered apprenticeships.
    “Donald Trump’s reckless, across-the-board tariffs are going to raise prices for Nevadans across the board, and they’re hurting important industries like building and construction,” said Senator Rosen. “Today, I was glad to sit down with construction workers in Las Vegas to hear about the challenges they’re facing from these tariffs, and how I can best support their work, including through new investments in workforce training. I’ll keep leading the charge in Congress to protect workers and address President Trump’s sweeping tariffs and the devastating effects they’re having on our state’s economy.”
    Senator Rosen has been fighting back against Donald Trump’s tariffs and the destructive impacts they’re having on Nevada’s economy. Rosen also helped introduce legislation to require the United States International Trade Commission to investigate how Donald Trump’s recent tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada will impact the American people, and make that information public.
    Senator Rosen has also been a champion for workers, including in the construction industry. Earlier this month, she helped reintroduce the PRO Act, comprehensive legislation to protect workers’ rights to organize and collectively bargain. In January, Rosen introduced bipartisan legislation to invest in skills training for the residential housing construction workforce in order to create good-paying jobs and address a key barrier to building more homes that can help lower housing costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Applauds Trump Executive Order to Increase Domestic Mineral Production 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    March 21, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senate Western Caucus Chair Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released the following statement applauding President Trump’s executive order increasing American mineral production.
    “President Trump’s executive order unleashing America’s vast mineral resources is a welcomed change to the previous administration’s overbearing federal regulations that have eroded our nation’s production capabilities and made us dangerously dependent on foreign adversaries for the minerals that power everything from our smartphones to military equipment,” said Lummis. “This decisive action ensures our national security, defense capabilities, and future technologies rely upon a secure, predictable supply of minerals that Wyoming and western states are uniquely positioned to provide. This action will create good-paying American jobs across western mining communities that will fuel prosperity while restoring our rightful position as the world’s leading mineral producer, proving that putting American works and interests first strengthens both our economy and national security.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Warner & Colleagues Demand Answers Over Trump Administration’s Illegal Cancellation of Grants to Train and Retain Quality Teachers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Mark R. Warner (both D-VA) joined 23 of their colleagues in a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon demanding detailed answers about the Trump Administration’s illegal cancellation of over $600 million in federal funding for teacher training grants, and to warn the Secretary of the detrimental effects the cancellation is already having on communities across the nation.
    “We write to raise serious objections and call for the immediate reinstatement of federal funding provided in the Department of Education’s (Department) appropriations laws intended to help strengthen our educator workforce in at least 34 states and improve teaching and learning for our nation’s students. It is shocking to us that the Department would take such disruptive action to take away funding from schools as they work to implement their approved plans to improve outcomes for our nation’s students,” the senators wrote.
    The senators continued, “The cancellation of these grants comes at a time when our country faces dire teacher shortages. A recent analysis of state-identified teacher shortages found that in recent school years, nationally, 1 in 8 of all teaching positions—or over 400,000 positions— are vacant or filled by a teacher who is not fully certified for their position. … Congress created and funded the Teacher Quality Partnership, Supporting Effective Educator Development, and Teacher and School Leader Incentive Fund programs in a bipartisan manner to ensure that all students have access to an effective educator workforce. The Department’s decision to terminate locally-driven grants previously awarded to schools, institutions of higher education, and other partners to address educator shortages and improve the quality of the teaching workforce will have long-term consequences on student outcomes.”
    Regarding the confusion and distress caused by the cancellation of funds already promised, the senators wrote, “Cutting off grant funds already adopted and in use in local budgets shows utter disregard to local officials who are now faced with a lengthy process for challenging the terminations and are required to adjust their adopted budgets and plans. These local communities may also face difficult decisions to curtail activities paid for by these terminated grant funds, such as recruiting teachers in rural communities, improving literacy, and mentoring early-career teachers to improve retention.  Ultimately, the Department’s decision to terminate these grant funds simply passes necessary expenses onto local and state taxpayers, who may have to sustain costs previously supported by federal funds that have been taken away by the Trump administration.”
    “We are deeply disappointed that despite claims of radical transparency from President Trump and other administration officials, the Department has not provided any transparency to Congress or the public about its teacher training grant terminations. Instead, the President’s disregard for the law and his desire to find savings to pay for his tax cuts for billionaires and large corporations seems to be driving these terminations. Given the need for actual transparency, stability, and productivity in government, as well as the bipartisan support these critical education training programs have received for many years, it is critical for the Department to provide accurate, timely responses on its use of taxpayer resources provided by the laws passed by Congress,” the senators wrote before concluding their request with a detailed list of questions for McMahon.
    The letter was led by Kaine and U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and signed by Warner and U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jack Reed (D-RI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Edward Markey (D-MA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Andy Kim (D-NJ).  
    The full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary McMahon:
    We write to raise serious objections and call for the immediate reinstatement of federal funding provided in the Department of Education’s (“Department”) appropriations laws intended to help strengthen our educator workforce in at least 34 states and improve teaching and learning for our nation’s students. Approximately two weeks ago, the Department announced that it terminated “over $600 million in divisive teacher training grants” and created confusion for schools and institutions of higher education around our nation.[1][2][3] The amount of reported savings is misleading since many of the terminated grants had already been partially spent and were in active use. Further, it appears that terminated grantees received no information from Department staff in response to their requests for additional information, even for grants with obligated and spent funds.[4]  It is shocking to us that the Department would take such disruptive action to take away funding from schools as they work to implement their approved plans to improve outcomes for our nation’s students. Thankfully, a federal judge ordered the administration to temporarily restore these grants in eight states[5] and just yesterday, another federal judge ordered the reinstatement of more than 100 of these grants,[6] but every impacted grantee deserves immediate action. 
    U.S. students have not recovered from the devastating effects of the pandemic. National scores are below pre-pandemic levels in all tested grades and subjects, and gaps continue to grow between higher-performing and lower-performing students.  A February 2025 analysis found that our students are approximately half a grade level behind pre-pandemic achievement in math and reading.[7] With teachers and principals being the most important in-school factors to student learning, these grant cancellations will hinder pandemic learning recovery and break President Trump’s promises of “great principals and great teachers.”[8] 
    The cancellation of these grants comes at a time when our country faces dire teacher shortages. A recent analysis of state-identified teacher shortages found that in recent school years, nationally, 1 in 8 of all teaching positions—or over 400,000 positions— are vacant or filled by a teacher who is not fully certified for their position.[9] This school year, 49 states reported to the Department critical shortages in math, science, or special education teachers.[10] In rural America, to attract and retain teachers in many places, including in states like Colorado,[11] Louisiana,[12] Missouri,[13] and Texas,[14] districts were forced to move to 4-day school weeks, despite the unknown impact on student achievement. Research shows that principals are the second most important in-school factor to student learning and also impact teacher retention. Yet, about one in ten principals leave the field every year.[15]
    Congress created and funded the Teacher Quality Partnership (TQP), Supporting Effective Educator Development (SEED), and Teacher and School Leader (TSL) Incentive Fund programs in a bipartisan manner to ensure that all students have access to an effective educator workforce.  The Department’s decision to terminate locally-driven grants previously awarded to schools, institutions of higher education, and other partners to address educator shortages and improve the quality of the teaching workforce will have long-term consequences on student outcomes. These terminations create confusion for dozens of local communities supported by now unavailable grant funds.[16]  Cutting off grant funds already adopted and in use in local budgets shows utter disregard to local officials who are now faced with a lengthy process for challenging the terminations and are required to adjust their adopted budgets and plans. [17] These local communities may also face difficult decisions to curtail activities paid for by these terminated grant funds, such as recruiting teachers in rural communities, improving literacy, and mentoring early-career teachers to improve retention.  Ultimately, the Department’s decision to terminate these grant funds simply passes necessary expenses onto local and state taxpayers, who may have to sustain costs previously supported by federal funds that have been taken away by the Trump administration. 
    We are deeply disappointed that despite claims of radical transparency from President Trump and other administration officials, the Department has not provided any transparency to Congress or the public about its teacher training grant terminations. Instead, the President’s disregard for the law and his desire to find savings to pay for his tax cuts for billionaires and large corporations seems to be driving these terminations. Given the need for actual transparency, stability, and productivity in government, as well as the bipartisan support these critical education training programs have received for many years, it is critical for the Department to provide accurate, timely responses on its use of taxpayer resources provided by the laws passed by Congress. We request you provide written answers to the following questions as soon as possible but not later than March 26, 2025:
    Please describe the policy and procedure established for the review of grants terminated on or after January 20, 2025.
    Are they the same as any grant terminations prior to this date?  If not, how and why were they different, including in the use of any program or technology not previously employed?
    Please identify the offices and titles of staff involved in the review.
    How many employees involved in the review were onboarded at the Department on or after January 20, 2025?  Please describe each of such employee’s role in the review.
    Please provide the total costs, including all personnel and non-personnel costs, of the review.
    Please identify any other program currently undergoing or planned for the same or similar review and the associated timeline for each such review. 
    Please specifically identify each program undergoing a different review and explain each difference and the reason for each such difference for such program.

    Please explain the policy and procedure for offering grantees the opportunity to clarify, explain or modify any element of their approved application prior to termination to avoid the disruption to grant activities that the Department’s termination has caused.  Please explain why an opportunity was not offered in each case of it not being offered. 
    Please explain the policy and procedure for offering grantees the opportunity to appeal their grant termination. When will appeals be reviewed, and when will grantees receive a decision on their appeal?
    For each program that includes a terminated grant, please provide the following about all such terminated grants:
    The total number of grants terminated by fiscal year of initial funding,
    The total amount of funding expected under the approved budgets of terminated grants on official documentation as of January 1, 2025 for each fiscal year,
    The total amount of funding outlaid as of the date of response to this letter for each fiscal year, and
    The total amount of funding deobligated by fiscal year as of the date of termination.

    For each program that includes a terminated grant, please provide the following about all such terminated grants:
    The total number of educators expected to participate in professional development activities,
    The total number of new educators expected to be prepared,
    The expected number of years of service that were expected from participants under each grant,
    The number of years of service that had already been completed,
    The total number of schools expected to benefit from any grant activities, and
    The total number of states in which any grant activities were expected to take place.

    For each program that includes a terminated grant, please provide the following:
    The name of each recipient of a grant not terminated by program and fiscal year of initial funding,
    An assurance that each non-terminated grant was subject to the same policy and procedure described in response to the first question, and as applicable, the reason for not doing so, and
    Please provide the most recent annual performance report submitted by each non-terminated grantee prior to January 1, 2025.

    For each terminated grant, please provide the most recent annual performance report submitted by such grantee prior to January 1, 2025, if applicable.
    For each terminated grant, please provide the following:
    The Department’s definition of divisive ideology,
    The Department’s definition of inappropriate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and
    The specific evidence demonstrating how the grantee’s approved grant activities are inconsistent with such definitions of divisive ideology and DEI.

    Please explain how and when you will comply with the temporary restraining orders issued by  federal judges on March 10, 2025 and March 17, 2025.
    Please provide a detailed plan on how the Department will prioritize training and preparing educators for the classroom.
    Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We look forward to your prompt response.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine Push USDA to Reverse Decision Cancelling Vital Food Service Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) wrote a letter to Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins urging the Trump administration to reverse their decision cancelling the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS), vital programs that support Virginia’s food banks, schools, and other food providers in purchasing food directly from local farms, ranchers and producers.
    Across the country, LFPA and LFS boost local economies by allowing states to procure local food and distribute to providers. With USDA’s decision, Virginia alone will lose out on nearly $21 million in federal funding that would directly support the Commonwealth’s farmers, ranchers and other food producers. Already in Virginia, the impact of these abrupt cancellations are felt, with local food banks struggling to make ends meet following the sudden loss of funding.
    “LFPA and LFS allow Virginia to procure local food and distribute to providers such as food banks and schools, benefitting producers, those experiencing food insecurity, and local economies,” the senators wrote. “In Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25), Virginia was eligible to receive nearly $21 million through LFPA and LFS – including $10.1 million for schools and $3.4 million for childcare facilities – to support 183 farmers in providing fresh produce and other healthy foods to food-insecure households across the Commonwealth. With USDA’s decision to cancel these funds, Virginia farmers are deprived of a crucial market for this season and low-income communities face even greater barriers to access fresh, healthy foods.”
    They continued, “Cancelling LFPA and LFS, with the ~$21 million Virginia was to receive in FY25, hurts Virginia farmers, food providers, families, and those working tirelessly to support them.”
    A copy of letter is available here and text is below.
    Dear Secretary Rollins:
    We write to share our serious concerns regarding the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision to cancel the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) and the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program (LFS), both vital programs intended to support Virginia’s food systems by expanding purchases from local producers and distributing that fresh food to underserved communities. We strongly urge you to reverse this decision and continue these programs of great importance to Virginia’s local communities.
    LFPA and LFS allow Virginia to procure local food and distribute to providers such as food banks and schools, benefitting producers, those experiencing food insecurity, and local economies. In Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25), Virginia was eligible to receive nearly $21 million through LFPA and LFS – including $10.1 million for schools and $3.4 million for childcare facilities – to support 183 farmers in providing fresh produce and other healthy foods to food-insecure households across the Commonwealth. With USDA’s decision to cancel these funds, Virginia farmers are deprived of a crucial market for this season and low-income communities face even greater barriers to access fresh, healthy foods.
    Communities across the Commonwealth work with USDA and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to ensure LFPA and LFS funding has the maximum impact among families, farmers, and local economies. In the first year of LFPA, for example, over 100 local producers were supported, providing over 100,000 Virginians with fresh, healthy food. This is fresh, nutritious produce for food-insecure families that often cannot afford healthy food, all while providing local farmers a dependable market for their products. Cancelling LFPA and LFS, with the ~$21 million Virginia was to receive in FY25, hurts Virginia farmers, food providers, families, and those working tirelessly to support them. 
    Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren and Duckworth Demand Answers from Hegseth on Reports of Musk’s Planned Top-Secret Briefing on U.S. War Plans for China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    March 21, 2025
    Musk has extensive conflicts of interests, allegations of illegal drug use, and reports of previous problems protecting national security information 
    “Although they may satisfy his curiosity, there is no legitimate national security or other rationale for providing (top-secret war plans) to Mr. Musk.”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, wrote to the Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, demanding clarity on meetings held by Elon Musk at the Pentagon today, with questions about whether he received a “top-secret briefing on U.S. war plans for China” that media reports indicated would have provided him with access to information that is “among the military’s most closely guarded secrets.”
    Initial reports from the New York Times, later confirmed by the Wall Street Journal, indicated that Elon Musk was scheduled to receive such a briefing today, “because he asked for one.” But President Trump, Elon Musk and Secretary Hegseth indicated that they may have reversed course after this news became public. However, it still remains unclear what information Mr. Musk received at the Pentagon today.
    “We hope that you did not share top-secret war plans with Mr. Musk today and do not do so in the future,” wrote the senators. “Although they may satisfy his curiosity, there is no legitimate national security or other rationale for providing this information to Mr. Musk – who is not a military or national security expert, is not a member of the President’s cabinet, and is not even serving as a permanent federal employee.”
    Although Mr. Musk is ostensibly engaged in an effort to cut wasteful spending with his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), there is no need for him to obtain access to some of our most sensitive secrets in order to do so. Meanwhile, Mr. Musk’s conflicts of interest also raise significant concerns.
    Mr. Musk has extensive business interests in China through his automotive company, including a factory in Shanghai that “was built with special permission from the Chinese government” and “now accounts for more than half of (the company)’s global deliveries.” Along with Mr. Musk’s “extensive financial interests in China,” in public, Mr. Musk has “avoided criticizing Beijing and signaled his willingness to work with the Chinese Community Party (CCP).” He has parroted CCP talking points – contrary to the current official U.S. foreign policy – that Taiwan is “an integral part of China”  and should become a special administrative zone like Hong Kong.
    “The military’s top-secret information is classified as top secret for a reason,” concluded the senators. “The unauthorized disclosure of such information to any one of our adversaries could pose exceptionally grave national security risks.”
    The senators asked Secretary Hegseth a series of questions to establish an accurate accounting of Mr. Musk’s briefing, including precisely what information was provided to Mr. Musk today and why.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s executive order to dismantle the Education Department was inspired by the Heritage Foundation’s decades-long disapproval of the agency

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Fred L. Pincus, Emeritus Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County

    The Heritage Foundation flag flies over its building on July 30, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

    President Donald Trump issued an executive order on March 20, 2025, that calls for closing the U.S. Department of Education.

    The president needs congressional approval to shutter the department. The order, however, directs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to “take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Department of Education and return authority over education to the States and local communities while ensuring the effective and uninterrupted delivery of services, programs, and benefits on which Americans rely.”

    The executive order reflects many recommendations from the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, a conservative political initiative to revamp the federal government. But it’s worth noting that the foundation’s attempt to abolish the Education Department goes back more than 40 years.

    The think tank first called for limiting the federal role in education in 1981. That’s when it issued its first Mandate for Leadership, a book offering conservative policy recommendations.

    As a sociology professor focused on diversity and social inequality, I’ve followed the Heritage Foundation’s efforts to eliminate the Department of Education since 1981. Although the idea didn’t garner enough support 44 years ago, the current political climate makes conditions more favorable.

    Mandate 1981

    In its 1981 mandate, the Heritage Foundation struck now-familiar themes.

    Its education policy recommendations included closing the Department of Education and “reducing its controls over American education.”

    Additionally, the think tank called on lawmakers to repeal the 1965 Elementary and Secondary Education Act, which provides federal funding for disadvantaged students in K-12, so that “the department’s influence on state and local education policy and practice through discretionary grant authority would disappear.”

    And the Heritage Foundation called for ending federal support for programs it claimed were designed to “turn elementary- and secondary-school classrooms into vehicles for liberal-left social and political change …”

    The Heritage Foundation building is seen on July 30, 2024, in Washington, D.C.
    Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

    Education experts disputed these proposed reforms just a few years later.

    Four educational task forces, composed mainly of educators, corporate executives and politicians, published reports on education in 1983. All four reports were critical of the more liberal education policies of the 1960s and 1970s – such as an emphasis on student feelings about race, for example, rather than a focus on basic skills.

    But they all saw the need for a strong federal role in education.

    The four reports blamed the U.S. educational system for losing ground to Japan and Western Europe. And all called for more required courses rather than the “curriculum smorgasbord” that had become the norm in many public schools. They all wanted longer school days, longer school years and better-trained teachers.

    Nevertheless, President Ronald Reagan tried unsuccessfully to abolish the Department of Education in 1983.

    Project 2025

    Jumping ahead more than 40 years, Project 2025 reflects many of the main themes the Heritage Foundation addressed in the 1981 mandate. The first line of Project 2025’s chapter on education states: “Federal education policy should be limited and, ultimately, the federal Department of Education should be eliminated.”

    The charges of leftist indoctrination have expanded. Now, conservative advocates are calling to eliminate anything that has to do with diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI.

    Other executive orders that Trump has signed reflect these attitudes.

    For example, they call for defending women from “gender ideology extremism” and eliminating “radical” DEI policies.

    According to Project 2025, school choice – which gives students the freedom to choose schools that best fit their needs – should be promoted through tuition tax credits and vouchers that provide students with public funds to attend private school. And federal education programs should either be dismantled or moved to other federal departments.

    Current political climate

    In the 1980s, the Heritage Foundation was seen as part of the New Right, a coalition that opposed issues such as abortion, homosexuality and affirmative action. The GOP’s alliance with conservative evangelical Christians, mobilized by advocacy groups such as Jerry Falwell’s Moral Majority, was picking up steam, but it was still seen as marginal.

    By 2025, things have moved significantly to the right.

    Conservative Republicans in Congress view the Heritage Foundation as an important voice in educational politics.

    The far right is emboldened by Trump after his Cabinet appointments and pardons of Jan. 6 rioters.

    And Christian Nationalism – the belief that the United States is defined by Christianity – has grown.

    Paul Dans, director of the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, speaks at the National Conservative Conference in Washington, D.C., on July 10, 2024.
    Dominic Gwinn/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

    Trump’s executive order does not abolish the Education Department. He needs congressional approval to do that.

    But he has already weakened it. His administration recently canceled nearly $900 million in contracts at the Institute of Education Sciences, the independent research arm of the Education Department.

    Despite public reluctance to eliminate the department – in February, 63% of U.S. residents said they opposed its elimination – it looks like Heritage Foundation influence could cause significant damage, with the additional firing of staff members and the reduced distribution of funds.

    McMahon sent a directive to department employees in early March calling the dismantling of their agency a “final mission.”

    Fred L. Pincus does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Trump’s executive order to dismantle the Education Department was inspired by the Heritage Foundation’s decades-long disapproval of the agency – https://theconversation.com/trumps-executive-order-to-dismantle-the-education-department-was-inspired-by-the-heritage-foundations-decades-long-disapproval-of-the-agency-250605

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada invests over $107 million to help stop gun violence and fight crime in Québec

    Source: Government of Canada News

    March 21, 2025 – Ottawa, ON

    Today, the Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, announced that the Government of Canada is investing $107.3 million to fight crime in Quebec. This includes $84.8 million through the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund and up to $22.5 million in federal support until 2027 to bolster Quebec’s participation in the National DNA Data Bank – an essential tool to solving crimes.

    Combatting gun violence

    The $84.8 million, through to 2028, supports efforts by community organizations and law enforcement to combat gun violence and keep our communities safe. This announcement will ensure the renewal and implementation of promising initiatives in crime prevention, crime repression and the development of knowledge and skills on the subject in Quebec. These initiatives target both the use of armed violence to support the activities of organized crime groups, and the more erratic use of violence resulting from conflicts between rival gangs. This investment builds on the success of the Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence (ITAAGGV), announced in 2017, which provides federal support to provinces and territories who then distribute the funding to where it has the biggest impact on reducing gun violence.

    The ITAAGGV is a central part of the government’s plan to fight crime and keep Canadians safe. It includes investing in the men and women who protect our borders, building capacity to further strengthen our cooperation with the United States to fight gun smuggling, developing knowledge informing major changes to strengthen our firearms legislation, as well as support for prevention and enforcement efforts.

    Enhancing forensic capacity

    The funding of up to $22.5 million through to 2027 for the National DNA Data Bank will help law enforcement across Canada identify suspects, persons of interest and victims through DNA matches. This investment builds on existing federal funding of $3.45 million annually, provided through Public Safety Canada’s Biology Casework Analysis Contribution Program and will go toward boosting forensic lab capacity, purchasing new equipment and hiring more staff. These enhancements are expected to result in an increase in the number of DNA profiles uploaded to the national data base each year, strengthening criminal investigations and prosecutions both in the province and across the country. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada provides funding to respond to crises in Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    March 21, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Canada recognizes that the world is grappling with increasing geopolitical uncertainty, with conflicts spanning several continents impacting millions of people. This is why Canada is dedicated to doing its part to support those in need by collaborating with trusted and reliable partners on international assistance efforts.

    Today, the Sudanese people continue to bear the brunt of the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, which started in April 2023. More than 12.8 million people have been forced to flee as they faced unspeakable human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law. And in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the escalating violence has displaced hundreds of thousands of people across the eastern DRC and exacerbated the longstanding humanitarian crisis.

    To address the needs of the people affected by these conflicts, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development, today announced that Canada is providing more than $116 million in humanitarian, development and peace and security assistance funding for Sudan ($75 million) and the DRC (more than $41 million).

    In Sudan, this includes:

    • $60 million in humanitarian assistance funding, bringing the total funding of Canada’s humanitarian response in Sudan to $64 million in 2025; this funding is being provided to the UN, the Red Cross and NGO partners to deliver life-saving assistance, including food, protection, health, water, sanitation and hygiene services
    • $5 million in development assistance funding to enhance the dignity and safety of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and to strengthen the capacity of health care providers in the clinical management of rape survivors and psychological first aid services
    • $10 million in peace and security funding to protect civilians and humanitarian workers and facilitate the delivery of much needed humanitarian assistance in conflict-affected areas by reducing the threat of explosive ordnance contamination

     In the DRC, this includes:

    • over $26 million in humanitarian assistance funding, bringing Canada’s humanitarian response in the DRC to more than $42 million in 2025; this funding is being provided to the UN, the Red Cross and NGO partners to deliver life-saving assistance, including food, protection, health, water, sanitation and hygiene services
    • $15 million in development assistance funding to strengthen the capacity of national institutions and local civil society to protect conflict-affected women and girls from gender-based violence, to provide holistic care to sexual- and gender-based violence survivors and to support displaced families in their transition from emergency food assistance to sustainable food sources and livelihoods        

    Canada calls on all parties to these conflicts to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, in accordance with their obligations under international humanitarian law. They must allow and facilitate safe, rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian assistance for civilians in need. Canada also urges them to promote accountability for international humanitarian law and human rights law violations. Canada continues to call on all parties to immediately cease hostilities and to conduct negotiations in good faith on a peaceful resolution through inclusive dialogue.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada to provide updates on dental care

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Media advisory

    March 21, 2025, Newmarket, ON

    The Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Health, will make an announcement about the Canadian Dental Care Plan.

    There will be a media availability following the announcement.

    Date

    March 22, 2025

    Time

    10:00 a.m. (ET)

    Location

    York Region Administrative Centre
    Great Hall
    17250 Yonge St
    Newmarket, ON

    Media may also join the event by Zoom.

    https://hc-sc-gc-ca.zoom.us/j/64414543211
    Passcode: 707459

    Media Inquiries

    Matthew Kronberg
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Kamal Khera
    Minister of Health
    343-552-5654
    matthew.kronberg@hc-sc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Health Canada
    613-957-2983
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Three Appointments to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission, Fills One County Office Vacancy

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MARCH 21, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced three appointments to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Council and the appointment of a new Atchison County Treasurer.

    Roye Cole, of Rogersville, was appointed to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.

    Mr. Cole has served as Sheriff of Webster County since 2008 and has been a certified police officer since 2003. He previously worked as a deputy juvenile officer for the State of Missouri and as a security guard at Drury University. Cole holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Criminology and a Master of Business Administration from Drury University, with expertise in leadership, management, and economics.

    Amanda Grellner, of Linn, was appointed to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.

    Ms. Grellner has served as the prosecuting attorney for Osage County since 2002. In addition to her prosecutorial work, Grellner has held leadership roles in various organizations such as the Community Health Center of Central Missouri, Missouri Association of Treatment Court Professionals, Rape and Abuse Crisis Service, and the Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Missouri and earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law.

    Kurt D. Marquart, of Lee’s Summit, was appointed to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.

    Mr. Marquart is a retired attorney, and has operated a private law practice since 1991. Before practicing law, he served as a Missouri State Highway Patrolman. Marquart is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, Missouri Bar Association, and the Knights of Columbus. He also serves as a director for the Missouri Association of State Troopers Emergency Relief Society (MASTERS). He earned his Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement from Southeast Missouri State University and his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law.

    Tasha Zach, of Rock Port, was appointed as the Atchison County Treasurer.

    Ms. Zach is currently filling the vacant county treasurer position, having been appointed by the county commission in December of 2024. She previously served as an accounts payable deputy and the election deputy in the Atchison County clerk’s office for over nine years. Ms. Zach holds an Office Information Systems Technology certificate from Iowa Western Community College.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Finds Physician Guilty of Operating a Pill Mill from His D.C. Medical Practice

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Ndubuisi Joseph Okafor, M.D., 65, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, was found guilty today by a federal jury in U.S. District Court in connection with illegally distributing prescriptions for narcotics in exchange for cash from his Northwest Washington D.C. medical clinic.

                The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, FBI Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, Special Agent in Charge Maureen R. Dixon of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Daniel W. Lucas, Inspector General for the District of Columbia, and DEA Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division.

                The jury found Okafor guilty of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances (outside the practice of medicine), maintaining a drug-involved premises, and 23 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances (oxycodone and promethazine with codeine). U.S. District Judge John D. Bates scheduled a sentencing hearing for June 20, 2025. 

               According to court documents and evidence at trial, between May 2021 and April of 2023, Okafor was the sole practitioner and owner of Okafor Medical Associates, an internal medicine clinic in Northwest, Washington, D.C. The USAO and FBI began investigating Okafor for illegal distribution of controlled substances after it received information from law enforcement agencies nationwide regarding prescriptions from Okafor being connected to local drug trafficking networks.

                Between February 18, 2022, and November 30, 2022, the FBI sent confidential sources and undercover agents into Okafor’s medical practice for walk-in appointments. Each individual was prescribed opioids by Okafor after minimal examination. Further investigation revealed that Okafor was operating a nationwide drug distribution scheme, whereby he would prescribe opioids to numerous individuals using false identities, whom Okafor knew to be diverting the medication.

                Okafor’s conduct spanned at least 45 states and resulted in hundreds of thousands of units of oxycodone and promethazine with codeine liquid prescribed nationwide. Okafor was convicted of distribution of opioids to undercover sources, numerous uncharged co-conspirators, and to a civilian patient J.V. Okafor was also convicted of conspiracy and maintaining a drug-involved premises. Evidence at trial further established that, after Okafor was notified by the D.C. Board of Health that J.V.’s family member filed a complaint against him, he created backdated medical records for J.V. in an attempt to justify his prescribing.

                The investigation also resulted in the immediate suspension of Okafor’s DEA registration number in September 2023 as he was deemed to be a threat to public health and safety.

                The case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations with valuable assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division.

                The U.S. Attorney’s Office and Justice Department gratefully acknowledge the Apex, North Carolina Police Department, the Warsaw, New York, Police Department, the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police, State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy, and the Noble County, Ohio, Sheriff’s Office for their extraordinary efforts, support, and cooperation during the investigation and trial.

                The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith Mayer-Dempsey, Trial Attorney Kathryn Furtado and paralegals Rebecca Walton, Dillon Clark, and Matthew McClarnon of the Justice Department’s Fraud Section. The team also extends its deep appreciation to Michael Goodrich, Lead Travel Analyst of the Justice Department’s Fraud Section. 

    23cr116

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Louisville Middle School Teacher Sentenced to Over 19 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Louisville, KY – A former middle school teacher in Louisville, Kentucky was sentenced today to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison for multiple child pornography charges. 

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.

    “I commend the FBI’s outstanding work during the investigation of this case and that of AUSA McKiness for his tireless effort in prosecuting it,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “Combatting the sexual exploitation of our children is a priority of this office and working with our law enforcement partners we will continue to identify, arrest, and aggressively prosecute those who victimize our most vulnerable citizens.”   

    “Jordan Fautz chose to abuse his position of trust by egregiously violating the privacy of innocent children. His sentencing marks a critical step in our efforts to combat the exploitation of children,” said Special Agent in Charge Stansbury. “With the emergence of offenders using cutting-edge technology to inflict harm and pain on one of our most vulnerable populations, law enforcement will exhaust all of its available resources and expertise to ensure those who choose to abuse children in any way face justice.”

    According to court documents, Jordan Fautz, 40, was sentenced to 19 years and 7 months in prison, followed by 30 years of supervised release, for three counts of distribution of child pornography, two counts of distribution of the obscene visual representation of child sexual abuse, one count of production of the obscene visual representation of child sexual abuse, and one count of possession of child pornography. Fautz used an online chatting application to distribute child sexual abuse material to an undercover law enforcement officer. Fautz also produced and distributed photoshopped images depicting minors’ faces on the bodies of people engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Fautz also possessed material depicting child sexual abuse on his computers and cell phone.

    Fautz was also ordered to pay $28,130 in restitution to victims.

    There is no parole in the federal system.     

    This case was investigated by the FBI.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Spencer McKiness prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by 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 individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.  For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

    ### 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rome-Area Fentanyl Dealer Receives Federal Prison Sentence

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROME, Ga. – Deaja Simone Clemons has been sentenced for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl.                                                                                                                                        

    “Clemons admits to selling thousands of fentanyl pills at a time that the illegal distribution and use of this drug continues to ravage communities within and outside our district,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. “Our Office is grateful for the collaboration among our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners which makes it possible to combat the threat of drug traffickers like Clemons.”

    “Illicit drugs like fentanyl has destroyed countless lives,”  said Jae W. Chung, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “Keeping our communities safe is our highest priority.”

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the charges, and other information presented in court: In February 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Rome, Georgia, Field Office received information that Deaja Clemons was dealing fentanyl in the Rome area. A subsequent investigation revealed that in the month of February, Clemons sold 121 blue pills marked with M30 (counterfeit pills made to resemble oxycodone 30 mg pills) that contained fentanyl. Clemons had sold 60 of those fentanyl pills in Rome, and 61 in Cedartown, Georgia. 

    In early April 2024, DEA special agents and Polk County police officers followed Clemons from Rome to Polk County. Polk County officers stopped Clemons en route back to Rome and, during a search of her car, recovered 124 blue, counterfeit “M30” pills containing fentanyl and $3,922 in cash. Clemons was arrested and, during the investigation that followed, DEA special agents discovered that Clemons had been selling about 300 fentanyl pills a week for approximately three months.

    United States District Judge William M. Ray, II, sentenced Deaja Simone Clemons, 29, of Rome, Ga., to 63 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Clemons was convicted of the charges on December 13, 2024, after she pleaded guilty.          

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Atlanta-Carolinas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AC-HIDTA), and the Polk County Police Department.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas M. Forsyth, III and Calvin A. Leipold, III prosecuted the case.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strategic Initiative focused on combatting the fentanyl crisis in northwest Georgia. OCDETF identifies and eliminates the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    Anyone with information about drug sales/trafficking in their area can report it to the GBI at1-800-597-TIPS (8477) or DEA’s Atlanta Division Office at (404) 893-7000. Online tips can be submitted at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip.

    The Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia encourages parents and children to learn about the dangers of fentanyl and other drugs at the following websites: www.justthinktwice.gov, www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.com, www.operationprevention.com/, www.CampusDrugPrevention.gov, and www.dea.gov/onepill.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 17 Previously Removed Defendants – Including Convicted Felons – Charged with Being Illegal Aliens Found in U.S. After Removal

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Working with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal law enforcement partners, federal prosecutors in the last week filed charges against 17 defendants who allegedly illegally re-entered the United States after being removed, the Justice Department announced today.    

    Many of the defendants charged were previously convicted of felony offenses before they were removed from the United States, offenses that include assault with bodily injury. One of the defendants is suspected of murder while another was arrested on suspicion of committing assault with intent to rape.

    The crime of being found in the United States following removal carries a base sentence of up to two years in federal prison. Defendants who were removed after being convicted of a felony face a maximum 10-year sentence and defendants removed after being convicted of an aggravated felony face a maximum of 20 years in federal prison.

    Some of the recently filed cases are summarized below with information contained in court documents.

    • Jescar Amarzca-Olgiuen, 51, of Mexico, was charged via a federal criminal complaint with being an illegal alien found in the United States after removal. Amarzca was charged after he was arrested in Orange County on March 19 as a suspect in the 2023 murder of a man who died from multiple gunshot wounds. His criminal history includes a felony conviction in 2013 in San Diego federal court for fraud and misuse of visas and permits, for which he was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison.
    • Marvin Campos Cerna, 29, of El Salvador, was charged via a federal criminal complaint with being an illegal alien found in the United States after removal. Campos was charged after he was arrested in West Hollywood on March 7 for allegedly committing assault with intent to rape, false imprisonment, sodomy, and kidnapping. Prior to this arrest, Campos was convicted in 2014 for assault with bodily injury, for which he was sentenced to six years in California state prison.
    • Victor Navarro-Cota, 23, and Tereso Guadalupe Martinez-Reyes, 20, both of Mexico, were arrested near Barstow on March 13 while driving a black Chevrolet Suburban filled with 478 pairs of Nike Jordan 6 Rings shoes, which retail for approximately $170 per pair, totaling $81,260. Both Martinez-Reyes and Navarro-Cota were in the U.S. illegally and each previously was deported in February 2025. Navarro-Cota’s arraignment is scheduled for April 22. Martinez-Reyes’ arraignment is scheduled for April 1.

    Criminal complaints contain allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations are investigating these matters.

    The criminal cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys in the Domestic Security and Immigration Crimes Section and the General Crimes Section.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Silvaco Announces Departure of Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silvaco Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SVCO) (“Silvaco” or the “Company”), a provider of TCAD, EDA software and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation, today announced that Chief Financial Officer, Ryan Benton, has resigned, effective April 11, 2025, to pursue a new career opportunity  outside of the semiconductor design industry. Mr. Benton will assist the Company to ensure a successful transition of his responsibilities prior to his departure. His resignation is not the result of any disagreement regarding the Company’s operations, accounting, or other policies or practices.

    Effective upon Mr. Benton’s resignation, Dr. Babak Taheri, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, will assume the roles of principal financial officer and principal accounting officer on an interim basis. Keith Tainsky, who leads the Company’s Financial Planning and Analysis function, will report directly to Dr. Taheri as Interim Chief Financial Officer upon Mr. Benton’s departure. Mr. Tainsky has held CFO and finance leadership positions at public and private companies in the semiconductor industry, including Exar Corporation and Amkor Technology. He joined Silvaco in 2023 and has been instrumental in the Company’s financial and business functions, including strategic planning, financings, mergers and acquisitions, and investor relations. In addition, Sherry Lin, Corporate Controller, will report directly to Dr. Taheri. She joined Silvaco in November 2023 and has been instrumental in leading the Company’s accounting and public company reporting function, preparation of periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and establishing the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting.

    Silvaco has begun the process of engaging a search firm to assist in identifying Mr. Benton’s replacement.

    “On behalf of our employees and Board of Directors, I want to thank Ryan for his leadership and contributions to the financial management and strategic direction of the Company. We wish him much success in his future endeavors,” said Silvaco CEO Babak Taheri. “I have the utmost confidence in Keith’s ability to lead our finance organization and ensure a seamless transition. Keith’s experience and deep understanding of our financial operations will be instrumental as we enter a new chapter for the company.”

    “It has been a privilege to serve on Silvaco’s leadership team, and I am proud of our accomplishments,” said Mr. Benton. “The dedicated team at Silvaco is well-positioned to continue executing on its strategic vision to create shareholder value.”

    In addition to announcing the Chief Financial Officer transition, the Company today reaffirmed its previously disclosed guidance for the first quarter and full year fiscal 2025, as provided in the Company’s press release issued on March 5, 2025. The Company expects to report first quarter fiscal 2025 results on May 7, 2025.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains forward-looking statements based on Silvaco’s current expectations. The words “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “project”, “will”, and similar phrases as they relate to Silvaco are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current views and assumptions of Silvaco and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations.

    These forward-looking statements include but are not limited to, statements regarding our future operating results, financial position, and guidance, our business strategy and plans, our objectives for future operations, our development or delivery of new or enhanced products, and anticipated results of those products for our customers, our competitive positioning, projected costs, technological capabilities, and plans, and macroeconomic trends.

    A variety of risks and factors that are beyond our control could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements including, without limitation, the following: (a) market conditions; (b) anticipated trends, challenges and growth in our business and the markets in which we operate; (c) our ability to appropriately respond to changing technologies on a timely and cost-effective basis; (d) the size and growth potential of the markets for our software solutions, and our ability to serve those markets; (e) our expectations regarding competition in our existing and new markets; (f) the level of demand in our customers’ end markets; (g) regulatory developments in the United States and foreign countries; (h) changes in trade policies, including the imposition of tariffs; (i) proposed new software solutions, services or developments; (j) our ability to attract and retain key management personnel; (k) our customer relationships and our ability to retain and expand our customer relationships; (l) our ability to diversify our customer base and develop relationships in new markets; (m) the strategies, prospects, plans, expectations, and objectives of management for future operations; (n) public health crises, pandemics, and epidemics and their effects on our business and our customers’ businesses; (o) the impact of the current conflicts between Ukraine and Russia and Israel and Hamas and the ongoing trade disputes among the United States and China on our business, financial condition or prospects, including extreme volatility in the global capital markets making debt or equity financing more difficult to obtain, more costly or more dilutive, delays and disruptions of the global supply chains and the business activities of our suppliers, distributors, customers and other business partners; (p) changes in general economic or business conditions or economic or demographic trends in the United States and foreign countries including changes in tariffs, interest rates and inflation; (q) our ability to raise additional capital; (r) our ability to accurately forecast demand for our software solutions; (s) our expectations regarding the outcome of any ongoing litigation; (t) our expectations regarding the period during which we qualify as an emerging growth company under the JOBS Act and as a smaller reporting company under the Exchange Act; (u) our expectations regarding our ability to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce intellectual property protection for our technology; (v) our status as a controlled company; (w) our use of the net proceeds from our initial public offering, and (x) our ability to successfully integrate, retain key personnel, and realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition of Cadence’s PPC product line.

    It is not possible for us to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. Accordingly, you should not rely on any of the forward-looking statements. Additional information relating to the uncertainty affecting the Silvaco’s business is contained in Silvaco’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These documents are available on the SEC Filings section of the Investor Relations section of Silvaco’s website at http://investors.silvaco.com/. These forward-looking statements represent Silvaco’s expectations as of the date of this press release. Subsequent events may cause these expectations to change, and Silvaco disclaims any obligations to update or alter these forward-looking statements in the future, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    About Silvaco

    Silvaco is a provider of TCAD, EDA software, and SIP solutions that enable semiconductor design and digital twin modeling through AI software and innovation. Silvaco’s solutions are used for semiconductor and photonics processes, devices, and systems development across display, power devices, automotive, memory, high performance compute, foundries, photonics, internet of things, and 5G/6G mobile markets for complex SoC design. Silvaco is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, and has a global presence with offices located in North America, Europe, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Taiwan. Learn more at silvaco.com.

    Investor Contact:
    Greg McNiff
    investors@silvaco.com

    Media Contact:
    Farhad Hayat
    press@silvaco.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: At Statewide Virtual Town Hall, Hickenlooper Addresses Top Concerns from Coloradans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Hickenlooper answered questions about Trump admin threats to our economy, national parks, scientific research, veteran care, and more
    In case you missed it, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper held a statewide virtual town hall last week to answer questions from Coloradans about Trump’s attacks on our federal government and top-of-mind concerns from constituents.
    More than 8,000 Coloradans from across the state attended the event live to ask questions and hear from Hickenlooper. Hickenlooper plans to hold in-person town halls across Colorado in the coming weeks. Since the beginning of his term, Hickenlooper has held at least four public town halls every year. Last year he held in-person town halls in Alamosa, Cortez, Eagle, Pueblo, and Walden.

    Watch the full video of the event HERE or see excerpts below:
    On threats to Colorado’s public lands:
    “Coloradans overwhelmingly support protecting our public lands. You look at any poll there’s 75%, 80%, sometimes 85% of voters who support protections for our public lands. That doesn’t seem to stop or slow down the Trump administration. They’re threatening all of that.”
    “They’ve fired over 3,400 US Forest Service employees. 3,400. They fired another 2,300 workers from the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Fish and Wildlife, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and there might even be another one. I mean, these are cuts that we’re going to feel. These are the folks who are being fired who are responsible for wildfire mitigation, for timber management, for all kinds of things. They are the people that remove hazardous fuels on federal lands, clean the campsites, or maintain the trails. This doesn’t all happen by itself. These cuts are going to put Colorado at a higher risk for wildfires. These cuts are going to hurt our economy.”
    On protecting Medicaid:
    “Health care is a right, not a privilege. Let’s recognize the Republicans’ budget for what it is: it’s a blatant attempt to strip critical services like Medicaid from Americans who need the help the most. They are stripping these critical services to fund these tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy. Bottom line: millions are going to lose their healthcare and the ultra-wealthy get tax cuts that in all cases they don’t need, and in many cases they don’t want.” 
    “We have 1 million Coloradans that are enrolled in either Medicaid or CHIP: that’s almost 1 in 6 Coloradans. 60% of seniors in nursing homes are able to be there because they are covered by Medicaid. You cut Medicaid at that level, and you are going to have a lot of grandmothers and grandfathers out of their ear, bankrupt.”
    “We stayed up all night a month ago fighting for amendments to protect access, to protect Medicaid, investments in renewable energy, veterans benefits. The Republicans blocked every single one. I think we can use those votes to let the public know what the Republicans have been doing. In other words, they are on the record by those votes. We made them vote on those amendments and bills so that they are on the record and when the time comes we will be able to make sure that they can be held accountable. When they go back to their states or to Colorado when they hold town halls, they are going to have to answer for those votes.”
    On efforts to make government more efficient::
    “The first time I got into politics in 2003 I ran on the premise that I was going to come in as mayor and make the city government smaller and yet do more, but I didn’t come in and say I was going to use an axe to make cuts.”
    “…We went into each agency and made sure we knew what everyone was doing so we knew how we were spending the money and what we were getting for it so that we could really look for actual fraud, waste, and abuse. If that’s what we are about then I am game, but that’s not what the Trump administration is doing. They’re taking an axe and sledgehammer to our federal government without any concern on the impact it has on Coloradans or Americans. You just can’t throw our veterans, working families, or the services we all depend on under the bus by saying you are looking for fraud and abuse.”
    On supporting our veterans:
    “What is happening is a travesty of history… Ever since I got to the Senate I’ve made supporting veterans and enhancing VA care a priority. The PACT Act, like I said, advanced care to over a million veterans. The news that the Trump administration is planning to fire 80,000 staff from the Veterans Administration is beyond words. It’s insulting to our nation’s heroes.”
    “…We introduced an amendment during the reconciliation process, which of course they ignored, but this was an amendment seeking to reverse workforce cuts and fill frontline vacancies like at the Veteran Health Administration, particularly personnel who provide access to healthcare for rural veterans. We’ve joined many of our colleagues sending a very direct letter to President Trump demanding fired veterans be reinstated across the federal government. We also supported a resolution condemning mass termination of VA employees.”
    “I mean I just can’t imagine what these people are thinking… I mean, firing veterans serving our communities is not a way to find fraud, waste, and abuse. It is not waste. It is not fraud. It is not abuse.” 
    On the importance of trust in science:
    “The American people look to us, to science, for trust and for accurate, factual information so they can have the freedom to raise their families without fear. Now again, I’m not saying all science is perfect. I’m not saying that one agency or another hasn’t made mistakes, but when trust is broken, things fall apart.”
    “…Unfortunately, the new administration has elevated people into cabinet positions who peddle some of these anti-science claims and mistruths and misinformation. This threatens not just Coloradans but our country. It puts us at risk. That’s why funding for things like medical research through the NIH or climate research through NOAA is so important.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Colleagues Call on President Trump to Reverse Illegal Firing of FTC Commissioners

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, along with 26 of their Senate colleagues, recently called on President Trump to reverse the illegal firing of Commissioners Rebecca Kelly Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
    “This action contradicts long standing Supreme Court precedent, undermines Congress’s constitutional authority to create bipartisan, independent commissions, and upends more than 110 years of work at the FTC to protect consumers from deceptive practices and monopoly power,” the senators wrote. 
    “We urge you to rescind these dismissals so the FTC can get back to the people’s work.”
    On Tuesday, the Trump administration fired two Democratic FTC commissioners, violating the independence of the agency, which was established in 1914 to enforce consumer protection and antitrust laws. In 2024 alone, the FTC returned $337.3 million to consumers.
    The FTC consists of five commissioners, each nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate. Historically, no more than three commissioners can be from the same political party. Longstanding Supreme Court precedent protects FTC commissioners from being fired by the president over policy disagreements.
    Hickenlooper serves as Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Technology, and Data Privacy, which oversees the FTC. 
    Hickenlooper recently condemned the firings on Twitter/X saying: 
    “Firing two FTC commissioners without cause is illegal and threatens consumers. It puts the FTC’s independence and ability to protect Americans at risk. This sets a dangerous precedent that could raise costs for consumers.”
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below:
    Dear President Trump,
    On March 18, 2025 you announced your intention to fire Commissioner Slaughter and Commissioner Bedoya from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This action contradicts long standing Supreme Court precedent, undermines Congress’s constitutional authority to create bipartisan, independent commissions, and upends more than 110 years of work at the FTC to protect consumers from deceptive practices and monopoly power. We urge you to rescind these dismissals so the FTC can get back to the people’s work.
    Congress established the FTC in 1914 as an independent agency made up of bipartisan, multi-member, expert commissioners who are tasked with protecting consumers. In 2024 alone, the FTC used this authority to return more than $330 million to consumers, while simultaneously blocking anticompetitive mergers and challenging monopoly power that can result in higher prices, fewer choices, and less opportunity for American consumers, workers, and small businesses. The FTC has consistently carried out this mandate as a bipartisan commission under Republican and Democratic administrations. 
    When establishing the FTC, Congress lawfully exercised its power to establish a bipartisan, multi-member, expert commission and to shield that commission from political pressure by allowing commissioners to serve 7-year terms and limiting the President’s power to remove commissioners only “for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office.” Under the law, as you are aware, the President retains the sole authority to nominate new commissioners and to appoint the Chair of the Commission. The President may also appoint a new Chair among the sitting commissioners at any time. 
    Ninety years ago, the Supreme Court held that Congress’s authority to create bipartisan, multi-member, expert commissions—and specifically the FTC—“cannot well be doubted” because “it is quite evident that one who holds his office only during the pleasure of another cannot be depended upon to maintain an attitude of independence. . . .” In a 2020 decision involving whether Congress could insulate the single director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) from at-will removal by the President, the Supreme Court declined to revisit this precedent, finding important differences between the CFPB and the FTC, including that the FTC has multiple expert members to ensure the Commission retains relevant expertise at all times, that each President can influence the makeup of the Commission by nominating new members and appointing the Chair (as you have already done), and that the Commission is funded through the traditional appropriations process that the President may influence. 
    As such, the structure of the FTC does not undermine executive authority and is well within Congress’s power to establish independent agencies tasked with protecting Americans from harmful business practices, fraud, and outright corruption. As Commissioners duly appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, Commissioners Slaughter and Bedoya must be allowed to continue their work at the Commission.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Exposes True Cost of Taxpayer Subsidies Given to Federal Employee Unions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    Published: March 21, 2025
    The most recent report from 2019 revealed cost across government was at least $160 million.
    WASHINGTON – To close out Sunshine Week, the annual celebration of transparency in government, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is introducing the Taxpayer-Funded Union Time Transparency Act to expose just how much federal employee unions are subsidized by tax dollars after the Biden administration stopped publicly releasing the data.
    According to the most recent report from 2019, the cost across government was at least $160 million for Taxpayer-Funded Union Time (TFUT), the practice where federal employees negotiate higher salaries and other cushy perks for themselves when they are supposed to be on the clock.
    “Bureaucrats have forgotten that they serve the American people not themselves,” said Ernst. “Taxpayers deserve to know just how much of their hard-earned money is footing the bill for the insane practice of taxpayer-funded union time. Once we figure out just how much these unions owe, I will be coming to collect every penny.”
    Congressman Scott Franklin (R-Fla.) is introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
    Click here to view the bill.
    Background:
    Earlier this month, the Trump administration agreed to a request from Senator Ernst requesting that the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) resume tracking and publicly disclosing the total cost of TFUT across government.
    In December 2024, Senator Ernst demanded that 24 federal agencies provide data about the true cost of TFUT.
    Additionally, Ernst introduced the Protecting Taxpayers’ Wallet Act which requires federal unions to reimburse taxpayers for all costs from taxpayer-funded union time.
    Ernst’s investigations previously exposed bureaucrats claiming to be on taxpayer-funded union time while sitting in a jail cell and on permanent vacation in Florida.

    MIL OSI USA News –