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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Missouri Secretary of State’s Office Concludes Review of Sora App; Urges Continued Local Engagement on Parental Protections

    Source: US State of Missouri

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    April 18, 2025

    Missouri Secretary of State’s Office Concludes Review of Sora App; Urges Continued Local Engagement on Parental Protections

    JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Following a thorough review prompted by parental concerns, the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office has concluded its investigation into the Sora reading app and is satisfied that adequate parental protection resources are currently available for use by Missouri school districts. The investigation is closed.

    The Overdrive Sora app, which supports digital reading access for students, receives $30,000 annually from the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office. A recent quarterly payment was temporarily held as the office investigated concerns regarding the availability of inappropriate material through the app. That payment has now been released.

    “Our office takes seriously any concerns raised by Missouri parents and taxpayers,” said Secretary of State Denny Hoskins. “After working with stakeholders and reviewing the available safeguards, we believe there are sufficient tools in place to empower parents and educators to manage content access. However, there is always room for improvement and increased awareness.”

    The Secretary of State’s Office encourages local libraries and school districts to explore additional training opportunities for staff and families to better understand and use parental protection tools embedded within digital platforms like Sora.

    The Office also reminds the public that Missouri’s libraries and school districts operate under local control. Concerns or questions about the content available through school or public library programs should be directed to local library boards, school boards, or district administrators.

    “We will continue to support transparency and parental involvement in library services,” Secretary Hoskins added. “Missouri families deserve to feel confident in the tools available to safeguard their children’s access to educational materials.”

    If a parent or guardian believes a book or digital resource available through a public library is inappropriate, they may formally request a review through the local library or school district’s challenge process. Each public library and school system in Missouri maintains its own procedures for evaluating such requests, typically involving a review committee and a written decision. Individuals who wish to raise broader concerns or submit information to the Secretary of State’s Office may contact us directly at [email protected].

    A resource guide is available to help the public understand the structure of these resources accurately.

    About the Missouri State Library

    The Missouri State Library (MSL) is the official State Library of Missouri located in Jefferson City, Missouri. MSL provides library and reference services directly to the executive and legislative branches of the state’s government They support libraries in Missouri with resource sharing and continuing education programs as well as oversee state certification for public libraries They also oversee Missouri Digital Heritage with the Missouri State Archives.

    They publish the Missouri Public Library Standards, maintain a directory of all the libraries in the state, the Wolfner News, and an e-newsletter called the Show Me Express They also create reference guides for other state agencies in Missouri. The Wolfner Talking Book and Braille Library is housed within the State Library and offers free library services to anyone who is unable to read print materials.

    About the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office

    The Missouri Secretary of State’s Office serves as a central hub for key state functions that promote transparency, security, and opportunity for all Missourians. The Office oversees the administration of fair and secure elections, registers and supports businesses, maintains and preserves state records through the State Archives, and ensures public access to government rulemaking via the Administrative Rules Division.

    Additionally, the Office protects investors through the Securities Division, supports libraries and literacy programs across the state, and administers the Safe at Home address confidentiality program for survivors of abuse and assault. With a commitment to service, accountability, and civic engagement, the Secretary of State’s Office works every day to strengthen Missouri’s government and communities.

    About Secretary of State Denny Hoskins

    Denny Hoskins, CPA, was elected Missouri’s 41st Secretary of State in November 2024. With a strong background in business and public service, he is committed to improving government efficiency, transparency, and supporting Missouri families. Hoskins previously served as a legislator in both the state Senate and House. He and his wife, Michelle, reside in Warrensburg and have five adult children.

    For more information, please contact Rachael Dunn, Director of Communications, via email at [email protected].

    2025-04-18 Missouri State Library Digital Resource Guide.pdf

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $30 Million More Now Available For Electric Vehicles

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced $30 million is now available for consumers to lease or purchase new electric vehicles (EVs) in New York through the State’s Drive Clean Rebate program, which provides point-of-sale rebates for more than 60 new EVs. In addition, incentives for EV chargers through the Charge Ready NY 2.0 program have been updated to expand consumer access to convenient, easy charging at multifamily buildings and workplaces, including hotels. Today’s announcement helps to make driving electric more affordable, increases the number of chargers available, and reduces pollution from the transportation sector in New York State.

    “New York’s leadership in driving the adoption of electric vehicles is helping consumers stay within their budget when purchasing or leasing a new electric car,” Governor Hochul said. “Along with increased savings, we are building out the infrastructure needed to provide hard-working New Yorkers convenient access to charging, helping to reduce range anxiety and make it easier to drive electric. These investments are key to building a cleaner future, lowering emissions and creating good-paying jobs.”

    The Drive Clean Rebate Program, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), offers a point-of-sale rebate up to $2,000 off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of an EV at participating car dealerships in New York State. The rebate is available in all 62 counties, with higher rebates available for longer range, all-electric vehicles.

    New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Converting to EVs reduces the total cost of vehicle ownership through lower fuel and vehicle maintenance costs and NYSERDA is proud to help provide New Yorkers with more purchasing power through these rebates. And by supporting organizations seeking to install charging stations at their place of business, the State is ensuring that more new and existing drivers have a variety of options to power up their vehicle at easy-to-access locations for longer periods of time.”

    Also announced today to help make EV charging more accessible to New Yorkers, NYSERDA’s Charge Ready NY 2.0 program, which helps reduce equipment installation costs for Level 2 chargers, is increasing the incentive amount available to install EV chargers at multifamily buildings and workplaces, including hotels, from $2,000 to $3,000 per port. For locations in disadvantaged communities as defined by the Climate Justice Working Group, the amount has also increased to $4,000 per port.

    Additionally, $3 million is being dedicated to locations that hold educational “ride and drive” community events, purchase or lease EVs, or offer free charging. The program also accepts new equipment and network eligibility applications from EV charger vendors.

    New York Department of Public Service CEO Rory M. Christian said, “Promoting electric car ownership and use is a win for consumers and a win for the environment. Congratulations to Governor Hochul for supporting the installation of charging stations and helping to ensure drivers have increased options to charge their vehicles.”

    The Drive Clean Rebate program has issued over 190,000 rebates to consumers since 2017, contributing to the more than 280,000 EVs on the road statewide. In the last year alone, Charge Ready NY 2.0 has supported the installation of more than 1,000 Level 2 chargers. There are more than 17,000 public chargers installed statewide – more public chargers than any other state except for California – and more than 4,000 semi-public charging stations at workplaces and multifamily buildings across the state.

    New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “New York State has made significant progress in developing the infrastructure to enable the electric vehicle transition, promoting cleaner transportation and reducing emissions statewide. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, this effort is being done with a focus on affordability and reliability. The Power Authority supports this work by aiding in fleet vehicle transitions and expanding the EVolve NY fast charging network, which currently offers 240 charging stations with more to come later this year.”

    Additionally, the New York Power Authority (NYPA) has undertaken significant efforts to build out high-speed chargers along New York State’s major travel corridors through its EVolve NY network, which include:

    • EVolve NY Fast Charging Network. The New York Power Authority’s EVolve NY fast charging network offers 240 chargers at 56 locations along major corridors and routes (I-87, I81, I-384, I-90, I-88, and I-86) and in all 10 economic development regions of the state. NYPA has surpassed the halfway mark of its goal to install 400 EVolve NY fast chargers by 2026. Battery-powered EVs equipped with fast charging capability can power up in as little as 20 minutes at EVolve NY fast chargers. See map here for locations throughout New York State.
    • Fast Chargers Coming to LaGuardia. Construction is beginning this month on NYPA’s largest EVolve NY site – LaGuardia Airport. The station, which will have 12 high-speed chargers, will be in a parking lot between terminals A and B, just off the Grand Central Parkway, and is expected to be completed by August. The site is for use by the public as well as rideshare vehicles. The airport currently has 13 public Level 2 chargers at Terminal B and C.
    • Federal Funding Allows Further Expansion. New York has completed eleven four-charger EVolve NY sites with National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program funding with two more to be completed this month. Nine more will be constructed over the next year. NEVI support to states is meant to close gaps between existing stations and the EVolve NY team has been steadily closing those range anxiety gaps.
    • New York City Adds Fast Charging Sites. NYPA is working with the state and city Department of Transportation to install hundreds of fast charging and Level 2 ports in New York City. Five new EVolve NY sites at municipal parking lots are expected to go into construction in 2025 and six more in 2026. The hubs will offer a total of 70 fast chargers and electrical connections for 280 future Level 2 chargers. NYPA is also supporting the construction of five fast charging hubs for the PlugNYC program, with two of these projects currently in construction in the Bronx and Brooklyn.

    Today’s announcement comes as the 2025 New York International Auto Show kicks off in New York City, which runs from April 18 through April 27 at the Javits Center. Visitors can stop by the NYSERDA and NYPA booth, located on level 1, to learn about incentives for purchasing EVs and programs that support charger growth throughout New York.

    In addition, the New York State Office of General Services (OGS), in collaboration with its GreenNY Council partners, is leading the way on converting the state fleet and building out the electric charging infrastructure that will support this transformation. Today, there are nearly 600 charging ports on state owned property, with another 600 in the pipeline.

    New York State Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy said, “The OGS team is proud to be leading the implementation of Governor Hochul’s mandate to convert the state’s fleet to 100 percent zero-emission vehicles. The investment announced by the Governor today will increase New Yorkers’ access to EVs and EV chargers and contribute to creating a greener, cleaner, and healthier future for our state.”

    New York State is investing nearly $3 billion in electrifying its transportation sector and rapidly advancing measures to ensure that all new passenger cars and trucks sold are zero-emission vehicles, along with all school buses being zero emissions. There are a range of initiatives to grow access to EVs and improve clean transit for all New Yorkers including EV Make Ready, EVolve NY, the New York Truck Voucher Incentive Program (NYTVIP), the New York School Bus Incentive Program, and the Direct Current Fast Charger Program.

    The Drive Clean Rebate and Charge Ready NY 2.0 programs are funded through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative and the State’s Clean Energy Fund.

    New York State’s Climate Agenda
    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Department of Justice Investigating Newport Beach Police Department Officer-Involved Shooting Under AB 1506

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, April 18, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    **The information provided below is based on preliminary details regarding an ongoing investigation, which may continue to evolve**

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced that the California Department of Justice (DOJ), pursuant to Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), is investigating and will independently review an officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred in Newport Beach, California on Thursday, April 17, 2025 at approximately 9:15 p.m. The OIS incident resulted in the death of one individual and involved personnel from the Newport Beach Police Department. 

    Following notification by local authorities, DOJ’s California Police Shooting Investigation Team initiated an investigation in accordance with AB 1506 mandates. Upon completion of the investigation, it will be turned over to DOJ’s Special Prosecutions Section within the Criminal Law Division for independent review. Anyone who has information related to this officer-involved shooting incident and wishes to report it may do so by calling (916) 210-2871. 

    More information on the California Department of Justice’s role and responsibilities under AB 1506 is available here: https://oag.ca.gov/ois-incidents.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Statement on Trump Undermining USDA-Rural Development

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s efforts to reduce the workforce of U.S. Department of Agriculture-Rural Development (USDA-RD) offices in Vermont and New Hampshire through buyouts and early retirement offers:
    “Across America, and especially in Vermont, USDA-RD is critical to the success of our rural economy. This small but talented office makes the impossible, possible—providing services, grants, loans, and technical assistance to help strengthen rural communities. Their expertise is far-ranging, and goes well-beyond the field—from disaster recovery, to affordable housing support and health care access, to business development, to funding new energy and infrastructure projects.
    “President Trump’s actions to undermine USDA-RD is a clear indicator that he is willing to abandon rural America. In our region, USDA-RD was already understaffed, operating full-stream-ahead but with only 50-70% of the necessary workforce. President Trump and Elon Musk’s DOGE have now put the department on life-support. What the Trump Administration is doing to Vermont and New Hampshire to farmers, families, and rural communities is happening nationwide and every one of my colleagues should be outraged.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Markey, Pressley Demand State Department Release Memo, Documents Related to Öztürk Arrest

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    April 18, 2025
    State Dept memo reportedly reveals contradictions in Trump Administration’s rationale for revocation of Öztürk’s visa, detention
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – After a recent report indicated that an internal State Department memo concluded that the key premise underlying Tufts graduate student Rümeysa Öztürk’s arrest and detention was false, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), pressed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to immediately release the memo and any other relevant documentation.
    “Ms. Öztürk’s case demands transparency. The circumstances of her arrest and detention raise serious concerns about civil liberties, academic freedom, and free speech, as well as the Trump administration’s truthfulness. Congress, universities, legal experts, and other members of the public have a strong and compelling interest in the matter,” wrote the lawmakers.
    On March 25th, plainclothes U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents apprehended Rümeysa Öztürk outside her home in Somerville, Massachusetts. Ms. Öztürk, a Tufts University graduate student, was informed that her student visa had been revoked. She was taken into custody and transferred to an immigration detention facility in Louisiana, where she has now been held for three weeks.
    Publicly, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has claimed that Ms. Öztürk “engaged in activities in support of Hamas” and recommended revoking her visa under a provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act that permits the deportation of noncitizens who pose “potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States.” The State Department has suggested that Öztürk’s visa was revoked on foreign-policy grounds because of alleged participation in activities linked to terrorism.
    Reporting from the Washington Post revealed that, days before Öztürk’s arrest, an internal State Department memorandum concluded that the Trump administration lacked “any evidence showing that she engaged in antisemitic activities or made public statements supporting a terrorist organization.” The memo appears to contradict the federal government’s publicly stated rationale for revoking Ms. Öztürk’s visa — and has not been made available to members of Congress or the American public.
    The lawmakers requested a copy of the memo, along with any other documentation regarding the basis for Öztürk’s visa revocation and arrest, no later than April 30, 2025.
    Sens. Warren and Markey, along with Rep. Pressley, have pushed for answers and action since Öztürk’s March arrest. Last month, they led over 30 lawmakers in writing to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Acting Director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Todd Lyons, demanding information about Öztürk’s arrest and detention as well as similar incidents across the country. The lawmakers also sounded the alarm on Öztürk’s medical neglect in DHS custody and renewed urgent calls for her release.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Nicaraguan Illegal Wanted for Grooming, Enticement of a Minor and Dissemination of Obscene Materials to a Minor

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Des Moines, IA – Members of the U.S. Marshals Southern District of Iowa Fugitive Task Force, assisted by U.S. Marshals in the Northern District of Iowa, arrested April 10 in Cedar Rapids a man wanted by the Iowa City Police Department on charges of grooming, enticement of a minor and dissemination of obscene materials to a minor. 

    Hanier Ivan Ramirez-Garcia, 29, is accused of arranging to meet with a person he believed was a teen for sex on Oct. 27, 2024, and sending her a sexually explicit photo of himself.

    Ramirez-Garcia was arrested in the 900 block of 3rd Street SE. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers determined Ramirez-Garcia, a Nicaraguan national, was in the United States unlawfully and immediately placed an ICE detainer on him.  ICE will take custody of Ramirez-Garcia upon his release from the Johnson County Jail.  

    “The Marshals Service is proud of the working relationship which has been formed with our federal, state and local partners,” said U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of Iowa Ted Kamatchus. “Working together we have established a cohesive unit, dedicated to holding fugitives accountable, regardless of who they are or where they are from.” 

    The Southern District of Iowa Fugitive Task Force was assisted during this arrest by the Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 04/18/2025 Blackburn Wishes Tennesseans a Blessed Holy Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video ahead of Easter Sunday with well wishes for Tennesseans during Holy Week:
    “I hope that this Holy Week is a time of blessings given and received and a time of hopefulness for you and your family,” said Senator Blackburn. “As you spend time with your family and friends, I encourage you to do this with a sense of gratitude for the freedoms that we exercise every single day.”

    Click here to download this video.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley, Warren, Markey Demand State Department Release Memo, Documents Related to Öztürk Arrest

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    State Dept memo reportedly reveals contradictions in Trump Administration’s rationale for revocation of Öztürk’s visa, detention

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – After a recent report indicated that an internal State Department memo concluded that the key premise underlying Tufts graduate student Rümeysa Öztürk’s arrest and detention was false, Representative Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Ed Markey (D-MA) pressed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to immediately release the memo and any other relevant documentation. Last month, Pressley, Markey, and Warren led over 30 lawmakers in writing to Trump Administration officials demanding information about Rümeysa’s arrest and detention, and similar incidents across the country.

    “Ms. Öztürk’s case demands transparency. The circumstances of her arrest and detention raise serious concerns about civil liberties, academic freedom, and free speech, as well as the Trump administration’s truthfulness. Congress, universities, legal experts, and other members of the public have a strong and compelling interest in the matter,” wrote the lawmakers.

    On March 25th, plainclothes U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents apprehended Rümeysa Öztürk outside her home in Somerville, Massachusetts. Ms. Öztürk, a Tufts University graduate student, was informed that her student visa had been revoked. She was taken into custody and transferred to an immigration detention facility in Louisiana, where she has now been held for three weeks.

    Publicly, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has claimed that Ms. Öztürk “engaged in activities in support of Hamas” and recommended revoking her visa under a provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act that permits the deportation of noncitizens who pose “potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States.” The State Department has suggested that Öztürk’s visa was revoked on foreign-policy grounds because of alleged participation in activities linked to terrorism.

    Reporting from the Washington Post revealed that, days before Öztürk’s arrest, an internal State Department memorandum concluded that the Trump administration lacked “any evidence showing that she engaged in antisemitic activities or made public statements supporting a terrorist organization.” The memo appears to contradict the federal government’s publicly

    stated rationale for revoking Ms. Öztürk’s visa — and has not been made available to members of Congress or the American public.

    The lawmakers requested a copy of the memo, along with any other documentation regarding the basis for Öztürk’s visa revocation and arrest, no later than April 30, 2025.

    Rep. Pressley, along with Sens. Warren and Markey, have pushed for answers and action since Öztürk’s March arrest. Last month, they led over 30 lawmakers in writing to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Acting Director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Todd Lyons, demanding information about Öztürk’s arrest and detention as well as similar incidents across the country. The lawmakers also sounded the alarm on Öztürk’s medical neglect in DHS custody and renewed urgent calls for her release.

    Last month, Congresswoman Pressley issued a statement condemning reports that ICE arrested and detained Rümeysa Öztürk. Earlier that week, Rep. Pressley issued a statement following reports of ICE activity in Boston and other municipalities in Massachusetts.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Harvest NYC Inc Recalls Enoki Mushroom Due to Possible Health Risk

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    April 16, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    April 18, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesProduceFoodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Due to possibility of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

    Company Name:
    Harvest NYC Inc
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Hofood99 Inc

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Enoki Mushrooms

    Company Announcement
    Harvest NYC Inc of Brooklyn, NY 11231 is recalling its 200g packages of Enoki Mushroom, because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy persons may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
    The recalled Enoki Mushrooms were distributed nationwide in retail stores. The product comes in a 200g, green plastic package marked with UPC Barcode 6975730520101 on the back label, distributed by Hofood99 Inc., 21903 56th Ave Oakland Gardens, NY 11364.
    No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
    The contamination was discovered after samples were collected from a store in Buffalo, NY and subsequent analysis by NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Laboratory revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in some 200g packages of Enoki Mushroom.
    Consumers who have purchased 200g packages of Enoki Mushroom from January 11- 31, 2025 are urged to destroy the products immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (718) 596-0777.

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    (718) 596-0777

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    04/18/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Recall Reminder: Gerber Products Company Previously Recalled and Discontinued All Batches of Gerber® Soothe N Chew® Teething Sticks Due To Potential Choking Hazard

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    April 18, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    April 18, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & Beverages
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Potential choking hazard for babies and young children

    Company Name:
    Gerber Products Company
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Gerber

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Gerber® Soothe N Chew® Teething Sticks

    Company Announcement
    ARLINGTON, Va., April 18, 2025
    On January 31, 2025, Gerber Products Company initiated a recall and discontinuation of all batches of GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS due to a potential choking hazard for babies and young children.
    We are issuing a second press release about this recall due to recent reports of recalled product still available for sale on some retailer shelves and online. The previous announcement on January 31st is linked here and on FDA’s recall page.
    GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS were distributed nationwide.
    Recalled products can be identified as follows:

    Gerber Snacks for Baby soothe ‘n’ chew Teething Sticks, Strawberry Apple, Net Wt 3.2 Oz (90g), with UPC 0 15000 04618 7, all lot codes
    Gerber Snacks for Baby soothe ‘n’ chew Teething Sticks, Banana, Net Wt 3.2 Oz (90g), with UPC 0 15000 04608 8, all lot codes
    Gerber Snacks for Baby soothe ‘n’ chew Teething Sticks, Banana, Net Wt 1.58 Oz (45g), with UPC 0 15000 01015 7, all lot codes

    Gerber® Soothe N Chew® Teething Sticks – Product Packaging -See Images Below
    The previously issued recall and discontinuation is isolated to GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – STRAWBERRY APPLE and GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS – BANANA.
    The recall was initiated after receiving consumer complaints of choking incidents.
    Consumers who may have purchased GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS should not feed this product to their child and can return the product to the retailer where it was purchased for a full refund. Consumers who find the product for sale in the market should not purchase the product. Anyone with health concerns should contact a health care provider. For any additional support needed, Gerber is available 24/7 at 1-800-4-GERBER (1-800-443-7237).
    We have been working with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) on this recall and will cooperate with them fully.
    Again, we sincerely apologize for any concern or inconvenience this action represents to parents, caregivers and retail customers.
    Link to Initial Recall

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Gerber
    1-800-4-GERBER (1-800-443-7237)

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    04/18/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Early Alert: Intravascular PICC Catheter Issue from BD

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This communication is part of the Communications Pilot to Enhance the Medical Device Recall Program. The FDA has become aware of a potentially high-risk device issue. The FDA will keep the public informed and update this web page as significant new information becomes available.
    Affected Product 
    The FDA is aware that BD and their subsidiary Bard Access Systems have issued a letter to affected customers recommending certain unused PowerPICC Intravascular Catheters be removed from where they are used or sold, and in-use PowerPICC Intravascular Catheters have updated instructions for use:  

    4 Fr. Single Lumen PowerPICC
    SOLO and non-SOLO versions 

    List of affected devices (XLSX 30.9KB)
    What to Do

    On March 11, 2025, BD sent all affected health care providers an Urgent Medical Device Product Recall notice recommending the following actions:

    Search your inventory for the affected product listed above and destroy all unused product.
    If affected product is currently in use with a patient, BD is not recommending the device be explanted unless damage is suspected. Consider the patient’s infusion needs, alternative access options, and the risks and benefits of continued catheter usage. Patients and users should observe PICCs for any signs or symptoms that may be consistent with catheter fracture. These signs and symptoms include pain upon infusion, swelling of the arm not related to DVT, inability to withdraw blood, and leakage of infusate around the insertion site. If catheter damage is suspected:

    Immediately stop any infusion
    Follow your institution’s guidelines and check for damage including catheter fracture
    If the catheter is confirmed to be fractured, the catheter should be removed and an alternative route for intravascular access should be obtained.  

    To reduce the likelihood of material fatigue leak for in-use catheters, BD recommends the following:

    Use adhesive-backed securement systems (e.g. Statlock, Griplock, Tegadern, steri-strips) instead of compression-style securement systems
    Use an appropriately sized securement system to accommodate the increase in diameter of the catheter in the taper region
    Fully insert the PICC as close as possible to the zero-centimeter mark (position B in Figure 1 below). This allows the kink-resistant, tapered region to be utilized and is associated with lower catheter leakage rates.

    If affected product has already been used without incident, no further action is necessary. 

    Figure 1: Image of PowerPICC Taper Region 
     

    Check this web page for updates. The FDA is currently reviewing information about this potentially high-risk device issue and will keep the public informed as significant new information becomes available.
    Reason for Early Alert
    BD has identified an increase in material fatigue leaks associated with the affected catheters mostly seen as a transverse/circumferential crack in the catheter body, see Figure 2 below. BD’s investigations suggest this results from an issue with the material resin use to manufacture the catheter tubing.

    Figure 2: Example of transverse/circumferential crack in the catheter body
    The risks associated with material fatigue leakage include infiltration, extravasation, discomfort, phlebitis, bleeding, air embolism, foreign body embolism, infection and interruption to therapy. BD has reported 10 serious injuries associated with this issue.
    Device Use
    The PowerPICC catheter is indicated for short- or long-term peripheral access to the central venous system for intravenous therapy, power injection of contrast media, and allows for central venous pressure monitoring.
    Contact Information
    Customers in the U.S. with adverse reactions, quality problems, or questions about this issue should contact BD via the North American Regional Complaint Center at productcomplaints@bd.com or 844-823-5433.
    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)
    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.

    How do I report a problem?
    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.

    Content current as of:
    04/18/2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Statement On Trump Order Gutting Protections For Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    Published: 04.17.2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement after President Donald Trump signed an executive order to open up the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument to commercial fishing.
    “At a time when the climate crisis is threatening our fragile ocean ecosystem and costing us lives and livelihoods every year, President Trump’s response is to gut protections for some of our nation’s most important natural resources, including the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument.
    “Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick was unequivocal when he assured me during his confirmation hearing that consultation would take place prior to any actions on fisheries in the Pacific. No such consultation occurred in advance of today’s executive order. The public deserves answers, and I expect him to come before Congress to explain this misguided decision.
    “We should be protecting the Pacific’s unmatched ecology and biodiversity for future generations – this order does the opposite.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Reaching across the Pacific to expand our markets

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $16.6M Pavement Project Along Key Long Island Roadways

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that work is getting started on road resurfacing projects that will enhance safety and improve mobility along key stretches of five Long Island roadways, including the Meadowbrook State Parkway and Sunrise Highway. A total of 55 lane miles will be resurfaced, representing a $16.6 million investment in Long Island’s road network that will improve durability and provide smoother rides for motorists. Additionally, new crosswalks, pavement markings and curb ramps will enhance safety and improve access for pedestrians.

    “With the onset of warmer weather, we are delivering on our promise to modernize Long Island’s infrastructure and invest in safer, smoother travel for all New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “These roadway improvements will help reduce congestion, enhance safety and strengthen the connections that keep our communities and economy moving forward. From daily commuters to local businesses, this investment supports the people who rely on these roads every single day.”

    Major construction, which is getting underway now and will continue through the summer, will consist of milling away deteriorated asphalt and replacing it with a new, smooth riding surface at these Nassau and Suffolk County locations:

    • State Route 454 (Veterans Memorial Highway) between State Route 25 (Jericho Turnpike) and Old Willets Path in the Town of Smithtown;
    • Meadowbrook State Parkway between State Route 27 (Sunrise Highway) and Merrick Road in the Town of Hempstead;
    • State Route 110 between High Street and Prime Avenue in the Town of Huntington;
    • State Route 27 (Sunrise Highway) at the interchange of William Floyd Parkway (Suffolk County Route 46) in the Town of Brookhaven; and
    • State Route 106 (Newbridge Road) between State Route 105 (Jerusalem Avenue) and State Route 24 (Hempstead Turnpike) in the Town of Hempstead.

    New highly reflective lane markings and pedestrian crosswalks will also be installed to further enhance safety and over 120 sidewalk curb ramps will be upgraded to comply with standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on State Route 106, State Route 110 and Meadowbrook State Parkway.

    Consistent with New York State’s Drivers First Initiative, most work will occur during off peak hours to minimize traffic impacts. Work is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

    These pavement renewal projects build on Governor Hochul’s accomplishments in renewing Long Island’s vital roadways. Pavement projects have previously been completed on stretches of the Long Island Expressway (Interstate 495) in Suffolk County, the Meadowbrook State Parkway in Nassau County, the Northern State Parkway, State Route 109, and the entire Southern State Parkway in both Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

    Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is making historic investments in infrastructure that will ensure the long-term prosperity and well-being of our local communities. By resurfacing these five roadways, we are literally paving the way towards easier commutes and improved quality of life for tens of thousands of Long Islanders.”

    About the Department of Transportation
    It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable, and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment, and supports the economic well-being of New York State.

    Lives are on the line; slow down and move over for highway workers!

    Follow New York State DOT on Twitter: @NYSDOT and @NYSDOT_NYC. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/NYSDOT.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Executive Vice President of Insurance Brokerage Pleads Guilty in $133M Affordable Care Act Fraud Scheme

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A Florida executive pleaded guilty today for his role in a scheme to submit fraudulent applications to enroll consumers in Affordable Care Act insurance plans (ACA plans) that were fully subsidized by the government. The purpose of the scheme was to obtain millions of dollars in commission payments from the insurance company that operated the ACA plans. The federal government paid at least $133,900,000 in subsidies for fraudulently enrolled individuals.

    According to court documents, Dafud Iza, 54, an executive vice president of an insurance brokerage firm, participated in a scheme to fraudulently enroll ineligible individuals into ACA plans that offered tax credits to eligible enrollees. These tax credits, or “subsidies,” could be paid by the federal government directly to insurance plans as a payment toward the plan’s monthly premium. The scheme involved submitting false and fraudulent applications for individuals whose income did not meet the minimum requirements to be eligible for the subsidies. Iza and his accomplices deceptively marketed subsidized ACA plans to ineligible consumers and falsely inflated consumers’ incomes to obtain the federal subsidies.

    In furtherance of the scheme, Iza and his accomplices targeted vulnerable, low-income individuals experiencing homelessness, unemployment, and mental health and substance abuse disorders, and knew that “street marketers” working on their behalf offered bribes to induce those individuals to enroll in subsidized ACA plans. Marketers working for Iza’s accomplices coached consumers on how to respond to application questions to maximize the subsidy amount paid by the federal government and provided addresses and social security numbers that did not match the consumers purportedly applying. 

    Iza pleaded guilty to one count of major fraud against the United States and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Acting Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI Miami Field Office; Acting Special Agent in Charge Jesus Barranco of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) Miami Regional Office; and Special Agent in Charge Emmanuel Gomez of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Miami Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI, HHS-OIG, and IRS-CI are investigating the case.

    Assistant Chief Jamie de Boer and Trial Attorney D. Keith Clouser of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: United States Files Complaint Against Barco Uniforms and Its Suppliers, Alleging False Claims Act Violations in Connection with Underpaid Customs Duties

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: United States Files Complaint Against Barco Uniforms and Its Suppliers, Alleging False Claims Act Violations in Connection with Underpaid Customs Duties

    The United States has filed a complaint against Barco Uniforms Inc. (Barco), Kenny Chan, David Chan, and companies operated and controlled by the Chans, alleging that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly and improperly underpaying customs duties owed on imported apparel. Barco sells apparel, including uniforms, to restaurants and healthcare providers, among others. Kenny and David Chan operate various companies that supply Barco with apparel manufactured overseas, including in the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Washington Jury Finds Mexican National with Ties to the Jalisco Cartel Guilty of Trafficking in Hundreds of Pounds of Fentanyl, Heroin, Methamphetamine, and Cocaine in Eastern Washington and Montana

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Spokane, Washington – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict in the trial of Luis Esquivel-Bolanos (a/k/a “Colorado”), age 45, of Guerrero, Mexico. Esquivel-Bolanos was found guilty on multiple drug trafficking and firearms charges.

    United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice presided over Esquivel-Bolanos’s trial, which began April 14, 2025. At sentencing, which is set for July 16, 2025, Esquivel-Bolanos faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life in prison. He may also face removal from the United States.

    The evidence presented at trial established that in January 2023, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) identified Esquivel-Bolanos as a member of a drug trafficking organization, which had flooded the Eastern District of Washington, including the Oroville area and the Colville Indian Reservation, with methamphetamine and fentanyl. The organization spread as far as central Montana, where many of the illegal drugs were being sold on Tribal land, including on the Crow, Northern Cheyenne, Rocky Boy’s, Fort Belknap, and Flathead Reservations. Within Eastern Washington, the organization was run by Esquivel-Bolanos and his co-defendant, Erubey Arciga Medrano. Esquivel-Bolanos was directly below Medrano, who previously pled guilty to his role in the drug trafficking conspiracy.

    The evidence at trial further established that the organization used threatening tactics to maintain control over their drug-distribution activities.  In one instance, the organization threatened that the Jalisco Cartel, who supplied drugs to Esquivel-Bolanos and his associates, would kill a confidential informant, who was strip searched when the informant was accused of being a “snitch.” On a separate occasion – not long before police were able to intervene and shut down the organization – Esquivel-Bolanos and others arranged for members of the organization to go to the home of a person suspected of stealing more than thirty pounds of methamphetamine from the organization and to threaten to kill that the suspected thief.     

    On April 19, 2023, BIA, DEA, the North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force, and other Federal, State, Local, and Tribal law enforcement, executed a series of federal search warrants at a number of homes in rural Okanogan County, near Oroville, Washington. In total, investigators seized approximately 161,000 fentanyl-laced pills (to include Mexi-blues and rainbow-colored pills), approximately 80 pounds of methamphetamine, approximately 6 pounds of heroin, and more than 2 pounds of cocaine. The BIA, DEA, and their partners also seized approximately 12 firearms. Many of these drugs were obtained inside a trailer, where Esquivel-Bolanos was living at the time.  

    “I was able to work on this case and the investigation from the outset,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Barker, who tried the case along with his colleagues Nowles Heinrich and Echo Fatsis. Acting U.S. Attorney Barker continued, “The volume of drugs removed from Eastern Washington and Montana communities, including from Tribal land, is staggering.  At the time of Mr. Esquivel-Bolanos’s arrest, and even now, the seizure from the Medrano-Bolanos drug trafficking organization was one of the largest ever in rural Washington. I am grateful for the tremendous law enforcement efforts by the BIA, DEA, and others, who put an end to the dangerous and threatening tactics used by Mr. Esquivel-Bolanos and his associates.” 

    “Those who traffic drugs into our tribal communities need to know that they will be caught and prosecuted to full extent of the law.  I want to thank Acting U. S. Attorney Barker, the BIA Division of Drug Enforcement, the DEA, and all of the law enforcement agencies and AUSAs in Montana and Washington for their dedicated work on these cases,” said Kurt Alme, U. S. Attorney for Montana.

    “The conviction of this drug trafficker, who was part of a Mexican Cartel, is the result of intense collaboration and coordination between many Tribal, Federal, State, and Local law enforcement agencies.  These agencies came together to address the drug trafficking occurring across many communities in Eastern Washington and Montana, including seven different Indian Reservations,” said Deputy Associate Director Tom Atkinson of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Division of Drug Enforcement.  “This investigation revealed the purposeful and specific exploitation of Indian Country by the members of this criminal network, illustrating the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies.  This conviction sends a strong message that drug trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable communities will not be tolerated.  The Bureau of Indian Affairs remains committed to empowering tribal law enforcement and to working with its partners to ensure the safety and well-being of all communities affected by drug trafficking.”

    “Mr. Esquivel- Bolanos was second in command of the drug trafficking ring responsible for flooding the Oroville area and Colville Indian Reservation with deadly fentanyl and meth,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Drug traffickers who purposely prey on our tribal communities are the worst offenders, and with the help of the jury this Mexican National will be held accountable.”

    This case was prosecuted under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program. The OCDETF program provides supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved in the investigation of transnational drug trafficking and related offenses. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement to specifically identify the criminals responsible for these drug related offenses in the Eastern District of Washington and pursue criminal prosecution.

    The case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force.  The investigation team was assisted by the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Okanogan County Sheriff, Colville Tribal Police Department, and the Kalispel Tribal Police Department. The Eastern Washington cases are being prosecuted by Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker, Assistant United States Attorney Nowles H. Heinrich, and Contractor Echo D. Fatsis. Twenty-seven defendants were charged and convicted through a parallel prosecution handled by AUSAs and support staff in the District of Montana.  

    2:23-cr-00047-TOR

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USAO Charges Multiple Defendants with Immigration-related Violations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CLEVELAND – The U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) has announced that federal grand juries in the Northern District of Ohio have returned indictments for the following individuals on charges of immigration-related law violations. These are separate cases and are not related.

    Ana Alvarez-Limonche, 20, a citizen of Venezuela, was indicted on two charges of fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other documents for having fraudulent permanent resident and Social Security cards. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP).

    Gildardo Alvarez-Rodriguez, 59, a citizen of Mexico, has been charged with illegal reentry. He was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion with the last being Sept. 24, 2020. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by CBP.

    Franklin Calix-Romero, 34, a citizen of Honduras, has been charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person for possessing a Ruger 9mm semiautomatic pistol and 9mm ammunition. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by a joint FBI/State/Local Task Force.

    Jose Cruz-Aguilar, 41, a citizen of Mexico, has been charged with illegal reentry. He was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion with the last being Feb. 27, 2017. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by a joint FBI/State/Local Task Force.

    Carlos Garcia-Garcia, 45, a citizen of Mexico, has been charged with illegal reentry. He was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion with the last being Feb. 19, 2005. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by CBP.

    Jhofran Andres Laya-Gutierrez, 28, a citizen of Venezuela, has been charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer; destruction, alteration, or falsification or records; fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other documents; and misrepresentation of a Social Security number. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by CBP and the FBI Toledo Field Office.

    Jeyson Martinez, aka, Jayson Martinez-Juarez, 32, a citizen of Honduras, has been charged with illegal reentry. He was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion with the last being Nov. 23, 2018. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by CBP.

    Jose Maximiliano Zepeda-Gutierrez, 45, a citizen of Guatemala, has been charged with illegal reentry. He was previously removed from the United States on at least one occasion with the last being July 10, 2019. The defendant was previously convicted in 2018 for conspiracy to transport an undocumented alien. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the FBI Toledo Field Office.

    An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Each defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation.  In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.

    A team of Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the USAO’s criminal division are prosecuting these cases.

    These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘I never issued a criminal contempt citation in 19 ½ years on the bench’ – a former federal judge looks at the ‘relentless bad behavior’ of the Trump administration in court

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By John E. Jones III, President, Dickinson College

    ‘You just didn’t mess around with federal judges,’ says a former federal judge. ‘It was a good way to get your head handed to you.’ sesame, DigitalVision Vectors/Getty Images

    Legal battles between the Trump administration and advocates for deportees flown to prison in El Salvador have turned into conflicts between the government and the judges overseeing those cases. One federal judge, James Boasberg, accused Trump administration lawyers of the “willful disregard” of his order in March to halt those flights, saying there was “probable cause” to hold officials in criminal contempt. Another federal judge, Paula Xinis, strongly chastised government lawyers for their failure to follow her order – affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court – to “facilitate” the return of a man, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, wrongly deported to El Salvador. Xinis cited the government’s “repeated refusal to provide even the most basic information as to any steps they have taken.”

    All this happened as administration officials made public statements disparaging the judges. Trump aide Stephen Miller described Xinis as a “Marxist judge” who “now thinks she’s president of El Salvador.” President Donald Trump had earlier called Boasberg a “Radical Left Lunatic Judge” in a social media post and demanded his impeachment.

    Politics editor Naomi Schalit interviewed Dickinson College President John E. Jones III about this extraordinary conflict. Jones is a former trial lawyer, former federal judge, and a one-time GOP candidate for the U.S. House.

    Right now we’re seeing two judges have a tough time with attorneys from the government. What governs behavior in the courtroom?

    For all the time that I was on the bench, and certainly before that, it was a pretty awe-inspiring thing to go into federal court. The federal court was the big leagues; you just didn’t mess around with federal judges. It was a good way to get your head handed to you, not because judges have hair triggers, but simply because there is a certain decorum that obtains in federal court, a gravity about the proceedings. It’s deference to the court and working within the boundaries of professional ethics. It’s being respectful when the court asks you a question. It involves never criticizing that judge in a personal way outside the courtroom, no matter how much you may disagree with the judge.

    I’m struck by the discourteousness of the government attorneys. They’re treating life-appointed district judges like they’re just impediments to what they want to do. It is something that has not ever happened, I think, in the annals of federal jurisprudence.

    Judge James E. Boasberg, chief judge of the U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia.
    Carolyn Van Houten/The Washington Post via Getty Images

    Attorney General Pam Bondi said Boasberg was “trying to protect terrorists who invaded our country over American citizens.” Is this unusual coming from a U.S. attorney general?

    I think we’re seeing unusual behavior from the Department of Justice in every single high-profile instance. I have never seen anything like it.

    Even in the most strident disputes, I do not recall an attorney general of the United States or the DOJ senior leadership team so personalizing their criticisms of individual district judges. It borders on unethical, and these are, in many cases, contrived and ad hominem attacks on the integrity of these judges.

    Besides professionalism and ethics, one of the reasons you’ve not seen it before is because it puts the DOJ attorneys who are out there on the line in a very difficult spot in front of the judges. You need only look to the unfortunate DOJ career attorney who was suspended and fired when he essentially did nothing more than fulfill his duty of candor to the court in answering questions.

    What is expected of an attorney in the courtroom?

    In federal court, attorneys need to bring their A game. The proceedings move more quickly. The requirements to be well-versed in the law and the facts are much greater. The judges are of a different caliber than in some state courts and county courts. So you you have to be on the ball.

    What judges really don’t like are circumstances where attorneys are being disrespectful to them, where they’re blatantly being disingenuous and where they are unresponsive to the court’s entreaties. Judges practice law before they get on the bench; they understand that lawyers have a duty to zealously advocate for their client. But when lawyers appear to be misrepresenting what is taking place, that is a cardinal sin in federal court.

    Paula Xinis at the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary hearing on her nomination to be a U.S. district judge for the District of Maryland on July 22nd, 2015.
    U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary

    Can you connect what’s going on with Judge Xinis to Judge Boasberg’s finding that probable cause existed to hold the Trump administration in contempt?

    Judge Boasberg tied it up beautifully in the memorandum opinion he wrote – the whole panoply from when the president’s Alien Enemies Act proclamation was signed in the middle of the night but not published until the next day, to the fact that three airplanes flew deportees to El Salvador after Boasberg had ordered them not to.

    It’s one big show of contempt for the court, rife with dishonest behavior, and I think Boasberg is entirely right to vindicate the authority of the court and commence these contempt proceedings.

    In the case of Judge Xinis, she’s not there yet. What she’s doing, in stages, is attempting to test the government’s compliance with the word “facilitate.” The Supreme Court had upheld her earlier order, saying “The order properly requires the Government to ‘facilitate’ Abrego García’s release from custody in El Salvador.”

    I don’t think the government’s going to do anything. The government’s position now is, if they don’t like any single thing that a federal judge does, they immediately appeal it with the idea that they want to get it to the Supreme Court. Assuming that the appeal is denied, or is granted, that means that down the road, there’s a showdown.

    Unfortunately, in Xinis’ case, I think the situation calls for some clarification. The government’s going to just be obdurate and they’re going to continue to be difficult and espouse their definition of “facilitate” versus what I think is a commonsense reading of the Supreme Court’s opinion.

    I don’t think the Supreme Court in any way meant for the government not to bring Abrego Garcia back. But in writing the opinion they were too soft, afraid of traipsing into the executive’s power to run foreign affairs.

    You have two judges seriously considering holding someone in the Trump administration in contempt, possibly even criminal contempt. What does it mean for a judge to be in that specific position?

    I never issued a criminal contempt citation in 19 ½ years on the bench against anyone or any entity. Never.

    The only contempt that I was ever in the business of issuing was civil contempt. Typically it would happen in a civil case when somebody wouldn’t produce a particular record.

    But in Boasberg’s case, I think it’s the relentless bad behavior of the government, as he details amply in his opinion, that has gotten him to this point. He’s not going to allow the bad behavior of the government to go unpunished. It’s a signal to the government that he sees their behavior in the worst possible light.

    Could the president pardon anyone Boasberg convicts of criminal contempt?

    I think he probably could. We’ll see. I think from Boasberg’s standpoint, he can play that out in his mind and say, “This might be an exercise in futility.” But I don’t think that’s the point. I think that the point is that he’s got to vindicate the authority of the court – and that happens even if the executive chooses to exercise the pardon power.

    John E. Jones III 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. ‘I never issued a criminal contempt citation in 19 ½ years on the bench’ – a former federal judge looks at the ‘relentless bad behavior’ of the Trump administration in court – https://theconversation.com/i-never-issued-a-criminal-contempt-citation-in-19-1-2-years-on-the-bench-a-former-federal-judge-looks-at-the-relentless-bad-behavior-of-the-trump-administration-in-court-254877

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEA: Shame on Politicians for Protecting the Gun Lobby instead of Students

    Source: US National Education Union

    By: Miguel A. Gonzalez

    Published: April 18, 2025

    WASHINGTON – Florida State University experienced an active shooter event, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to five others.

    NEA President Becky Pringle issued the following statement.

    “We stand with the Florida State University community. To every person feeling the weight of this moment: you are not alone. A campus, any campus across America, should be a place of safety, learning, and belonging—not violence and fear.

    “Florida students deserve better. Our communities across the country deserve better. This is the third shooting in three days affecting our students—first Dallas and San Antonio, now Tallahassee. Shame on politicians for protecting the gun lobby instead of students, and for failing to address the epidemic of gun violence sweeping across this country. We are past time for our elected leaders to take real action to end this senseless gun violence.”

    NEA Resources: Gun Violence Prevention and Response.

    Follow us on Bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/neapresident.bsky.social & https://bsky.app/profile/neatoday.bsky.social

    # # # 

    The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Oklahoma Private Nonprofits Affected by November Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Oklahoma of the the May 19, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding occurring Nov. 2–5, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the Oklahoma counties of Adair, Garvin, Jefferson, Lincoln, Okfuskee, Oklahoma, Stephens and Washita.

    Under this declaration, PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans. Eligible PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements might include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by any disaster. 

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans.”

    PNPs are also eligible to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the PNP suffered any physical property damage. 

    Interest rates can be as low as 3.625%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is May 19. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Dec. 18.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Colorado Lt. Governor Primavera Urges Congress to Protect AmeriCorps and Critical Services Across the State

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER — Today, Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera expressed deep concern over the Trump administration demobilizing AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) teams and placing 85% of the AmeriCorps federal agency staff on administrative leave — moves that would immediately impact thousands of Coloradans and undercut vital community services across the state.

    “Since its founding in 1993, AmeriCorps has empowered Coloradans across the state to serve their neighbors, solve real problems, and strengthen communities,” said Lt. Governor Primavera. “To dismantle these programs now, when so many Coloradans rely on them, would be devastating. These actions will impact service members and result in a loss of tax support for working families, wildfire response teams, those who build affordable housing, and behavioral health support in our schools. These are the people behind the numbers — and the work they do matters deeply.”

    In 2024 alone, more than 6,600 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors served at over 700 local sites across Colorado. Serve Colorado, housed in the Office of the Lt. Governor, supported nearly 1,400 AmeriCorps State and National members who contributed over one million hours of service across all 64 counties last year alone. This year, $19.6 million in federal funds and $10.3 million in community funds, which includes state grants, federal  match grants, philanthropy, and private donors, jointly support these AmeriCorps programs to provide critical social services across every Congressional District. A recent study estimated a return of up to $34.26 for every federal dollar invested in AmeriCorps — a testament to its value not just in service, but in economic impact.

    With over 2,000 NCCC members deployed nationally each year, including more than 300 from the Aurora campus alone, this decision threatens to unravel years of progress and partnerships built on trust, teamwork, and service.

    NCCC teams, based out of the Aurora campus, supported wildfire recovery, accessible trail repair, Habitat for Humanity affordable housing projects, and even tax preparation support for low-income families. Through a partnership with local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites, NCCC members have helped return over $30 million in tax refunds to Coloradans since 2022. During COVID-19, 300 NCCC members staffed contact tracing and vaccine outreach across the state.

    Eliminating AmeriCorps would gut services for schools, senior centers, food banks, housing agencies, and public health providers across Colorado, especially in rural and underserved areas, and other vital programs. It would also cut off access to education awards that help thousands of AmeriCorps alumni pursue college degrees or pay off student loans.

    “The numbers tell a powerful story, but behind each one is a Coloradan who’s been lifted up — a student, a veteran, a wildfire survivor. Now is not the time to recklessly cut programs with a proven record of significant impact,” said Lt. Governor Primavera. “I urge Congress to stand with the thousands of Coloradans who serve with AmeriCorps and the communities that count on them every day.”

    Since 1994, AmeriCorps members in Colorado have gone on to careers in education, conservation, public health, and emergency response as well as other critical industries. Many NCCC alumni join FEMA or continue in public service, building a resilient national workforce rooted in experience.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene Responds to Arrests and Exposes Violent Posts by Democrat Operatives

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA, 14)

     Following her successful town hall in Acworth, Georgia, part of the newest addition to Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene is responding to false narratives pushed by local Democrats who claimed the arrests at the event were unjust.

    “Local Democrats are spreading lies and claiming these were just innocent constituents, but they are not,” said Congresswoman Greene. “These individuals were arrested for serious crimes, and their social media shows exactly who they are.”

    One of the individuals, Johnny Keith Williams, was charged with “Terroristic Threats and Actions” along with multiple other offenses.

    The other two arrested, Andrew Russell Nelms and Kiyana Davis, have a documented history of posting extremist and dangerous content on their social media accounts:

    • Andrew Nelms praised the fatal shooting of a healthcare executive, stating it was an example of why the 2nd Amendment exists and hoped it would happen again.
    • Kiyana Davis made multiple posts encouraging political violence, including one explicitly calling for the assassination of President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Elon Musk.

    “This is sick. This is violent. And this is exactly who the Democrat Party has become,” Greene continued. “We are no longer dealing with political disagreements, we are dealing with deranged radicals who glorify violence and threaten public officials.”

    Thanks to the heroic actions of local law enforcement, the town hall remained peaceful and productive. Congresswoman Greene praised the police and affirmed her commitment to fearless leadership:

    “I will not be intimidated. I will not back down. The American people are watching, and they are tired of the double standard. Thank you to every police officer who played a part in ensuring the safety of my town hall’s attendees, including the protestors exercising their sacred First Amendment right peacefully outside.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gladbrook Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receiving Child Pornography

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

    A man who received child pornography was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison.

    John Thomas Carstensen, age 50, from Gladbrook, Iowa, received the prison term after a November 12, 2024 guilty plea to one count of receipt of child pornography.

    In a plea agreement, Carstensen admitted that, between August 2021 and August 2022, he knowingly received depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.  Carstensen has a prior felony conviction from 1993 for sexual exploitation of a minor.  

    Carstensen was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Carstensen was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment.  He was ordered to make $27,000 in restitution to the victims in the case.  He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    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.”

    Carstensen is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Vander Stoep and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-CR-33.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prairieburg Man Who Sexually Exploited Children Pleads Guilty

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

    A man who used Snapchat, Instagram, and text messages to persuade children to engage in sexually explicit conduct and send him photographs and videos of this conduct, pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

    Bryce Hans Plower, age 37, from Prairieburg, Iowa, was convicted of sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography.  

    In a plea agreement, Plower admitted that he persuaded, induced, and enticed multiple children to send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves.  At least two children under the age of 16 did so.  Plower paid the children, sometimes as little as $1, so that they would continue to send him sexually explicit images.  Plower also possessed photographs and videos of child pornography on his phone, including images of sadistic or masochistic conduct. 

    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.”

    Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared.  Plower remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing.  Plower faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 50 years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, $77,200 in special assessments, and a life of supervised release following any imprisonment.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-CR-91.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Good Friday: Premier Smith

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Alien and Convicted Drug Dealer Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    INDIANAPOLIS— Juan Morales, 49, of Mexico, has been sentenced to 37 months in federal prison followed by one year of supervised release after pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien after deportation.  

    According to court documents, on November 6, 2024, Morales was convicted of operating a motor vehicle without ever receiving a license. Further investigation revealed that Morales had been removed from the United States on two separate occasions in 2007 and 2018.

    Morales has a lengthy criminal history, including two previous federal convictions for illegal reentry, as well as two convictions in Indiana and Illinois for dealing cocaine and methamphetamine.

    “While in the United States unlawfully for a third time, this defendant has repeatedly broken the law, demonstrating time and time again a fundamental lack of respect for this country,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our office is committed to working with ICE and our other law enforcement partners to ensure criminal defendants like Mr. Morales cannot continue to pose danger to our communities.”

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany J. Preston and Samantha Spiro, who prosecuted this case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN)

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduran Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Reentry by a Removed Alien

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GULFPORT, MS – A Honduran man pleaded guilty on April 16, 2025, to Unlawful Reentry into the United States by a Deported or Removed Alien.  According to court documents, Denis Ramon Flores Ortez, age 40, of Honduras pleaded guilty to this federal felony offense in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.

    Flores Ortez is scheduled to be sentenced on August 19, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of two years in prison.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Federal law also provides for Flores Ortez to face Homeland Security removal proceedings after serving any sentence of imprisonment.

    On February 3, 2025, the U.S. Border Patrol encountered Flores Ortez, at the Harrison County Adult Detention Center in Gulfport.  As a result of official records checks, Flores Ortez was found to be an illegal alien from Honduras who had been lawfully removed from the United States.

    Flores Ortez illegally entered the U.S. in 2004, and was afforded the privilege of a voluntary departure in lieu of removal. In 2010, Flores Ortez illegally reentered the U.S. and was apprehended by Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) after his arrest in Jackson County.  A removal order was issued against him, and he was physically removed from the U.S.  Thereafter, he unlawfully reentered the U.S. after removal and was arrested in Gulfport, MS, in 2025.

    Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, Patrick A. Lemon, praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Border Patrol.  Lemon and Eric P. DeLaune, Special Agent-in-Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Adam M. Calderon, Acting Chief Patrol Agent of the Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector, made the announcement.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris prosecuted the case.

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

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Quigley, Menendez Lead 39 House Democrats in Demanding Answers After Ukrainians Living in the U.S. Legally are Mistakenly Told to Leave the Country

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05) and Rob Menendez (NJ-08) led a letter signed by 39 House Democrats to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem condemning the fear and confusion inflicted on Ukrainians living in the U.S. legally who received an erroneous email falsely revoking their protections under the Uniting for Ukraine (“U4U”) program. In light of this error, the letter demands answers from the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) as to the future of the U4U program. 

    “Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, millions of Ukrainians have been displaced. In the face of Russia’s horrific violence, many Ukrainians have found safety and stability on American shores,” said Congressional Ukraine Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Mike Quigley. “The Trump administration’s capitulation to Putin has already caused fear in this community which was compounded by this unacceptable error. With their homeland still under assault, Ukrainian refugees deserve certainty about their future. The administration owes Ukrainians an explanation and clarity about the Uniting for Ukraine program.” 

    “Millions of Ukrainians have been displaced from their homes because of Russia’s unprovoked invasion of their country, and the Uniting for Ukraine program has served as a lifeline for so many of those families,” said Rep. Rob Menendez. “After years of suffering and anxiety in the Ukrainian community, made worse by President Trump’s recent cooperation with Russia, this email was a terrifying shock to Ukrainians in my district and across the country. DHS must make clear what caused this error and what their plans are for the future of the U4U program.” 

    The April 4 email followed the Trump Administration’s misguided decision to pause all applications, petitions, and benefit decisions under the U4U program in January. It not only directed recipients to immediately leave the United States, but also threatened law enforcement actions, criminal prosecution, civil fines, and additional penalties for failure to self deport within seven days. It also notified recipients of the rescission of benefits associated with parole such as work authorization. Immediately following this notification, Members of Congress received concerned inquiries from Ukrainians across the country who were under the impression that they must leave the country. The notice was retracted later that day.

    For full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: FDIC Announces Three Orders Against Discover Bank, Greenwood, Delaware

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

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

    WASHINGTON – The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today announced the issuance of three orders against Discover Bank, Greenwood, Delaware (Bank). Specifically, the FDIC issued an Amended and Restated Consent Order requiring corrective action, an Order for Restitution requiring a restitution plan to distribute at least $1.225 billion to adversely affected merchants, merchant acquirers, and other intermediaries (collectively, merchants), and an Order to Pay assessing a $150 million civil money penalty.

    The FDIC determined that:

    • For approximately 17 years, the Bank misclassified millions of consumer credit cards as commercial, resulting in higher interchange fees for transactions processed on the Discover network.
    • As a result of the Bank’s misclassification, merchants were overcharged over $1 billion in interchange fees when accepting payments with the misclassified credit cards.

    In a concurrent action, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System issued an order requiring corrective action and assessing a civil money penalty of $100 million against the Bank’s parent holding company, Discover Financial Services, Riverwoods, Illinois, and its subsidiary, DFS Services LLC.

    ATTACHMENT:

    # # #

    MEDIA CONTACT: 
    LaJuan Williams-Young
    lwilliams-young@FDIC.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –