Category: Crime

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Announces $202 Million Settlement with Gilead Sciences for Using Speaker Programs to Pay Kickbacks to Doctors to Induce Them to Prescribe Gilead’s Drugs

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

    Gilead Admits to Paying Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars to High Prescribers of Gilead’s HIV Drugs to Serve as Speakers at Programs and to Holding Programs at Luxury Restaurants

    Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Naomi Gruchacz, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”); Christopher M. Silvestro, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Field Office of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (“DCIS”), the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General (“DOD-OIG”); and Christopher G. Raia, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today that the U.S. has settled a civil fraud lawsuit against GILEAD SCIENCES, INC (“GILEAD”), a large pharmaceutical manufacturer, that, among other things, develops, manufactures, and sells drugs for the treatment of infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS. The settlement resolves claims that GILEAD offered and paid kickbacks in the form of honoraria payments, meals, and travel expenses to healthcare practitioners who spoke at or attended Gilead speaker events to induce them to prescribe Stribild®, Genvoya®, Complera®, Odefsey®, Descovy®, and Biktarvy® (the “Gilead HIV Drugs”) in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute (“AKS”) and thereby caused false claims for the Gilead HIV Drugs to be submitted to and paid by federal healthcare programs in violation of the False Claims Act.

    Under the settlement, which was approved yesterday by U.S. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer, GILEAD agreed to pay a total sum of $202 million, of which $176,927,889.28 will be paid to the U.S. and the remainder will be paid to various states.  As part of the settlement, GILEAD also made extensive factual admissions regarding its conduct.

    U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said: “For years, Gilead unlawfully sought to increase sales of its HIV drugs, by using its speaker programs to funnel kickbacks to doctors.  As alleged, Gilead spent tens of millions of dollars on these programs, including over $20 million in speaking fees and millions more in exorbitant meals, alcohol and travel, all in an effort to induce doctors to prescribe Gilead’s HIV drugs and drive up sales.  With this settlement, Gilead has taken responsibility for its conduct and agreed to pay a significant financial penalty.  The message is clear, companies that illegally drain taxpayer dollars from federal healthcare programs will be held accountable.”

    HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz said: “This impactful settlement is the result of collaborative work by law enforcement partners, revealing Gilead’s unlawful practice of providing kickbacks to physicians under the guise of its HIV educational speaker programs.  Violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute, which in this case involved expensive HIV medications, can inappropriately influence physicians’ decision-making and divert the monies of taxpayer-funded federal healthcare programs.”

    DCIS Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher M. Silvestro: “This settlement is the result of the partnership among law enforcement and the Department of Justice to aggressively investigate and hold accountable companies and their employees who value greed over healthcare.  Protecting TRICARE, the healthcare system for Service members and their families, and investigating kickback schemes are priorities for DCIS.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia said: “This settlement ensures Gilead is held accountable for their illicit use of perks and kickbacks to entice doctors to prescribe the company’s medicine.  These types of schemes are not victimless – illegal kickbacks directly affect taxpayer funded healthcare programs.  The FBI will continue to investigate and stop healthcare companies attempting to benefit from deceitful and illegal practices.”

    As alleged in the Complaint filed in Manhattan federal court:

    The Gilead HIV Drugs are antiretroviral drugs (i.e., drugs that act against retroviruses such as HIV) used for the treatment of HIV.  These drugs are very expensive—Medicare typically paid well in excess of a thousand dollars for a one-month supply of Complera®, and significantly more for many of the other Gilead HIV Drugs.

    As part of its marketing efforts and to increase sales, Gilead conducted events known as “HIV Speaker Programs” at which a healthcare provider involved in the treatment of HIV was engaged to present a slide deck (prepared by Gilead) and facilitate discussion about one of the drugs or a topic concerning HIV (an “HIV Disease State Topic”) to other healthcare providers involved in the treatment of HIV (“Attendees”).  Gilead’s HIV Speaker Programs were often held in the evening at restaurants (“HIV Dinner Programs”).

    From January 2011 to November 2017 (the “Relevant Time Period”), Gilead conducted HIV Speaker Programs in order to promote and increase the sales of the Gilead HIV Drugs.  The HIV Speaker Programs were supposed to be educational in nature and the cost of any meals provided was supposed to be modest.  But in practice, during the Relevant Time Period, Gilead’s HIV Speaker Programs provided kickbacks to healthcare providers by: holding HIV Dinner Programs at high-end restaurants that were wholly inappropriate for educational events; allowing Attendees to attend HIV Dinner Programs on the exact same topic again and again and, thereby, obtain free lavish meals for events that held minimal educational value for them; and paying for HIV Speakers to travel to speak at desirable destinations—at times at the HIV Speaker’s request.  Further, Gilead’s compliance program failed to prevent these improper practices, even though Gilead knew that it had to comply with the AKS and the company’s own data should have put Gilead on notice of many of these abuses. 

    Many healthcare providers who received these improper kickbacks then prescribed the Gilead HIV Drugs.  As a result, federal healthcare programs paid millions of dollars in reimbursements for tainted prescriptions.

    As part of the settlement, GILEAD admitted and accepted responsibility for certain conduct alleged by the U.S., including the following:

    • Gilead paid many high-volume prescribers of HIV drugs tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in honoraria to prepare and present as HIV Speakers.  For instance, one HIV Speaker, who received over $300,000 in total honorarium payments, wrote prescriptions for Gilead HIV Drugs that resulted in over $6 million in Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE payments.
    • On many occasions, Gilead covered the travel costs of HIV Speakers who traveled long distances to speak at HIV Speaker Programs at desirable travel destinations, such as Hawaii, Miami, and New Orleans.  This was sometimes in response to an HIV Speaker’s request to be booked for an HIV Speaker Program in that city.
    • Sales representatives in Gilead’s HIV therapeutic area (“Sales Representatives”) organized HIV Speaker Programs at high-end restaurants across the country.  For instance, a significant percentage of the HIV Speaker Programs held in New York City were held at expensive restaurants, such as the James Beard House, Del Posto, Asiate, Palma, Vaucluse, Ilili, and Limani.  In particular, Gilead held 157 HIV Speaker Programs at the James Beard House, making it one of Gilead’s most used venues for HIV Speaker Programs.  A dinner at the James Beard House typically included approximately six courses with alcoholic beverage pairings.
    • Sales Representatives repeatedly invited numerous doctors and other healthcare providers to attend the same HIV program over and over.  Many repeatedly attended HIV Speaker Programs covering the exact same topic, often within a short period of time.
    • Over 250 prescribers of the Gilead HIV Drugs attended HIV Dinner Programs on the same topic three times or more within a six-month period.  And over 80 of them attended five or more HIV Dinner Programs on the same topic within a six-month period.
    • Further, many healthcare providers who were paid to be HIV Speakers on a particular topic also attended HIV Dinner Programs on exactly the same topic, often within less than six months after speaking.
    • In certain instances, the same group of doctors repeatedly attended the same HIV Speaker Programs together at various restaurants.  In many instances, they attended a HIV Dinner Program less than two weeks after speaking on the same topic.
    • During the Relevant Time Period, Gilead’s policies and procedures failed to prevent Sales Representatives and Regional Directors in its HIV therapeutic area from improperly providing honoraria payments, meals, and travel expenses to healthcare providers who spoke at or attended HIV Speaker Programs to induce them to prescribe the Gilead HIV Drugs. 

    In connection with the filing of the lawsuit and settlement, the Government joined a private whistleblower lawsuit that had been filed under seal pursuant to the False Claims Act.

    *                *                *

    Mr. Clayton thanked the New York Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for their extensive collaboration in the investigation and resolution of this case, and also praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI, HHS-OIG and DCIS.

    The case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Frauds Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacob M. Bergman, Allison M. Rovner, Rebecca S. Tinio, and Lucas Issacharoff are in charge of the case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Diamond Lake Minerals Launches Advanced Materials & IP Division and Files Inaugural Provisional Patent for Physics-Informed Valuation Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SALT LAKE CITY, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diamond Lake Minerals, Inc. (OTC: DLMI), a multi-strategy operating company focused on digital assets and SEC-registered security tokens, today announced the formation of its Advanced Materials & IP Division (AMIPD)-a wholly integrated division within DLMI that will spearhead the Company’s exploration into frontier intellectual property over the coming decade. AMIPD functions as a direct extension of DLMI; all IP and activity under AMIPD are wholly owned and controlled by DLMI.

    The division’s launch is marked by the Company’s first provisional patent filing under this new initiative, signaling the beginning of what DLMI anticipates will be a robust, multi-tiered patent portfolio. While AMIPD will serve as a strategic hub for innovation, its core function is to operationalize and commercialize advanced valuation technologies developed or acquired by DLMI, rather than independently orchestrate innovation.

    Cornerstone Filing – A Platform for IP Development

    On April 25, 2025, DLMI submitted U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/794,608, titled “Integrated System and Method for Valuation of Emerging Technologies in Physical Artifacts Utilizing Physics-Informed Replication Cost Modeling.” The application was co-invented by Mourad E. Mazouni, DLMI’s Head of Technical Strategy, and Brian J. Esposito, Chief Executive Officer. Ownership of the application resides with Diamond Lake Minerals, INC. The patent proposes a valuation model that integrates physics-based replication cost modeling with probabilistic real-options analysis to assess emerging and unconventional physical technologies.

    While the model offers a structured, repeatable approach to valuation, it does not replicate materials. Instead, it aims to support DLMI’s broader efforts to assign credible value estimates to advanced technologies, as the basis and support for internal analysis, strategic licensing and future digital asset offerings.

    Key Implications

    • Portfolio Architecture: Filing No. 63/794,608-internally referred to as “Series A-1”-represents the valuation which may provide the foundation of a layered IP architecture targeting emerging materials.
    • Licensing Enablement: The model, if validated through industry adoption, may help structure more transparent value frameworks for nascent technologies in sectors such as advanced composites and energy systems.
    • Potential Digital Asset Integration: DLMI anticipates the valuation framework may support security token offerings (STOs). However, integration will depend on third-party audit validation and regulatory acceptance, which have not yet been secured.

    Strategic Objectives – Subject to Execution Risk

    DLMI has defined the following preliminary goals for AMIPD, all of which are subject to market conditions, regulatory developments, and resource constraints:

    1. Intellectual Property Development – Leverage DLMI’s internal R&D and external collaborations to file patents in key domains, including advanced alloys and AI-manufactured substrates. Actual results may vary based on execution capacity and competitive disclosures.
    2. Monetization Pathways – Explore dual strategies involving traditional licensing/JVs and blockchain-based fractionalization. Monetization timelines and success rates are inherently uncertain.
    3. Innovation Partnerships – Form an advisory Innovation Council with academic and federal stakeholders. Outcomes are dependent on partnership traction and funding alignment.

    Leadership Commentary

    Brian J. Esposito, CEO of DLMI:

    “With AMIPD, we’re laying the groundwork for a sustainable IP strategy. Each filing, starting with Series A-1, aims to position DLMI to derive long-term value across technical and financial domains. That said, we are mindful of the complexity and cost involved and are proceeding with a phased, realistic approach.”

    Mourad E. Mazouni, Head of Technical Strategy, AMIPD:

    “This first filing provides DLMI with a structured framework to evaluate novel technologies. While not a solution in itself, it is a steppingstone toward building tools that help identify, assess, and potentially capitalize on high-potential innovations.”

    Understanding the Limitations of Provisional Patents

    DLMI’s provisional patent filing is an initial step and does not confer enforceable rights. Key considerations include:

    • Lack of Substantive Review: Provisional patents are not examined and may create a false sense of protection.
    • Strict One-Year Deadline: A nonprovisional application must be filed within 12 months to maintain the original filing date.
    • Disclosure Risks: Due to reduced filing requirements, there is a risk of insufficient detail in the application.
    • Limited International Applicability: Provisional applications are not recognized globally; separate filings will be required for international protection.

    Roadmap – Subject to Change

    Phase Timeline Goals Deliverables
    Seed &
    Validation
    2025–
    2026
    Initial filings and valuation prototypes Series A patent family
    Expansion &
    Layering
    2026–
    2028
    Convert to nonprovisionals; file PCTs; add continuations Series B–C patent families
    Monetization 2027–
    2029
    Explore STOs; pilot licenses (subject to negotiations) Potential revenue, if achieved
    Global
    Fortification
    2028–
    2030
    Secure patents abroad; form licensing alliances IP footprint expansion (aspired)

    All forward-looking statements above are dependent on internal development timelines, regulatory approvals, partnership engagement, and capital availability. DLMI does not guarantee specific outcomes and disclaims any obligation to update this roadmap in the absence of material developments.

    About Diamond Lake Minerals, Inc. 

    Founded in Utah in 1954, Diamond Lake Minerals, Inc. (OTC: DLMI) is a multi-strategy operating company that specializes in the development and support of digital assets and SEC-registered security tokens. Our goal is to responsibly innovate and develop valuable traditional businesses and successfully combine them with the future of money and digital assets. Our mission is to bring back to the public markets timeless business principles that are focused on healthy sustainable growth and strong earnings that generate yields combined in a modern digital world creating value for our stakeholders. DLMI is positioning itself as an industry-agnostic leader in the digital asset and security token space.

    Safe Harbor Statement 

    This release contains “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements also may be included in other publicly available documents issued by DLMI and in oral statements made by our officers and representatives from time to time. These forward-looking statements are intended to provide management’s current expectations or plans for our future operating and financial performance, based on assumptions currently believed to be valid. They can be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “will” and other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. 

    Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements relating to future sales, earnings, cash flows, results of operations, uses of cash, and other measures of financial performance. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause DLMI’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, among others such as, but are not limited to economic conditions, changes in the laws or regulations, demand for DLMI’s products and services, the effects of competition, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or represented in the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking information provided in this release should be considered with these factors in mind. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release. 

    Company Contact:

    Gary Zlobinskiy

    ir@diamondlakeminerals.com

    https://diamondlakeminerals.com/

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bessemer Man Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Prison for His Role in an Elder Fraud Scheme

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

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Bessemer man has been sentenced for his role in an elder fraud scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona.

    U.S. District Court Judge Anna Manasco sentenced Terrance Alonzo Pruitt, 47, to 50 months in prison. In December 2024, Pruitt was convicted by a jury of two counts of wire fraud.

    According to evidence presented at trial, in September 2023, Pruitt executed a Power of Attorney over an elderly family member with dementia without the victim’s knowledge or permission.  Between September 2023 and December 2023, Pruitt devised a scheme to defraud the victim by becoming a joint account holder on the victim’s bank accounts, changing the address on the victim’s bank accounts from the victim’s address to his address, removing two payable on death (POD) beneficiaries from one of the accounts, and adding two POD beneficiaries to another account. Pruitt then transferred $550,000 in funds from the victim’s accounts to his personal bank accounts. Pruitt used some of these funds for his own personal benefit, and he moved $500,000 to a new bank account that did not include the victim as an account holder. When confronted, Pruitt told various, inconsistent stories attempting to excuse his conduct.

    Pruitt’s sentencing range was increased because he received an enhancement for obstruction of justice after it was determined that he committed perjury when he testified in his own defense at trial.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan S. Rummage and Brett Janich prosecuted the case.

    Reporting from consumers about fraud and attempted fraud is critical to law enforcement’s efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim, and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud, and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed 10am-6pm Eastern Time, Monday-Friday. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.  More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov.  Victims are encouraged to file a complaint online with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at this website or by calling 1-800-225-5324.  

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing $168,000 From His Employer

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

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Michael Torres, 37, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy to financial institution fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A. C. Penrose, who is handling the case, stated that between September 2021 and February 2022, Torres was employed as a Relationship Manager at Financial Institution 1. While in this position, he misused his position to apply for loans through Financial Institution 1 in the names of individuals without their knowledge or authorization. Torres applied for 19 loans for a total of $168,000, which was deposited into bank accounts that he controlled.

    The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

    Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Council homes handed over in Rattray

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The Rattray project is part of Perth & Kinross Council’s ongoing multi-million-pound new build housing programme, which has seen over 500 new Council homes built for tenants since 2012.

    The properties include a mix of three-bedroom semi-detached homes, terraced two and three-bed homes and semi-detached bungalows providing high-quality accommodation for the new tenants.

    Built to the highest standard by the Council’s construction partner The Springfield Group, the homes have include energy efficiency measures such as solar panels, efficient heating systems and quality insulation to make sure tenants’ bills are kept as low as possible and the development’s carbon footprint is minimised.

    The 20 houses cost almost £3.6m to build. The Council invested £2.54m, with the Scottish Government contributing the rest.

    Housing and Social Wellbeing Convener, Councillor Tom McEwan, visited the development today and said: “This is the third handover of brand-new Council homes we have seen so far in 2025, and it’s fantastic to see these properties in Rattray completed. The properties will provide much-needed affordable accommodation for a wide range of different tenants in an area of high-demand for housing.

    “We have bought these homes ‘off-the-shelf’ from the developer. Working with housing developers and buying new properties is just one of the many ways we provide new homes for affordable social rent for our tenants.

    “Our own ambitious house building programme has delivered additional new homes for affordable social rent in towns and settlements right across the region, including Methven, Scone, Abernethy, Alyth, Inchture, Stanley, Blairgowrie, Meigle, Auchterarder, Balbeggie, Rattray and in many sites in Perth. This programme continues, and we are always looking for sites where more affordable Council housing can be built.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Invercargill Police investigating overnight offending

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Detective Inspector Stu Harvey:

    Police are asking for information from the public after a series of incidents in Invercargill overnight, including two aggravated robberies.

    Officers were called to a Dee Street premises about 2.30am on Monday 5 May, after a report of two people entering the store and assaulting the worker, demanding cash. They then fled the scene in a vehicle.

    The worker was not seriously injured, however they were very shaken by what occurred.

    An attempted burglary and two burglaries were subsequently reported at three further premises, on Windsor Street, Elles Road and Yarrow Street.

    Then, about 4.20am, Police received a report that two people had entered a Tay Street premises and demanded cash and items. Fortunately, no one was hurt during the incident.

    Police are making enquiries into each incident, and at this stage our information suggests they are linked.

    Two vehicles were seen in the vicinity of some of the incidents. One of them, a red Toyota Vitz, has been involved in the offending. Police have recovered this vehicle, which was stolen the previous day.

    The other vehicle is described as a dark-coloured car.

    We would like to speak to anyone who saw vehicles fitting these descriptions between 1am and 5am.

    Anyone with information about these vehicles or those involved is asked to contact Police via 105. Please use the reference number 250505/9732.

    You can also share information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: MENG CALLS ON DOJ TO RESTORE FUNDING FOR GRANT PROGRAMS SUPPORTING LAW ENFORCEMENT AND VIOLENCE PREVENTION

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Grace Meng (6th District of New York)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS), wrote a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi opposing the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) decision to terminate federal grants awarded through the agency’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP) and urging the Administration to restore funding for critical programs supporting law enforcement and violence prevention.

    OJP is the largest grant-making arm of the DOJ. The grants funded by the office have been instrumental in supporting a wide range of law enforcement and community-based initiatives across the country, including local law enforcement, prosecution, judges, forensic science, reentry, hospitals, faith-based organizations, victim services and youth groups. 

    In her letter to Attorney General Bondi, Ranking Member Meng wrote, “These programs are not “wasteful” spending, as you have claimed. They play a critical role in leading violence prevention and intervention efforts; serving at-risk youth and victims of crimes, coordinating responses to rising hate crimes; and assisting individuals struggling with substance use disorders. These programs save lives.”

    The grants terminated by the DOJ support at-risk youth, victims of crime, lead violence prevention efforts, coordinate responses to increases in hate crimes, and help people struggling with substance abuse. This includes the Community-Based Approaches to Prevent and Address Hate Crimes grant program, originally authored by Meng following the passage of her COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, which was signed into law by President Biden in 2021.

    Meng continued, “You stated the priority of your department is “law and order in America.” But law and order cannot exist if victims of crime are unable to recover, or if law enforcement does not have the resources to more effectively fight crime and restore relationships with the community members they serve, or if non-violent offenders cannot find a pathway to reentry into society.”

    Meng serves as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS), which has jurisdiction over federal funding appropriated to the DOJ.

    A copy of the letter can be viewed here

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jim Costa’s Bill Empowers Local Officials to Stop Public Health Threats

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) introduced the Safety Training for Officers on Public Health Threats Act (STOP Health Threats Act), bipartisan legislation to equip local law enforcement officers with the tools and training they need to recognize and respond to public health threats arising from building code violations, including illegal and unsafe facilities like the biological lab discovered in Reedley, California in 2023.Costa has been leading the charge to prevent future incidents like Reedley by pushing for better oversight and inter-agency coordination. “When dangerous, unregulated labs can operate undetected in small towns like Reedley, it’s not just a local issue—it’s a national public health risk,” said Congressman Jim Costa. “This isn’t just about one lab; it’s about making sure no town has to face a threat like this alone. The STOP Health Threats Act gives law enforcement the training they need to identify these risks and act swiftly. It’s about prevention, safety, and making sure every officer has the tools to protect their community.”“Keeping our communities safe means making sure local law enforcement has the tools required to quickly identify serious public health threats,” said Congressman Valadao, Co-Sponsor of the bill. “The STOP Health Threats Act takes important steps to help officers recognize dangerous situations—like the illegal Reedley lab—before they put their lives at risk. I’m proud to join Rep. Costa in introducing this bipartisan bill to strengthen public safety and protect our families.”“As a small rural City, we are often under-resourced, and yet we have to deal with some of the same threats and complexities in larger urban cities.  Criminals and those who wish to hide their activities will often choose smaller cities precisely because they believe their deeds will go unnoticed since there are fewer staff and resources to source out and investigate issues.  The STOP Health Threats Act will provide a training lifeline for rural cities, ensuring that Code Enforcement Officers and Inspectors have the knowledge and tools to protect Americans from biological and similar threats that might otherwise go undetected,” said Nicole Zieba, City Manager of Reedley.”Code enforcement officers play a crucial role in safeguarding our communities by ensuring buildings and facilities adhere to safety standards,” said Code Council Chief Executive Officer John Belcik. “The International Code Council commends Congressman Costa for introducing the STOP Health Threats Act, which would augment training for these public servants to ensure they are best equipped to identify and mitigate public health threats arising from building code violations.”BACKGROUNDIn 2023, Jessalyn Harper, a code enforcement officer, uncovered an illegal lab in Reedley, CA, storing hazardous biological materials in violation of numerous building and health codes. The lab contained infectious agents, such as COVID-19 and HIV, and was operating without oversight, posing a significant threat to public health.Nationwide, unsafe buildings, unregulated materials, and poor sanitation often go unchecked due to limited specialized training for law enforcement, especially in rural areas with limited resources. These unchecked violations can trigger disease outbreaks and long-term health risks.The STOP Health Threats Act empowers local governments by directing the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide grants for training code enforcement officers to recognize and respond to public health threats caused by building code violations. The bill promotes collaboration with public health departments and nonprofits, supports the development of tailored training programs, and prioritizes funding for communities like Reedley, where serious threats have been identified.
    View the text of the bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Mile Plains — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Lyndsay Moorhouse

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    West Hants RCMP Detachment is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 43-year-old Lyndsay Moorhouse, from Three Mile Plains. She was last seen on May 4 in Three Mile Plains.

    Moorhouse is described as 5-foot-2 and approximately 200 pounds. She has medium-length blond hair, blue eyes, and glasses. She is believed to be wearing jeans and a black hoodie.

    Moorhouse is known to frequent the Halifax area.

    Investigators believe that she may be driving a blue 2019 Hyundai Elantra, Nova Scotia licence plate GEB 779. The image included is a stock photo of the vehicle.

    When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Lyndsay Moorhouse is asked to contact the West Hants RCMP Detachment at 902-798-2207, or 911 in an emergency. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Five youths charged by Hobart police after stealing from bottle shop

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Five youths charged by Hobart police after stealing from bottle shop

    Monday, 5 May 2025 – 9:44 am.

    Four youths will appear in the Hobart Youth Justice Court in July, whilst another will be dealt with under the Youth Justice Act 1997 after being charged over stealing from a Hobart bottle shop last night.
    A 14-year-old boy was charged with robbery and possess a controlled plant.A 13-year-old boy was charged with robbery and bail offences.A 13-year-old girl was charged with robbery and stealing.A 14-year-old boy was charged with robbery and bail offences.An 11-year-old girl will be dealt with by way of youth diversion under the Youth Justice Act 1997.
    Tasmania Police is committed to protecting the community and local businesses, and detecting and preventing anti-social and criminal behaviour to make our public spaces safer for everyone.
    Our community deserves to feel safe at home, out in public and in their workplaces.
    We will continue to target anti-social and criminal behaviour and where appropriate, necessary and authorised by law, we will be charging those who offend, and putting them before a magistrate.
    Anyone who witnesses illegal or anti-social behaviour should report it to police on 131 444, or triple-zero (000) in an emergency.
    Information can also be provided to Crime Stoppers at crimestopperstas.com.au. You can stay anonymous.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Stoodley

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Serious crash at Stoodley

    Saturday, 3 May 2025 – 10:29 am.

    A 44 year old man is in a serious condition following a crash on Bridle Track Road at Stoodley yesterday.
    The single vehicle crash involving the green BMW sedan with a single occupant occurred around 4:30pm. Witnesses reported that the vehicle lost control and rolled into the Dasher River.
    A short time prior to the crash, police travelling in the opposite direction detected the same vehicle travelling above the posted speed limit and were in the process of safely turning around to make an attempt to intercept it. The police vehicle’s emergency warning devices were activated whilst trying to find the vehicle.  Police did not locate the vehicle and shortly thereafter were notified it had crashed.
    As is normal practice in these circumstances, a Professional Standards investigation will be conducted into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
    Police are on the scene this morning conducting investigations and Bridle Track Road will be closed to all traffic while the investigation is underway.
    Police are calling for witnesses to the crash or any person who observed the vehicle’s manner or driving to come forward.
    Anyone with dash cam footage or information should contact Police on 131444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Men Charged After Evade Incident

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Men Charged After Evade Incident

    Saturday, 3 May 2025 – 2:47 pm.

    Two men have been charged with numerous offences following a protracted incident yesterday. Both men had been actively avoiding police and were arrested following the incident where they utilised two vehicles in an attempt to evade police. Today, they have been charged with a total of 60 offences.

    A 22 year old man with no fixed address has been charged with 35 separate charges including:
    1x Dangerous Driving
    2x Evade Police (aggravated circumstances)
    1x Aggravated assault
    1x Attempted Carjacking
    4x Drive whilst not the holder of a driver’s licence
    1x Computer related Fraud
    7x Motor Vehicle stealing
    1x Possess a controlled drug
    1x Unlawful possession of property
    1x Breach of interim Family Violence Order
    9x Breaches of bail
    2x Burglary
    1x Stealing
    1x Attempted stealing
    1x Destroy property
    1x Dangerous article in public place
    2x FTA Warrant
    1x Warrant First instance

    A 19 year old man from Herdsman Cove has been charged with 25 charges including:
    1x Motor vehicle stealing
    17x Breach of family violence order
    1x Possess a firearm to which a firearms licence may not be issued.
    1x Possess ammunition when not the holder of the appropriate firearm licence.
    1x Breach of restraint order
    1x Breach of bail conditions
    1x Unlawfully possess dangerous article in a public place.
    1x Possess a controlled drug
    1x Dangerous article in public place

    Tasmania Police would like to thank the members of the public who have provided information to support the investigation.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man in serious condition following crash near Stoodley

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Man in serious condition following crash near Stoodley

    Friday, 2 May 2025 – 10:51 am.

    A 44 year old man is in a serious condition following a crash on Bridle Track Road at Stoodley yesterday.The single vehicle crash involving the green BMW sedan with a single occupant occurred around 4:30pm. Witnesses reported that the vehicle lost control and rolled into the Dasher River.A short time prior to the crash, police travelling in the opposite direction detected the same vehicle travelling above the posted speed limit and were in the process of safely turning around to make an attempt to intercept it. The police vehicle’s emergency warning devices were activated whilst trying to find the vehicle. Police did not locate the vehicle and shortly thereafter were notified it had crashed.As is normal practice in these circumstances, a Professional Standards investigation will be conducted into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.Police are on the scene this morning conducting investigations and Bridle Track Road will be closed to all traffic while the investigation is underway.Police are calling for witnesses to the crash or any person who observed the vehicle’s manner or driving to come forward.Anyone with dash cam footage or information should contact Police on 131444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Two men charged after Hobart evade incident

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Two men charged after Hobart evade incident

    Friday, 2 May 2025 – 3:52 pm.

    Two men have been charged with numerous offences following a protracted incident yesterday. Both men had been actively avoiding police and were arrested following the incident where they utilised two vehicles in an attempt to evade police. Today, they have been charged with a total of 60 offences.
    A 22 year old man with no fixed address has been charged with 35 separate charges including:1x Dangerous Driving2x Evade Police (aggravated circumstances)1x Aggravated assault1x Attempted Carjacking4x Drive whilst not the holder of a driver’s licence1x Computer related Fraud7x Motor Vehicle stealing1x Possess a controlled drug1x Unlawful possession of property1x Breach of interim Family Violence Order9x Breaches of bail2x Burglary1x Stealing1x Attempted stealing1x Destroy property1x Dangerous article in public place2x FTA Warrant1x Warrant First instance
    A 19 year old man from Herdsman Cove has been charged with 25 charges including:
    1x Motor vehicle stealing17x Breach of family violence order1x Possess a firearm to which a firearms licence may not be issued.1x Possess ammunition when not the holder of the appropriate firearm licence.1x Breach of restraint order1x Breach of bail conditions1x Unlawfully possess dangerous article in a public place.1x Possess a controlled drug1x Dangerous article in public place
    Tasmania Police would like to thank the members of the public who have provided information to support the investigation.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigate Kingston house fire

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Police investigate Kingston house fire

    Friday, 2 May 2025 – 3:53 pm.

    Approximately 8:30am on 3 May 2025, Police and the Tasmania Fire Service were called to Lewan Avenue, Kingston in relation to a house on fire.The unit suffered significant damage, however the fire was contained within the address and extinguished.The fire appears to be suspicious and a 52 year-old Kingston man is currently assisting police with their enquiries.This appears to be an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider community.Anyone with information is encouraged to contact:Tasmania Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at crimestoppers.com.au

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Pelosi at Reframe Festival on the Future of Democratic Leadership

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Boston – Yesterday, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi virtually joined PBS News Hour co-anchor and co-managing editor Geoff Bennett at the Reframe Festival in San Francisco to discuss the future of Democratic leadership. The conversation was presented by PBS News in partnership with Bay Area member station KQED.

    Click here to watch the full conversation.

    Read key quotes from the conversation below:

    On President Trump’s proposed Budget:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. The budget that the President put out that we just are reviewing now is one that is really a shame.

    A budget should be a statement of our national values. What is important to us as a nation should be reflected in that budget. It should be a budget of investing in our future for our children and the rest. And if you review the budget that the President put forth, he cuts education. Nothing brings more money to the Treasury than the education of the American people. Early childhood, K-12, higher education, post-grad, lifetime learning for our workers.

    The best dollar you can spend in the federal budget, I do believe, is basic biomedical research. The biblical power to cure, to save lives, to save funds for families who are confronted with illness and the rest. The list goes on and on. And why? Because he says he has to cut so that he can be fiscally sound—at the same time as he’s giving enormous tax cuts to the wealthiest people in our country.

    On Democrats choosing when to fight back:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. You have to prioritize carefully and make the distinction so the American people can see what impact this has on their lives—carefully prioritizing and at the same time show the narrative, again, with some specific issues, show the narrative thematically of what he is doing to our country. Again: disgraceful, shameful, un-American.

    So again, we always have this debate: whether we go for opportunity, security, all of those things or specific pieces of legislation—we do both.

    On Leader Hakeem Jeffries:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Our Leader, Hakeem Jeffries, is a master of this: repetition. Prioritize and repeat. Repetition, repetition, repetition. He’s so eloquent, and he’s so forceful in getting the message across.

    And we know what is going to make things different too—by using different platforms. When I was Leader, we won in ’06, we won in ’18. But now we have different platforms—taking messages to platforms where people receive their information much more instantaneously. And he understands all of that. I’m so proud of his leadership.

    He has the unity of our Caucus, the brilliance, and the strategic thinking of a leader. And again, values that would be reflected in a budget put forth by the Democrats and Leader Jeffries.

    On a new generation of Democratic leadership:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Well, I’m an advocate for it. I was very, very proud to step aside. I wish that we had been in the majority—we will be in about eighteen months. And the point is, when I became the Leader after Dick Gephardt, he very graciously—when I became Leader, he did not interfere. And I don’t interfere. It’s about a new generation of leadership, thinking differently, employing the different tools of communication that exist now, and again, having the unity of the Caucus to support what you’re doing—not only as Leader but the legislation that you would put forth.

    But we have to make sure the public knows what is in their interest—their kitchen table interest—the cost of health care and prescription drugs, the cost of education, the cost of housing, all of it.

    And compare where the Democrats are and where the Republicans are on all of it. And as I say, not only Hakeem, but the rest of the Leadership—Katherine Clark, Massachusetts, her state; Pete Aguilar from California; Ted Lieu from California—so many, all champions on messaging and champions for working families.

    On a Republican cuts to the American safety net:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. As far as Medicare, Social Security—they paid into this. It’s not an entitlement. This is their money. They paid into this for their whole working careers. And now they’re going to say, we’re going to cut this out because we need to save money so we can give tax cuts to the richest people in America?

    No. No, we’re not doing that.

    On repairing the damage President Trump is doing:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. This is what we did in ’18. The President said, he said in the very distinguished way as he’s used to speaking, ‘Obamacare sucks.’

    I hate to even quote him, but I hope my grandchildren aren’t listening. Obamacare doesn’t suck. It cures. It cures.

    We went out there. We had 10,000 events around the country of people telling their stories. They didn’t talk about politics or provisions of the bill. They talked about their stories:

    ‘My baby was born with a heart condition.’

    ‘My wife had breast cancer.’

    ‘My mother — this or that.’

    They told their stories and how that bill made a difference in their lives. Not only did we win the election, we won it with 40 seats—31 of them in Trump districts. People said to me afterward, ‘Aren’t you lucky that the Affordable Care Act—that health care—became such a central issue of the campaign?’

    I said, ‘No, we weren’t lucky. We made our own luck.’

    And that’s what we will do between now and the election.

    We will win the House. Hakeem will be the Speaker. He’ll be historic in his leadership—as well as the other members of the Leadership—and all of it because of the courage of our Members to take the tough votes to get the job done.

    On a potential peace deal in Ukraine:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. I have no idea what it is that Putin has on Trump—politically, personally, financially, whatever it happens to be—that he should be kowtowing to Putin over and over again, saying that the Ukrainians started the war.

    But forget about that. [Russia] came into this country. They raped the women. They did that in front of their children, in front of their parents.

    They kidnapped the children—tens of thousands of them—sent them to Russia, far reaches of Russia. They murdered people in front of their family members. And they’re supposed to get land for that? That’s not where I am.

    But I’m not the President of Ukraine. I respect whatever decision he makes. But for us to say Russia should get land in order to leave—after they’ve committed crimes against humanity? Crimes against humanity.

    I don’t think Putin can go anyplace without getting arrested for his crimes against humanity—at least Europe recognizes that. Others recognize that—even if Donald Trump thinks that’s okay.

    On her proudest accomplishment and legacy:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Of course, the Affordable Care Act. Because this was directly, directly beneficial to America’s working families.

    And it’s about the national health care financial stability as well. But with all legislation, you want to do more. You don’t do more in terms of lowering the cost of prescription drugs.

    We did that in the IRA, but we can’t do it totally. We have to do it in stages, and I would like to do it all at once. But we have to get it passed in the Congress.

    What was the hardest thing? Well, I always knew we had the votes.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three people arrested as part of Counter Terrorism Policing operation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Three people have been arrested in London as part of a Counter Terrorism Policing investigation.

    Two of the men [A and B] were arrested at separate addresses in north west London and one man [C] was arrested at an address in west London on Saturday, 3 May, as part of the investigation, which is being led by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.

    The men, aged 39 [A], 44 [B] and 55 [C], and who are all Iranian nationals were arrested and detained under section 27 of the National Security Act 2023.

    All three men have been taken into custody and searches continue at the three addresses.

    This investigation is not connected to the arrest of five people yesterday as part of a separate Met Counter Terrorism operation.

    Enquiries remain ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Pedestrian strike – Palmerston

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information following a hit and run incident that occurred in Palmerston on Friday 25 April 2025.

    Approximately 7:00pm, a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle whilst crossing the outbound lane of Temple Terrace in Gray, just before the Emery Avenue roundabout.

    The vehicle involved is believed to be an older model silver four-door sedan, travelling southbound along Temple Terrace at the time of the incident. The driver failed to stop and render assistance and continued to drive outbound after striking the pedestrian.

    A passerby observed the injured male and provided assistance at the scene until police and St John Ambulance arrived. The pedestrian was then conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

    Police are urging anyone with information or who may have dash-cam footage or CCTV from the area around the time of the collision, to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2500043020.

    Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Aggravated assault – Palmerston

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to an aggravated assault that occurred in Palmerston overnight.

    Around 10:05pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report of an unconscious male at an address in Johnston. It is alleged the unknown offender seriously assaulted the victim before fleeing the scene. 

    Police and St John Ambulance attended, and the victim was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital with serious head injuries. He remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.

    The alleged offender remains outstanding, and investigations are ongoing.

    Detectives urge anyone with information about the incident to contact police on 131 444, quoting reference number NTP2500045794. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au.

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five arrested as part of Counter Terrorism Policing operation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Counter Terrorism Police have arrested five people on suspicion of terrorism offences as part of a proactive investigation, which is being led by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.

    The men, who were arrested on Saturday, 3 May, as part of a pre-planned operation are as follows:

    [A] a 29-year-old man was arrested in the Swindon area
    [B] a 46-year-old man was arrested in west London
    [C] a 29-year-old man was arrested in the Stockport area
    [D] a 40-year-old man was arrested in the Rochdale area
    [E] a man (age to be confirmed) was arrested in the Manchester area

    All five men were arrested on suspicion of preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act (TACT), 2006. Four men [A-D] are Iranian nationals and were detained under TACT. The nationality of the fifth man [E] is still being established and he was detained under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE). All five men currently remain in police custody.

    As part of the investigation, officers are also carrying out searches at a number of addresses in the Greater Manchester, London and Swindon areas in connection with this investigation.

    The investigation relates to a suspected plot to target a specific premises. Officers have been in contact with the affected site to make them aware and provide relevant advice and support, but for operational reasons, we are not able to provide further information at this time.

    Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “This is a fast-moving investigation and we are working closely with those at the affected site to keep them updated.

    “The investigation is still in its early stages and we are exploring various lines of enquiry to establish any potential motivation as well as to identify whether there may be any further risk to the public linked to this matter.

    “We understand the public may be concerned and as always, I would ask them to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that concerns them, then to contact us.

    “We are working closely with local officers in the areas where we have made arrests today and I’d like to thank police colleagues around the country for their ongoing support.”

    The arrests and search activity is being supported by officers from Greater Manchester Police and Wiltshire Police, as well as colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing from across the country.

    As always, we would ask the public to remain vigilant and if they see or hear anything that doesn’t look or feel right, then to report it to police – either by calling police, in confidence, on 0800 789 321 or via www.gov.uk/ACT

    In an emergency, always dial 999.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Assault occasioning actual bodily harm case in Mong Kok reclassified as murder

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Police reclassified an assault occasioning actual bodily harm (AOABH) case in Mong Kok yesterday (May 2) as murder.

         At 6.33am yesterday, Police received a report from a staff member of a hotel on Prince Edward Road West that a woman collapsed in a room.

         Police officers sped to the scene and found the 46-year-old woman lying on a chair. Sustaining injuries to her face, she was rushed to Kwong Wah Hospital in unconscious state and was certified dead at 5.23pm on the same day.

         Initial investigation revealed that the deceased was allegedly assaulted by a man with a hard object. The assailant then fled away.

         Police arrested the 42-year-old man in Mong Kok for AOABH yesterday. He is being detained for enquiries.

         Upon further investigation, Police reclassified the case as murder. Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death.

         Active investigation by the District Crime Squad of Mong Kok District is under way. Anyone who witnessed the case or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 8741.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lansdowne Station — Update: Search continues for missing Pictou County children

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Search efforts are ongoing in Pictou County for missing six-year-old Lily Sullivan and four-year-old Jack Sullivan, who were reported missing yesterday, May 2, at approximately 10 a.m.

    It’s believed the children wandered away from a home on Gairloch Rd. in Lansdowne Station.

    The search for Lily and Jack continued through the night and will continue as necessary to support the missing persons investigation. Ground search and rescue teams and air services from the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association and the Department of Natural Resources are contributing assets.

    “Search teams have been strategic and thorough in their work,” says Inspector Mike Ingles, Acting District Policing Officer. “They’re using a variety of tools and resources as they look for the children in the heavily wooded rural area. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Jack and Lily who hasn’t already spoken to police is asked to contact the Pictou County District RCMP.”

    When the children were reported missing, a vulnerable missing persons alert was issued in Pictou County. As the children have not yet been located, a broadcast intrusive alert was issued today, at approximately 5:27 p.m., to Antigonish, Colchester, and Pictou counties.

    Investigators continue to ask that the public avoid the search area to allow trained searchers to do their work.

    Anyone with information is asked to contact Pictou County District RCMP at 902-485-4333. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eden Lake — Update: Youth recovered deceased at Eden Lake

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A missing youth who fell into the water at Eden Lake, Pictou County, has been located deceased.

    On May 1, at approximately 5:00 p.m., Pictou County District RCMP, fire services and EHS were dispatched to a report of an overturned kayaker on Eden Lake. RCMP officers learned that two youths, known to one another, were paddling on the lake in separate kayaks when one of them overturned, submerging the kayaker.

    Pictou County Fire services, Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) teams (Halifax GSAR, Pictou County GSAR, Strait Area GSAR, Colchester GSAR), a Department of Natural Resources helicopter, the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA), RCMP Air Services, RCMP RPAS (drone) operators, and the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team (URT) were involved in the search.

    On May 2 at approximately 7:45 pm, URT divers located and recovered the remains of the youth. The Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service has been engaged. Criminality is not believed to be a factor.

    Thank you to the Pictou County community for the support provided for this and other regional searches in recent day.

    Our thoughts are with the youth’s family at this difficult time.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two men charged following non-fatal firearm incident

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A 22-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder after a 33-year-old man was shot at an address in Newham.

    Mohammed Abdullah Khan (02.07.2002) of Upton Lane, E7 was also charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and possession of a prohibited firearm.

    Another man, 37-year-old Mohammed Qasim Khan (08.06.1987) of Sprowston Road, E7 was charged with grievous bodily harm and violent disorder.

    Both men will appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, 3 May.

    The charges relate to an incident which occurred in Dunbar Road, Newham at 14:42hrs on Tuesday, 29 April. Police were called to an altercation and arrived to discover one victim suffering from a gunshot wound and two victims with facial injuries.

    All received treatment at the scene from the London Ambulance Service and were later taken to hospital where their injuries were deemed to be non-life-changing or life-threatening.

    Both suspects were arrested shortly after the incident and remain in police custody.

    Officers are now encouraging those with information to contact the Metropolitan Police on 101, quoting 4319/29Apr. Or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    The investigation continues.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos Canada: Expert Picks 7Bit as the Top Casino for Canadian Players

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EDMONTON, Alberta, May 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — After using several online casinos in our quest for the ultimate gaming platform, we ended up at 7Bit Casino, and its bonuses and rewards were mindblowing. The welcome package, offering up to C$10,800 and 250 free spins, set an incredibly high standard from the start.

    Ongoing promotions, cashback deals, and a rewarding loyalty program kept us engaged, while over 7,000 games and lightning-fast payouts, especially for cryptocurrency users, solidified 7Bit Casino’s place as a top choice among the best online casinos Canada offers.

    SIGN UP AND UNLOCK AMAZING REWARDS AT 7BIT CASINO!

    The Rise Of Online Casinos In Canada

    The online gambling industry in Canada has seen tremendous growth, with players increasingly turning to digital platforms for convenience and variety. According to industry reports, the Canadian online casino market is thriving, driven by advancements in technology and a growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies.

    7Bit Casino has capitalized on these trends, positioning itself as a leader among the best online casinos in Canada by offering a crypto-friendly platform alongside traditional payment methods. Its ability to cater to diverse player preferences has made it a go-to destination for Canadians seeking quality entertainment.

    Canadian’s Unique Gambling Landscape

    The introduction of iGaming has transformed the online gambling scene. The province requires casinos to hold an iGaming license to operate legally. While 7Bit Casino is not licensed by iGaming, it remains accessible to players in the province, though with potentially fewer legal protections compared to licensed operators.

    For those seeking the best online casinos in Canada, it’s crucial to understand these regulatory nuances. Players outside Canada can enjoy 7Bit Casino’s offerings with confidence, knowing it operates under a reputable Curacao eGaming license.

    Pros And Cons Of 7Bit Casino

    Before diving into the specifics, let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of playing at 7Bit Casino to help you make an informed decision.

    Pros

    Advantage Description
    Extensive Game Library Over 5,000 games, including slots, table games, live dealer options, and exclusive crypto games, cater to all player preferences.
    Generous Welcome Bonus Up to C$10,800 + 250 free spins across the first four deposits, providing a significant bankroll boost.
    Cryptocurrency Support Accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and more, ensuring fast, secure, and private transactions.
    User-Friendly Interface Intuitive website design with mobile optimization for seamless gaming on smartphones and tablets.
    24/7 Customer Support Dedicated support via email and live chat, with a comprehensive FAQ section for quick answers.
    Licensed and Secure Licensed by Curacao eGaming, with 128-bit SSL encryption to protect player data.
    Responsible Gambling Tools Offers deposit limits, loss limits, wagering limits, and self-exclusion to promote safe gaming.


    Cons

    Disadvantage Description
    Restricted Countries Some countries are restricted, but use VPN instead
    Limited Language Options Available only in English, German, French, and Russian.


    Why Choose 7Bit Casino as the Best Online Casino for Canadian Players?

    7Bit Casino’s appeal lies in its ability to combine a vast game selection, robust security, and player-centric features, making it a standout among the best online casinos in Canada.

    Here’s why it’s a top choice:

    • Trusted Licensing and Fairness

    Operating under the Curacao eGaming Control Board, 7Bit Casino ensures a fair and secure gaming environment. All games utilize random number generators (RNG) or provably fair algorithms, guaranteeing unbiased outcomes.

    The Curacao license enforces transparent deposit and withdrawal processes, protecting players from hidden terms. While it lacks eCOGRA certification, regular audits ensure game fairness, providing peace of mind for players.

    • Unmatched Game Variety

    With over 5,000 games from industry giants like NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, Microgaming, and Betsoft, 7Bit Casino offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of classic slots, skill-based table games, or immersive live dealer experiences, the casino’s diverse library ensures endless entertainment. The inclusion of exclusive crypto games further enhances its appeal to digital currency users.

    • Enhanced Security And Privacy

    Player safety is paramount at 7Bit Casino, with 128-bit SSL encryption safeguarding personal and financial data. The support for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum adds an extra layer of privacy, as players can transact without sharing sensitive banking details. This makes 7Bit Casino appealing to those interested in No KYC Casinos Canada, though KYC is required for withdrawals over C$2,000.

    • Commitment To Responsible Gambling

    7Bit Casino takes responsible gambling in Canada seriously, offering tools to help players stay in control:

    • Deposit Limits: Set a maximum deposit amount for a specific period.
    • Loss Limits: Define a loss threshold to prevent excessive spending.
    • Wagering Limits: Control total wagers over a set timeframe.
    • Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from the platform.

    These features demonstrate 7Bit Casino’s dedication to creating a safe and enjoyable environment, aligning with Canada’s emphasis on responsible gambling practices.

    • Mobile-Friendly Experience

    The casino’s website is fully optimized for mobile devices, allowing players to enjoy their favorite games on the go without needing a dedicated app. The responsive design adapts seamlessly to different screen sizes, ensuring a smooth gaming experience on smartphones and tablets. This flexibility is ideal for busy Canadians who want to play anytime, anywhere.

    • Exceptional Customer Support

    7Bit Casino offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email (support@7bit.com). The support team is responsive and knowledgeable, ensuring quick resolution of queries. A detailed FAQ section also provides answers to common questions, enhancing the user experience. Players consistently praise the efficiency and friendliness of the support team, making it a reliable resource for any issues.

    • Fast And Flexible Payments

    7Bit Casino’s payment system is designed for convenience, supporting both cryptocurrencies and traditional methods. Cryptocurrency transactions are processed instantly, while e-wallets like Skrill and iDebit offer near-instant withdrawals. This speed and flexibility make 7Bit a top choice for players who value quick access to their winnings.

    Bonuses, Promotions, And Tournaments

    7Bit Casino is renowned for its generous bonuses and exciting promotions, which add significant value to the gaming experience.

    Welcome Bonus Package

    New players are welcomed with a 325% match bonus up to10800 CAD and 250 free spins, distributed across the first four deposits:

    • First Deposit: 100% match up to 800 CAD + 100 free spins on.
    • Second Deposit: 75% match up to 1200 CAD + 100 free spins.
    • Third Deposit: 50% match up to 800 CAD.
    • Fourth Deposit: 100% match up to 8000 CAD + 50 free spins.

    Free spins are credited in batches, with the first batch available immediately and subsequent batches over several days.

    CLAIM YOUR 325% MATCH BONUS UP TO 10800 CAD AND 250 FREE SPINS !!

    Ongoing Promotions

    7Bit Casino keeps players engaged with regular promotions:

    • Monday Offer: 25% up to 1000 CAD.
    • Spring Elite Offer: 100 Free Spins
    • Free Spin Wednesday: Up to 100.
    • Weekly Cashback: Up to 20%.
    • Weekend Offer: 99 Free Spins
    • Telegram Offer: 50 Free Spins
    • Telegram Friday Offer: 111 Free Spins
    • Telegram Sunday Offer: 66 Free Spins

    Tournaments

    For competitive players, 7Bit Casino hosts thrilling slot tournaments:

    • Titans’ Arena: A $8,000 prize pool tournament.
    • 10 Years of Platipus: €100,000 prize pool celebrating Platipus games, offering substantial rewards.
    • Lucky Spin: $1500 + 1500 Free Spins

    These tournaments add excitement and provide opportunities to win extra cash and bonuses. Players can check the promotions page on the 7Bit Casino website for the latest tournament details.

    UNLOCK INCREDIBLE BONUSES – PLAY AT 7BIT CASINO TODAY!

    Payment Options Available at 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino offers a diverse range of payment methods, catering to both cryptocurrency enthusiasts and traditional fiat users. While it doesn’t support PayID, it provides plenty of options popular in Canada, making it a convenient choice for players seeking a pay ID casino equivalent.

    Cryptocurrencies

    The casino is crypto-friendly, accepting:

    • Bitcoin (BTC)
    • Ethereum (ETH)
    • Litecoin (LTC)
    • Dogecoin (DOGE)
    • Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
    • Tether (USDT)

    Cryptocurrency transactions are processed instantly or within an hour, offering speed and privacy.

    Fiat Currencies

    Supported fiat currencies include:

    • Canadian Dollar (CAD)
    • Euro (EUR)
    • US Dollar (USD)
    • Australian Dollar (AUD)
    • Norwegian Krone (NOK)
    • Polish Zloty (PLN)
    • New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

    Traditional Payment Methods

    Additional options include:

    • Visa
    • Mastercard
    • Skrill
    • iDebit
    • Payz
    • Bank Transfer
    • Interac

    Deposit And Withdrawal Details

    Payment Method Min. Deposit Withdrawal Time
    Visa C$1 1-3 business days
    Mastercard C$1 1-3 business days
    Skrill C$1 Instant
    iDebit C$1 Instant
    Payz C$10 Instant
    Bank Transfer C$10 1-3 business days
    Bitcoin C$10 Instant
    Dogecoin C$10 Instant
    Litecoin C$10 Instant

    Players should note the C$10 withdrawal fee and check specific limits for their chosen method. Cryptocurrencies and e-wallets like Skrill and iDebit offer the fastest payouts, ideal for players prioritizing speed.

    Best Games At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino’s game library is a major highlight, featuring over 5,000 titles from top providers. Below are some of the best games, along with brief definitions for clarity.

    Slots

    Slots are luck-based games where players spin reels to match symbols for payouts.

    • Starburst: A classic slot with a space theme, known for its re-spins feature and vibrant graphics.
    • Gonzo’s Quest: Follow the conquistador Gonzo on his quest for El Dorado, with an innovative Avalanche feature and free falls.
    • Immortal Romance: A vampire-themed slot with a rich storyline, offering wilds, scatters, and a bonus game with up to 240 free spins.
    • Wolf Gold: A wildlife-themed slot with a Hold and Win feature, where players can win up to 2,500x their bet.
    • 7Bit Hot&Hot Fruits: A classic fruit-themed slot with wilds and scatters for added excitement.
    • 7Bit Bonanza: A high-volatility slot with a mining theme, offering free spins and multipliers.
    • Throne of Camelot Hold and Win: A medieval slot with a Hold and Win feature for big payouts.
    • Mega Moolah: A progressive jackpot slot with massive prize potential, themed around an African safari.
    • Johnny Cash: A country-themed slot with a fun soundtrack and bonus rounds.
    • Elvis Frog in Vegas: A vibrant slot combining Elvis and frog characters in a Vegas setting.
    • Wild Spin: A wild west slot with sticky wilds and free spins.
    • Raging Lion: A lion-themed slot with free spins and a gamble feature.

    Table Games

    Table games involve strategy and skill, offering a different pace from slots.

    • Blackjack: A card game where players target to get a hand value as close to 21 as possible without going over. Variants include Classic, Multihand, and American.
    • Roulette: A game where players bet on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel. Options include American and European.
    • Video Poker: Combines poker and slots, with variants like Jacks or Better, Tens or Better, Deuces Wild, and Aces and Eights.
    • Texas Hold’em Bonus Poker: A poker variant where players compete against the house, with bonus bets for higher payouts.
    • Craps: A dice game with multiple betting options, offering high excitement and potential for big wins.

    PLAY YOUR FAVORITE GAMES – REGISTER NOW AT 7BIT CASINO!

    Live Dealer Games

    Live dealer games stream real dealers to players, creating an authentic casino experience.

    • Live Blackjack: Play against a real dealer in real time.
    • Live Roulette: Bet on a live spinning wheel with a dealer.
    • Live Baccarat: Wager on the player, banker, or tie in a live setting.
    • Live Blackjack Party: A social version of blackjack with player interaction.
    • Live Dream Catcher: A money wheel game with multipliers for a fast-paced experience.
    • Live Monopoly: A live show based on the board game, combining strategy and luck.

    Exclusive Crypto Games

    These games are tailored for cryptocurrency users, offering the same gameplay as crypto betting.

    • BTC Blackjack: Classic blackjack with Bitcoin betting.
    • BTC Baccarat: Fast-paced baccarat with cryptocurrency.
    • Keno: A lottery-style game where players pick numbers for a chance to win.
    • Bitcoin Roulette: Roulette with Bitcoin bets.
    • Plinko: A game of chance where players drop a ball onto a pegged board, with the ball’s path determining the win.
    • Dice: A simple game where players bet on the outcome of a dice roll.
    • Mines: Players reveal tiles to find treasure, avoiding mines for bigger wins.

    These games are powered by leading providers, ensuring high-quality graphics, smooth gameplay, and fair outcomes. The casino regularly updates its library, adding new titles to keep the experience fresh.

    Responsible Gambling In Canada

    Responsible gambling is a cornerstone of a safe online casino experience. 7Bit Casino aligns with responsible Gambling Canada principles by offering tools to help players manage their habits:

    • Deposit Limits: Control how much you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly.
    • Loss Limits: Set a maximum loss amount to avoid overspending.
    • Wagering Limits: Limit total wagers to stay within budget.
    • Self-Exclusion: Take a break from gambling temporarily or permanently.

    Players are encouraged to set budgets, take regular breaks, and seek help if gambling becomes problematic. Resources like GambleAware are available for support.

    Navigating KYC Requirements

    For players interested in No KYC casinos Canada, 7Bit Casino offers some flexibility. No KYC is required for deposits or withdrawals under $2,000, making it appealing for smaller transactions.

    However, larger withdrawals trigger KYC verification, which involves submitting identification documents. This process ensures compliance with anti-money laundering regulations but may delay payouts for some players.

    Getting Started At 7Bit Casino

    To make the most of your 7Bit Casino experience, follow these steps:

    1. Sign Up: Visit 7Bit Casino, click “Register,” and provide your email, password, and preferred currency. No upfront KYC is required for most players.
    2. Verify Email: Check your email for a verification link and click to activate your account.
    3. Claim the Welcome Bonus: Deposit at least C$20 to activate the welcome bonus and free spins.
    4. Explore Games: Browse the game library to find slots, table games, or live dealer options that suit your style.
    5. Join Tournaments: Check the promotions page for active tournaments like Titans’ Arena or Weekly Tournaments.
    6. Set Limits: Use responsible gambling tools to manage your budget and playtime.
    7. Contact Support: Reach out via live chat or email for any questions or issues.

    GET STARTED AT 7BIT CASINO – YOUR NEXT BIG WIN AWAITS!

    Final Takeaway: 7Bit Best Online Casinos in Canada

    7Bit Casino is a premier destination for Canadian players, earning its place among the best online casinos in Canada. Its extensive game library, generous bonuses, fast payouts, and commitment to security make it a top choice for both casual and serious gamblers.

    Whether you’re spinning slots, playing blackjack, or competing in tournaments, 7Bit Casino delivers excitement and value. Always gamble responsibly and enjoy the thrilling world of 7Bit Casino.

    Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Online Casinos Canada

    1. Is 7Bit Casino one of the best online casinos Canada has to offer?

    7Bit Casino is widely regarded as one of the best online casinos Canada offers due to its extensive library of over 7,000 games and attractive bonuses up to C$10,800. Its support for cryptocurrencies and traditional payments enhances its appeal to Canadian players.

    2. Does 7Bit Casino operate as a No KYC Casinos Canada option?

    7Bit Casino allows transactions under C$2,000 without KYC verification, appealing to those seeking the best online casinos in Canada. However, withdrawals over C$2,000 require KYC, making it not fully KYC-free.

    3. How does 7Bit Casino support responsible gambling in Canada?

    7Bit Casino supports responsible gambling in Canada with tools like deposit limits, loss limits, and self-exclusion options. These features help players maintain control and align with Canada’s responsible gambling standards.

    4. Does 7Bit Casino support pay ID casino payment methods?

    7Bit Casino does not support pay ID casino payment methods. It offers alternatives like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Visa, and Interac, suitable for Canadian players.

    5. What types of games can I find at 7Bit Casino?

    7Bit Casino boasts over 7,000 games, including slots, table games, live dealer options, and crypto games. Top providers like NetEnt and Microgaming ensure a diverse and high-quality gaming experience.

    6. How can I contact customer support at 7Bit Casino?

    Players can reach 7Bit Casino’s 24/7 support via live chat or email at support@7bit.com. A detailed FAQ section also provides quick answers to common queries.

    7. What is the welcome bonus at 7Bit Casino?

    New players can claim a 325% match bonus up to C$10,800 and 250 free spins across four deposits. A minimum deposit of C$20 is required, with a 40x wagering requirement.

    8. Is 7Bit Casino mobile-friendly?

    7Bit Casino’s website is fully optimized for mobile devices, offering a seamless gaming experience without a dedicated app. Players can enjoy games on smartphones and tablets effortlessly.

    9. Are there any withdrawal fees at 7Bit Casino?

    7Bit Casino charges a C$10 fee on all withdrawals, regardless of the payment method. This fee may impact players who frequently withdraw funds.

    10. Does 7Bit Casino offer a loyalty program?

    Yes, 7Bit Casino’s 12-level loyalty program rewards players with comp points for bets, exchangeable for cash or exclusive perks. Higher levels offer better cashback and dedicated VIP support.

    11. Is 7Bit Casino legal for Canadian players?

    7Bit Casino is legal for Canadian players under its Curacao license, ensuring a secure gaming environment.

    12. What are the payment options at 7Bit Casino?

    7Bit Casino supports cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, alongside traditional methods such as Visa, Mastercard, and Interac. This variety caters to diverse player preferences.

    13. How does 7Bit Casino ensure fair gaming?

    7Bit Casino uses RNG and provably fair algorithms to ensure unbiased game outcomes. Regular audits under its Curacao license maintain transparency and fairness.

    Customer Support

    Support is available 24/7 via:

    • Live Chat: Instant assistance on the website.
    • Email: support@7bit.com for detailed inquiries.

    Email: support@7bit.com

    Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure

    Disclaimer: Gambling online comes with financial risks. Make sure you meet the legal age requirement (19+) in your region and follow local laws. Always engage in responsible gambling and check 7Bit’s official site for the latest terms, as promotions and payment methods may be updated.

    General Disclaimer
    This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only, not legal or financial advice. Content is based on research and user reviews as of writing. No warranties are made, and users must verify information before acting.

    Casino and Gambling Disclaimer
    Online gambling carries risks and isn’t for everyone. Confirm you’re of legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. Gambling laws vary, and compliance is your responsibility. We don’t promote gambling; participation is at your risk. 7Bit Casino is a third-party platform, and we’re not liable for losses or disputes.

    Affiliate Disclosure
    This article may include affiliate links, earning us a commission at no cost to you for qualifying actions. These support our content. Our reviews are unbiased, and we recommend only valuable products.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5d1aa3ae-f1d7-42ef-b49f-cdeb1a780895

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests after stolen vehicle tracked to Salisbury East

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Two people were arrested after allegedly driving a stolen car across the state at high speed.

    Just before 7am on Saturday 3 May, police were alerted that a car stolen from a Cummins property, on the Eyre Peninsula, was being tracked by the owner.

    The silver Kia was tracked as it travelled at extreme speeds across the Eyre Peninsula and through the Mid North of the State.

    PolAir responded and headed to the area while police on the ground attempted to spike the vehicles tyres numerous times as it continued to head towards Adelaide.

    The stolen Kia was located in Lysander Place, Salisbury East about midday and the two occupants ran from the vehicle.

    It will be alleged the man discharged a small calibre firearm but was quickly apprehended by police.  The man was taken to hospital for assessment prior to charging.

    No shots were fired by police.

    Fortunately, no police officers were injured during the incident.

    The firearm has been seized by police.

    A 31-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman were arrested and will be interviewed by police.  Investigations are continuing.

    Anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage of this vehicle that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 3, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 3, 2025.

    ‘Super antibodies’ for snake toxins: how a dangerous DIY experiment helped scientists make a new antivenom
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christina N. Zdenek, Associate Researcher, The University of Queensland Scientists in the United States have created a new snake antivenom using the blood of a man who deliberately built up immunity to snakebites by injecting himself with many different kinds of venom more than 800 times over

    Human rights group calls for probe into attack on Freedom Flotilla ship
    Asia Pacific Report A human rights agency has called for an investigation into the drone attacks on the Gaza Freedom Flotilla aid ship Conscience with Israel suspected of being responsible. The Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor said in a statement that the deliberate targeting of a civilian aid ship in international waters was a “flagrant violation”

    RSF condemns Israeli targeting of Gaza journalists – then slandering them in death
    Pacific Media Watch After a year and a half of war, nearly 200 Palestinian journalists have been killed by the Israeli army — including at least 43 slain on the job. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has brought multiple complaints before the International Criminal Court (ICC) and continues to tirelessly support Gazan journalists, working to halt

    Final polls give Labor a clear lead before the election
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne With those who haven’t already cast a pre-poll vote ready to hit the polling places tomorrow, a final batch of polls give Labor a firm lead. The

    Culture wars and costings: election special podcast with Michelle Grattan and Amanda Dunn
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra As we roll into the dying hours of the election campaign, the polls are suggesting a Labor win, although it is not yet clear if it will be in minority or majority. Chief Political Correspondent Michelle Grattan and Politics Editor

    Keith Rankin Analysis – The Great World War 1914-1945: Germany, Russia, Ukraine
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. On Anzac Day we remembered World War One and World War Two, or at least the peripheral little bits of those imperial wars that New Zealand was involved in. There was and is little context given to how New Zealand got involved with such far-away wars which need never have become

    What is iNaturalist? The citizen science app playing an unlikely role in Erin Patterson’s mushroom murder trial
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Caitlyn Forster, Associate Lecturer, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney Death cap mushrooms (_Amanita phalloides_) Jolanda Aalbers/Shutterstock The world has been gripped by the case of Australian woman Erin Patterson, who was charged with the murder of three people after allegedly serving them a

    Fake news and the election campaign – how worried should voters be?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrea Carson, 2024 Oxford University visiting research fellow RIJS; Professor of Political Communication., La Trobe University shutterstock JRdes/Shutterstock The spread of electoral misinformation and disinformation is undermining democracies around the world. The World Economic Forum has identified the proliferation of false content as the leading short-term global

    The MMR vaccine doesn’t contain ‘aborted fetus debris’, as RFK Jr has claimed. Here’s the science
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hassan Vally, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, Deakin University Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the United States’ top public health official, recently claimed some religious groups avoid the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine because it contains “aborted fetus debris” and “DNA particles”. The US is facing its worst measles

    Scientists surprised to discover mayflies and shrimp making their bodies out of ancient gas
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul McInerney, Senior Research Scientist in Ecosystem Ecology, CSIRO The native shrimp _Paratya australiensis_ was among the species found to incorporate carbon from natural gas into their bodies in the Condamine River. Chris Van Wyk/Flickr, CC BY-NC-ND What’s the currency for all life on Earth? Carbon. Every

    Archibald Packing Room Prize goes to Abdul Abdullah for Jason Phu portrait, among broader set of bold and deeply personal works
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joanna Mendelssohn, Honorary Senior Fellow, School of Culture and Communication. Editor in Chief, Design and Art of Australia Online, The University of Melbourne Winner Packing Room Prize 2025, Abdul Abdullah ‘No mountain high enough’, oil on linen, 162.4 x 136.7cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery

    New Zealand condemned for failing to make ICJ humanitarian case over Gaza genocide
    Asia Pacific Report The advocacy group Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa has condemned the New Zealand government fpr failing to make a humanitarian submission to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) hearings at The Hague this week into Israel blocking vital supplies entering Gaza. The ICJ’s ongoing investigation into Israeli genocide in the besieged enclave is

    The Liberals’ women problem may seem intractable, but here’s what they could learn from the Teals
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Phoebe Hayman, PhD Candidate and Casual Academic in Politics, La Trobe University The impression of the Liberal Party as out of touch with women persists in this year’s election. The party’s “women problem” was brought into sharp focus by the backlash to its now-abandoned policy to stop

    This NZ law aims to give people with criminal convictions a ‘clean slate’. It’s not working
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Plum, Senior Research Fellow, Auckland University of Technology Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock If you own a business, would you be willing to hire a person who has been convicted for a crime? Give them a chance when a background check shows they have a criminal record? The answers matter

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 2, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 2, 2025.

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Security: Emmanuel College Assistant Admissions Director Arrested for Allegedly Soliciting a College Applicant to Engage in Commercial Sex

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – An Assistant Admissions Director for Emmanuel College in Boston was arrested this evening and charged with soliciting an underage college applicant to engage in commercial sex with him.

    Jacob Henriques, 29, of Boston, is charged in a criminal complaint with one count of Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Minor. He will appear in U.S. District Court in Boston on Monday May 5, 2025.  

    According to the charging document, Henriques used his position as an Assistant Admissions Director to allegedly gain access to the personal information of various admitted or prospective students, who he later contacted to solicit to engage in commercial sex with him. Specifically, on April 25, 2025, Henriques met with multiple admitted or prospective students.   After meeting with  at least three such students, Henriques allegedly gained access to their personal information and began contacting them, offering to “pay them for some fun,” offering to provide them with pornography, and, in some instances, sending them pornographic videos or images. It is alleged that Henriques began contacting a fourth victim after she formally committed to attend the college on April 25, 2025. He allegedly offered to pay her for “some fun” and began sending pornographic videos to her.

    Henriques is charged with attempting to traffic a 17-year-old victim, who was a prospective student. Henriques allegedly reviewed the victim’s tour registration form, which contained her date of birth, just before giving her a tour of the college on or about April 25, 2025. Henriques asked the victim what grade she was in and the victim told Henriques what local high school she attended. Within hours of finishing the tour, it is alleged that Henriques began texting the victim on her phone number provided on her admissions form. Henriques allegedly offered to pay the victim $400 for “some fun” right now and told her that he had pornographic videos and pictures for her. Henriques continued to contact the minor victim that night, refusing to tell her who he was or how he got her number.  He allegedly told the victim that “porn” and “$” was ready for her. Henriques then allegedly sent the minor victim five pornographic videos depicting men and women engaged in sex acts and asked her whether or not she wanted to participate in a “gangbang” and whether or not she wanted to have sex with him. It is further alleged that despite the victim rejecting Henriques’s offer multiple times, Henrique continued to text her telling her to let him know if she changed her mind and that he would buy her anything she wanted. Between April 25, 2025 and April 28, 2025, it is alleged that Henriques accessed the minor’s profile 47 times. After the victim blocked his phone number, Henriques allegedly began soliciting the victim via email.

    The charge of attempted sex trafficking of a minor provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, with a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and James Crowley, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig E. Estes of the Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit is prosecuting the case.

    If you believe that you may be a victim of the alleged crime, please reach out to the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force by filling out this short short form.

    If you have information or questions about this investigation, or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking or child exploitation, please contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: ATF Atlanta host press conference on combatting firearms trafficking to Mexico

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

    ATLANTA – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Atlanta Field Division hosted a joint press conference with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to showcase recent efforts to combat the trafficking of firearms to Mexico.

    “Firearms trafficking and the illegal activity associated with it continues to threaten the safety of the general public throughout our communities,” said ATF Atlanta Field Division Special Agent in Charge Benjamin Gibbons. “We are working closely with our federal and local law enforcement partners to relentlessly pursue those who attempt to illegally move firearms between the United States and Mexico. Extensive time in a federal prison awaits those who think they can endanger our communities and get away with it.”

    “Homeland Security Investigations is steadfast in our mission to combat international firearms trafficking and dismantle transnational criminal networks that threaten public safety on both sides of the border,” said Steven N. Schrank, the Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama. “By targeting those who illegally purchase and smuggle weapons into Mexico, we are cutting off a vital lifeline to cartel members and terrorist-designated organizations, while upholding our duty to protect communities at home and abroad. HSI will continue to work relentlessly to identify, apprehend, and bring to justice those fueling this dangerous trade.”

    In response to the growing threat posed by Transnational Criminal Organizations and the administration’s emphasis on combating them, ATF has been working swiftly and diligently with federal and local partners to effectively combat the flow of illegal firearms trafficked to Mexico.

    Cartels have infiltrated the United States through the southern border and are operating within many local communities. They have established and expanded their networks throughout the United States to carry out illicit activities including fentanyl trafficking and human smuggling.

    Cartels rely on specific firearms to facilitate, expand and protect their criminal enterprise, including large caliber and/or belt fed rifles such as, the Ohio Ordinance M2 .50 caliber, FN M240 7.6mm, FN M249 5.56, and the Barrett M82 .50 semi-automatic rifle.

    Under President Trump’s and Attorney General Bondi’s leadership, ATF has prevented nearly 9,700 firearms from falling into the hands of dangerous criminals or terrorist. From January 20 to May 1, 2025, ATF agents nationwide initiated 8,501 violent crime cases, arrested 1,912 criminals, seized a total of 10,592 firearms, 655,388 rounds of ammunition, 8,722 firearm parts, and 6,335 assorted explosives.

    ATF is the only federal law enforcement agency whose mission is to reduce violent crime. While our mission is clear and concise, it is also immense and dangerous. And, as a small agency with just about 5,000 employees, we can only succeed with our local, state, and federal partners. These partnerships, including the U.S. Attorney’s Offices, Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), other government agencies, state and local law enforcement, help to stem the flow of illegal firearms being trafficked to Mexico.

    ATF is the federal agency with jurisdiction for investigating firearms, fires and crimes of arson. More information on ATF can be found at www.atf.gov

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE New York City arrests illegal alien charged with numerous sex crimes

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEW YORK — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Uzbekistan national Ulugbek Davronov April 28. The 21-year-old illegal alien is currently pending charges for rape: oral sexual contact without consent-other than incapacity consent; sexual misconduct: engage in oral sexual contact without consent; attempted assault: with intent to cause physical injury; and sexual abuse: subject another person to sex contact without consent.

    “ICE places a high priority on arresting and removing criminal aliens who pose a threat to public safety, especially those who commit heinous crimes against residents of New York City,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations New York City acting Field Office Director William P. Joyce. “Thankfully, ICE officers and agents, with the help of our FBI partners, were able to safely apprehend this alien subsequent to his release from local custody, before he could do any further harm.”

    U.S. Border Patrol encountered Davronov Dec. 28, 2022, near Lukeville, Arizona, after he illegally entered the United States from Mexico without admission or parole by an immigration official. Border Patrol officials arrested him and placed him in removal proceedings. On July 28, 2023, an immigration judge ordered him removed in absentia from the U.S. The Queens County Criminal Court arraigned Davronov on the aforementioned charges Feb. 19. ICE New York City identified Davronov as a criminal alien amenable to removal and lodged an immigration detainer with Queens Central Booking that same day. The following day, Queens County Central Booking released him without honoring the request or notifying ICE of his release.

    ICE New York City Fugitive Operations officers and Homeland Security Investigations special agents arrested Davronov on Staten Island during a targeted operation and transported him to the ICE field office for processing. He is currently detained in ICE custody.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-347-2423 or completing ICE’s online tip form.

    Learn more about ERO New York City’s mission to preserve public safety on X at @ERONewYork.

    MIL OSI USA News