NewzIntel.com

Category: Crime

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police investigating Bridgewater firearms incident

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Police investigating Bridgewater firearms incident

    Wednesday, 9 April 2025 – 9:18 am.

    Police are investigating an isolated incident on Finlay Street, Bridgewater around 8pm last night where a firearm was discharged into a residence.
    Two people were home at the time but were not injured as a result of the incident.
    If you were in the area around the time and witnessed suspicious activity or have dash cam or CCTV footage, please phone 131 444 or contact Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.
    Information can be provided anonymously. Please quote OR771722.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Hatch sought in McLaren Vale business break-in

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are investigating a break-in at a McLaren Vale business in the early hours of Tuesday 1 April.

    Just before 5.30am on Tuesday 1 April, a shed on Main Road, McLaren Vale was broken into and a number of surfboards, 20 wetsuits, and power tools, including a Makita sander, lawnmower and whipper snipper were stolen.

    CCTV captured a small blue hatchback towing a caged trailer travelling east along Main Road, McLaren Vale before turning onto Tatachilla Road and entering the rear of the property via a laneway.

    Anyone who recognises the vehicle or has any dashcam or CCTV footage from the area that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    Quote reference 25-39M

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Whitehouse Seek Answers & Return of Maryland Father Wrongfully Deported to El Salvador

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Justice admitted the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia — a father who was living legally in the United States under protected status — was an “administrative error.”  Mr. Garcia, 29, who fled El Salavador in 2006 and migrated to the U.S. in 2011, is married with a five-year old child and two step children who are all U.S. citizens.  According to USA Today: After finishing a shift working as a sheet metal apprentice and picking up his son from his grandmother’s house, Mr. Garcia was pulled over by ICE officers in several vehicles and erroneously told that his status had changed.  He was handcuffed and placed in an ICE vehicle and eventually sent to an out of state detention facility before being flown out of the country to a notorious prison in El Salvador known as the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT).
    In 2019, an immigration judge granted Mr. Garcia protection from deportation on the grounds that he might be at risk of persecution from local gangs in his home country.  ICE officials under the Trump Administration in 2019 did not object to the judge’s ruling.
    Last week, Justice Department lawyer Erez Reuveni told a federal judge that Mr. Garcia “should not have been removed.”  The judge agreed and wrote a scathing opinion finding that the Trump Administration’s actions “shocks the conscience” and that the government had acted “without any lawful authority” and was holding Mr. Garcia in “direct contravention” of U.S. law.  The judge ordered the U.S. to return Mr. Garcia to the United States.  However, the Trump Administration contended Mr. Garcia could not be returned to the U.S. because he is in Salvadoran custody and U.S. courts have no jurisdiction there, even though the U.S. is reportedly paying the El Salvadoran government $6 million to house deportees from the United States.  Yesterday, the U.S. Supreme Court granted the Trump Administration’s request to temporarily block a lower court order.
    Today, 25 U.S. Senators, including Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jack Reed (D-RI), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) wrote to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Tedd Lyons urging them to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the United States. 
    In their letter, the Senators call on the Trump Administration to comply with the lower court order requiring that they facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return and ask for responses to a series of questions regarding ICE’s enforcement policies that may have led to this grave error – and what measures they will take to ensure such an incident does not occur again.
    “We write to express our concerns regarding the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador, an action which the Administration admitted in a recent court filing was an “administrative error.” It is unacceptable that anyone would be deported without proper due process, especially where an immigration judge has granted the individual protected status that explicitly prohibits his return to El Salvador. We demand that the Administration bring Mr. Abrego Garcia home immediately,” the 25 U.S. Senators wrote.
    “Per court filings, Mr. Abrego Garcia came to the United States in 2011 as a teenager fleeing gang threats in his home country of El Salvador. In 2019, ICE arrested Mr. Abrego Garcia over an unfounded and anonymous allegation that he was involved with MS-13, which placed him in deportation proceedings. The U.S. immigration judge in the case ultimately found that it was in fact Mr. Abrego Garcia who was at risk of being the victim of gang violence,” the Senators continued. “This ruling was made under the Trump Administration in 2019 and was in fact required by law under section 241(b)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act once the immigration judge made the factual determination that Mr. Abrego Garcia faced a likelihood of torture in El Salvador. At the time, the Trump Administration made no effort to appeal the judge’s ruling or pursue Mr. Abrego Garcia’s deportation further. Court filings attest that Mr. Abrego Garcia has complied with regular ICE check-ins, has no criminal charges, and has had no contact with any other law-enforcement agency since his release in 2019.
    “Mr. Abrego Garcia is currently being held at CECOT, a maximum-security prison in El Salvador notorious for human rights abuses, after being deported in violation of the law to the very country where his return was impermissible,” they noted. “And when the Administration makes a mistake as severe as sending an individual with protected status to a foreign prison, it cannot simply shrug off responsibility and allege that there is nothing it can do to reunite him with his wife and child, who are American citizens.
    “On Friday, a U.S. District Court judge in the District of Maryland ordered the government to return Mr. Abrego Garcia to the United States, and on Monday the Fourth Circuit denied the government’s motion to stay the order. The Administration should promptly comply with the district court’s order,” the Senators urged.
    In addition to Van Hollen, Reed, and Whitehouse, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators: Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mark Warner (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
    The Senators closed the letter with a series of questions to Secretary Noem and Acting Director Lyons:
    The standard and legal course for the government to take to deport someone with protected status would be to reopen the case, introduce evidence that grounds for terminating the protected status exist, and then allow an immigration judge to make a determination as to their status. Why was that course of action not taken in this case?  
    In the past, DHS and ICE worked to quickly return people to the U.S. who were erroneously deported. Why is DHS and ICE no longer following these well-established procedures and practices?   
    Vice President J.D. Vance and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt have both claimed that Mr. Abrego Garcia is an MS-13 gang member, but the government was unable or unwilling to provide any evidence to substantiate that claim to the court. Please provide any evidence of Mr. Abrego Garcia’s membership in MS-13.
    Given that the Administration is reportedly paying $6 million to El Salvador to detain deported immigrants at CECOT, why does it believe that there is nothing it can do to return Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family in the United States? Please provide a copy of the agreement between the U.S. and El Salvador on the detention of people deported from the U.S. in CECOT.
    Are there any other cases that the Administration is aware of in which an immigrant with protected status was illegally deported without due process? If so, identify those cases and explain what, if anything the government is doing to rectify those errors. 
    Will the Administration commit to reviewing all of the cases of its deportees to ensure that it has appropriately identified all of the errors? 
    What actions will the Administration take in the future to ensure that immigrants with protected status are afforded their appropriate due process? 
    Full text of the letter follows:
    Dear Secretary Noem and Acting Director Lyons,?? 
    We write to express our concerns regarding the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador, an action which the Administration admitted in a recent court filing was an “administrative error.” It is unacceptable that anyone would be deported without proper due process, especially where an immigration judge has granted the individual protected status that explicitly prohibits his return to El Salvador. We demand that the Administration bring Mr. Abrego Garcia home immediately.  
    According to court filings, on March 12, 2025, shortly after Mr. Abrego Garcia had picked up his son from the boy’s grandmother’s house, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stopped Mr. Abrego Garcia, inaccurately telling him that his protected status had changed. After giving his wife a few minutes to arrive to take custody of his son, ICE arrested and detained him without any further explanation as to the reason for his arrest. ICE then transferred Mr. Abrego Garcia and other detainees to Texas, where on March 15, 2025, they were loaded onto planes and deported to El Salvador. Mr. Abrego Garcia was reportedly on the only plane that was not sent under the authority of the Alien Enemies Act but instead was transporting migrants with formal removal orders signed by a judge. This occurred despite the fact that ICE knew, as the Administration conceded in court, that his protected legal status specifically prohibited his removal to El Salvador.  
    Per court filings, Mr. Abrego Garcia came to the United States in 2011 as a teenager fleeing gang threats in his home country of El Salvador. In 2019, ICE arrested Mr. Abrego Garcia over an unfounded and anonymous allegation that he was involved with MS-13, which placed him in deportation proceedings. The U.S. immigration judge in the case ultimately found that it was in fact Mr. Abrego Garcia who was at risk of being the victim of gang violence. The judge found that Mr. Abrego Garcia and his relatives credibly testified that gang members had been trying to extort his family and recruit him and his brother to join the gang, forcing his family to move multiple times, ultimately compelling both him and his brother to flee to the United States out of fear.  
    The immigration judge agreed that Mr. Abrego Garcia would likely face persecution if deported back to El Salvador and thus granted him a form of legally mandated protection known as “withholding of removal.” Withholding of removal, which may only be granted by an immigration judge, provided Mr. Abrego Garcia the ability to stay and work in the United States despite being the subject of a deportation order. This ruling was made under the Trump Administration in 2019 and was in fact required by law under section 241(b)(3) of the Immigration and Nationality Act once the immigration judge made the factual determination that Mr. Abrego Garcia faced a likelihood of torture in El Salvador. At the time, the Trump Administration made no effort to appeal the judge’s ruling or pursue Mr. Abrego Garcia’s deportation further. Court filings attest that Mr. Abrego Garcia has complied with regular ICE check-ins, has no criminal charges, and has had no contact with any other law-enforcement agency since his release in 2019.  
    Mr. Abrego Garcia is currently being held at CECOT, a maximum-security prison in El Salvador notorious for human rights abuses, after being deported in violation of the law to the very country where his return was impermissible. Though the Administration has admitted in court that his deportation was a mistake, it alleges that there is nothing it can do to address this injustice, given that Mr. Abrego Garcia is now in the jurisdiction of the government of El Salvador as part of an agreement to imprison U.S. deportees in exchange for financial compensation.  
    Your unwillingness to immediately rectify this “administrative error” is unacceptable. Under multiple Democratic and Republican administrations, the Department of Homeland Security and ICE followed the rule of law and worked to quickly return people who were wrongfully deported, in the rare instances where such “administrative errors” occurred. The Administration’s mass deportation agenda does not transcend immigration law or the need for due process. And when the Administration makes a mistake as severe as sending an individual with protected status to a foreign prison, it cannot simply shrug off responsibility and allege that there is nothing it can do to reunite him with his wife and child, who are American citizens. On Friday, a U.S. District Court judge in the District of Maryland ordered the government to return Mr. Abrego Garcia to the United States, and on Monday the Fourth Circuit denied the government’s motion to stay the order. The Administration should promptly comply with the district court’s order.
    To address our concerns about this matter and to provide clarity on the Department of Homeland Security and ICE’s policy regarding the immigration enforcement actions against immigrants with protected status, we ask that your Administration answer the following questions by April 22, 2025: 
    The standard and legal course for the government to take to deport someone with protected status would be to reopen the case, introduce evidence that grounds for terminating the protected status exist, and then allow an immigration judge to make a determination as to their status. Why was that course of action not taken in this case?  
    In the past, DHS and ICE worked to quickly return people to the U.S. who were erroneously deported. Why is DHS and ICE no longer following these well-established procedures and practices?   
    Vice President J.D. Vance and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt have both claimed that Mr. Abrego Garcia is an MS-13 gang member, but the government was unable or unwilling to provide any evidence to substantiate that claim to the court. Please provide any evidence of Mr. Abrego Garcia’s membership in MS-13.
    Given that the Administration is reportedly paying $6 million to El Salvador to detain deported immigrants at CECOT, why does it believe that there is nothing it can do to return Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family in the United States? Please provide a copy of the agreement between the U.S. and El Salvador on the detention of people deported from the U.S. in CECOT.
    Are there any other cases that the Administration is aware of in which an immigrant with protected status was illegally deported without due process? If so, identify those cases and explain what, if anything the government is doing to rectify those errors. 
    Will the Administration commit to reviewing all of the cases of its deportees to ensure that it has appropriately identified all of the errors? 
    What actions will the Administration take in the future to ensure that immigrants with protected status are afforded their appropriate due process? 
    We appreciate your prompt attention to this vital matter and look forward to reviewing your fulsome, timely response. 
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Booker, Nehls, Dean Introduce Bill to Help Law Enforcement Better Prosecute Child Abusers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representatives Troy Nehls (TX-22) and Madeleine Dean (PA-04) today introduced the Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act, which would close loopholes in existing criminal child sexual abuse statues to help law enforcement better prosecute offenders and protect victims:

    “Perpetrators who attack our children must face consequences for their heinous actions,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By closing loopholes in current law, our legislation would ensure these dangerous offenders aren’t able to escape accountability on a technicality and are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “Last Congress, Senator Cornyn and I introduced and passed this bipartisan legislation in the Senate to ensure that those who exploit and abuse children are held accountable,” said Sen. Booker. “This bill would close loopholes in current law to better allow us to protect our nation’s most vulnerable from predators. I urge my colleagues in both chambers to pass this critical legislation so we can better protect children from exploitation and sexual abuse and provide justice for victims.”

    “Any existing loopholes in United States federal law that allow child predators to escape justice must be closed immediately,” said Rep. Nehls. “The abuse of a child, in any form, is completely unacceptable. As a father and a former Texas Sheriff, I’m proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing bipartisan legislation that will empower our nation’s law enforcement and our justice system to hold bad actors who abuse our children, here at home and abroad, accountable.”

    “As lawmakers, we have the solemn duty of protecting our nation’s children from kidnapping and sexual exploitation,” said Rep. Dean. “Yet under current law, there are loopholes that allow bad actors to evade prosecution. This legislation clarifies and strengthens federal law to ensure offenders are held accountable. I’m grateful to Congressman Nehls, Senator Booker, and Senator Cornyn for their partnership to ensure our kids are kept safe.”

    Background:

    In 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) published the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, which made a series of recommendations for Congress to strengthen federal enforcement of child exploitation laws. The Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act aims to incorporate those recommendations and define the DOJ’s authority to prosecute perpetrators by:

    • Closing the kidnapping loophole by clarifying that kidnapping of a child can occur by deceiving a third party and the circumstances where consent can be used as a defense;
    • Closing the international travel loopholes by clarifying that traveling to sexually abuse a child includes crossing international lines and that committing a sexual abuse felony against a child while abroad is a crime;
    • Closing the sexual contact loophole by clarifying that causing a child to commit a sexual act themselves is also a crime;
    • And closing the attempt loophole by clarifying that attempting to commit the sexual contact offenses is also a crime.

    The Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act is endorsed by the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, Major County Sherriff’s of America, Rights4Girls, Hope for Justice, Street Grace, 3Strands Global Foundation, Fraternal Order of Police, the National Children’s Alliance (NCA), Protect All Child from Trafficking (PACT), and the National District Attorney’s Association (NDAA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Senior Member of Violent D.C. Drug Crew Is Sentenced to 420 Months in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON –Broadus Jamal Daniels, 30, of Washington, D.C. was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 420 months (35 years) in prison in connection with drug and gun charges related to a drug-trafficking conspiracy.

                The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, FBI Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, ATF Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Washington Field Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

                Daniels, aka “Wardy,” was found guilty by a federal jury on September 16, 2024, of possessing machine guns in furtherance of drug trafficking, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, conspiracy to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana, possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, unlawful possession of machine guns, and possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.

                In addition to the 35-year prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson ordered Daniels to serve four years of supervised release.

                According to the evidence presented at trial, Daniels, was a “big homie” or senior member in a street gang known as Jugg Gang, or “JG.”  In approximately August 2018, the Jugg Gang became allied with a neighboring D.C. street crew known as “Push Dat Shit” or “PDS.”  PDS maintained gang territory in the 3300 – 3500 blocks of Wheeler Road, Southeast, and adjacent areas, and operated an open-air drug market outside a grocery located on the 3500 block of Wheeler Road, Southeast.

                Between August 2018 and April 2023, members of the allied PDS/JG street crew sold drugs from Holiday Market and from “trap houses” that they maintained in apartment buildings surrounding that location. As their drug business grew, PDS/JG became the target of drive-by shootings conducted by rival gangs – shootings they referred to as “spinning the block.” Beginning in August 2019, a PDS/JG member began assembling AR-pistol assault rifles from kits purchased from online retailers and modified them to be capable of fully automatic fire. Such firearms are defined as “privately made firearms” by the ATF but are frequently referred to as “ghost guns” on the street.

                As proved at trial, PDS/JG members used, carried, and possessed these “ghost gun” AR-pistol machine guns to defend their territory from rival gangs, and also to “spin the block” on rival gangs to deter their rivals from entering PDS/JG territory.

                This sentencing is part of an ongoing joint investigation which has resulted in 26 convictions, and the seizure of two vehicles, 35 firearms, four machine guns, more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition, approximately 60 pounds of marijuana, 41 grams of cocaine base, dozens of oxycodone pills, and approximately $500,000 in cash.

                Daniels’ co-defendant, Andre Alonte Willis, who was a leader of PDS, was sentenced February 20, 2025, to 20 years in prison on five felony convictions related to drug trafficking and firearms offenses.

                The case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the ATF’s Washington Field Division, and the Metropolitan Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys James B. Nelson and Justin F. Song and Paralegal Specialist Melissa Macechko.

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  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Nobody wins trade wars Guterres warns, WFP alert over US funding cuts, ‘modern slavery’ must be eradicated says Yang

    Source: United Nations 2

    Economic Development

    The UN Secretary-General on Tuesday warned that when it comes to trade wars, “nobody wins” and “everybody tends to lose.”

    António Guterres was responding to a journalist at the stakeout in UN Headquarters in New York, who asked him for reaction to the recent decision by United States President Donald Trump to impose a minimum ten per cent tariff on nearly every country in the world.

    Tariffs are a tax on imports coming into a country which are usually charged to the exporting nation as a percentage of value.

    Concern for vulnerable developing economies

    “Trade wars are extremely negative,” the UN chief said, adding that he was “particularly worried” at the impact rising tariffs could have on vulnerable developing countries, warning that it could be “devastating”.

    “I sincerely hope that we will have no recession, because a recession will have dramatic consequences, especially for the poorest people in the world,” the UN chief added.

    Soundcloud

    US funding cuts spell ‘death sentence’ for millions, food agency warns

    The World Food Programme (WFP) has voiced deep concern over news that the United States has ended funding for life-saving emergency food assistance in 14 countries.

    “If implemented, this could amount to a death sentence for millions of people facing extreme hunger and starvation,” the UN agency said in a post on the social media platform X on Monday.

    WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain warned in a separate post that continued cuts to its programmes “will deepen hunger, fuel instability, and make the world far less safe.”

    She urged world leaders “to weigh the consequences,” noting that “with conflicts and extreme hunger surging, pulling support doesn’t just cost lives – it undermines global stability.”

    WFP are in contact with Washington to seek clarification and to urge continued support for the programmes.

    Refugees at risk

    Among the millions who will be affected are refugees living in Uganda, who total some 1.8 million.

     On average, between 10,000 to 12,000 refugees have entered the country every month over the past three years, according to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR.

    The situation is putting a strain on resources amid shortfalls in funding, which have forced the agency to make cuts in areas such as health, childcare and shelter services.

    “The budget that has been set aside to spend for the entire year is being used up now because of the influx,” Matthew Crentsil, UNHCR Representative in Uganda, told journalists in Geneva on Tuesday.

    “I don’t want to even mention the shortage that WFP is experiencing in providing food,” he said, speaking from the capital, Kampala.

    “There is no assurance of funding for WFP to provide food for refugees in Uganda beyond June of this year, so this is all exacerbating the already precarious situation that we have here in Uganda.”

    ‘Urgent need to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking’: Assembly President

    An estimated 50 million people currently live in modern slavery, while a third of human trafficking victims are now children, said President of the UN General Assembly Philemon Yang on Tuesday.

    Welcoming the publication of the latest Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking report, Mr. Yang urged Member States to “strengthen measures that combat modern slavery and trafficking in persons.”

    “Modern slavery and human trafficking are violations of fundamental human rights,” Mr. Yang said, adding that the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights was clear in prohibiting slavery and the slave trade in all their forms.”

    Plan of action

    In order to put an end to these violations he said it was important to tackle the root causes the make people vulnerable to being trafficked or enslaved in the first place.

    The implementation of a UN Global Plan of Action, adopted by the General Assembly in 2010 to complement the UN Trafficking Protocol, is set to be reviewed by Member States later this year. New goals to combat trafficking in persons will be set during the review.

    Mr. Yang encouraged Member States to enact “policies that are trauma-informed and survivor centred,” and added that such policies should “promote inclusive growth and provide [survivors with] equal access to healthcare, education, skills training and job.”

    There is an urgent need to eradicate modern slavery and human trafficking, he warned.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Leads Push to Stop Sharing of Sensitive Data on Unaccompanied Children for Immigration Enforcement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Leads Push to Stop Sharing of Sensitive Data on Unaccompanied Children for Immigration Enforcement

    Senators: “We also ask that you immediately suspend any access to ORR’s database and children’s case files that runs counter to existing law, policy, and regulations.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, led seven Senators in sounding the alarm on troubling reports that the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has unlawfully granted expanded access to sensitive data on unaccompanied children and their sponsors to the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Senators raised serious concerns that ICE could misuse this confidential information to enact mass deportations and detain immigrant families and demanded DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. immediately cease this misguided practice.
    Under the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA), ORR maintains sensitive information about unaccompanied children and their sponsors, including the immigration status of household members, but this information is not meant to be shared for immigration enforcement purposes.
    “Sharing of this information is subject to strict limits under several federal and state laws, regulations, and ORR policies in recognition of the severe harms to children and families that may follow from unauthorized use and disclosure,” wrote the Senators. “Reports that additional ICE personnel may now access ORR’s database raise serious questions about the authority and purpose for such use.”
    “We are deeply concerned that broad and unlawful information sharing practices may be renewed, with dire consequences for children’s safety, rights, and the fair administration of justice,” continued the Senators. “Therefore, we request that you provide detailed information regarding the purpose, nature, and authority for any expanded information sharing between ORR and ICE. We also ask that you immediately suspend any access to ORR’s database and children’s case files that runs counter to existing law, policy, and regulations.”
    Specifically, ORR’s confidential database contains information such as counseling notes, mental health information, and medical records, as well as private records of children’s trauma, physical and sexual abuse, and other harms they have experienced. The files also have detailed data about sponsors and other household members, which can include information about immigration status.
    Under the previous Trump Administration, ORR and ICE entered into a Memorandum of Agreement giving ICE similar data access, which ICE used to conduct immigration enforcement against sponsors. This harmful ICE arrangement resulted in many children being forced into prolonged stays in ORR custody due to fear among sponsors to come forward.
    In addition to Senator Padilla, the letter was also signed by Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.).
    Senator Padilla is a leading voice in Congress opposing President Trump’s anti-immigrant actions and rhetoric. Padilla blasted the Trump Administration’s stop work order to organizations that provide legal services for unaccompanied children and demanded they protect Congressionally mandated legal representation for these children in the immigration system. He also recently cosponsored Senator Hirono’s Fair Day in Court for Kids Act of 2025, which would provide unaccompanied children with legal representation when they appear in proceedings before an immigration judge.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary Kennedy and Secretary Noem:
    We write in response to alarming reports that the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has authorized expanded access by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel to an ORR database containing information about unaccompanied children and their sponsors.
    In the exercise of its responsibilities under the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA) to provide for unaccompanied children’s care and placement, ORR maintains significant and often deeply sensitive information about children and their sponsors. Sharing of this information is subject to strict limits under several federal and state laws, regulations, and ORR policies in recognition of the severe harms to children and families that may follow from unauthorized use and disclosure. Reports that additional ICE personnel may now access ORR’s database raise serious questions about the authority and purpose for such use.
    ORR’s confidential case files include information ranging from counseling notes, mental health information, medical records, to information about incidents that may occur in care. Children’s files may include sensitive details about trauma, physical and sexual abuse, and other harm that a child has experienced in their country of origin, during their journey, or even while in government custody. ORR also maintains information and documentation about sponsors and other household members as part of the Family Reunification Application completed by potential sponsors. This may include information about immigration status.
    With limited exceptions, this information must be kept confidential and released by ORR only to individuals or entities providing appropriate authorization and documentation. Although ORR shares information with relevant ICE personnel in limited circumstances, like in the case of a child who is absent from or has been transferred out of a facility and in certain other instances relating to child safety, it generally requires the Department of Homeland Security, like other investigative agencies, to make a formal case file request detailing the scope of any relevant investigation and/or providing a warrant, court order, or subpoena to seek case file information. Further, consistent with prior congressional directives and outlined in ORR’s Policy Guide and the ORR Unaccompanied Children Program Foundational Rule, ORR “shall not share any immigration status information relating to potential sponsors with any law enforcement or immigration enforcement related entity at any time.”
    It is unclear what information ICE personnel will now be able to view and how broadly such information may be being shared. The potential for ICE personnel to maintain access to the full database at any time is particularly troubling, and it is especially disconcerting in light of recent reports that ICE will be implementing a multi-phased enforcement initiative against unaccompanied children and their families in the coming weeks that could potentially result in the placement of hundreds of thousands of children into removal proceedings and/or in family detention. Past information sharing during the prior Trump Administration resulted in harmful impacts for children and their families. With the recent issuance of an Interim Final Rule aimed at revoking the Foundational Rule’s provisions limiting information sharing, we are especially concerned about a repeat of harmful impacts for children and their families.
    In April 2018, ORR and DHS signed a Memorandum of Agreement providing for continuous information sharing about unaccompanied children from the time they arrived through release. Based on this information, ICE undertook enforcement actions against sponsors of unaccompanied children, which resulted in many children being left without potential sponsors, who had either been apprehended by ICE or declined to come forward to sponsor children in ORR custody out of fear of interacting with the federal government. Children spent longer periods in ORR custody, leading many to experience distress, compounding their previous trauma. Information sharing also resulted in new government inefficiencies and costs, as the number of children in care steadily increased and releases were stymied.
    The use of ORR’s child welfare functions to promote immigration enforcement were not only unlawful, but put children at greater risk of trafficking and exploitation. In response, Congress enacted critical directives to prevent ORR’s sharing of non-essential case information and children’s mental health records for immigration enforcement, and the 2018 Memorandum of Agreement was ultimately terminated.
    We are deeply concerned that broad and unlawful information sharing practices may be renewed, with dire consequences for children’s safety, rights, and the fair administration of justice. Therefore, we request that you provide detailed information regarding the purpose, nature, and authority for any expanded information sharing between ORR and ICE. We also ask that you immediately suspend any access to ORR’s database and children’s case files that runs counter to existing law, policy, and regulations.
    We look forward to your immediate response.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Teacher Sentenced for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

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

    HOUSTON – A 31-year-old former College Station resident has been ordered to federal prison after he shared multiple images on various online platforms containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. 

    Daniel Byrd pleaded guilty Nov. 25, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt has now sentenced Byrd to a total of 60 months in prison. In handing down the sentence, the court stated that the defendant may never have control of his addictive conduct, but the responsibility lies with Byrd himself. He was further ordered to serve 10 years on supervised release following the completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Byrd will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

    The investigation began after authorities discovered Byrd shared multiple CSAM images on various online platforms. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Byrd’s residence and seized his electronic devices.

    Some images depicted sexual contact between prepubescent males, while others showed adult males having sex with prepubescent males.  

    Byrd admitted to using online platforms Telegram and Kik to view and download CSAM utilizing his smart phone. He also stated he created a Mega account, a cloud-based storage and file hosting service, to save the child pornography. He would then distribute it to others by sending them links. 

    At the time of his arrest, Byrd was a teacher in the Navasota area. 

    Previously released on bond, Byrd was taken into custody following the sentencing today where he will remain pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance from College Station Police Department and the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Leo and Jay Hileman prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina U.S. Attorneys Host Ceremony In Observance Of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week , April 6-12, 2025

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLOTTE, N.C – In April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW). This year’s observance takes place April 6-12, 2025.

    NCVRW began in 1981 to honor crime victims, promote victims’ rights, and recognize those who work with and advocate on behalf of victims of crime. It also serves to promote policies and programs that help victims of crime. This year’s NCVRW theme, “Connecting < KINSHIP > Healing,” recognizes that shared humanity should be at the center of supporting all survivors and victims of crime.

    To commemorate NCVRW, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Western, Middle, and Eastern Districts of North Carolina hosted a ceremony in Raleigh, to promote community engagement, raise awareness, and support and honor crime victims. The ceremony featured music by “The 100 Men in Black Ensemble” and remarks by victim advocates and survivors. The program also included a remembrance ceremony for crime victims and an award ceremony to recognize individuals for their superior service and work with victims and survivors. 

    Acting U.S. Attorney Randall Galyon (MDNC), U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson (WDNC), and Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar (EDNC) attended today’s NCVRW Ceremony in Raleigh 

    “We wish there were no victims of crime, and eliminating crime is our goal and motivation.  During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we reaffirm our commitment to that goal, and to crime victims, survivors, and their families,” said Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. “My Office will continue to work closely with our community partners, advocates, and law enforcement to uphold victims’ rights, and to ensure that victims’ voices are heard not just this week, but every day of the year.”

    “Each year during National Crime Victims’ Week, we recognize people whose physical, financial, and emotional well-being has been shattered by crime, and those who work to support them. By reflecting upon and honoring victims, victim advocates, and law enforcement professionals, we renew our commitment to seeking justice and giving hope to victims and their families,” said Randall Galyon, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina. “Throughout the coming year, we will continue to bring our very best efforts to this work, protecting the fundamental human rights to ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.’”

    “Today we honor the victims of crimes and celebrate those who work to restore hope in the face of loss and tragedy,” said Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “We greatly appreciate the sacrifices that our law enforcement partners and victim advocates make to serve, creating the community necessary to build the healing victims deserve.”

    For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist crime victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.

    Additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim/Witness Assistance Program can be found here. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brazilian Man Who Entered U.S. Illegally Charged With Forcibly Assaulting, Resisting, Opposing, Impeding, Intimidating, and Interfering with Federal Officer Who Had Taken Him Into Custody

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Previously Had Been Arrested and Jailed in Philadelphia, Including for Separate Allegations of Strangulation and Assaulting a Law Enforcement Officer, and Was Released From Local Custody Despite ICE Detainer

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Enmanuel Fernandes-Calixto, aka “Emanuel Fernandes” and “Emanuel Bartholomew,” 20, a citizen of Brazil with no legal status in the United States, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with forcibly assaulting, resisting, opposing, impeding, intimidating, and interfering with an officer of the United States while engaged in the performance of his official duties. The defendant has been ordered detained in federal custody pending indictment and trial.

    The criminal complaint alleges that on or about April 2, 2025, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Officer arrested Fernandes-Calixto for immigration violations. During transport, the defendant attempted to escape. The defendant, while still handcuffed, attempted to strike the officer in the face and pushed the officer. The defendant ultimately escaped during the struggle and hid in a house in Northeast Philadelphia. He was apprehended later that evening, with the assistance of the Philadelphia Police Department SWAT team.

    The complaint further alleges that Fernandes-Calixto, after entering the United States illegally and on release from immigration detention, violated his conditions of release when he was arrested for other offenses in Philadelphia, including separate cases charging strangulation and related offenses; and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and related offenses, from alleged incidents in August of 2024. Those local charges are still pending.

    As detailed in court filings, despite the existence of an ICE detainer, the defendant was released from Philadelphia custody in March of 2025.

    The case is being investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Jersey Man Sentenced for Prescription Opioid Conspiracy

    Source: US State of California

    A New Jersey man was sentenced today to 16 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, a highly addictive controlled substance.  

    According to court documents, between November 2022 and March 2023, Chris Ruediger, 61, of Pennsauken, purchased prescription oxycodone pills from a relative and sold them to another relative involved in unlawfully distributing oxycodone. Ruediger admitted to distributing between 100 and 400 kilograms of opioids by converted drug weight. Ruediger also admitted that he attempted to obstruct the investigation by attempting to persuade one of his co-conspirators not to talk with law enforcement.

    In November 2024, Ruediger pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.  

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI Philadelphia Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s South Jersey Resident Agency investigated the case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division.

    Trial Attorneys Paul J. Koob and Nicholas K. Peone of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Jersey Man Sentenced for Prescription Opioid Conspiracy

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    A New Jersey man was sentenced today to 16 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, a highly addictive controlled substance.  

    According to court documents, between November 2022 and March 2023, Chris Ruediger, 61, of Pennsauken, purchased prescription oxycodone pills from a relative and sold them to another relative involved in unlawfully distributing oxycodone. Ruediger admitted to distributing between 100 and 400 kilograms of opioids by converted drug weight. Ruediger also admitted that he attempted to obstruct the investigation by attempting to persuade one of his co-conspirators not to talk with law enforcement.

    In November 2024, Ruediger pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.  

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI Philadelphia Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s South Jersey Resident Agency investigated the case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division.

    Trial Attorneys Paul J. Koob and Nicholas K. Peone of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Scheme to Defraud Medicare

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

    A Florida man pleaded guilty on Monday to purchasing Medicare identification numbers and using those numbers to cause over $8.4 million of false and fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicare.

    Corey Alston, 47, of Fort Lauderdale, pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and to illegally purchase Medicare beneficiary identification numbers in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare for COVID-19 test kits that were ineligible for reimbursement. According to court documents, Alston and his co-defendant, Latresia A. Wilson, conspired to unlawfully purchase Medicare beneficiary identification information (including Medicare Beneficiary Identification Numbers) and used that information to submit millions of dollars in claims to Medicare for COVID-19 test kits that the beneficiaries did not want or request.

    Over the course of just seven months, from July 2022 through February 2023, Alston, Wilson, and others, through companies they owned and controlled, submitted over $8.4 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare that were ineligible for reimbursement. Medicare paid over $2.6 million based on the false and fraudulent claims.

    Wilson previously pleaded guilty on June 10, 2024, to conspiracy to defraud the United States and to illegally purchase Medicare beneficiary identification. She is scheduled to be sentenced on May 15. Alston is scheduled to be sentenced on July 9. Alston and Wilson each face a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Matthew W. Fodor of the FBI Tampa Field Office; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jesus Barranco of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.

    The FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Shane Butland and Keith Clouser and Senior Litigation Counsel Catherine Wagner of the National Rapid Response Strike Force of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. Acting Assistant Chief Justin Woodard assisted in charging the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 04/08/2025, 13-16 (Moscow time) the values of the lower boundary of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A0ZYBM4 (AlphaBO-21) security were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    08.04.2025

    13:16

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on 08.04.2025, 13-16 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 89.14) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 827.36 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 16.25%) of the RU000A0ZYBM4 (AlphaBO-21) security were changed.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.MO/N89262

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 04/08/2025, 13:35 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0ZYJ91 (FSK RS B4) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    08.04.2025

    13:35

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on 08.04.2025, 13-35 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 108.55) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1140.99 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 7.5%) of the security RU000A0ZYJ91 (FSK RS B4) were changed.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.MO/N89264

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 04/08/2025, 12:24 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A101PF9 (ALROSA B04) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    08.04.2025

    12:24

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on 08.04.2025, 12-24 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 106.04) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1108.64 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 10.0%) of the security RU000A101PF9 (ALROSA B04) were changed.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.MO/N89258

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Zimbabwe Presents Credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    Ever Mlilo, the new Permanent Representative of Zimbabwe to the United Nations Office at Geneva, today presented her credentials to Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

    Prior to her appointment to Geneva, Ms. Mlilo served as Director for Legal Services at the Zimbabwe Republic Police from 2015 to 2018. She held multiple positions at the Zimbabwe Republic Police Training Depot, including as Commandant from 2014 to 2015, and Assistant Commissioner, Training from 2012 to 2014.  Ms. Mlilo also previously worked as a part time lecturer in law at the Police Staff College from 2011 to 2018; Legal Officer at the Police General Headquarters from 2010 to 2014; and Investigating Officer at Mkoba Police Station, Gweru, Zimbabwe from 1999 to 2005.

    She currently lectures part time in mining law at the Pan African Minerals University of Science and Technology and at the University of Zimbabwe.

    Ms. Mlilo holds a Master of Laws in International Criminal Justice from the Open University of Tanzania (2015); a Bachelor of Laws from Midland State University in Gweru, Zimbabwe (2010); and a Diploma of National Security from Galilee International Management Institute, Israel (2016).  She is in the final year of studying for her Doctor of Laws in International and Diplomatic Studies at the European Graduate School of Government Studies in Slovenia.

    ___________

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

    CR25.016E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 2267, NICS Data Reporting Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 2267 would require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to report annually to the Congress on the demographic data of people who were found to be ineligible to purchase a firearm during a background check by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to the extent that data is available. The federal government and states use the NICS to conduct background checks on prospective buyers of firearms to determine whether they are ineligible under federal or state law to make such a purchase.

    Under current policy, DOJ collects some demographic information for each prospective buyer of a firearm as part of the background check. Based on the costs of similar activities, CBO estimates that completing the report would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jeremy Crimm. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: ICC In the Courtroom: Ongwen case: Appeals Chamber Judgement, 7 April 2025

    Source: International Criminal Court (video statements)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BRK-FTOgRZg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Grassley Mark National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month with Bipartisan Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing April as “National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month,” supporting survivors of sexual assault and honoring the critical work done by victim advocates, public safety, law enforcement and health professionals. Their resolution was cosponsored by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Patty Murray (D-WA) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM).

    “This month, and every month, we must do all we can to stand with survivors of sexual assault,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to help introduce a bipartisan resolution to support survivors and highlight the difficult but critical work that victim advocates, public safety, law enforcement and health professionals do on a daily basis to respond to and prevent sexual violence. We are grateful for their tireless work to ensure that survivors across the United States have the services they need to heal.”

    The text of the Senators’ resolution can be found HERE.

    Shaheen champions efforts in the Senate to boost services and programs for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. In the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 U.S. Senate Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) Subcommittee Appropriations bill, Shaheen secured and helped advance $739.5 million, the highest funding level ever, for grants authorized by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), including $10 million for continued implementation of her Sexual Assault Survivors’ Bill of Rights grant program.

    In 2016,?Shaheen led the effort?to pass the?Survivors’ Bill of Rights Act, which was signed into law by President Obama. The historic legislation guaranteed rights for survivors of sexual assault in federal cases and led to 21 states adopting similar legislation,?including New Hampshire. Shaheen and Grassley’s bipartisan?Survivors’ Bill of Rights in the States Act was?signed into law?as part of the FY 2023 national defense authorization legislation, and builds on the legacy of Shaheen’s initial legislation by ensuring that all survivors, not just those in federal cases, are protected.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MeitY and the Government of Himachal Pradesh organized a Cyber Security iCAST-25 Workshop to enhance the cyber security posture of state government departments

    Source: Government of India

    MeitY and the Government of Himachal Pradesh organized a Cyber Security iCAST-25 Workshop to enhance the cyber security posture of state government departments

    State Cyber Security workshop as a part of NeGD’s Capacity Building Project, to manage and mitigate cyber risks effectively

    Posted On: 08 APR 2025 7:32PM by PIB Delhi

    The National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in collaboration with the Department of Digital Technology & Governance, Himachal Pradesh and CID, Department of Police, Government of Himachal Pradesh, organised a two-day Cyber Security Workshop iCAST-25 (Integrated Cyber Advanced Security Techniques-2025) for State Police Leaders of the Himachal Pradesh Government at Police Head Quaters, Shimla, from April 3 – 4, 2025. The workshop brought together over 45 physical & 100 online participants from various  units of state police departments.

    Dr. Atul Verma, IPS, DGP, Government of Himachal Pradesh, inaugurated the workshop and in his address, emphasized the importance of cyber security in protecting digital infrastructure and e-governance services within the state. He highlighted the need to build capacities among government officers to address the evolving cyber threats faced by their departments. Attendees included Shri Ajay Kumar Yadav, IPS, ADGP (Crime); Shri Gyaneshwar Singh, IPS, ADGP, CID, Himachal Pradesh; Ms. Rakhi Kahloon, IAS, Secretary, Department of Digital Technologies & Governance, Himachal Pradesh; Shri Mohit Chawla, IPS DIG, Cyber Crime State CID Himachal Pradesh, Dr. Nipun Jindal, IAS, Director, Department of Digital Technologies & Governance, Himachal Pradesh and Shri Vipan Kumar DSP, CID (Cyber Crime) Himachal Pradesh, SeMT HP alongside other senior officers.

    Dr. Nipun Jindal shared the state’s preparedness in the areas of cyber hygiene and the establishment of an Incident Response Team. He emphasized that the state has released a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Digital Literacy Campaign. This initiative aims to promote digital literacy, empower individuals, and bridge the digital divide across Himachal Pradesh.

    The State leadership has vowed to take this workshop (iCAST-25) to the state and regional levels next year onwards.

    NeGD, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has launched a comprehensive series of state capacity-building workshops nationwide. These workshops are crafted to empower state-level leadership, CISOs, and officials by providing hands-on training and best practices in managing cyber threats, adopting secure IT frameworks, and reinforcing digital governance. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s mission to create a cyber-resilient public sector, ensuring a robust digital infrastructure and resilient e-governance services across states. Through this program, NeGD aims to enable states with customised, practical approaches to strengthen their cyber defence mechanisms, ultimately enhancing the collective cyber security posture of India’s digital ecosystem.

    ****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2120175) Visitor Counter : 63

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a Loaded Semi-Automatic Pistol

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for being a felon in possession of a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol.  

    Tyrone Goforth, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to time served (66 months and one day), to be followed by three years of supervised release. In February 2025, Goforth pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Goforth was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2020.

    On July 31, 2020, officers responded to a call for a person with a gun at a bookstore in Roxbury, Mass. Goforth was inside the bookstore and fit the description of a man wearing a black shirt and olive pants. Goforth was found to be in possession of a Sig Sauer P938 9mm semi-automatic pistol loaded with five rounds of 9mm ammunition. Due to a 2000 conviction in Suffolk Superior Court, Goforth is prohibited from possessing firearms.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit prosecuted the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Reentry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant was previously charged by state authorities for assault and battery and subsequently released from state custody

    BOSTON – A Guatemalan national pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.

    Domingo Valentin Solis-De Leon, 29, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for June 10, 2025. Solis-De Leon was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2025.

    On Jan. 8, 2014, United States Border Patrol arrested Solis-De Leon near Hidalgo, Texas after entering the United States illegally. Solis De-Leon was ordered removed and was sent back to his home country of Guatemala. On Jan. 6, 2024, immigration authorities learned that Solis-De Leon was present in the United States following his arrest by the Lynn Police Department. According to court documents, Solis-De Leon was arrested on state charges for assault and battery on family or household member and the matter is currently pending in Lynn District Court. He was subsequently released from state custody and Solis-De Leon  was arrested by immigration authorities on Jan. 28, 2025 in Lynn, Mass.

    The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant will be subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final sentence imposed in multimillion-dollar money laundering conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 49-year-old naturalized citizen from Arlington has been ordered to prison for unlicensed money transmitting and money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Nhiem Thi Dan “Sam” Nguyen entered a guilty plea Oct. 5, 2021. 

    U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison has now sentenced Nguyen to serve 40 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by one year of supervised release. She will also forfeit $76,848 in cash seized at the time of her arrest and another $17,801.52 in seized accounts. Judge Ellison found Nguyen managed others in the conspiracy and did not commit the crimes inadvertently.

    “Money transmitters are regulated specifically to avoid the type of criminal facilitation that took place here,” said Ganjei. “Drug trafficking organizations spread misery, addiction, and violence, but they are fueled by cash. Money laundering schemes allow criminals to convert their ill-gotten gains into spendable currency, and so it’s always a win for the public when we can put one of these launderers out of operation.”

    “In any scheme, criminals have to get the money distanced from the crime to avoid detection, which is the criminal business Nguyen and her accomplices ran. They were big players in the deception and lies that allowed drug money and other cash to be moved almost undetected. I say ‘almost’, because we caught them,” said acting Special Agent in Charge Lucy Tan, of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Houston Field Office. “These conspirators set up various accounts, some even moved cash themselves. When you touch money, cash or virtual currency, you leave a trail for us to follow and that’s the expertise of IRS-CI special agents.”

    Nguyen was the top lieutenant in an unlicensed money transmitting business that Vinh and Diana Phan and others ran. The illegal business transmitted funds received in the form of bulk U.S. currency. During the course of the approximately 21-month conspiracy, the unlicensed money transmitting business received and transmitted more than $33 million in cash. 

    At least some of this cash had been earned from the trafficking, distribution and sale of controlled substances, including approximately $9 million received from Branden Denver Richards, Douglas Paul Michael Davis and Michael Dean Richards. All were members of a Dallas-area drug trafficking organization.

    The Phans and Nguyen introduced this bulk cash into the banking system through more than nine “money mules.” The Phans then used the funds to buy virtual currency which was sold for cash in California – the state where the controlled substances originated. The Phans used virtual currency to eliminate the risk of driving cash across the country.

    The Phans and Nguyen did not register their money transmitting business with the Department of the Treasury nor did the state of Texas license them to engage in money transmission.

    Nguyen was the last of six to be sentenced. Vinh Quang Phan and Diana Le Phan, 59, and 47, a Houston-area married couple, received prison terms of 10 years and were ordered to pay $80,000 in fines and forfeit their home and more than $486,000 in cash and seized accounts.

    Branden Richards, 33, Little Elm, was ordered to serve five years in prison, while Davis, 31, Keller, and Michael Richards, 36, Frisco, were both ordered to serve two years.

    Nguyen was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    IRS Criminal Investigation-led South Texas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Financial Crimes Task Force conducted the investigation with assistance from Drug Enforcement Administration, Houston Police Department and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Bauman and Eun Kate Suh prosecuted the case with assistance from Deputy Chief Brandon Fyffe of the Asset Recovery Section.  

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston City Councilor Agrees to Plead Guilty to Federal Public Corruption Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    City Councilor for Boston’s District 7, Tania Fernandes Anderson, allegedly pocketed $7,000 cash from staff member’s city-funded bonus

    BOSTON – Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson has agreed to plead guilty to federal public corruption charges in connection with an alleged kickback scheme to obtain thousands of dollars in cash from a staff member in exchange for a large bonus.

    Tania Fernandes Anderson, 46, of Boston, has agreed to plead guilty to count one of wire fraud and one count of theft concerning a program receiving federal funds. A plea hearing has not yet been scheduled by the Court. In December 2024, Fernandes Anderson was indicted by a federal grand jury. Per the plea agreement, the government is recommending a sentence of one year and one day in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and restitution in the amount of $13,000.

    Fernandes Anderson currently serves as City Councilor for Boston’s District 7, which includes Roxbury, Dorchester, Fenway and part of the South End. She was first elected to a two-year term in November 2021 and won re-election in November 2023.

    According to the charging documents, in or about 2022, Fernandes Anderson hired two members of her immediate family as salaried employees of her City Councilor Staff. Because City Councilors are prohibited by law from hiring immediate family members to their paid staff, Fernandes Anderson was required to terminate their salaried employment in or about August 2022. Additionally, from in or about March 2023 to May 2023, the Massachusetts State Ethics Commission notified Fernandes Anderson of its findings and that it would be seeking a $5,000 civil penalty payment from her.

    It is alleged that, in or about November 2022, Fernandes Anderson allegedly emailed a City of Boston employee regarding her hiring of Staff Member A – a relative of Fernandes Anderson who was not an immediate family member – as a salaried employee. In her email to the City of Boston employee, it is alleged that Fernandes Anderson falsely represented that she and Staff Member A were not related:

    From in or about early to mid-2023, Fernandes Anderson was allegedly facing personal financial difficulty, which included the outstanding $5,000 civil penalty payment to the Ethics Commission. It is further alleged that, in or about early May 2023, Fernandes Anderson told Staff Member A that she would give them extra pay in the form of a large bonus, but that Staff Member A would have to give a portion of the bonus back to Fernandes Anderson. Staff Member A agreed to the arrangement with Fernandes Anderson.  

    On or about May 3, 2023, Fernandes Anderson allegedly sent an email to a City of Boston employee to process bonus payments for her City Councilor Staff. In the email, Fernandes Anderson instructed the City of Boston employee to process a bonus payment of $13,000 to Staff Member A – more than double the total bonuses paid to all other Fernandes Anderson staff combined. Fernandes Anderson allegedly did not disclose the bonus kickback arrangement she had made with Staff Member A to the City of Boston employee.

    Staff Member A deposited the bonus check on or about May 26, 2023 into their account at Santander Bank. It is alleged that, at Fernandes Anderson’s direction, Staff Member A then made separate cash withdrawals of the payment on three separate dates: $3,000 on May 31, 2023; $3,000 on June 5, 2023; and $4,000 on June 9, 2023.

    It is alleged that, on June 9, 2023, immediately following the final cash withdrawal, Fernandes Anderson and Staff Member A arranged to meet in a bathroom at Boston City Hall. There, Staff Member A allegedly provided Fernandes Anderson with $7,000 in cash:

    According to the signed plea agreement, for tax years 2021, 2022 and 2023, Fernandes Anderson filed fraudulent federal income tax returns with the IRS. Specifically, it is alleged that Fernandes Anderson willfully omitted: approximately $11,000 in income that she earned from a Massachusetts-based corporation from her 2021 tax return; campaign funds that she used for her own personal enrichment from her 2022 and 2023 tax returns; and the $7,000 kickback that she received from Staff Member A from her 2023 tax return.

    The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three 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 statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley, Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division and Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Mulcahy and Dustin Chao of the Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit are prosecuting the case.

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Climate Activist Found Guilty in Defacing Degas Exhibit at National Gallery of Art

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Timothy Martin, 55, of Raleigh, North Carolina, was found guilty by a federal jury for his role in the April 27, 2023, defacement of an art exhibit at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

                The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., and Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division.

                President Trump directed federal authorities in a March 2025 Executive Order to Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful by launching a multi-faceted initiative to address both crime and beautification. This includes the creation of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force to coordinate law enforcement efforts, and a program to restore and enhance the city’s public spaces.

                “This verdict sends a strong message to the thousands of people who come to D.C. each year to demonstrate and be heard,” said U.S Attorney Martin. “Free speech is a constitutional right. But when you take action, such as destroying property like priceless pieces of art, you are crossing a line that no one in this city will condone.  We want to Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful Again, and we will not tolerate anyone defacing our city to get attention for their cause.”

                After a four-day trial, the jury, yesterday, found Martin guilty of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and injury to a National Gallery of Art exhibit. U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson scheduled sentencing for August 22, 2025.

                According to evidence introduced in court, Martin and co-defendant Johanna Smith, 54, of Brooklyn, NY, smeared paint on the case and base of Edgar Degas’ Little Dancer, Age Fourteen, a sculpture which has drawn visitors for years to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Following the attack, a group called Declare Emergency claimed credit.       

                Martin and Smith agreed, along with other co-conspirators, to enter the National Gallery of Art for the purpose of injuring the exhibit and entered the museum armed with water bottles filled with paint. Martin and Smith handed their phones to other co-conspirators and waited until patrons cleared the area in front of the Little Dancer. The pair proceeded to smear paint on the case and base of the exhibit, at times smacking the case with force. Prior to the attack, members of the conspiracy had alerted the Washington Post, and two reporters from the Post recorded and photographed the offense. Additionally, other members of the conspiracy filmed and photographed the offense.

                Smith and Martin caused over $4,000 in damage, including material and labor costs, and the exhibit was removed from public display for 10 days so that it could be repaired.

                Smith pleaded guilty December 15, 2023, to one count of causing injury to a National Gallery of Art exhibit. She was sentenced to 60 days in prison, followed by 24 months of supervised release and ordered to pay a $3,000 fine and $4,062 in restitution. 

                The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, specifically the FBI’s Art Crime Team, with assistance from National Gallery of Art Police, and U.S. Park Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron A. Tepfer and Jennifer Blackwell of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.

    23cr182

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Washington Man Indicted on 11 Counts of Sex Trafficking Children, Production of Child Sexual Abuse Material, and Forced Labor

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Richland, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on April 2, 2025, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Jonathan Michael Atkinson, age 34, with 11 criminal counts including Sex Trafficking Children, Production and Attempted Production of Child Pornography, Online Enticement of a Minor, and Forced Labor. The criminal charges against Atkinson carry a maximum sentence of up to a lifetime in prison.

    Atkinson was arrested on April 8, 2025, by the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, consisting of Homeland Security Investigations, Richland Police Department, Kennewick Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Additional assistance was provided by Pasco Police Department, ATF and DEA. Atkinson will be arraigned in federal court on April 10, 2025.

    “The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Eastern District of Washington will continue to aggressively prosecute all versions of human trafficking,” stated Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker. “We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement partners to seek justice for the most vulnerable among us.”

    “Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable members of our communities and the most effective way we can dismantle these criminal networks is through strong partnerships,” said Matthew Murphy, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Seattle. “HSI is proud to work alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect victims, bring traffickers to justice, and put an end to this exploitation.”

    If members of the public have any information regarding this case, please contact the Pasco Police Department.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laurel J. Holland and Stephanie A. Van Marter.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Fugitive Sentenced To 20 Years For Distributing Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza today sentenced Billy Ruiz (46, California) to 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. A federal jury found Ruiz guilty on January 8, 2025.

    According to evidence presented during the three-day trial, in March 2016, Ruiz sold large amounts of methamphetamine to a lower-level dealer for redistribution in central Florida. Ruiz was a prolific distributor of methamphetamine operating out of southern California, who, along with others, shipped methamphetamine to Orlando by overnight delivery. The methamphetamine was then repackaged and distributed in central Florida. Ruiz sold two batches of methamphetamine, each weighing approximately two pounds.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Lake Mary Police Department, and the Orlando Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Sowell and Chauncey Bratt.

    This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rep. Becca Balint Joins Bicameral Spotlight Hearing to Hold Trump Accountable

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Washington, D.C. –  On Monday, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), a member of the House Judiciary Committee, joined Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, for a bicameral spotlight hearing to demand answers on the Trump Administration’s attacks on the rule of law. Rep. Balint questioned the witnesses on Trump’s attacks on the American legal system, the importance of judicial independence and the dangers of Trump’s authoritarian actions. 

    “It’s important to understand that Trump’s actions – while based on his personal grievances – are not only petty, they are designed to remove the checks on unlimited power, the guardrails that protect our democracy,” said Rep. Becca Balint. 

    “Trump and all his enablers in Congress seem to think laws do not apply to them. They don’t care about the Constitution, they don’t care about the rule of law, and they certainly don’t care about our rights. We need more courage like yours in order to stand up to this,” Rep. Balint concluded in her statement to the witnesses. 

    “ While my GOP colleagues passively watch Trump punish his critics and take a jack hammer to the work of anti-corruption fighters at the Department of Justice, Democrats are lifting up the tough Americans who are standing strong against the corruption and lawlessness of Trump,” said Ranking Member Raskin.

    Witnesses included: 

    • Ryan Crosswell, Former Trial Attorney, Public Integrity Section, Criminal Division, U.S. Department of Justice
    • Liz Oyer, Former Pardon Attorney, U.S. Department of Justice
    • Rachel Cohen, Former Senior Associate, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP 
    • Stacey Young, Former Senior Trial Attorney, DOJ Civil Rights Division, and Founder and Executive Director, Justice Connection

    Watch Rep. Becca Balint’s full remarks here. 

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  • MIL-OSI Canada: RCMP officers charged with dangerous driving

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –