NewzIntel.com

Category: Crime

  • MIL-OSI Security: Naples Man Sentenced To 30 Years For Coercion And Enticement Of A Minor To Engage In Sexual Activity

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Juan Sebastian Perez (24, Naples) to 30 years in federal prison for enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and possession of images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. Perez was also sentenced to a life term of supervised release and ordered to register as a sex offender. Perez entered a guilty plea on December 18, 2024.

    According to court documents, from November 2023 through June 26, 2024, Perez was involved with child exploitation, to include the enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and the distribution and possession of CSAM. Perez sought out and chatted with at least one minor over the internet through a social media application. 

    In June 2024, the FBI received a report concerning a 14-year-old child being persuaded by Perez to produce sexually explicit pictures to send to him. At Perez’s urging and direction, the minor sent sexually explicit pictures and videos to Perez.

    When the FBI executed a search warrant at Perez’s home, Perez agreed to speak with agents and admitted to using several social media applications. Perez told agents that he had come across CSAM online and admitted to soliciting nude images from users with whom he had communicated with. A subsequent forensic examination of Perez’s electronic devices revealed images and videos of CSAM. 

    This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fort Myers Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, with assistance from the Lake Oswego Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Yolande G. Viacava.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Violent Level 3 Sex Offender From Harwich Sentenced to Decade in Prison for Child Pornography Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant previously convicted of lewdness and indecent assault and battery on a child

    BOSTON – A Level 3 sex offender from Harwich, with prior violent convictions involving minor victims, was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

    Jonathan Fleischmann, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs to 10 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. Fleischmann was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $7,500. In July 2024, Fleischmann pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.

    “Despite his prior predatory behavior and the fact that he was already facing serious charges in state court – charges that involved ambushing and attempting to kidnap a young girl at gunpoint outside her home – this defendant continued to demonstrate a complete disregard for the safety and well-being of children by downloading hundreds of atrocious CSAM from the dark web. Each image and video he viewed or shared re-victimized the real, vulnerable children depicted in them. These crimes do not exist in a vacuum; they cause significant harm to the children and families affected,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness with which we treat these crimes and our commitment to protecting children from individuals like Mr. Fleischmann, who refuse to learn or take steps toward remediating their vile tendencies.”

    “Over and over, Fleischman committed deeply disturbing sex crimes aimed at children. For years, he has been a threat to the community but after today’s sentence, he will be off the streets for a decade,” said Homeland Security Investigations New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol. “Child sexual abuse material immortalizes the abuse of a child and those who download, trade, and possess CSAM are perpetuating the trauma those children experienced. We are committed to protecting kids and seeking justice for those victimized through child exploitation.”

    Fleishmann is a Level 3 sex offender due to prior convictions in Barnstable District Court of Indecent Assault and Battery on a Child Under 14 in 2006, as well as Open and Gross Lewdness and Possession of Child Pornography in 2017 for masturbating to CSAM in a Honey Dew Donuts parking lot.

    Additionally, in September 2020, Fleischmann was charged in Barnstable Superior Court with home invasion, armed kidnapping and assault to rape for invading a Yarmouth home and forcibly taking a 16-year-old female at gunpoint into her house as she arrived home from school. That investigation also revealed that Fleishmann had accessed a dark web hidden service on his cellphone dedicated to the trafficking of child pornography. He was later released in April 2021 on conditions including cash bail and GPS monitoring.

    Fleischmann is prohibited from possessing digital devices due to his prior convictions.

    On March 18, 2023, law enforcement was notified that Fleischmann was observed downloading suspected CSAM media files onto a cell phone at his workplace in Brewster. Specifically, while the phone was left open and charging on a counter, Fleischmann’s co-workers saw that it displayed media files in the process of downloading, with file names that were consistent with CSAM.

    When approached by law enforcement at his residence later that day, Fleishmann initially denied owning the cell phone but eventually agreed to produce it – retrieving the device from a hidden location beneath a bathroom sink. A subsequent search of the cell phone revealed approximately 255 image files and 55 video files depicting CSAM – including files portraying child rape, sadistic or masochistic conduct and the abuse of infants or toddlers.

    Fleischmann has remained in federal custody since his May 2023 arrest in this case. In May 2024, Fleischmann was sentenced to 12 years in state prison in connection with the Yarmouth home invasion. Following today’s hearing, the defendant was released into state custody to serve the 12-year state sentence, which will run concurrently with the federal sentence imposed today.

    U.S. Attorney Foley and HSI SAC Krol made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Cape & Islands District Attorney’s Office and the Brewster Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Morgantown Construction Company Owner Admits to Harboring Illegals, Tax Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Hetzon Marroquin Reyes, owner and operator of A&M Homes, LLC, in Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to harboring illegal aliens for financial gain and tax interference.

    According to the court documents and statements made in court, Reyes, also known as “Hector,” age 40, hired and harbored illegal aliens to work for his construction company. Reyes created fraudulent driver’s licenses and immigration forms to provide to the West Virginia Division of Labor inspectors. Reyes also used social security numbers issued to persons other than the illegal employees for tax purposes. In some cases, the social security numbers used actually belonged to deceased individuals.          

    “We are committed to protecting the integrity of the United States’ immigration system and to prevent the exploitation of that system for any purpose including commercial advantage and private financial gain,” stated Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard.  “Those, like the defendant, who choose to violate the law for a perceived profit will do so at their peril and at the expense of a substantial fine and imprisonment.”

    Reyes faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the harboring charge and faces up to three years for the tax interference count. A federal district court judge would determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod Douglas is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

    The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, and the Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NEWARK EXPEDITER ADMITS CONSPIRING TO GIVE BRIBES TO NEWARK OFFICIALS AND OTHER FRAUD

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Newark-based expediter today admitted to conspiring to give bribes to Newark public officials, including then-Newark Councilmember Joseph A. McCallum, Jr., in connection with real estate development and construction-related transactions and conspiring with others to create and sell falsified documents supposedly issued by the City of Newark in connection with development, construction, rental or sale of such properties in Newark. Baxter also admitted to feigning the need to pay a bribe to a Newark official to fraudulently obtain money for himself and participating in a separate scheme to fraudulently obtain federal COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, U.S. Attorney John Giordano announced.

    Lamont Baxter, 49, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge William J. Martini to seven counts in an information charging him with conspiring to give bribes to Newark officials, giving bribes to McCallum in connection with a developer’s real estate transactions, committing wire fraud in connection with a purported cash bribe payment, conspiring to commit wire fraud in connection with falsifying documents purportedly issued by the City of Newark, and committing wire fraud to obtain PPP loans.  

    According to documents filed in these cases and statements made in court:

    As an expediter on real estate and construction matters in Newark, from 2017 through August 2022, Baxter served as a liaison between Newark officials and agencies and individuals seeking permits, Certificates of Continued Occupancy (CCO), Certificates of Code Compliance (CCC), approvals and other actions on an expedited basis. To provide these expediting services, for years, Baxter conspired with others, including developers, to pay cash bribes to various Newark officials so that these officials completed the official acts that Baxter requested on behalf of the developers and others.  Baxter would often use the term “taking care of” a Newark official to indicate to a developer when additional cash or extra payment was needed to be added to official fees charged by Newark so that Baxter could use the extra money to bribe a Newark official, such as an official handling the issuance of a CCC.

    In addition to paying bribes to Newark officials on behalf of others, Baxter also once fraudulently obtained a $10,000 cash payment for himself by falsely indicating to his developer client that the cash was needed to pay a bribe to a Newark official. In that instance, Baxter kept the entire payment for himself and simply pretended that he had given the payment to a Newark Official.

    Part of Baxter’s participation in the bribery schemes included delivering cash bribes exceeding $5,000 from 2019 to 2020 to then-Councilmember McCallum on behalf of a Newark developer who sought and obtained McCallum’s official assistance in obtaining approvals for real estate projects in Newark. On March 15, 2022, before Judge William J. Martini, McCallum admitted receiving bribes while serving as a Councilmember and a director of the Newark Community Economic Development Corporation, as part of his guilty plea to wire fraud for devising a scheme to defraud Newark and of the right to McCallum’s honest services and subscribing to a false personal tax return for calendar year 2018.

    Part of Baxter’s expediting services from 2017 to August 2022, included conspiring with others to create and deliver falsified and fraudulent CCOs, CCCs, and certificates of approval issued by the City of Newark notifying a utility that was to provide electricity for a property that the required inspection had been conducted at the property (known as “cut-in cards”) to individuals who needed these official documents in relation to the development, construction, rental or sale of properties in Newark.  Baxter and others used this scheme to fraudulently obtain payments from the individuals who required these official documents from the City of Newark.

    Baxter also used the various entities he incorporated to obtain payments as an expediter to facilitate a scheme to fraudulently obtain PPP loans during the COVID-19 pandemic.  In 2020 and 2021, Baxter participated in preparing and submitting fraudulent PPP loan applications that included false tax forms and documents and contained false information on the application forms, concerning, among other things, the companies’ gross revenue.  As part of this scheme, Baxter even attempted to obtain a PPP loan for a lounge that he did not actually own and control, pretending to be its owner. As a result of his fraudulent scheme, Baxter obtained over $40,000 in PPP loan funds.  

    The conspiracy to commit bribery charge in Count 1 of the information to which Baxter pleaded guilty carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and the bribery charge in Count 2 to which Baxter pleaded guilty carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The wire fraud and wire fraud conspiracy charges in Counts 3 through 7 to which Baxter pleaded guilty each carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. All of the charges carry a maximum fine of $250,000, or twice the pecuniary gain to the defendant or loss to the victims, whichever is greater. Sentencing for Baxter is scheduled for August 12, 2025 at 11 a.m.

    U.S. Attorney Giordano credited special agents of the FBI’s Newark Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge in Newark Terence G. Reilly in Newark; special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, and special agents of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Shawn Rice, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea by Baxter.

    The government is represented by Deputy Chief Jihee G. Suh and Assistant U.S. Attorney Francesca Liquori of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Special Prosecutions Division and Chief Katherine Calle of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Opioid Unit.

    All other co-conspirators identified in the Information are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

                                                     ###

    Defense counsel: John A. McMahon, Esq. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: International Workshop on Land Governance Kick Starts with Global Participation from 22 Countries in Gurugram, Haryana

    Source: Government of India (2)

    International Workshop on Land Governance Kick Starts with Global Participation from 22 Countries in Gurugram, Haryana

    Fostering Cross-Country Knowledge Sharing; SVAMITVA Scheme Showcased as a Model for Rural Empowerment

    Participants Gain Practical Insights into Drone Surveying and Geospatial Technologies for Sustainable Land Governance

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    In a significant milestone, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) inaugurated the first-of-its-kind International Workshop on Land Governance today at the Haryana Institute of Public Administration (HIPA) in Gurugram. This six-day workshop, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, brings together more than 40 senior officials from 22 countries across Africa, Latin America, and South-East Asia to explore innovative approaches for addressing global land governance challenges. The inaugural session witnessed distinguished participation from senior officials, including Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; Shri Viraj Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs; Shri Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; and Shri Ramesh Chander Bidhan, Director General, Haryana Institute of Public Administration. This landmark initiative strongly aligns with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to transform rural India through technological innovation and securing land rights.

    In his address, Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, articulated the vision behind SVAMITVA and its potential for global replication, offering valuable insights into policy advancements and India’s strategic vision for land governance. “SVAMITVA represents more than just a land mapping exercise; it is a comprehensive approach towards rural empowerment through secure property rights”, Shri Lohani stated. He said “With over 3.17 lakh villages mapped across 67,000 sq. km, representing an estimated asset base of Rs.132 lakh crore, we have demonstrated the scalability and impact of this model. We are eager to share our experiences and learn from our international partners to collectively advance land governance worldwide”. Shri Lohani emphasized upon the transformative role of geospatial technologies in land governance, underlining the technical expertise that has made SVAMITVA one of the world’s largest rural mapping initiatives. He said, “The integration of drone technology with traditional surveying methods has revolutionized our approach to mapping rural inhabited areas, delivering unprecedented accuracy and efficiency”.

    Addressing the International Workshop, Shri Viraj Singh, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized upon the diplomatic significance of the workshop. Shri Singh said “This initiative exemplifies India’s commitment to South-South Cooperation and knowledge sharing. By bringing together nations facing similar challenges, we are fostering a collaborative approach towards addressing land governance issues globally.” He also highlighted the role of the ITEC programme in facilitating international cooperation and the role of collaboration with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in advancing ITEC’s objectives.

    Shri Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, said that the SVAMITVA Scheme exemplifies how innovative approaches can transform rural communities by securing property rights and unlocking economic potential. “SVAMITVA demonstrates how innovative approaches to land governance can directly contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty reduction, secure land tenure, and sustainable land use” he said. Shri Smit Shah, President of the Drone Federation of India, provided insights into India’s rapidly evolving drone ecosystem, highlighting how policy reforms and technological advancements have positioned India as a leader in drone-based solutions for land governance.

    Innovations in Geospatial Technologies and Drone Solutions

    A major highlight of the inaugural day was the cutting-edge exhibition that highlighted the latest advancements in land governance, digital cadastral systems, and geospatial technologies. The event showcased a wide range of technological solutions, from precision drone mapping and 3D geospatial data analytics to integrated land administration systems. The exhibition also spotlighted high-precision surveying equipment and comprehensive GIS applications designed to enhance land governance. Local innovations in drone technology and UAV-based land administration solutions were prominently featured, alongside contributions from government bodies that demonstrated survey-grade drones, CORS & Rover systems, and other transformative tools. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in hands-on demonstrations of drone flight planning, data processing techniques, and real-time, high-accuracy surveying capabilities, offering a comprehensive look at the future of land management.

    Technical Sessions Highlight SVAMITVA’s Impact and Methodology

    On the inaugural day, participants also engaged in in-depth technical discussions on  the modernization of land governance and its impact, as well as resource mobilization and administrative tasks.  A comprehensive overview of the SVAMITVA Scheme was presented, emphasizing its objectives, implementation strategy, and its positive impact on rural communities, particularly in fostering financial inclusion and economic empowerment. Presentations from various countries, sharing their experiences and best practices in land administration systems were also made. Participants also benefited from practical drone demonstrations, interactive sessions with vendors, and knowledge assessments to reinforce learning outcomes.

     

    Global Participation Highlights International Interest

    The ongoing workshop has garnered significant international participation, with delegates from 22 countries, including Turkmenistan, Colombia, Zimbabwe, Fiji, and several others, underscoring the global significance of land governance issues.The workshop, which combines interactive technical sessions, field visits, and hands-on demonstrations, highlights India’s leadership role in South-South Cooperation. By offering technical expertise, policy guidance, and skill development opportunities through SVAMITVA, India is contributing to building institutional capacity for partner nations in land governance, property rights management, and rural development. The event explores challenges such as property disputes, outdated land databases, and the need for high-resolution digital maps. This six-day international workshop will continue with detailed technical sessions, field demonstrations, and visits to the Survey of India lab, providing participants with practical insights into drone-based surveying, data processing, and the integration of geospatial technologies in land administration.

    About SVAMITVA Scheme: The SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Government of India implemented by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. It aims to provide rural property owners with “Record of Rights” by using drone surveying technology to map inhabited areas of villages. The scheme has successfully mapped over 3.17 lakh villages across India, representing an estimated asset base of Rs.132 lakh crore.

    ***

    Aditi Agrawal

    (Release ID: 2114498) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India to host 3-day FATF Private Sector Collaborative Forum 2025 (PSCF 2025) from 25th -27th March, 2025, in Mumbai

    Source: Government of India (2)

    India to host 3-day FATF Private Sector Collaborative Forum 2025 (PSCF 2025) from 25th -27th March, 2025, in Mumbai

    FATF President Ms. Elisa de Anda Madrazo to formally inaugurate PSCF 2025 on 26th March, 2025, with RBI Governor Shri Sanjay Malhotra presiding over the event

    The PSCF 2025 agenda reflects global priorities, including payment transparency, financial inclusion, and digital transformation of financial systems

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 5:05PM by PIB Delhi

    The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Private Sector Collaborative Forum (PSCF) 2025 will be held from 25th -27th March, 2025, in Mumbai. The forum is being hosted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Government of India, reaffirming India’s responsible leadership in global efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

     

    FATF President Ms. Elisa de Anda Madrazo will formally inaugurate the PSCF 2025 on 26th March, 2025, with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shri Sanjay Malhotra presiding over the event. The Indian delegation to PSCF is a multi-disciplinary team led by Shri Vivek Aggarwal, Additional Secretary (Revenue), Ministry of Finance.

    India’s Leadership in AML/CFT Efforts

    India’s participation in FATF initiatives has been widely recognised. India is a member of steering group of FATF and also co-chairs a working group on Risks, Trends and Methodologies work group. In November 2024, India hosted the plenary of Eurasian Group on Combating Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (EAG) in Indore. In June 2024, India’s FATF Mutual Evaluation Report was tabled at the FATF Plenary in Singapore and subsequently released in September 2024. India achieved the best possible outcome by being placed in ‘regular follow-up,’ a status that only a few countries have attained in their Mutual Evaluations.

    The report commended India’s exemplary efforts in curbing money laundering and terrorist financing, highlighting the country’s advanced fintech ecosystem, innovations like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Aadhaar-enabled digital identity verification, and proactive inter-agency coordination. India’s approach has set a global benchmark for integrating technology with financial security.

    PCSF 2025

    The upcoming PCSF event is another milestone in India’s journey in its efforts in curbing money laundering and terrorist financing. The PSCF is an annual event that provides a critical platform for dialogue between FATF member countries, international organisations, and private sector stakeholders. It aims to enhance the implementation of FATF’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CFT) standards by fostering collaboration, exchanging best practices, and addressing emerging global challenges.

    This year’s forum will see participation from countries across FATF’s Global Network, along with representatives from financial institutions, designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs), virtual asset service providers (VASPs), international organisations, and academia.

    Key Highlights and Agenda Focus Areas

    The PSCF 2025 agenda reflects global priorities, including payment transparency, financial inclusion, and digital transformation of financial systems. With financial crimes evolving due to technological advancements — such as cryptocurrency-related laundering — India’s expertise in leveraging technology and fostering a risk-based approach offers valuable insights for the international community. By hosting this significant event, India reinforces its commitment to FATF’s global standards.

    Over the next three days, discussions at the forum will revolve around several critical issues shaping the global AML/CFT landscape. Participants will explore how FATF can continue to address evolving threats while promoting financial inclusion through robust, risk-based supervision of regulated entities. The dialogue will also focus on enhancing transparency in beneficial ownership and leveraging digital tools to strengthen AML/CFT compliance mechanisms.

    Information-sharing practices within the private sector will be evaluated to identify ways to better address emerging financial crime threats. Furthermore, the forum will engage in deliberations on emerging terrorist financing and proliferation financing risks, emphasising the need for measures that reinforce global resilience against these challenges.

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    NB/KMN

    (Release ID: 2114453) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government steps to ensure energy security

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 24 MAR 2025 4:35PM by PIB Delhi

    Prices of petrol and diesel are market determined and Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) take appropriate decision on pricing of petrol and diesel.

    Domestically, Petrol and Diesel prices have come down to Rs. 94.77 and Rs. 87.67 per litre respectively (Delhi prices) as a result of various steps taken by Government and PSU OMCs, Central Excise duty was reduced by the Central Government by a total of Rs. 13/litre and Rs. 16/litre on petrol and diesel respectively in two tranches in November 2021 and May 2022, which was fully passed on to consumers. Some State Governments also reduced state VAT rates to provide relief to citizens. In March, 2024, OMCs reduced the retail prices of petrol and diesel by Rs. 2 per litre each.

    India has been the only major economy in the world where the prices of petrol and diesel have come down in recent years. Changes in prices of petrol and diesel in some major economies between November 2021 and January 2025 are as under:

    % age Change in Prices between Nov-21 and Jan-25

    Country

    Petrol

    Diesel

    India (Delhi)

    -13.60%

    -10.92%

    France

    14.21%

    15.08%

    Germany

    7.87%

    12.43%

    Italy

    8.65%

    11.39%

    Spain

    8.67%

    12.93%

    UK

    0.08%

    2.61%

    Canada

    10.52%

    23.05%

    USA

    4.83%

    12.86%

    Changes in prices of petrol and diesel in some neighboring economies between November 2021 and January 2025

    % age Change in Prices between Nov-21 and Jan-25

    Country

    Petrol

    Diesel

    India (Delhi)

    -13.60%

    -10.92%

    Pakistan

    29.76%

    34.97%

    Bangladesh

    13.94%

    30.82%

    Sri Lanka

    53.98%

    101.59%

    Nepal

    22.02%

    31.32%

    India imports about 60% of the domestic LPG consumed. Price of LPG in the country is linked to its price in the international market. While the average Saudi CP (international benchmark for LPG pricing) rose by 63% (from US$ 385/MT in July 2023 to US$ 629/MT in February 2025), the effective price for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) consumers for domestic LPG was reduced by 44% (from Rs. 903 in August 2023 to Rs. 503 in February 2025).

    The retail selling price of a 14.2 Kg domestic LPG cylinder is currently Rs. 803 in Delhi. After a targeted subsidy of Rs. 300/cylinder to PMUY consumers, Government of India is providing 14.2 Kg LPG cylinders at an effective price of Rs.503 per cylinder (in Delhi). This is available to more than 10.33 crore Ujjwala beneficiaries, across the country.

    Globally, PMUY is the biggest program of its kind that provides Domestic LPG to more than 100 million poor households at an effective price of just about Rs. 35/Kg. Further, the effective price of domestic LPG cylinder in neighbouring countries as on 01.01.2025 is as below.

    Country

    Domestic LPG (Rs./14.2 kg.cyl.)

    India

    503.00*

    Pakistan

    1094.83

    Sri Lanka

    1231.53

    Nepal

    1206.65

    Government of India is closely monitoring global energy markets as well as potential energy supply disruptions as a fall-out of the evolving geopolitical situation. To ensure security of crude supplies and to mitigate the risk of dependence on crude oil from single region, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) have diversified their petroleum import basket and are procuring crude from countries located at various geographical locations.

    Government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy to reduce the dependency on crude oil which, inter alia, include demand substitution by promoting usage of natural gas as fuel/feedstock across the country towards increasing the share of natural gas in economy and moving towards gas based economy, promotion of renewable and alternate fuels like ethanol, second generation ethanol, compressed bio gas and biodiesel, refinery process improvements, promoting energy efficiency and conservation, efforts for increasing production of oil and natural gas through various policies initiatives, etc. For promoting the use of Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) as automotive fuel, Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) initiative has also been launched.

    The government has been taking various steps to boost domestic oil and gas production which, inter-alia, include:

    i.          Policy under PSC regime for early monetization of hydrocarbon discoveries, 2014.

    ii.         Discovered Small Field Policy, 2015.

    iii.        Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP), 2016.

    iv.        Policy for Extension of PSCs, 2016 and 2017.

    v.         Policy for early monetization of Coal Bed Methane, 2017.

    vi.        Setting up of National Data Repository, 2017.

    vii.       Appraisal of Un-appraised areas in Sedimentary Basins under National Seismic Programme, 2017.

    viii.      Policy framework for extension of PSCs for Discovered Fields and Exploration Blocks

    under Pre-New Exploration Licensing Policy (Pre-NELP), 2016 and 2017.

    ix.        Policy to Promote and Incentivize Enhanced Recovery Methods for Oil and Gas, 2018.

    x.         Policy Framework for exploration and exploitation of Unconventional Hydrocarbons under Existing Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs), Coal Bed Methane (CBM) Contracts and Nomination Fields, 2018.

    xi.        Natural Gas Marketing Reforms, 2020.

    xii.       Lower Royalty Rates, Zero Revenue Share (till Windfall Gain) and no drilling commitment in Phase-I in OALP Blocks under Category II and III basins to attract bidders.

    xiii.      Release of about 1 million Sq. Km. (SKM) ‘No-Go’ area in offshore which were blocked for exploration for decades.

    xiv.      Government is also spending about Rs.7500 Cr. for acquisition of seismic data in onland and offshore areas and drilling of stratigraphic wells to make quality data of Indian Sedimentary Basins available to bidders. Government has approved acquisition of additional 2D Seismic data of 20,000 LKM in onland and 30,000 LKM in offshore beyond Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India.  

    This information was given by THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS SHRI SURESH GOPI, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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    MONIKA

    (Release ID: 2114428) Visitor Counter : 13

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Roofing Business Owner and Payroll Administrator Sentenced for Employment Tax Conspiracy

    Source: US State of California

    Two Florida residents were sentenced today to three years and a year and a day in prison, respectively, for conspiring to defraud the United States by not paying employment taxes to the IRS.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, William Skaggs Jr. owned and operated Nastar Roofing, a roofing company that worked throughout the Ft. Myers area. Billie Adkison was the business’ main office administrator, whose duties included managing payroll. 

    Between 2013 and 2023, Nastar employees — including Skaggs, Adkinson, and others acting at their direction — withdrew over $21 million from the company’s bank accounts to pay employees predominantly in cash without withholding Social Security, Medicare, and federal income taxes from those wages. They did this to escape paying employment taxes they knew were legally required.

    At times, Nastar used a payroll provider to issue employees nominal paychecks, but Nastar did not inform the payroll company about the cash wages. As such, when the payroll company filed employment tax returns with the IRS, the forms were false because they did not report the cash wages. Similarly, when Nastar did not use a payroll provider and filed its own employment tax returns, it did not report the substantial cash wages paid to employees. Both Skaggs and Adkison signed some of these tax returns, knowing that they were false.

    In total, Skaggs and Adkison caused a tax loss to the IRS of nearly $2.5 million.

    In addition to their prison sentences, U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell for the Middle District of Florida ordered Skaggs and Adkison to serve three years of supervised release. The court will determine restitution at a later date.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Sweeney for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Kevin Schneider of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Leeman and Benjamin Winter for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Roofing Business Owner and Payroll Administrator Sentenced for Employment Tax Conspiracy

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Two Florida residents were sentenced today to three years and a year and a day in prison, respectively, for conspiring to defraud the United States by not paying employment taxes to the IRS.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, William Skaggs Jr. owned and operated Nastar Roofing, a roofing company that worked throughout the Ft. Myers area. Billie Adkison was the business’ main office administrator, whose duties included managing payroll. 

    Between 2013 and 2023, Nastar employees — including Skaggs, Adkinson, and others acting at their direction — withdrew over $21 million from the company’s bank accounts to pay employees predominantly in cash without withholding Social Security, Medicare, and federal income taxes from those wages. They did this to escape paying employment taxes they knew were legally required.

    At times, Nastar used a payroll provider to issue employees nominal paychecks, but Nastar did not inform the payroll company about the cash wages. As such, when the payroll company filed employment tax returns with the IRS, the forms were false because they did not report the cash wages. Similarly, when Nastar did not use a payroll provider and filed its own employment tax returns, it did not report the substantial cash wages paid to employees. Both Skaggs and Adkison signed some of these tax returns, knowing that they were false.

    In total, Skaggs and Adkison caused a tax loss to the IRS of nearly $2.5 million.

    In addition to their prison sentences, U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell for the Middle District of Florida ordered Skaggs and Adkison to serve three years of supervised release. The court will determine restitution at a later date.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Sweeney for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Kevin Schneider of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Leeman and Benjamin Winter for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DHS, ICE, and interagency enforcement arrest and extradite Honduran criminal alien

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON – A Honduran criminal alien, Eswin Mejia, 28, wanted in connection with a tragic 2016 motor vehicle homicide in Douglas County, Nebraska, was arrested and extradited to the United States, March 21 following an extensive U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement joint partner investigation.

    In January 2016, prior to the conclusion of his immigration proceedings, Mejia crashed his car and killed a 21-year-old woman. Following the incident, it was determined that his blood alcohol content was three times over the legal limit.

    Despite the severity of the charges, on Feb. 5, 2016, Mejia was granted bond and released back into the community. He later fled to Honduras to escape prosecution.

    “The extradition and arrest of this criminal alien is the culmination of a nearly decade-long battle for justice for Sarah Root and her family. Thanks to the hard work of our Homeland Security Investigation and our interagency law enforcement partners, Eswin Mejia, who fled the U.S. to evade prosecution, will finally face justice for the killing of Sarah Root. Sarah should still be here today, and this illegal alien should have never been in our country in the first place,” said Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “Senator Joni Ernst has been a champion for Sarah and her family, and her efforts and leadership were crucial in Mejia’s extradition. President Trump is putting the safety of Americans first — no longer will murderers and criminal illegal aliens be released into American communities.”

    “For over nine years, I have called for justice on behalf of Sarah Root, and today President Trump and his administration are delivering,” said Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). “Sarah should still be alive today, and for too long Michelle, Scott, and the rest of her loved ones have been forced to live with the fact that her killer was running free. Finally, Edwin Mejia will face the long overdue consequences after breaking our laws and taking an innocent life. I am incredibly thankful for President Trump’s strong action, his hardworking administration, and steadfast partnership to right this wrong on behalf of Iowa families.”

    “This arrest is a crucial step in our relentless pursuit of justice for the victim and her grieving family,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Mark Zito. “This case highlights the vital role ICE plays in relentlessly pursuing dangerous fugitives and criminal aliens. No matter how much time has passed or where they try to flee, ICE is working to bring them to justice.”

    “I want to express my appreciation and gratitude to the men and women of the Marshals Service, as well as our partner agencies who worked tirelessly to bring Mr. Mejia back to the U.S. to face justice,” said Scott Kracl, U.S. Marshal for the District of Nebraska. “I hope this arrest and extradition brings some measure of comfort to the Root family and will serve as a reminder to all fugitives from justice that there is no place to hide.”

    In February 2016, the Douglas County Nebraska County Court issued an arrest warrant for the fugitive on charges of motor vehicular homicide, after Mejia failed to appear at his court proceedings.

    Mejia was first encountered by immigration officials in May 2013 after entering the United States at an unknown date, location and without inspection or parole. U.S. Border Patrol him a notice to appear, and he was released on his own recognizance, pending immigration proceedings.

    Mejia failed to attend his immigration proceedings and in April 2016, an immigration judge with the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review ordered his removal from the U.S. in absentia.

    Mejia’s capture is the direct result of an ICE HSI-led joint investigation, with significant assistance from ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, U.S. Marshals Service, FBI, Department of State, U.S. Embassy of Honduras, HSI Tegucigalpa Transnational Criminal Investigative Unit, Honduran National Police Directorate for Police Investigations, Honduran National Police Directorate for Police Intelligence, Honduran Special Forces, Omaha Police Department, Douglas County Attorney, and Omaha United States Attorney’s Office.

    Mejia is currently in local custody at Douglas County Corrections, and ICE has lodged an immigration detainer with the jail.

    Members of the public can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eden Prairie Man Charged with Coercion, Enticement of a Minor, and Production of Child Sexual Abuse Material

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

    MINNEAPOLIS – Michael Bruce Gillis, an Eden Prairie man, has been charged via federal criminal complaint with coercion and enticement of a minor and production of child pornography, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to the criminal complaint, on March 2, 2025, the Mounds View Police Department received a report of a missing 15-year-old male. In an effort to locate the missing juvenile, his family members reviewed his personal electronic devices and discovered recent chat communications between Minor Victim A and an individual identified as “Nick Miller.” In their chat thread, Minor Victim A specifically identified himself as being “young” and still in high school, to which “Nick Miller” responded that he “like[s] younger guys” and that he was “okay with it.” From there, the chat transitioned to Minor Victim A and “Nick Miller” exchanging sexually explicit messages and graphic photos. The pair then made plans to meet, but because Minor Victim A was too young to drive, “Nick Miller” ordered an Uber to pick him up and drive him to the meetup location.

    A few hours after the electronic communications between “Nick Miller” and Minor Victim A, law enforcement conducted a welfare check at the address “Nick Miller” had provided.  Law enforcement officers discovered Minor Victim A walking on foot a short distance from the indicated residence. Minor Victim A reported that “Nick Miller” had sexually assaulted him, and that he had escaped from the house after “Nick Miller” had fallen asleep. Law enforcement officers subsequently apprehended “Nick Miller” at the address he had provided, and positively identified him as Michael Bruce Gillis, 35. A subsequent records check revealed two other pending matters involving allegations of child exploitation, one in Hennepin County, Minnesota, and the other in Polk County, Florida.

    “As this case demonstrates, child predators are clear and present dangers to the children of Minnesota,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.  “We have federal tools at our disposal—including significant mandatory minimum sentences—that appropriately take predators like this off the street for decades.  As Acting U.S. Attorney, I have directed my office to continue to prioritize these abhorrent crimes—to send a strong deterrent message and to protect our community.”

    “The allegations in this case are horrific. His deliberate, predatory behavior led to the sexual assault of a child, causing significant harm and trauma” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will use every resource available to ensure those who prey on the most vulnerable are brought to justice.”

    Gillis was charged by criminal complaint today in U.S. District Court with one count of coercion and enticement of a minor and one count of production of child pornography.  He is currently detained.  

    This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, Eden Prairie Police Department, Mounds View Police Department, and the Bloomington Police Department.

    “I am glad we are working with our federal partners to get these child predators off the street,” said Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges. “I am confident this partnership will help keep our communities safe.”

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing is prosecuting the case.  

    A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Carolina Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Trafficking More Than Two Dozen Illegal Firearms into Boston

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Columbia, S.C. man was sentenced on March 21, 2025 in federal court in Boston for conspiring to traffic more than two dozen illegal firearms from South Carolina to Boston. 

    Trevon Brunson, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In October 2024, Brunson pleaded guilty to one count of firearms trafficking and conspiracy to do so. In January 2024, Brunson was charged along with co-conspirator Aizavier Roache. 

    The investigation arose after a firearm recovered from a shooting in Boston was identified as having been purchased in South Carolina 15 days prior. Over a three-year period, Brunson and Roache conspired to traffic dozens of illegal firearms from South Carolina to Massachusetts. Specifically, Roache would text Brunson photos of the firearms he wanted. The two would then meet and Roache would provide Brunson with the cash to purchase the firearms. After purchasing the firearms in South Carolina, Brunson would meet Roache at different locations in Columbia, S.C. to transfer the firearms. Roache traveled between Massachusetts and South Carolina numerous times to obtain the firearms.

    Numerous text messages as well as bank, travel and firearm records detailed the conspiracy. Intercepted communications uncovered an instance were Brunson used Roache’s credit card to complete a multi-gun purchase because he didn’t have enough cash on hand, during which Roache texted Brunson the pin number for the card. Additionally, a video recovered from Roache’s phone showed him on a bus showing off a carry-on bag that contained four firearms. The date of the video corresponded with Roache’s trip back to Massachusetts after a multi-gun purchase in April of 2023.

    In total, the defendants trafficked more than 24 illegal firearms into Massachusetts from South Carolina. Eleven of the trafficked firearms were recovered in Massachusetts after being used in a crime.

    In February 2025, Roache was sentenced to five years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release.

    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 today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Davenport Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm as an Armed Career Criminal

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced on March 18, 2025 to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon and Armed Career Criminal.

    According to public court documents, Dontae Lamonte Burrage, 36, had multiple outstanding arrest warrants. Members of a bail bond company attempted to arrest Burrage on February 26, 2022. Burrage ran and threw a loaded pistol. Burrage has six prior state felony drug convictions. Therefore, Burrage is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law and, as an Armed Career Criminal, faced a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison.

    After completing his term of imprisonment, Burrage will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department.

    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 violent crime and gun violence, 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 priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison for Mailing Methamphetamine to Northern Alabama

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – An Arizona man has been sentenced to prison for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Birmingham Division. 

    United States District Judge Liles C. Burke sentenced Jeremiah Warren, 42, of Vail, Arizona, to 180 months in prison. On October 4, 2023, Warren pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute 50 grams or More of Methamphetamine. 

    According to the plea agreement, Warren supplied Isaiah Oneal Rice, who lived in Athens, Alabama, with controlled substances for several years. Warren would send Rice drugs—including crystal methamphetamine—through the United States mail. From February to May 2022, Warren mailed over 34 pounds of packages containing controlled substances into the Northern District of Alabama.

    Rice was also prosecuted and sentenced to 176 months in prison on January 10, 2024. On July 27, 2022, Rice pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute 50 grams or More of Methamphetamine, two counts of Unlawful Distribution of Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 grams or More of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

    The FBI’s North Alabama Safe Streets Task Force investigated the cases. The Limestone County Sheriff’s Office and Athens Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant United States Attorney John M. Hundscheid prosecuted the cases.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a Loaded Semi-Automatic Pistol and Drug Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Boston man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to being a felon in possession of a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol.  

    Brevin Dossantos-Wellington, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, methamphetamine and oxycodone. U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Sept. 15, 2025. In August 2024, Dossantos-Wellington was indicted by a federal grand jury.

    On May 5, 2024, law enforcement conducted a motor vehicle stop of Dossantos-Wellington, during which time Dossantos-Wellington tried to flee. Subsequently, a loaded Springfield Armory XD-9 9mm pistol, along with 8 baggies of cocaine base, methamphetamine and oxycodone were found in his pants. Dossantos-Wellington recently completed a sentence for a prior federal drug trafficking conviction and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms.

    The charge of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, methamphetamine and oxycodone provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and up to life and a fine of $1,000,000. 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; 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 & Gang Unit is prosecuting 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 priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Belgium National and Utah Business Owner Charged After Allegedly Running a $5 Million Ponzi Scheme

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

    $3M of investor funds allegedly used on real estate, a personal chef, Chevrolet Corvette & more

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –A Belgium national and the owner of K & K Strategies is facing federal charges after he allegedly operated a $5 million Ponzi scheme.  The Utah investment owner, who was not licensed to sell securities, allegedly defrauded approximately 75 investors, and used at least $3 million on real estate purchases, investor payouts, a personal chef, a 2002 Chevrolet Corvette, and other personal expenses.

    Kenny Dirk Van Der Spek, aka Kenny Vanderspek, 35, of South Jordan, Utah, was charged by complaint on March 12, 2025. He was charged by way of felony information on March 19, 2025.

    According to court documents, Van Der Spek, who was the owner and manager of K & K Strategies, LLC, defrauded at least 75 investors in his company between December 2017 and December 2023. K & K Strategies was a Utah limited liability company with a principal address in Salt Lake County and had investors in Utah and across the country. The stated purpose of the business was to help people who were not wealthy invest and teach about stock trading. However, Van Der Spek was not licensed to sell securities.

    As part of the scheme to defraud, Van Der Spek lied and manipulated clients to convince them to invest with K & K Strategies. He told them that K & K Strategies was legally operating a hedge fund and that he was licensed to do so. He represented to investors that their investments with K & K Strategies LLC were succeeding, showing them fabricated financial records, when in reality, investors were suffering losses. He also displayed an alleged “live stream” of trades on knkstrategies.com so that investors could “watch [their] money grow.”

    Van Der Spek is charged with securities fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. His initial appearance on the felony information is scheduled for March 20, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in courtroom 7.1 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Phoenix Field Office, and the Utah Division of Securities.

    Special Assistant United States Attorney Sachiko J. Jepson and Assistant United States Attorney Mark Y. Hirata, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Goldsboro Gang Member Sentenced to 21 Years for Armed Robbery

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A Goldsboro man was sentenced today to 258 months in prison for armed robbery. Fremandeus Connell Williams, age 45, pled guilty to interference with commerce by robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence on December 20, 2024.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Wilson Police Department (WPD) responded to a call of a robbery at the Hot Spot Internet Café Sweepstakes on Ward Boulevard in Wilson on December 7, 2021. The investigation revealed that Williams entered the establishment wearing a surgical mask and appeared to play a game machine. As a Hot Spot employee unlocked the office door to assist a customer in cashing out, Williams walked up behind the employee, placed the barrel of a firearm against the back of her head, and pushed her to the ground.  Williams then threatened the employee and said, “where’s the money and you better not lie, or I’ll kill you.” Williams stole $7,039 in cash from the register and counter drawers while the employee remained in the back corner of the office.  The incident was captured on video surveillance. Williams, a known member of the United Blood Nation gang, was arrested a few days later on December 10, 2021.

    The conviction is a result of the ongoing Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) initiative which is a collaborative effort with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community, to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. VCAP involves focused and strategic enforcement, interagency coordination, and intelligence-led policing.

    Daniel Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III.  The WPD, Goldsboro Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Leonard Champaign prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-CR-87-D-RJ-1.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pictou — Pictou County District RCMP investigating theft of plaques

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Pictou County District RCMP is investigating the theft of three plaques in the community.

    On March 20, RCMP officers received a report that a large brass plaque had been stolen from a building on Haliburton Rd. during the overnight hours. And on March 23, officers responded to a report of two bronze plaques being taken from a stone monument at the intersection of Churchville Loop and Churchville Rd.; the plaques were removed from the monument sometime last week.

    The investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information about these thefts 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: Port Saunders — Port Saunders RCMP responds to disturbance; suspect fled from police, crashed vehicle and arrested for impaired operation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Forty-seven-year-old Chad Sinnicks of Hawke’s Bay was arrested for impaired operation and a number of other offences by Port Saunders RCMP on March 22, 2025, after crashing a vehicle on Route 430 near Port Saunders.

    At approximately 11:30 p.m., police received a report of a disturbance at a commercial property in Reef’s Harbour involving an assault, threats and property damage. Sinnicks, who was identified as the involved suspect, left the area in a vehicle prior to police arrival and was suspected to be driving while impaired.

    A short time, later, officers located the described vehicle and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The vehicle fled from police and became out of sight. Police continued south on Route 430 looking for the suspect vehicle which was located a few minutes later in a ditch on the side of the highway. Sinnicks was arrested for impaired operation and was transported to the detachment. He provided breath samples that were above the legal limit.

    Chad Sinnicks is set to appear in court at a later date to face the following criminal charges:

    • Impaired operation
    • Impaired operation with a blood alcohol concentration above 80 mgs%
    • Flight from police
    • Assault
    • Uttering Threats
    • Mischief under $5000.00 – property damage
    • Various offences of the Highway Traffic Act

    The investigation is ongoing with additional charges pending.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Council Bluffs Women Sentenced to 210 Months on Methamphetamine Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Acting United States Attorney Matthew R. Molsen announced that Tracy Gulzow, 56, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced on March 20, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for possessing with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Gulzow to 210 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After her release from prison, she will begin a five-year term of supervised release.

    As part of a long-term Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation, Gulzow was identified as a distributor for a Mexican-based meth drug trafficking organization (DTO).  DEA first identified Gulzow as a customer of the DTO in March of 2022.  In the fall of 2023, DEA became aware that Gulzow had stepped into a distributor role for the DTO.  On January 24, 2023, the Omaha Police Department stopped Gulzow for a traffic violation.  During the traffic stop, nine pounds of meth were seized.  Gulzow admitted to law enforcement that more meth was located at her residence.  Gulzow also admitted to receiving more than 50 pounds of meth from the DTO since she became a distributor.  Law enforcement went to her residence where they recovered two more pounds of meth, a firearm, and $19,563 which was derived from the sale of methamphetamine.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. 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 https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Omaha Police Department, and Bellevue Police Department.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 03/24/2025, 10:06 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for security RU000A105898 (IADOM 1P21) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    03/24/2025

    10:06

    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 March 24, 2025, 10:06 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 72.09) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 559.4 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 21.25%) of the security RU000A105898 (IADOM 1P21) 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.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 03/24/2025, 10:18 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JWV89 (Akron B1P1) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    03/24/2025

    10:18

    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 March 24, 2025, 10:18 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 85.53) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 906.92 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 11.25%) of the security RU000A0JWV89 (Akron B1P1) 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/N88765

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 03/24/2025, 10:22 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0ZZCH9 (IA DOM 5P2) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    03/24/2025

    10:22

    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 March 24, 2025, 10:22 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 87.43) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 149.94 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 27.5%) of the security RU000A0ZZCH9 (IA DOM 5P2) 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/N88767

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 03/24/2025, 10:26 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A1065R7 (IADOM 1P33) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    03/24/2025

    10:26

    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 March 24, 2025, 10:26 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 73.91) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 584.96 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 22.5%) of the security RU000A1065R7 (IADOM 1P33) 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.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 03/24/2025, 10:30 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0ZZ1N0 (DOM 1P-3R) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    03/24/2025

    10:30

    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 March 24, 2025, 10:30 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 106.97) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1195.08 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 7.5%) of the security RU000A0ZZ1N0 (DOM 1P-3R) 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. MEEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 03/24/2025, 10:47 (Moscow time) the values of the lower limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JX2F6 (TbankB11) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    03/24/2025

    10:47

    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 March 24, 2025, 10:47 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 96.05) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 959.83 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 8.13%) of the security RU000A0JX2F6 (TbankB11) 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. MEEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 03/24/2025, 13-14 (Moscow time) the values of the lower limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A1007Z2 (RZhD 1P-13R) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    03/24/2025

    13:14

    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 March 24, 2025, 13-14 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 76.19) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 697.7 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 18.75%) of the security RU000A1007Z2 (RZhD 1P-13R) 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.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 03/24/2025, 14-33 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JXSS1 (Akron B1P2) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    03/24/2025

    14:33

    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 March 24, 2025, 14:33 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 82.35) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 883.0 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 13.75%) of the RU000A0JXSS1 (Akron B1P2) 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. MEEX.K.MO/N88783

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Attorneys for Southwestern Border Districts Charge More than 840 Illegal Aliens with Immigration-Related Crimes During the Third week in March as part of Operation Take Back America

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: U.S. Attorneys for Southwestern Border Districts Charge More than 840 Illegal Aliens with Immigration-Related Crimes During the Third week in March as part of Operation Take Back America

    President Trump has been clear that securing the Southwestern Border of the United States is a priority of the absolute highest level. To that end, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transitional criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Second Bronx Man Pleads Guilty In Connection With Shooting Of Five-Year-Old Girl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that AUSTIN MORRISHOW pled guilty today to illegally possessing multiple rounds of ammunition in connection with a June 30, 2023, shooting in which MORRISHOW and his co-defendant, CURTIS WHITE, fired multiple shots on a residential street in the Bronx, striking and seriously injuring a five-year-old girl.  MORRISHOW pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Loretta A. Preska, who also presided over WHITE’s guilty plea on February 5, 2025.  

    Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “On June 30, 2023, Austin Morrishow and his co-defendant, Curtis White, engaged in a brazen act of violence by firing several shots onto a busy residential street in the Bronx. As these shots rang out, panicked bystanders rushed for cover, and one child—a five-year-old girl—was struck by a bullet and seriously injured. Morrishow then tried to evade arrest, but he was tracked down by our law enforcement partners, and now faces time in prison for endangering our city with senseless gun violence.”

    According to court filings and statements made in court proceedings:

    On June 30, 2023, MORRISHOW, WHITE, and several others were gathered on a residential sidewalk in the Bronx.  After a car engine backfired, MORRISHOW took cover behind a parked vehicle, assumed a shooting stance, and fired several shots from a .40 caliber pistol at three cars idling nearby, which began fleeing from the gunfire.  WHITE ran after the fleeing cars, firing shots from a .380 caliber pistol.

    The shots fired by MORRISHOW and WHITE left at least seven .40 caliber shell casings, two .380 caliber shell casings, and two fired bullets in the street, as well as two bullet fragments, bullet holes, and shattered windows in vehicles parked on the street.  One of these shots hit the five-year-old girl sitting in the back of a car, and she was rushed to the hospital.

    MORRISHOW was not permitted to possess a firearm or ammunition because of his prior federal conviction for using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a narcotics conspiracy, and WHITE was not permitted to possess a firearm or ammunition because of his prior state conviction for attempted first-degree assault with intent to cause serious injury with a weapon.

    *                *                *

    MORRISHOW, 27, and WHITE, 27, both of the Bronx, New York, each pled guilty to one count of possession of ammunition after a felony conviction, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.  MORRISHOW is scheduled to be sentenced on June 25, 2025, and WHITE is scheduled to be sentenced on May 20, 2025.   

    The statutory maximum penalty is prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.

    Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding investigative work of the New York City Police Department, and also thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Marshals Service for their assistance with the investigation.

    The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry J. Fang is in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –