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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSIR-NIScPR, India and CNRS, France Organised Indo-French Seminar on Open Science

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 07 MAR 2025 5:20PM by PIB Delhi

    The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research, New Delhi (CSIR-NIScPR), in collaboration with the CNRS- Department for Open Research Data, Open Science, Publications, Research Data and High Performance Computing, Paris (CNRS-DDOR), organized a two-day Indo-French Seminar on “Open Horizons: Integrating Open Access, Open Data, and Computational Innovation” on March 5-6, 2025 at CSIR-NIScPR, Satsang Vihar Campus, New Delhi-110067.

    Glimpses of Indo-French Seminar

    This significant seminar was organized to deliberate on how India and France are taking a stride towards open access, open data and open science; how digital technologies and Open Source platform offer great promise in implementing an information-driven approach to advance science, promote collaborations, increase transparency and utilize tools for partnerships between science and society. The seminar was attended by researchers, scientists, and policymakers from India and France; provided a unique opportunity for open access information sharing and networking opportunities.

    The inaugural session was attended by esteemed dignitaries from India and France with Dr. Antoine Petit, Chairman and CEO, CNRS, France; Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR; Prof. Nitin Seth, Director, CEFIPRA; Dr. Srinivasa Reddy, Director, CSIR-IICTon the dais.

    “We are delighted to organize this event with CNRS, France, to promote open science and research data sharing,” said Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, Director, CSIR-NIScPR setting the tone for the conference. Describing the relevance of the event she said, “This seminar marks an important step towards fostering international collaboration and advancing sharing of scientific research for all sections of the society.” She also mentioned “One Nation One Subscription” initiative of Indian Government and its role in providing open access to larger number of stakeholders.

    Prof. Nitin Seth, Director, Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research (CEFIPRA) recollected how they started with 1-2 calls annually to now with so many several dedicated partnerships in S&T between the two countries. He also shared his views about the expectations from this seminar. “Open access made scientific knowledge accessible, it brings a lot of opportunities”, Dr. Srinivasa Reddy, Director CSIR-IICT shared his thoughts in theinaugural session. He also mentioned the collaborations CEFIPRA has had with CSIR-IICT from last several years.

    From the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), Dr. Antoine Petit, Chairman and CEO; Dr. Sylvie Rousset, Senior Scientist & Head, Open Research Data Department (DDOR) gave a brief of CNRS and DDOR, its objectives functions and roles they are playing in making open access of articles and data, a norm in scientific research. Dr. Kasturi Mandal, CSIR-NIScPR and Dr. Sylvie Rousset, CNRS-DDOR provided the overview of the program of two days seminar like topics of discussions, and takeaways from the sessions.

    The first session of the seminar was designed on theme “Policies for Open Access, Open science in France and in India” was, chaired by Prof. Vivek Kumar Singh, Senior Adviser, NITI Aayog, Govt. of India. Dr. Marin Dacos from the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research discussed the benefits of open science like increase in academic efficiency, reproducibility, prevention of duplication, and increasing citation. He also shared highlights of French open science policies in the country. Dr. Remya Haridasan from the PSA Office, Govt. of India, discussed flagship ‘One Nation One Subscription’ (ONOS) initiative in detail like why it was needed, the impact it has on science dissemination and the hurdles faced by the stakeholders during the implementation. The other speakers who shared their thoughts on open science and data includes Dr. Sylvie Rousset and Mr. Mukesh Pund Chief Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR.

    The second session was based on topic “Open Access: A Diversity of Routes”. The session was chaired by Prof. Anirban Chakraborti, School of Computational and Integrative Sciences (SCIS), JNU, New Delhi. Dr. Bénédicte Kuntziger, CCSD, CNRS, during his talk said, “At CCSD, we promote open access through HAL, the French national open access repository, ensuring long-term, barrier-free access to publications. Notably, 167,751 full-text documents were deposited in 2024 alone, bringing the total to over 1.4 million full-text documents available through HAL as on January 2025”, he added. Dr. Françoise Rousseau, Couperin Consortium shared the model through which they negotiate with major science publishers to advance open science. Other speakers including Dr. Subbiah Arunachalam from DST-CPR, IISc Bangalore, presented an overview of open access in India, highlighting the country’s progress in promoting open access to research and Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam, Head, CSIR-HRDG presented a perspective on open source and drug discovery, highlighting the potential of open source approaches in accelerating drug discovery and development.

    The third session of day 1 was extension of session 2 under the theme “Open Access: A Diversity of Routes (Part II)”. Session was chaired by Dr. Laurence El Khouri from CNRS-DDO. The speakers including Dr. Lidia Borrell-Damian, Science Europe discussed the benefits of Diamond Action Plan which proposes to align and develop common resources for the entire Diamond OA ecosystem. Prof. Rajeswari Raina from Shiv Nadar University asked researchers and policy makers to think step ahead while saying it’s not about one scheme, one nation or one sector, we have to see the global aspects and thus need to set the horizons and limits of open access at global level. Dr. Raphael Tournoy from Episciences discussed the importance of Overlay Journals.

    All the sessions of day 1 concluded with Q&A, where experts answered questions from the audience and shared their insights on the future of open science. This was followed by Felicitation of the guests and speakers of the event.

    The second day of the India-France seminar on Open Science and Research Data concluded successfully, featuring insightful discussions and presentations on computational innovation, research evaluation, and open data sharing.The day’s proceedings began with a session on “R&D in Computational Innovation and Open Source Software,” chaired by Dr. Avinash Kshitij, Principal Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR. The speakers included- Prof. Roberto Di Cosmo, INRIA, who discussed the “Software Heritage initiative. Prof. P. K. Suri, Delhi Technological University, delivered a talk on “Data Standardization in Agricultural.Dr. Sridhar Gautam, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, spoke on “Advancing R&D with Open Source Software, Open Access, and Open Data”.Sh. G Mayli Muthu Kumaran Deputy Director General, National Informatics Center (NIC) discuss on the computational innovation and open source and elaborated on the initiative towards the R&D in computational innovation at NIC. This was followed by a session on “Reforming the Evaluation of Research,” which featured presentations from:Dr. Lidia Borrell-Damian, Science Europe, discussed “Reforming Research Assessment and CoARA Initiative”. Dr. Vinayak, Principal Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR spoke on “Some New Methods for Measuring Phases of Science.” Dr. Moumita Koley from IISc, Bengaluru, discussed on the topic “Rethinking Research Assessment: Building an Efficient and Innovative Research Ecosystem in India” and Dr. Nishy. P, CSIR-NIIST, spoke on “Open Source for Research Evaluation and Future Trends”.

    The seminar also featured a session on “Open Data Sharing,” with presentations from Ms. AlkaMisra, Deputy Director General, NIC, who discussed the “Open Data sharing initiative of Govt. of India”. Dr. Marin Dacos, French Ministry of Higher Education and Research, presented “An ecosystem for sharing and opening research data” and Dr. Naresh Kumar, Chief Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR, presented his talk on “Sharing data in Science.

    The seventh session of the seminarhaving a panel discussion on “Future for Open Science, Open Data, and Open Source,” featuring experts from various fields, including Dr. Sujit Bhattacharya; Dr. Laurence El Khouri, CNRS-DDOR; Dr. Roberto Di Cosmo, INRIA Software Heritage; Dr. Deepali Kuberkar, Tata Memorial Hospital; Dr. Kasturi Mandal, CSIR-NIScPR, New Delhi; Dr. Yogesh Dhoble, CSIR-IPU, New Delhi and Dr. Sandhiya Lakshmanan, CSIR-NIScPR.

    The Indo-French Joint Seminar concluded with the valedictory session during which Dr. Naresh Kumar, Scientists, CSIR-NIScPR delivered the welcome address and highlights of the two-days intense deliberation on the Open Science, Open Source and Open Data in the R&D in Computational Innovation. Prof. Anirban Chakraborti from JNU address the need of balanced approach in moving towards the conduct of Open Science, Dr. Laurence and Dr Avinash Kshitij summarise the two-days deliberation amongst the 6 different topics, Mr.Mukesh Pund, CSIR-NIScPR shows his gratitude towards the Indian and French speakers, scholars, delegates and the all individuals involved in different roles during his address for Vote of Thanks.

     

    About CSIR-NIScPR

    The CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR) is a premier institute in India, engaged in science communication, STI based policy studies and research.

    About CNRS

    The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) is a government-funded research organization, dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation in France and globally.

    ****

    NKR/PSM

    (Release ID: 2109124) Visitor Counter : 22

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: JSO judgment shows anti-protest laws must be ‘revised immediately’

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the Court of Appeal’s judgment on the appeal made by 16 Just Stop Oil protesters against their prison sentences for a range of peaceful protests, Kerry Moscogiuri, Amnesty International UK’s Director of Campaigns, said:

    “Today’s ruling highlights the urgent need for the UK’s protest laws to be revised.

    “It’s good the Court confirmed that the fundamental rights to freedom of expression and assembly will always be relevant to the sentencing of peaceful protesters, and it is welcome that some of the sentences in this case have been reduced. But we are in danger of having laws that only allow for protests that don’t bother anybody, and that treat peaceful protest worse than many violent offences. It’s incredibly unjust that peaceful protesters face being locked up for years.

    “We call on the UK government to drop the new anti-protest laws that they have just tabled themselves and institute a fully independent and public review of the protest laws that have been passed in recent years.”

    Policing protest in the UK

    Today’s ruling involved 16 JSO activists from four separate cases. The decision by the court to conduct the hearing as a single, mass two-day event highlighted the significance of this case – it is rare for so many different appeals to be combined.  

    The right to protest in England and Wales has been eroded in recent years, despite being protected under international law. In 2022, the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act handed police in England and Wales broad powers to shut down protests and expanded criminal offences and punishments for peaceful protest activities, including a maximum 10-year prison sentence for causing ‘public nuisance’ – the offence at the heart of many of the cases decided today.

    This was followed by the even more draconian Public Order Act 2023 and the particularly controversial Serious Disruption Regulations 2023, regulations that were recently found by the High Court to be unlawful, but which remain in place while the Government pursues an appeal.

    Thanks to this authoritarian legislation, police can define almost any demonstration as “seriously disruptive” and impose restrictions on it. Peaceful tactics like locking on, tunnelling and even causing “serious annoyance” were criminalised. New powers were created to issue orders banning people from even attending protests.  

    There has also been a steep rise in the use of facial recognition technology in the policing of protest. This is despite the UK Court of Appeal concluding in 2020 that the legal framework in place at the time for this technology violated human rights.

    Hundreds of protesters have been arrested. Some have received long custodial sentences and many prosecutions remain pending. Following his visit to the UK in January 2024, the UN Special Rapporteur on Environmental Defenders warned that environmental activists face a “severe crackdown” due to the repressive legislative framework and introduction of new criminal charges.

    New stop and search powers, including suspicionless stop and search, can be used against people at or on the way to protests. Existing evidence highlights that stop-and-search powers are disproportionately used against Black and other minoritised people, itself a feature of an institutionally racist policing and criminal justice system. The expansion of these powers serves as a gateway for further racialised police encounters.

    Anti-protest rhetoric and stigmatisation

    Climate change and pro-Palestine protesters in the UK have been heavily stigmatised and their actions used in part as justification for further anti-protest legislation. High-ranking officials labelled disruption created by environmental protests as “a threat to our way of life” and described activists as “using guerilla tactics”.

    Now the new government seems intent on following its predecessor, by introducing yet more anti protest measures in its new Crime and Policing bill. These include a power to criminalise the wearing of facial coverings at a protest, risking discrimination against Muslim women and people with health conditions, and the power for police to require foreign nationals such as student protesters to leave the country as a condition of issuing a caution, without any of the due process protections that apply to enforced removals.

    Existing international human rights standards require Governments not to introduce any measures that place disproportionate restrictions on people’s freedom of expression and assembly – it is accepted that protest by its very nature can be disruptive. 

    As well as calling for the scrapping of recently passed laws, Amnesty hopes the Government will move away from previously used stigmatising discourse and rhetoric, fuelling harmful stereotypes and portraying peaceful protesters in a way that fuels hostility. This includes characterising protesters as criminals, terrorists, threats to public order and security, or a nuisance to be crushed. Amnesty also recommends that regular and systematised data collection and reporting on restrictions imposed by authorities, including the police, is undertaken.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 03/07/2025, 10-18 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A105DR1 (FSK RS BO7) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    07.03.2025

    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 07.03.2025, 10-18 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 95.9) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1030.56 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 18.75%) of the security RU000A105DR1 (FSK RS BO7) 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 United Kingdom: Chief Inspector of Constabulary reappointed

    Source: Scottish Government

    Craig Naylor in post for a further three years.

    Craig Naylor has been reappointed as His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland for an additional three years.

    Mr Naylor, who first took up the role in 2022, will continue to lead HM Inspectorate of Constabulary Scotland (HMICS) to deliver a programme of independent inspection, monitoring and evaluation of Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority.

    He will also be a source of professional independent advice on police matters, publish reports of inspections and produce an annual report to Ministers on the police service in Scotland.

    Justice Secretary Angela Constance said:

    “The role that HMICS plays in ensuring Scotland’s police officers and staff continue to perform their duties to a high standard, and that their systems and processes are accountable, is absolutely key to Scottish policing.

    “Craig’s first three years in post have been hugely productive, with scrutiny of roads policing, how Police Scotland manages mental health incidents and a series of joint inspections with Health Improvement Scotland among the significant reviews undertaken and published.

    “I am very pleased that Craig is remaining in post for another three years and look forward to the next HMICS scrutiny plan and continued constructive working to help maintain the high standard of policing in Scotland.”

    Mr Naylor said:

    “Over the last three years I have been honoured to serve as HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland and I am delighted to have been reappointed for another three years.

    “I feel extremely privileged to lead a dedicated team of very talented inspectors and support staff, working together to help improve policing across Scotland, and look forward to continuing this important role.”

    Background

    Craig Naylor was first appointed as His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland on 17 March 2022, having been Deputy Director of Investigations at the National Crime Agency. He has more than 30 years policing experience and previously served with Police Scotland, where he held the role of Divisional Commander for Specialist Service and was responsible for firearms, public order, search and dogs. Prior to that, he worked in a number of roles across the former Lothian and Borders Police and the Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency.

    The appointment is made by Royal Warrant and the post is entirely independent of Government, police and the Scottish Police Authority.

    HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland is an independent scrutiny body, which has been in existence since the nineteenth century. HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland is the senior professional police adviser to Scottish Ministers. The statutory duties of HMICS are set out in Chapter 11 of the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2102. For more information on HMICS please go to www.hmics.scot. 

    HMICS have also confirmed that Mark Hargreaves will be vacating the Assistant Inspector of Constabulary post as he retires from Police Scotland. Brian McInulty, currently a Lead Inspector with HMICS, will take on this role on a temporary basis until a new appointment is made.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Coming up next week at the London Assembly w/c 10 March

    Source: Mayor of London

    PUBLICATIONS 

    Tuesday 11 March

    Building Safety 
    Fire Committee 

    The Fire Committee will publish letters relating to actions recommended to make London’s buildings safe and compliant with fire safety regulations.

    MEDIA CONTACT: Josh Hunt on 07763 252310 / [email protected]  

    Wednesday 12 March

    Mayor’s Police and Crime Plan 2025-29
    Police and Crime Committee 

    The Police and Crime Committee will publish its response to the Mayor’s Draft Police and Crime Plan for 2025-29.

    MEDIA CONTACT: Tony Smyth on 07763 251727 / [email protected] 

    PUBLIC MEETINGS  
                                                                               
    Tuesday 11 March
     
    Broadband connectivity in London 
    Economy, Culture & Skills Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am
     
    The Economy, Culture and Skills Committee will meet to hear evidence on the work being done to improve London’s broadband speeds, the challenges of this, and the impact improved broadband speeds would have on London’s economy.  The guests are:
     
    Panel 1- 10-11.30am:

    • Graeme Oxby – Chief Executive, Community Fibre
    • Stacey McAdie – Digital Connectivity Lead, South London Partnership
    • Trevor Dorling – Director Digital Greenwich, London Borough of Greenwich

    Panel 2 – 11.30am -12.30pm:

    • Emma Stone – Director of Evidence and Engagement, Good Things Foundation
    • Laura Timm – Greater London Representative, Federation of Small Businesses

    MEDIA CONTACT: Tony Smyth on 07763 251 727 / A[email protected]
     

    Wednesday 12 March
     
    Violence against women and girls (VAWG)     
    Police and Crime Committee – The Chamber, City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, 10am

    The Police and Crime Committee will explore the levels of VAWG amongst young people, what services are available for survivors, as well as the Mayor’s VAWG strategy and prevention principles.  The guests are:

    • Jain Lemom, Head of Tackling VAWG, MOPAC
    • Will Balakrishnan, Director of Commissioning and Partnerships, MOPAC
    • Lib Peck, Director, Violence Reduction Unit
    • DAC Alexis Boon, Metropolitan Police Service
    • DCS Angela Craggs, Metropolitan Police Service

    MEDIA CONTACT: Tony Smyth on 07763 251 727 / A[email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Mayor and High Sheriff host Iftar at Leeds Civic Hall

    Source: City of Leeds

    Over two hundred guests joined the Lord Mayor of Leeds and the High Sheriff of West Yorkshire, at Leeds Civic Hall’s Banqueting Suite for a fast-breaking iftar meal on Wednesday 5 March.

    The iftar meal is only the third of its kind to be held at the Civic Hall and was jointly hosted by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, and the High Sheriff of West Yorkshire, Professor Adeeba Malik CBE DL, in support of the Lord Mayor’s chosen charity, the Leeds Community Foundation.

    During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims worldwide fast (sawm) during the hours of daylight, abstaining from all food and drink. Iftar is the second meal of the day for those participating in Ramadan, and it ends the day’s fast, which starts immediately after the pre-dawn meal of suhur. The start of iftar is signalled by the call to evening prayer, the time of which alters daily to account for the lengthening days.

    Joining the Lord Mayor and High Sheriff at the meal were notable dignitaries from across the region including the Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Ed Anderson CBE, the Lord Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, Professor Dame Hilary Chapman DBE, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Alison Lowe OBE, the Leader of Leeds City Council, Councillor James Lewis, and the Chief Constable of West Yorkshire, John Robins. Others in attendance included the Lord Mayors of Bradford, Wakefield, and Calderdale, as well as a cross-section of faith representatives from other communities. 

    Qari Asim MBE from Makkah Mosque led the call to prayer which signalled the start of iftar as the sun set. As is traditional, the fast was broken with the eating of dates and drinking of water before guests enjoyed a buffet-style meal. 

    Speakers at the iftar meal included the former Children’s Mayor, Mohammed Hussein and the Leeds Children’s Mayor finalist (2024/2025), Zoha Ahmed, who both spoke about what Ramadan means to them. The children’s thoughts add to speeches by the Lord Mayor, the High Sheriff, the Lord-Lieutenant, and the Leader of Leeds City Council, Councillor James Lewis.

    The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, said: “It was a great honour to jointly host an iftar meal at the Civic Hall, together with the High Sheriff of West Yorkshire, Adeeba Malik.

    “The holy month of Ramadan is not only a time of abstinence. It is a time of reflection and the coming together of communities. I hope that by sharing this meal, we brought our multi-faith communities in Leeds a little closer together and that it acts as a prompt for us all to reflect on how we can, in our own way, make the world a better place.”

    Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “I was pleased to attend the iftar and take the opportunity to underline the Council’s full commitment to doing all we can to tackle anti-Muslim prejudice in Leeds. This includes our adoption in 2022 of the Anti-Muslim Prejudice definition as something that is direct or indirect hatred and discrimination against anyone of Islamic faith on grounds of their belief and practice. 

    “We undertake regular engagement work with various groups in communities across Leeds, and we run awareness raising campaigns on how to report Islamophobic hate and the support available to victims; as well as to highlight the many positive contributions British Muslims make every day to life in Leeds.   

    “This year we are also supporting the ‘Fasting in Solidarity” campaign for Ramadan 2025; and we plan to launch new hate crime and social cohesion strategies for the city.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The EU will spend billions more on defence. It’s a powerful statement – but won’t do much for Ukraine

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jessica Genauer, Senior Lecturer in International Relations, Flinders University

    On March 3, US President Donald Trump paused all US military aid to Ukraine. This move was apparently triggered by a heated exchange a few days earlier between Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office.

    In response, European Union leaders have now committed to rearm Europe by mobilising €800 billion (about A$1.4 trillion) in defence spending.

    26 of the EU leaders (excluding Hungary) signed an agreement that peace for Ukraine must be accompanied by “robust and credible” security guarantees.

    They agreed there can be no negotiations on Ukraine without Ukraine’s participation. It was also agreed the EU will continue to provide regular military and non-military support to Ukraine.

    This jump in defence spending is unprecedented for the EU, with 2024 spending hitting a previous record high of €326 billion (A$558 billion).

    At the same time, the United Kingdom has committed to the biggest increase in defence spending since the Cold War.

    The EU’s united front will create strong defences and deter a direct attack on EU nations.

    However, for Ukraine, it will not lead to a military victory in its war with Russia. While Europe has stepped up funding, this is not sufficient for Ukraine to defeat Russian forces currently occupying about 20% of the country.

    For Ukraine, the withdrawal of US support will severely strain their ability to keep fighting. Ukraine will likely need to find a way to freeze the conflict this year. This may mean a temporary truce that does not formally cede Ukrainian territory to Russia.

    A Trumpian worldview

    The vastly different approaches of the US under Trump and the EU point to a deeper ideological divide.

    While the Trump administration has acted more quickly and assertively in foreign affairs than many expected, its approach is not surprising.

    Since Trump won the US presidential election in November last year, Europe and Ukraine have known that a shift in US policy would be on the cards.

    Trump’s approach to Ukraine is not only about economic concerns and withdrawing US military aid. It is about a deeper, more significant clash of worldviews.

    Trump (and, it appears, his core support base) hold a “great power politics” approach to world affairs.

    This approach assumes we live in a competitive world where countries are motivated to maximise gains and dominate. Outcomes can be achieved through punishments or rewards.

    Countries with greater military or economic strength “count” more. They are expected to impose their will on weaker countries. This viewpoint underpinned much of the colonial activity of the 19th and 20th centuries.

    This worldview expects conflict – and it expects stronger countries to “win”.

    Consistent with Trump’s outlook, Russia is a regional power that has the “right” to control smaller countries in its neighbourhood.

    Trump’s approach to Ukraine is not an anomaly. Nor is it a temporary and spontaneous measure to grab the global spotlight.

    Trump’s worldview leads to the logical and consistent conclusion that Russia will seek to control countries within its sphere of influence.

    Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine represented an attempt to impose its will on a militarily weaker country that it considered to be in its rightful domain of control.

    The EU alternative

    Contrary to this view, the EU is founded on the premise that countries can work together for mutual gains through collaboration and consensus. This approach underpins the operation of what are called the Bretton Woods Institutions created in the aftermath of World War II.

    This worldview expects collaboration rather than conflict. Mutually beneficial and cooperative solutions are found through dialogue and negotiation.

    According to this perspective, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is about a conflict between the values of a liberal democracy and those of an oppressive authoritarian regime.

    Zelensky has himself consistently framed the conflict as being about a clash of values: freedom and democracy versus authoritarianism and control.

    A mix of both?

    Since Trump’s second inauguration, European leaders have presented a united front, motivated by facing a world where US military backing cannot be guaranteed.

    However, there is internal division within European countries. Recent years has seen a sharp rise in anti-EU sentiment within EU member states. The UK’s exit from the EU is an example of this phenomenon.

    EU leaders previously followed a path of cooperation with Russia, with limited success. Following Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, France and Germany helped mediate the Minsk Agreements. These agreements, signed in 2014 and 2015, were designed to prevent further incursions by Russian-backed groups into Ukrainian sovereign territory.

    This did not prevent Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

    In an emerging new world order, leadership might require going beyond the seeming contradiction of a focus on military strength or cooperation. Leaders may need to integrate both.

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

    – ref. The EU will spend billions more on defence. It’s a powerful statement – but won’t do much for Ukraine – https://theconversation.com/the-eu-will-spend-billions-more-on-defence-its-a-powerful-statement-but-wont-do-much-for-ukraine-251710

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police call for witnesses of Devonport structure fire

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Police call for witnesses of Devonport structure fire

    Friday, 7 March 2025 – 3:04 pm.

    Police are calling for witnesses as they investigate a deliberately lit structure fire in Devonport.
    Police, firefighters and other emergency services were called to the scene on the corner of William and Madden Streets about 12:30pm yesterday.
    The unit was fully destroyed by the fire, and fire investigators have determined it was deliberately lit.
    A 39-year-old Devonport woman is currently assisting police with their enquiries, and investigators would like to hear from anyone with information about the incident.
    Information can be provided to Western Criminal Investigation Division on 131 444 – quote ESCAD 184-06032025.
    Information can also be provided to Crime Stoppers Tasmania anonymously at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Firearms offences – Palmerston

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has issued a Notice to Appear to a 77-year-old man in relation to firearms offences in Palmerston.

    On 10 December 2024, police responded to reports of an unsecured firearm at the man’s residence in Driver. A subsequent search of the residence located a further 3 unsecured firearms along with an imitation firearm. The man’s four registered firearms were seized by police.

    The matter was referred to the Northern Territory Police Firearms Audit and Enforcement Unit who, after further investigation, issued the man with a Notice to Appear in the Darwin Local Court on 17 April 2025 for the offences of:

    • Fail to Meet Storage Requirements x 4
    • Breach of Firearms Licence Conditions
    • Possess Prohibited Weapon

    The man’s NT firearms licence has also been revoked for 5 years.

    Acting Senior Sergeant Aaron Chapman said “Firearms ownership is not a right, it is a responsibility.  Licence holders that at found to have blatantly failed to comply with the conditions of their licence or provisions of the Firearms Act 1997 should expect to have their licence revoked.”

    Anyone with information on illegal or misuse of firearms is encouraged to report it on 131 444. You can also report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What They Are Saying: Over One Million Law Enforcement Officers Call for Immediate, Clean Senate Passage of HALT Fentanyl Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Major law enforcement organizations representing over 1,000,000 officers nationwide, are calling on the Senate to pass the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act immediately and without amendments. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is leading the push to permanently classify illicit fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I, alongside Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.) and Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.).

    The White House today reaffirmed the administration’s support for the legislation in its current form. The bill will likely receive a final Senate vote next week.

    Law enforcement organizations backing the HALT Fentanyl Act’s swift and clean passage include the National Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Organizations, the Major Counties Chiefs Association, the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the Major County Sheriffs of America, the National Alliance of State Drug Enforcement Agencies, the National District Attorneys Association, the National HIDTA Directors Association, the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition, the National Sheriffs’ Association and the NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association.

    The above organizations represent law enforcement agencies across all 50 states, including the major metropolitan areas of New York City, Miami, Orlando, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston.

    Here’s what they’re saying:

    The National Association of Police Organizations: 
    “Time is of the essence. The DEA’s temporary authority to schedule all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act ends on March 31… We supported the technical changes that had to be made when the Judiciary Committee approved the manager’s amendment last week, but otherwise urged the Committee to advance this critical legislation without further modification, which it did… We are now urging the Senate to swiftly pass S. 331 without amendment”

    The National Fraternal Order of Police:
    “[The Halt Fentanyl Act], which permanently places fentanyl-related substances as a class into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, would save lives and make our communities safer. We thank Leader Thune for putting the bill on the floor and strongly urge the Senate to pass it without amendment.”

    The Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association:
    “FLEOA thanks @LeaderJohnThune for advancing S. 331/HALT Fentanyl Act. We urge all Senators to quickly pass this measure as-is, without further amendment, and give @DEAHQ permanent scheduling authority for fentanyl-related substances.”

    The Major County Sheriffs of America: 
    “The opioid crisis is devastating our nation. The Senate must pass the HALT Fentanyl Act without delay or changes to give law enforcement the tools to combat this deadly epidemic. We can’t afford further delay – let’s act now for public safety.”

    The NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association: 
    “Last month, the Sergeants Benevolent Association joined its partner law enforcement organizations in calling on the Judiciary Committee to advance this critical legislation without delay or modification. We now respectfully request that all senators support passage of S. 331 as approved by the Judiciary Committee and without further amendment.”

    A coalition of 11 national, state and local law enforcement organizations: 
    “The opioid epidemic continues to claim the lives of hundreds of Americans every day. As this crisis escalates, every delay in addressing it only increases the toll on our communities. For the sake of public safety, it is imperative that the Senate pass the HALT Fentanyl Act as it stands, without changes, and move it forward to law.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: [MWC 2025] Powered by Awesome Intelligence: Introducing the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics unveiled the latest additions to the Galaxy A series at Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona. The Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G mark the first time the Galaxy A series has come equipped with Awesome Intelligence, making them smarter and more appealing than ever — a true embodiment of the Galaxy A series’ commitment to bringing innovative Galaxy experiences to everyone.
     
    Samsung Newsroom explored the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G, highlighting four key elements that set them apart.
     
     
    1. Stylish — A Sleek and Compact Design
    The Iconic Galaxy A Series Look, Now More Refined
    The Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G take the signature design of the Galaxy A series to the next level, blending modern sophistication with a sleek aesthetic. The first thing that catches the eye is their slim, flat frame.
     
    The Galaxy A56 5G features a polished metal frame, available in a range of stylish colors. The A56 5G’s colorways stand out with their milky matte finish, while the A36 5G’s color options captivate with their holographic effects.
     
    ▲ The Galaxy A56 5G will be available in Awesome Pink, Awesome Olive, Awesome Lightgray and Awesome Graphite, while the Galaxy A36 5G will come in Awesome Lime, Awesome Black, Awesome Lavender and Awesome White.
     
    Their minimalist yet elegant rear design features a clean, vertically aligned three-lens camera layout with black camera rings that further enhance the refined aesthetic.
     
    ▲ (From left to right) The rear of the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G with their linear three-lens camera layout and black camera rings
     
     
    A Slimmer and Lighter Body
    Both the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G feature a 6.7-inch screen, 0.1 inch larger than that of their predecessors. The FHD+ Super AMOLED display delivers a peak brightness of 1,200 nits — 200 nits brighter than before — ensuring an even more immersive and vivid viewing experience.
     
    Trimmed down by 0.8mm compared to their predecessors, both models also sport a slimmer profile at just 7.4mm thick, offering a firm yet comfortable grip when held. The flat key island design on the sides complement the streamlined aesthetic, adding to the devices’ refined look.
     
    Thanks to their slimmer design, both devices are also lighter than the previous models, despite having larger displays. The Galaxy A56 5G weighs 198g — 15g lighter than its predecessor, while the Galaxy A36 5G shed 14g to come in at 195g.
     
    ▲ The slim 7.4mm profile combined with the flat frame and key island design offers a firm, comfortable grip when held.
     
     
    2. Versatile and Intelligent — Fueled by Awesome Intelligence
    Searching Made Simple With Circle to Search
    Circle to Search makes finding information effortless. All users need to do is long press the home button , then draw a circle around anything interesting they see on their screen and watch in awe as Google provides relevant search results in an instant.
     
    
    ▲ Circle to Search makes image searching a breeze.
     
    And it’s not just for images! Circle to Search now recognizes music as well — for example, the background music playing in a video. When watching something on YouTube, simply long press the home button. Then tap the music button to instantly find the name of the song featured in the video and the artist who sings it. That same song can be identified even when sung or hummed by a person, instead of being played from the video’s original audio.
     
    
    ▲ Circle to Search can also recognize and identify music in an instant.
     
     
    3. Picture-Perfect — Smarter Camera Features and Photo-Editing Tools
    Nightography and Object Eraser — Flawless Selfies Even at Night
    Imagine taking in the atmosphere during a nighttime walk and snapping a selfie, only to be disappointed by the noise in the final image. Or perhaps a scenario where a countless number of selfies had to be taken before realizing none of them quite achieved the right look. With the enhanced Nightography feature on the Galaxy A56 5G, those frustrations are a thing of the past. Clear, vibrant selfies can be captured even at night with a 12MP front camera optimized to reduce noise and deliver smoother results.
     
    Unwanted objects in the background can take away from the perfect selfie as well. Simply trace around those objects to remove them, and Object Eraser will seamlessly fill in the space where they originally were to blend naturally with the background, resulting in a clean, crisp photo.
     
    ▲ Clear, vibrant selfies can be taken even at night with Nightography.
     
     
    Custom Camera Filters for Standout Selfies
    Some portrait photos on social media just have that one vibe, an unmistakable look hard to find anywhere else. Instead of scrolling past those images, why not save them? With the Filters feature, users can easily create their own custom camera filters using saved images. Achieving the perfect selfie with the desired aesthetic has never been easier.
     

    ▲ The Filters feature provides users with custom camera filters.
     
     
    Best Face — Perfect Group Photos Everyone Will Love
    Group selfies don’t always go as planned — someone could be blinking or have an awkward expression on their face. But with the Best Face feature, those slip-ups are an easy fix. Best Face analyzes the multiple frames of pictures taken using Motion Photo to recommend the best ones. All that is left for Galaxy A56 5G users to do afterwards is simply browse through the suggested frames and select a flawless group selfie where everyone looks their best.
     
    
    ▲ The Best Face feature makes sure users look their very best in photos.
     
     
    4. Powerful and Secure — Enhanced Privacy Safeguards
    The Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G are the first in the Galaxy A series to feature One UI 7, offering more robust security than ever before. One key highlight is the hardware-backed Knox Vault, which combines a secure processor with secure memory to isolate users’ most sensitive data — like personal identification numbers (PINs) and passwords — from the rest of their device and ensure that no one else can physically or remotely access them. The new smartphones also come equipped with a range of extensive security innovations, including an enhanced Auto Blocker — Galaxy’s opt-in package of security measures that prevents unauthorized app installations and other security threats — and the new Theft Protection feature, which ensures personal data is protected even when devices are lost or stolen.
     
    Samsung also promises six years of security updates along with up to six generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades for the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G, ensuring a secure and reliable mobile experience for years to come.
     
    The Galaxy A series is back with cutting-edge innovations. With the Awesome Intelligence-integrated Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G, Samsung looks forward to seeing even more people enjoy an Awesome lifestyle.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Property offences – Greater Darwin Region

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has charged three male youths in relation to a crime series that commenced on Monday in the Greater Darwin Region.

    Strike Force Trident detectives have conducted extensive investigations to identify the perpetrators of multiple thefts and unlawful entries whilst using a stolen motor vehicle.

    About 1:40pm on Monday, police allege a male youth and a female youth attended a shopping centre in Yarrawonga and stole small items from a business.

    The following day at about 3:15pm, the same male youth involved in the incident the day before allegedly returned to the same shopping centre and stole further items from a separate business whilst in the company of other male youths.

    Three male youths then attended a recreational on The Boulevard where they stole car keys to a blue Nissan X-trail from a worker.

    The group of three subsequently met up with the male youth who was involved in both shopping centre thefts, located the vehicle and drove off from the location.

    The group of four males went on to unlawfully enter four separate businesses in Winnellie, Berrimah and Holtze before attempting to unlawfully enter a fifth business.

    About 1am the following morning on Wednesday, the same group allegedly attempted to unlawfully enter a further two businesses within the Bellamack Business Precinct before being disturbed by police in the area.

    The stolen vehicle was recovered at 5am that morning and has been seized for forensic analysis.

    Yesterday morning, Strike Force Trident detectives arrested and charged three male youths, aged 13, 14 and 16 with:

    • Drive/Ride/Use MV without consent
    • 4 x Aggravated Burglary
    • 3 x Attempted Burglary
    • 7 x Damage to Property
    • 3 x Theft
    • Trespass

    The 13 and 14-year-old males received an extra charge of Breach Bail.

    Further charges were laid on the 13-year-old in relation to the incidents, including two extra counts of shoplifting and Drive Unlicenced.

    Investigations remain ongoing with Strike Force Trident working to arrest the remaining offenders.

    Anyone with information is urged to make contact on 131 444 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Ensures Legal Representation for Vulnerable Children in Immigration System

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) joined 31 of her Senate colleagues in a letter led by Senators Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum demanding that they continue legal services for unaccompanied children caught up in the immigration system as required by law.
    Earlier this month, the Trump Administration issued a stop work order to organizations that provide legal services for unaccompanied children. Last week, following public pressure, the order was rescinded.
    “Pausing or terminating the provision of legal services to unaccompanied children under this contract runs directly counter to the requirements of the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) and places 26,000 unaccompanied children at increased risk of trafficking, exploitation, and other harm,” wrote the Senators. “The TVPRA, passed by Congress in 2008 on a bipartisan basis, requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to ensure, to the greatest extent practicable, that all unaccompanied children have counsel to represent them in legal proceedings and protect them from mistreatment, exploitation, and trafficking.”
    According to a report by the Guardian this month, the organizations affected by the previous stop work order provide legal counsel for around 26,000 unaccompanied minors.
    “Cutting off access to legal services makes it more likely that the government will lose track of unaccompanied children, given the challenges such children would face in independently appearing for immigration court hearings, submitting address updates, or otherwise communicating with immigration authorities,” continued the Senators. “Not only will this make children more vulnerable to trafficking, but it will also create further inefficiencies in an already backlogged immigration court system.”
    Read the full letter here.
    The first and only Latina senator, Senator Cortez Masto has consistently supported immigrant communities in Nevada, calling on both administrations to protect TPS holders and other immigrants, as well as leading commonsense legislation to fix our broken immigration system. Cortez Masto joined Senator Rosen (D-Nev.) in introducing the Born in the USA Act to effectively block the implementation of President Trump’s unconstitutional Executive Order attempting to end automatic citizenship for children born in the United States. She has worked to pass meaningful immigration reform that balances critical border security measures with a path to citizenship for Dreamers, TPS holders, and essential workers, and she’s pushed legislation to allow Dreamers and TPS holders to work in Congress.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Advances Bipartisan Bill to Permanently Classify Illicit Fentanyl Knockoffs as Schedule I Drugs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    03.06.25
    Senate Advances Bipartisan Bill to Permanently Classify Illicit Fentanyl Knockoffs as Schedule I Drugs
    Legislation would also enable research into fentanyl-related substances
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the United States Senate voted 82-12 to advance the bipartisan Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, voted in favor of the bill.
    “The HALT Fentanyl Act maintains strong penalties for trafficking fentanyl, while allowing for important scientific research and medical applications to continue,” said Sen. Cantwell. “We still have more work to do on other bills to address the fentanyl scourge, from providing more treatment options, to additional resources for first responders, to more tools for law enforcement to stop traffickers and dealers.”
    The bill now awaits final passage by the Senate.
    The legislation would:
    Permanently schedule illicit fentanyl-related substances:
    Amends the Controlled Substances Act to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I.
    Ends the game of whack-a-mole Congress has played since 2018; Congress has repeatedly extended the first Trump administration’s temporary Schedule I classification of fentanyl-related substances.
    Locks in permanent classification of fentanyl-related substances before its temporary Schedule I status expires on March 31, 2025.
    Protect patients’ access to legitimate, FDA-approved fentanyl:
    Preserves the Schedule II status and FDA-approved use of fentanyl for legitimate medical purposes:
    Nine major medical associations affirmed the HALT Fentanyl Act’s distinction between illicit, fentanyl-related substances and FDA-approved fentanyl, citing the bill’s ability to, “effectively combat the illicit fentanyl epidemic while preserving access to legitimate, physician-directed pain management.”
    Support law enforcement and codify existing penalties:
    Maintains existing criminal penalties for fentanyl trafficking to ensure illicit manufacturers and traffickers can be fully prosecuted and victims and their families receive justice.
    Penalties under the HALT Fentanyl Act are identical to what current law dictates under the temporary scheduling of fentanyl-related substances.
    Utilizes the same class-scheduling rubric enacted seven years ago. This rubric has only ever been used to target lethal fentanyl-related substances and arrest defendants convicted of illicit drug trafficking and manufacturing.
    Advance scientific and medical research:
    Streamlines the registration process for Schedule I researchers, allowing more scientists to study fentanyl-related substances.
    Includes provisions to permit a single registration for related research sites, allowing researchers with ongoing studies to examine newly added fentanyl-related substances and authorize registered researchers to manufacture small quantities of fentanyl-related substances without a separate registration.
    In 2023 and 2024, Sen. Cantwell traveled across the State of Washington to 10 communities — Tacoma, Everett, Tri-Cities, Seattle, Spokane, Vancouver, Port Angeles, Walla Walla, Yakima, and Longview – hearing from people on the front lines of the fentanyl crisis, including first responders, law enforcement, health care providers, and people with firsthand experience of fentanyl addiction.  She also participated in the National Tribal Opioid Summit, a gathering of approximately 900 tribal leaders, health care workers, and first responders from across the country hosted by the Tulalip Tribes following the first-ever statewide summit hosted by the Lummi Nation.  Sen. Cantwell has since used what she heard in those roundtables and related events to craft and champion specific legislative solutions, including:
    The Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act, which would crack down on the trafficking of illicit synthetic drugs, like fentanyl, using the U.S. transportation network;
    The Opioid Overdose Data Collection Enhancement Act, which would expand the use of tools that record fatal and nonfatal overdoses in near-real time and help first responders deploy resources faster;
    The FEND Off Fentanyl Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden, which will help U.S. government agencies disrupt opioid supply chains by imposing sanctions on traffickers and fighting money laundering;
    The Fight Illicit Pill Presses Act, which would require that all pill presses be engraved with a serial number and impose penalties for the removal or alteration of the number.;
    The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, which would list xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance while protecting the drug’s legal use by veterinarians, farmers, and ranchers, enable the Drug Enforcement Administration to track xylazine’s manufacturing to ensure it is not diverted to the illicit market;
    The TRANQ Research Act of 2023, signed into law by President Biden, which will spur more research into xylazine (also called “tranq”) and other novel synthetic drugs by directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology to tackle these issues; and
    The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act, which would bolster Tribal law enforcement agencies by helping them hire and retain tribal law enforcement officers by raising their retirement, pension, death, and injury benefits to be on part with those of federal law enforcement officers.
    In addition, Sen. Cantwell voted for a series of federal funding bills allocating $1.69 billion to combat fentanyl and other illicit drugs coming into the United States, including an additional $385.2 million to increase security at U.S. ports of entry, with the goal of catching more illegal drugs like fentanyl before they make it across the border.  Critical funding will go toward Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) technology at land and sea ports of entries. NII technologies—like large-scale X-ray and Gamma ray imaging systems, as well as a variety of portable and handheld technologies—allow U.S. Customs and Border Protection to help detect and prevent contraband from being smuggled into the country without disrupting flow at the border.
    A full timeline of Sen. Cantwell’s actions to combat the fentanyl crisis is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Virginia Man Convicted of Hate Crime for Attempted Church Shooting

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    After a four-day trial, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict today for Rui Jiang, of Falls Church, Virginia, who was charged with attempting to obstruct the congregants of a church in Haymarket, Virginia, in the free exercise of their religious beliefs. The charge included that the defendant’s attempted act involved a dangerous weapon and an attempt to kill. Jiang also faced charges for transmitting online threats and a firearms violation. The jury found Jiang guilty on all counts.

    According to evidence presented at trial, Jiang began posting online threats against the church on the evening of Sept. 23, 2023, which made clear his intention to kill congregants.

    On the morning of Sept. 24, 2023, police began searching for Jiang in response to a concerned citizen’s call about his posts. Police officers located Jiang inside the front entrance to the church while Sunday services were underway. Church volunteers, independently concerned about Jiang’s behavior, had just approached Jiang when police arrived. Jiang was armed with a semiautomatic handgun and two full magazines of ammunition. He had an additional 34 rounds of ammunition in his nearby car.

    During a search of Jiang’s apartment, police discovered five copies of a letter, each signed by Jiang in ink, which read in part, “To the families of those men about to be slain – I am sorry for what I have done and about to do (sic).”

    Jiang was arrested by Prince William County Police on Sept. 24, 2023, and has been in custody since that time.

    Jiang faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for June 18. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General Mac Warner of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Acting Assistant Director in Charge Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI Washington Field Office made the announcement. 

    The FBI investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the Prince William County and Fairfax County Police Departments. The Anne Arundel County Police Department also provided assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas A. Durham and Troy A. Edwards Jr. for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Kyle Boynton of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Ossoff, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Ensure Legal Representation for Vulnerable Children in Immigration System

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, joined U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and 33 other senators in a letter demanding the Trump Administration ensures legal representation for children caught up in the immigration system. In their letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, the senators urged the administration to continue legal services for unaccompanied children caught up in the immigration system as required by law. Earlier this month, the Trump Administration issued a stop work order to organizations that provide legal services for unaccompanied children. Last week, following public pressure, the order was rescinded.
    “Pausing or terminating the provision of legal services to unaccompanied children under this contract runs directly counter to the requirements of the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) and places 26,000 unaccompanied children at increased risk of trafficking, exploitation, and other harm,” the senators wrote to Secretaries Kennedy and Burgum. “The TVPRA, passed by Congress in 2008 on a bipartisan basis, requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to ensure, to the greatest extent practicable, that all unaccompanied children have counsel to represent them in legal proceedings and protect them from mistreatment, exploitation, and trafficking.”
    According to a report by the Guardian this month, the organizations affected by the previous stop work order provide legal counsel for around 26,000 unaccompanied minors.
    “Cutting off access to legal services makes it more likely that the government will lose track of unaccompanied children, given the challenges such children would face in independently appearing for immigration court hearings, submitting address updates, or otherwise communicating with immigration authorities,” the group of senators continued. “Not only will this make children more vulnerable to trafficking, but it will also create further inefficiencies in an already backlogged immigration court system.”
    Joining Sens. Murray and Ossoff in sending the letter were Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Angus King (I-ME), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Gary Peters (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE).
    The full text of the letter is available HERE.
    Senator Murray has championed comprehensive and humane immigration reform throughout her Senate career, repeatedly pushing for legislative solutions that would offer a fair pathway to citizenship for the more than 11 million undocumented immigrants living in America, including Dreamers, farmworkers, and those with Temporary Protected Status. During Trump’s first administration, Senator Murray helped lead the charge in pushing back against Trump’s appalling treatment of migrant children and families at the southern border— cosponsoring the Fair Day in Court for Kids Act, which would require unaccompanied children and vulnerable individuals to be provided with legal assistance during immigration court proceedings, the Stop Cruelty to Migrant Children Act to end family separations at the border, and legislation to prevent the separation of families at sensitive locations such as schools, religious institutions, and hospitals, among many other efforts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Portland Couple Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing $34 Million from Former Client

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A husband and wife from Portland, who together owned and operated a local chauffeur and limousine business, were sentenced to federal prison Wednesday for stealing $34 million dollars from two former clients.

    Sergey Lebedenko, 54, and Galina Lebedenko, 49, were both sentenced to 57 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. The sum of restitution they must pay to the victim will be determined at a later date.

    According to court documents, the Lebedenkos owned and operated a Portland area chauffeur and limousine businesses that eventually became Astra Car Service, LLC. Sergey did the driving, and Galina handled the company’s books and finances.

    The Lebedenkos met their victim in 2007 when Sergey was hired to drive the individual to the airport. The individual soon became a regular customer of the Lebedenkos. By 2018, Sergey was driving the individual almost daily in and around Portland, and Galina was performing other personal tasks for the victim and the victim’s partner including paying their bills, sorting their mail, and providing pet care. This expansive personal services arrangement between the Lebedenkos and their victim continued from approximately 2018 until 2023.

    Despite the volume and frequency of paid services the Lebedenkos provided, they never had a written business agreement or contract. In 2013, Galina produced an invoice showing hourly rates of $90 for driving and $60 for other services. In about 2016, after nearly a decade of working together, the victim gave the Lebedenkos his American Express credit card information so they could directly charge the card for their services.

    Other than the single invoice issued in 2013, the Lebedenkos never provided their victim with logs of their hours or information about how much they were charging for their services. For much of their work, only the Lebedenkos knew the amount of time they spent providing services. On rare occasions, Sergey was questioned by the victim about certain minimal charges and Sergey would repeatedly play up their longstanding, trusting relationship.

    The Lebedenkos stole approximately $34 million over seven years. On a single day in 2023, the Lebedenkos charged their victim’s credit card 17 times for a total of $17,900 for picking up and delivering a prescription and meals.

    The Lebedenkos used their ill-gotten gains to fund an extraordinarily extravagant lifestyle for themselves and others, purchasing 14 homes and properties, 7 vehicles, an ownership interest in a private jet, and countless luxury items including shoes, watches, wallets, jewelry, and gold bars. As part of their sentences, the court entered a Final Order of Forfeiture against assets the Lebedenkos purchased with proceeds of their fraud, including 14 real properties and 19 financial accounts, which are pending forfeiture and sale. The government intends to seek remission of forfeited assets to the victim.

    On January 22, 2024, the Lebedenkos were together charged by federal criminal complaint with committing wire fraud and money laundering. Later, on February 21, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging the couple with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering, and 34 individual counts of wire fraud.

    On October 25, 2024, the Lebedenkos both pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and wire fraud.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Meredith D.M. Bateman and Andrew T. Ho, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon. Forfeiture proceedings are being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie C. de Villiers, also of the District of Oregon.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Virginia Man Convicted of Hate Crime for Attempted Church Shooting

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    After a four-day trial, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict today for Rui Jiang, of Falls Church, Virginia, who was charged with attempting to obstruct the congregants of a church in Haymarket, Virginia, in the free exercise of their religious beliefs. The charge included that the defendant’s attempted act involved a dangerous weapon and an attempt to kill. Jiang also faced charges for transmitting online threats and a firearms violation. The jury found Jiang guilty on all counts.

    According to evidence presented at trial, Jiang began posting online threats against the church on the evening of Sept. 23, 2023, which made clear his intention to kill congregants.

    On the morning of Sept. 24, 2023, police began searching for Jiang in response to a concerned citizen’s call about his posts. Police officers located Jiang inside the front entrance to the church while Sunday services were underway. Church volunteers, independently concerned about Jiang’s behavior, had just approached Jiang when police arrived. Jiang was armed with a semiautomatic handgun and two full magazines of ammunition. He had an additional 34 rounds of ammunition in his nearby car.

    During a search of Jiang’s apartment, police discovered five copies of a letter, each signed by Jiang in ink, which read in part, “To the families of those men about to be slain – I am sorry for what I have done and about to do (sic).”

    Jiang was arrested by Prince William County Police on Sept. 24, 2023, and has been in custody since that time.

    Jiang faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for June 18. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General Mac Warner of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Acting Assistant Director in Charge Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI Washington Field Office made the announcement. 

    The FBI investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the Prince William County and Fairfax County Police Departments. The Anne Arundel County Police Department also provided assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas A. Durham and Troy A. Edwards Jr. for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Kyle Boynton of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Falls Church man convicted of hate crime for attempted church shooting

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – After a four-day trial, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict today for Rui Jiang, of Falls Church, who was charged with attempting to obstruct the congregants of a church in Haymarket in the free exercise of their religious beliefs. The charge included that the defendant’s attempted act involved a dangerous weapon and an attempt to kill. Jiang also faced charges for transmitting online threats and a firearms violation. The jury found Jiang guilty on all counts.

    According to evidence presented at trial, Jiang began posting online threats against the church on the evening of Sept. 23, 2023, which made clear his intention to kill congregants.

    On the morning of Sept. 24, 2023, police began searching for Jiang in response to a concerned citizen’s call about his posts. Police officers located Jiang inside the front entrance to the church while Sunday services were underway. Church volunteers, independently concerned about Jiang’s behavior, had just approached Jiang when police arrived. Jiang was armed with a semiautomatic handgun and two full magazines of ammunition. He had an additional 34 rounds of ammunition in his nearby car.

    During a search of Jiang’s apartment, police discovered five copies of a letter, each signed by Jiang in ink, which read in part, “To the families of those men about to be slain – I am sorry for what I have done and about to do (sic).”

    Jiang was arrested by Prince William County Police on Sept. 24, 2023, and has been in custody since that time.

    Jiang faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life in prison when sentenced on June 18. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Mac Warner, Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division; and Roman Rozhavsky, Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Washington Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston Jr. accepted the verdict.

    The FBI investigated the case with substantial assistance from the Prince William County and Fairfax County Police Departments. The Anne Arundel County Police Department also provided assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas A. Durham and Troy A. Edwards Jr. for the Eastern District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Kyle Boynton of the Civil Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-65.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Over £48 million worth of drugs seized in crackdown on cannabis cultivation

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    More nationwide police action has removed cannabis with the street value of £48,328,000, disrupting organised criminal gangs. 

    Forces across the country have once again focused their efforts on targeting major cannabis grows to disrupt violence, exploitation and organised crime across England and Wales.  

    Operation Mille stems from years of investigations and information focused on organised crime groups (OCGs) who are directly involved in the growing and selling of large quantities of so-called commercial cannabis on an industrial scale.

    It is the third time police forces across the country have focused their efforts on the criminal networks involved in largescale cannabis production and sale, as part of a long term commitment to tackle this illicit activity.

    This significant action by police forces, regional organised crime units (ROCUs) and partner organisations has aimed to disrupt these criminal networks’ revenue streams and wider activity linked to issues like illegal migration, violent crime and the exploitation of vulnerable people.  

     
    Assistant Chief Constable (ACC) Adam Ball, who led the operation, said: “This week of action has seen police carry out hundreds of warrants, seize dozens of weapons and take millions of pounds worth of illegal drugs off the streets. 

    “Cannabis may seem harmless but its production and subsequent selling has long fuelled other serious acts of criminality, which in turn blight our communities. It’s links to the importation of class A drugs, county lines and gang violence is prevalent, as well as the alarming levels of exploitation people fall victim to.  

    “The week also demonstrates what can be achieved when working together. For months we have coordinated with colleagues from the National Crime Agency, Immigration Enforcement, the Home Office, the ROCU network and other partners to ensure this operation has been a success. What we have found will help inform all of us for future investigations. 

    “Although this latest phase of Operation Mille focused on a week of action, I want to make it clear that our work does not stop. We are already analysing results and working on information received to work out where we focus our efforts next. This is a long term commitment and there is much more police activity to come.

    “We all remain committed to disrupting cannabis cultivation and the terrible crimes associated with it, to make sure our communities are safeguarded against serious organised crime.”  

    As well as the cannabis plants, cocaine and ketamine were also seized in properties alongside 65 weapons, including 14 firearms, 12 machetes and 11 knives.  

    242 people have been arrested and 19 individuals suspected of being victims of modern slavery and human trafficking and have been referred to the National Referral Mechanism to receive appropriate support.  

    Almost half of the addresses raided by police did not have people in the premises, which matches a pattern noticed by police of an increase in empty cannabis farms. 

    Where people were living, officers often found squalid living conditions and numerous hazards at the address, such as dangerous wiring into the property from mains electricity, as well as damage from things like fumes and watering. 

    Police investigations at properties also highlighted the role of ‘professional enablers’ in these criminal networks.

    Those supporting this kind of activity includes landlords renting out spaces as well as tradespeople such as electricians, who help gangs set up and power their grows.


    ACC Ball continues:     “We remain concerned about the often vulnerable people manipulated into illegal migration to work for these organised criminal gangs.  
    “There is a heavy risk of exploitation for those who are coerced and manipulated into the cannabis trade. Where we spot this exploitation, we do all we can make sure that people are given the support they need to get help.” 

    Charles Yates, NCA deputy director, said: “The NCA was proud to have supported policing in this very important work combating the threat of cannabis, which is a gateway drug to other very harmful substances.

    “The agency deployed officers alongside policing colleagues in executing warrants, assisting with arrests, searches and interviews.

    “We also supported with a range of niche capabilities including the Joint International Crime Centre and NCA’s international network in our mission to combat the supply of illicit drugs into our communities.”

    Current results from Operation Mille include: 

    • 368 warrants and searches
    • 48,328  plants seized, worth an estimated street value of £48,328,000 (based on an average of £1,000 per plant).
    • 242 individuals have been arrested 
    • 65 weapons have been seized, including 14 firearms
    • £183,590 in cash seized

    +

    Cannabis farms also present a very real local threat.

    The size of criminal cannabis ‘farms’ means that damage is often caused to the properties themselves; the buildings can become dangerous as a result of fire risks, unlawful abstraction of electricity, fumes and water damage.

    Anyone with information about a potential cannabis factory or drug dealing can contact their local force online or via 101.

    People can also contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org

    There are some key signs to spot a property could be being used as a cannabis factory:

    • Frequent visitors to a property at unsocial hours throughout the day and night.
    • Blacked out windows or condensation on the windows, even when it is not cold outside.
    • Bright lights in rooms throughout the night.
    • Electricity meters being tampered with/altered and new cabling, sometimes leading to street lighting. High electricity bills could also be an indicator.
    • A powerful, distinctive, sweet, sickly aroma and noise from fans.
    • Lots of work or deliveries of equipment to an address, particularly those associated with growing plants indoors without soil such as heaters and lighting.
    • An excessive amount of plant pots, chemicals, fertilisers, and compost.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Peoria Man Sentenced to 135 Months in Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PEORIA, Ill. – A Peoria, Illinois, man, Joshua Michael Williams, 43, was sentenced on March 5, 2025, to 135 months’ imprisonment for attempted enticement of a minor, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. He also will be required to register as a sex offender.

    At the sentencing hearing in front of U.S. District Judge Jonathan E. Hawley, the court was informed that in January and February 2024, Williams engaged in online chats with an individual he believed to be the stepfather of an 11-year-old female who was willing to let his stepdaughter be used for sex acts. Williams expressed an interest in meeting with the purported minor for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts and said that he had wanted to engage in sexual acts with another minor female in the past. Williams arranged to meet the daughter, and, when he arrived at the pre-arranged meeting place, he was arrested.

    Williams pleaded guilty in October 2024 and has remained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service since his arrest.

    In sentencing Williams, Judge Hawley noted that the only good thing about what happened was that there was no minor, stating that there easily could have been an 11-year-old whose life would be altered by such conduct.

    The statutory penalties for attempted enticement of a minor are ten years up to life imprisonment, followed by a term of supervised release ranging from five years to life.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, investigated the case.

    The case against Williams was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Drug Supplier from New Hampshire Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Multi-State Drug Trafficking Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A New Hampshire man who supplied Lawrence-area drug dealers with large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston.

    Cote Colby, 29, of Derry, N.H., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley to six years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. In April 2023, Colby was indicted along with three other defendants in this drug trafficking conspiracy.

    An investigation began in September 2022 into a drug trafficking organization distributing fentanyl, fentanyl pills, cocaine base and methamphetamine, including counterfeit pills containing fentanyl in the Merrimack Valley areas of Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The investigation identified Colby as a significant drug distributor for the organization, making thousands of dollars per transaction. Over the course of the investigation, Colby distributed narcotics to several cooperating witnesses in numerous controlled purchases. In total, it is estimated that Colby is responsible for distributing approximately 422 grams of pure methamphetamine and 26 grams of fentanyl.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Massachusetts State Police; Essex County Sheriff’s Department; Massachusetts Parole Board; and the Derry (N.H.), Haverhill, Lawrence, Methuen and Salisbury Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip C. Cheng of the Organized Crime & 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 priorities, and measuring the results.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. 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.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Lawyer Sentenced for Paying for Sex Acts with Cambodian Children

    Source: US State of California

    A Florida man was sentenced today to nine years in prison for paying a child in a foreign country to engage in a commercial sex act with him.

    According to court documents, Rugh James Cline, 44, a former Florida-licensed attorney of Tampa, travelled to Cambodia and paid four Cambodian children to engage in sex acts with him on multiple occasions. Additionally, when he was arrested in Cambodia, Cline was found to be in possession of a laptop containing hundreds of images of child sexual abuse material.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Sara C. Sweeney for the Middle District of Florida, and Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor of the FBI Tampa Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI investigated the case. The U.S. Department of State, Cambodian National Police, and Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided assistance.

    Trial Attorney Gwendelynn Bills of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ilyssa Spergel and Courtney Derry for the Middle District of Florida 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Lawyer Sentenced for Paying for Sex Acts with Cambodian Children

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Florida man was sentenced today to nine years in prison for paying a child in a foreign country to engage in a commercial sex act with him.

    According to court documents, Rugh James Cline, 44, a former Florida-licensed attorney of Tampa, travelled to Cambodia and paid four Cambodian children to engage in sex acts with him on multiple occasions. Additionally, when he was arrested in Cambodia, Cline was found to be in possession of a laptop containing hundreds of images of child sexual abuse material.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Sara C. Sweeney for the Middle District of Florida, and Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor of the FBI Tampa Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI investigated the case. The U.S. Department of State, Cambodian National Police, and Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided assistance.

    Trial Attorney Gwendelynn Bills of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ilyssa Spergel and Courtney Derry for the Middle District of Florida 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Charles Parish Man Guilty of Being Felon with Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on February 27, 2025, DARRYL DAVIS (“DAVIS”), age 30, a resident of St. Charles Parish, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

    According to court documents, after reviewing DAVIS’s social media postings about firearms,  Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) agents began an investigation which revealed that DAVIS had been twice previously convicted of felonies and knew  he was prohibited from possessing a firearm.  DAVIS was arrested on August 14, 2024 and found in possession of a Glock Model 43X, nine- millimeter semi-automatic pistol and ammunition.

    DAVIS faces up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to 3 years of supervised released, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  He is scheduled for sentencing on May 27, 2025.

    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.

    The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Greg Kennedy of the Violent Crime Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Hampshire Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Sell Stolen Government Property

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Christopher Hagan, formerly of North Berwick, received items from an employee of a national defense contractor and employees of the Defense Logistics Agency

    PORTLAND, Maine:  A New Hampshire man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for conspiring to transport stolen property in interstate commerce and conspiring to sell stolen government property. 

    U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. sentenced Christopher Hagan, 33, to 12 months plus one day in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. He was also fined $10,000, ordered to forfeit $150,000, and will be required to refile his tax returns for five years. Hagan pleaded guilty on May 13, 2024.

    According to court records, between October 2017 and September 2021, Hagan obtained stolen government items which he resold on online forums. One of Hagan’s coconspirators, Jonathan Chaisson, 34, of New Hampshire was employed by a national defense contractor based in New Hampshire and received used and/or broken Advance Target Pointer Illuminator Aiming Laser (ATPIAL) devices designated for military and law enforcement use. Chaisson stole or converted new and used parts and components to repair the ATPIALs and provided Hagan with the repaired devices to sell.

    Hagan also conspired with Wade Walker, 45, and Michael Humphrey, 46, both of Texas, to steal and sell military equipment from the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), an agency of the United States Department of Defense. Both Walker and Humphrey were employed by the DLA Red River Army Depot facility in Texarkana, Texas. On multiple dates in 2019 and in 2020, Humphrey transferred stolen government property to Walker for resale, and Walker provided the stolen property to Hagan for further resale. Through the investigation, agents determined that Hagan had at least one customer in China.

    On July 24, 2023, Chaisson pleaded guilty to conspiring to transport stolen property in interstate commerce and was sentenced to probation for two years. On October 31, 2023, Humphrey pleaded guilty to conspiring to sell stolen government property and was sentenced to probation for two years. On January 8, 2024, Walker pleaded guilty to conspiring to sell stolen government property and was sentenced to probation for three years.

    The United States Department of Commerce – Office of Export Enforcement and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service investigated the case with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

    “That Mr. Hagan and his conspirators would exploit their connections to the defense industry to put their own financial gain ahead of the nation’s security is unconscionable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Craig M. Wolff. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office commends the remarkable interagency cooperation that underpinned this complex and important investigation.”

    “The Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense (DoD) Office of Inspector General, is fully committed to protecting the integrity of the DoD supply chain,” said Patrick J. Hegarty, Special Agent in Charge of the DCIS Northeast Field Office. “Profiting from the sale of stolen DoD property undermines the mission of the Defense Logistics Agency and negatively impacts our military members. This investigation demonstrates DCIS’ commitment to work with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to hold accountable those who harm the DoD.”

    “By stealing sensitive military technology and selling it to China, Christopher Hagan along with those he conspired with, prioritized greed and personal gain over U.S. national security,” said Special Agent in Charge James Guanci, U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Export Enforcement, Boston Field Office. “This case serves as a strong reminder that those who betray the trust of the American people will be held accountable.”

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indictment Charges District Woman with Failure to Pay Approximately $930,000 in Federal Income and Employment Taxes for Marijuana Dispensary

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               WASHINGTON – Jennifer Brunenkant, 68, of Washington, DC, was charged today in a 19-count indictment unsealed in U.S. District Court with evading and failing to pay federal income and employment taxes associated with her business Herbal Alternatives II, LLC, which at all relevant times operated a marijuana dispensary that was licensed in the District of Columbia.  The indictment was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., and Executive Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation’s Washington D.C. Office.

               According to the indictment, Brunenkant owned and operated Herbal Alternatives in the District from at least 2013 to 2021.  During that time, Herbal Alternatives generated millions of dollars in revenue. The indictment alleges that because Herbal Alternatives was a sole proprietorship with Brunenkant as the sole owner, the income that Brunenkant earned from Herbal Alternatives should have been reported on her annual IRS Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, that was used by United States taxpayers to file individual income tax returns.  It is alleged that instead of filing her federal income tax returns, from at least tax years 2018 to 2021, Brunenkant failed to make an income tax return and to pay income tax to the IRS, and in fact willfully attempted to evade and defeat the income tax due and owing by her to the United States. During those years, Brunenkant failed to pay approximately $800,000 in federal income taxes.

              The indictment further alleges that Brunenkant employed dozens of employees at Herbal Alternatives.  Under federal tax laws, Brunenkant was required to collect, account for, and pay over to the IRS on behalf of Herbal Alternatives the employment taxes imposed on its employees by the Internal Revenue Code.  According to the indictment, Brunenkant failed to pay over to the IRS approximately $130,000 in such employment taxes that were owed during the charged tax years.

               Tax evasion and failure to pay over employment taxes each carry a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison.  The charges also carry potential financial penalties.  The maximum statutory sentence for federal offenses is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. The sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

               The case is being investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Brian Kelly is prosecuting the case.

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

    ##

    25-cr-056 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tax refund scheme leads to convictions for Hampton Roads fraudsters

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Hampton Roads duo pled guilty to their roles in a refund scheme involving pandemic relief tax credits.

    According to court documents, between Oct. 11, 2022, and May 24, 2023, Kendra Michelle Eley, 36, of Norfolk, filed with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) eight Forms 941, Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Returns, for Kreative Designs by Kendra, LLC, (KDK) using the Employer Identification Number assigned to Kendra Cleans Maid Service.  These eight forms covered four tax periods in 2020 and four tax periods in 2021.

    Eley falsely reported wages paid and federal tax withholdings for eighteen purported employees on each of the forms, knowing there were no such employees.  For the four forms filed for 2021, Eley claimed false Sick and Family Leave Credits and Employee Retention Credit (ERC) through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, totaling approximately $713,000 and $252,000 respectively, with total refunds claimed of over $900,000.

    Based on Eley’s filings, on December 9, 2022, and on December 13, 2022, the IRS issued two U.S. Treasury refund checks made payable to ‘‘Kendra M. Eley, Kendra Cleans Maid Services” totaling $649,050.

    On Dec. 23, 2022, Eley and Rejohn Isaiah Whitehead, 28, of Portsmouth, opened a business checking account in the name of Kendra Cleans Maid Services LLC (KCMS), and the signatories on the account were Eley and Whitehead. To open the business account, Eley and Whitehead falsely represented the nature and extent of KCMS as a business, including that KCMS had sixteen employees and that the average pay rate of each employee was $2,000. Eley funded the account by depositing one of the refund checks in the amount of $389,640. On Jan. 9, 2023, Eley wrote Whitehead a check from the KCMS account for $20,000. Eley wrote Whitehead another check from the account for $40,000 on Jan. 21, 2023.

    On Feb. 13, Whitehead pled guilty to engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 26 and faces up to 10 years in prison.

    Eley pled guilty today to one count each of false claims and engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property. She is scheduled to be sentenced on July 9 and faces up to 10 years in prison.

    Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Kareem A. Carter, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Washington D.C. Field Office, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson accepted the plea.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Therese O’Brien and Mack Coleman are prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-cr-77.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Recidivist Possessor of Child Sexual Abuse Material Sentenced to Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant was on Supervised Release for Possessing CSAM at Time of New CSAM Offense

    MACON, Ga. – A Bryon, Georgia, resident who was serving federal supervised release for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) when GBI agents caught him online downloading sexually explicit images of children less than a year after he was released from prison was sentenced for his crime and violating his federal supervision.

    Clarence L. Brown, II, 46, of Byron, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison to be followed by ten years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Marc T. Treadwell on March 5, after he previously pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography on Dec. 19, 2024. In addition, Brown’s supervised release was revoked in Case No. 5:22-CR-27-001 in which Brown pleaded guilty and was sentenced for one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography in the Middle District of Florida. As a result, Brown was sentenced to serve ten months in prison consecutively to the above sentence to be followed by ten years of supervised release concurrently to the above sentence. Brown will have to register as a sex offender upon release from prison. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “Viewing and sharing explicit images of children being sexually abused is a federal crime that our office will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Holding online child predators accountable for their crimes—and in this case, their repeated crimes against children—is a high priority for our federal prosecutors and the local, state and federal law enforcement partners dedicated to protecting children.”

    “Clarence L. Brown’s actions are a tragic reminder of the persistence of individuals who prey on children, despite previous consequences,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey. “The GBI remains committed to investigating and bringing to justice those who possess and distribute child sexual abuse material. We will continue to work alongside our state, federal and local law enforcement partners to protect children from these heinous crimes and hold offenders accountable.”

    According to court documents and statements referenced in court, on June 8, 2021, a Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit (CECCU) agent conducted an undercover online investigation to identify individuals downloading child sexual abuse material (CSAM, also called child pornography). That same day, task force agents identified two video files downloaded by Brown depicting CSAM involving prepubescent girls and adult males. Search warrants were executed at Brown’s residences in Byron, Georgia, on Nov. 4, 2021. Several devices were seized at the residence and underwent forensic examination. In total, agents found at least nine video files depicting the sexual abuse and exploitation of children, many of whom were younger than 12 years old. Of note, one CSAM video file had a total run time of ten minutes, and the other CSAM video file was almost 24 minutes long.

    Brown was convicted for receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography in the Middle District of Florida on July 24, 2017 (listed as Case No. 5:22-CR-27-001 in the Middle District of Georgia). Brown began his term of supervised release in that case on Nov. 25, 2020. Less than one year later, Brown was found to be in possession of child pornography in the Middle District of Georgia.

    These cases were 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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    The case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit (GBI CEACCU) with assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica Daniels is prosecuting the case for the Government. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Louisville Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine and Firearms Charges

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

    Louisville, KY – A Louisville, Kentucky, man was sentenced yesterday to 20 years in federal prison for engaging in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distributing methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.   

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Dominique Lewis, 24, was sentenced to 20 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, distributing methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Lewis distributed methamphetamine on 12 occasions and conspired to distribute methamphetamine from October 17, 2022, through April 27, 2023. On 2 occasions Lewis possessed of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and on 5 occasions he illegally possessed a firearm because he was a convicted felon. Lewis was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.

    On August 3, 2020, in Shelby County Circuit Court, Lewis was convicted of two counts of theft by unlawful taking and two counts of criminal mischief in the first degree.

    On August 3, 2021, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Lewis was convicted of receiving stolen property, two counts of criminal mischief in the first degree, wanton endangerment in the first degree, and fleeing or evading police in the first degree.

    On March 10, 2022, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Lewis was convicted of theft by unlawful taking.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the ATF and the Louisville Metro Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Porter prosecuted the case with the assistance of paralegal Aaron Cooper.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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 www.justice.gov/OCDETF .

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