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Category: Crime

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Pierce man sentenced to 20 years for production of child sexual abuse material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – On Jan. 23, U.S. District Judge Robin L. Rosenberg sentenced Blaine Korbin Hulten, to 20 years imprisonment, followed by 25 years of supervised release for production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

    According to court record, Hulten, 24, of Fort Pierce, Fla., admitted to having sex with a 13-year-old minor and a 16-year-old minor, and to recording the sex act with the 16-year-old victim.  Corroborating his confession, his social media records contained conversations with both minor victims, as well as evidence that Hulten was aware both victims were under the age of 18.  Social media records also showed that Hulten distributed the recording of his 16-year-old victim using the social media platform.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Michael S. Davis for the Southern District of Florida, Acting Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami Field Office, and John Budensiek, Martin County Sheriff, made the announcement.

    HSI Fort Pierce and Martin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Hudock prosecuted this 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 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.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 22-cr-14027.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rapid City Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death.

    Curtis Cummings, age 39, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, restitution, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Cummings was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2023. He was found guilty following a three-day jury trial on November 7, 2024.

    The conviction arose from a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl operating in Rapid City, South Dakota. Cummings and his wife, Katey McGruder, obtained large amounts of fentanyl from a source in Colorado on a weekly basis. They would bring the fentanyl back to their Rapid City home where it was further distributed by Christina Sanchez and other conspirators. On April 26, 2022, Cummings and McGruder provided fentanyl to Sanchez, who provided the fentanyl to Wyatt Nygaard. Nygaard then provided the fentanyl to the victim who overdosed and died in the parking lot of a convenience store within minutes of ingesting the fentanyl.

    This case was investigated by the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET). UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota National Guard.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meghan Dilges and Edward Tarbay prosecuted the case. Nygaard was previously sentenced to over 23 years in federal prison. McGruder and Sanchez were previously sentenced to 20 years each of federal imprisonment.

    Cummings was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following his sentencing.  

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Missouri Man Admits Transporting Minor for Sex

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – A Missouri man has pleaded guilty and admitted transporting a minor across state lines for sex.

    Scott M. Arnold-Micke, 48, pleaded guilty to one count of transportation of a minor to engage in a criminal sex act. He admitted in his plea agreement that in 2021, he took the 17-year-old victim to Chicago, where they used drugs and engaged in sexual acts. Arnold-Micke met the victim that summer and began engaging in drug usage with the victim on an almost daily basis after Arnold-Micke moved from Sullivan, Missouri to Rolla, Missouri.

    Arnold-Micke is scheduled to be sentenced April 30. Both the U.S. Attorney’s office and Arnold-Micke’s lawyers have agreed to recommend 230 months in prison.

    The case was investigated by the FBI, the Rolla Police Department, and the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Dianna Edwards is prosecuting 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 the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Martin Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing Funds from a Tribal Organization

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Martin, South Dakota, woman convicted of Larceny. The sentencing took place on January 24, 2025.

    Madonna Peterson, age 59, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $150,000 in restitution to Wild Horse Butte Community Development Corporation (WHB).

    Peterson was indicted on one count of Larceny and one count of Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization by a federal grand jury in February 2023. She pleaded guilty on September 30, 2024.

    Between 2014 and July 2021, while employed as the Chief Financial Officer for the Wild Horse Butte Community Development Corporation, Peterson wrote herself checks she was not entitled to and submitted fraudulent reimbursement requests to WHB for travel that she did not take and for supplies that she did not purchase. Peterson then used the stolen funds for personal gain, including gambling at various casinos.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

    Peterson was ordered to self-surrender on February 18, 2025, to begin serving her prison term.   

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Dakota Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for 15 Years for Illegally Possessing a Firearm and Tampering with a Witness

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Bismarck, North Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Tampering with a Witness. The sentencing took place on January 24, 2025.

    Henry Damon Smith, Jr., 41, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release on the firearm charge, and three years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release on the tampering charge. The sentences were ordered to run concurrently. Smith was also ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Smith was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in December 2023. He pleaded guilty on November 4, 2024.

    The case stemmed from a Rapid City Police Department officer finding Smith with a firearm in Rapid City. Smith is federally prohibited from owning and possessing firearms because he has previous felony convictions, including crimes of domestic violence and assault on law enforcement. After being arrested, Smith attempted to avoid the charges by convincing a witness to claim responsibility for the firearm.

    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.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.

    Smith was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

     

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council: International Criminal Court Prosecutor to Give Semi-Annual Briefing on Situation in Sudan

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Meetings Coverage

    9851st Meeting (PM)

    (The full summary of the meeting will be available later.)

    Karim Asad Ahmad Khan, International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor, briefs members this afternoon on ICC’s Darfur-related work and provides an update on its recent judicial activities.

    Follow the proceedings live at https://press.un.org/en/live

    …

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Darfur: ICC Prosecutor urges immediate action to address atrocities

    Source: United Nations 4

    By Vibhu Mishra

    27 January 2025 Peace and Security

    The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Monday called on the UN Security Council to act decisively to address the worsening atrocities in Sudan’s Darfur region.

    Briefing ambassadors, Karim Khan highlighted the urgent need for justice and accountability as violence and humanitarian suffering escalate.

    “Criminality is accelerating in Darfur. Civilians are being targeted, women and girls are subjected to sexual violence, and entire communities are left in destruction,” he said.

    “This is not just an assessment; it is a hard-edged analysis based on verified evidence.”

    Violence in Darfur has displaced thousands of families and devastated the region, with vital civilian infrastructure attacked, civilians killed and communities suffering from famine and disease.

    Deepening crisis

    The gravity of the situation in the wider region was underscored by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who condemned a 24 January attack on the Saudi Teaching Hospital in El Fasher, North Darfur.

    At least 70 patients and their relatives were reportedly killed, and dozens more injured.

    “This appalling attack which affected the only functioning hospital in Darfur’s largest city comes after more than 21 months of war have left much of Sudan’s health care system in tatters,” Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, said in a statement.

    The Secretary-General reiterated that international humanitarian law mandates the protection of medical facilities and personnel and that the deliberate targeting of such facilities may constitute a war crime.

    He also renewed his call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a sustainable, inclusive political dialogue to end the conflict.

    Echoes of past crimes

    Mr. Khan urged the 15-member Council to recommit to the principles outlined in resolution 1593, adopted 20 years ago, which referred the situation in Darfur to the ICC.

    “We hear those echoes that gave rise to the original referral,” he said, warning that a new generation is suffering the same atrocities endured by their parents.

    The ICC Prosecutor announced that his office is preparing applications for new arrest warrants tied to alleged crimes committed in West Darfur.

    He emphasised that these applications would only proceed with robust evidence to ensure a realistic prospect of conviction, reinforcing the ICC’s commitment to justice for victims.

    Mr. Khan also stressed the need for greater cooperation in transferring ICC fugitives, including former President Omar al-Bashir and other high-ranking officials accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

    Deja vu

    The ICC Prosecutor also painted a grim picture of Darfur’s humanitarian and security landscape.

    “The same communities targeted 20 years ago are suffering today, with crimes being used as weapons of war,” Mr. Khan stated, stressing that such acts violate international humanitarian law and demanded an immediate halt to the violence.

    The trial of Ali Kushayb

    Mr. Khan also highlighted the significance of the ICC trial of Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, also known as Ali Kushayb, addressing crimes committed in 2003 and 2004.

    This trial has shown the people of Darfur that they are not forgotten and “not airbrushed out of public consciousness” he said, highlighting the efforts made by Darfuris themselves to ensure justice and accountability.

    Mr. Khan concluded by emphasising the moral and legal responsibility of the international community to deliver justice.

    “The people of Darfur are in danger, and they have a right to justice. It is time to deliver on the promise of resolution 1593,” he said.

    “It is time for us collectively to join hands and deliver on that promise to prevent this constant cycle of despair that generations of Darfuris have suffered.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Yukon — Superintendent Lindsay Ellis is appointed as Commanding Officer of the Yukon RCMP

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and the Yukon Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

    The Commissioner of the RCMP, Mike Duheme, has appointed Superintendent Lindsay Ellis to the role of Commanding Officer of the Yukon. This change takes effect immediately and brings Superintendent Ellis to the rank of Chief Superintendent.

    Both the Government of Yukon and the RCMP would like to extend their congratulations to Chief Superintendent Ellis on her new role.

    Chief Superintendent Ellis has a rich history of policing in the Yukon for over 12 years and was promoted to Superintendent in 2022 as the Criminal Operations Officer of M Division. During this time, her focus on public safety, modernization of policing services for frontline and specialized units and increased policing accountability has strengthened and enhanced policing across the territory.

    Chief Superintendent Ellis has fostered genuine relationships with Yukon First Nations and diverse groups while promoting collaboration, inclusion and communication across business lines. Her work, relationships and dedication to policing in the territory has resulted in great success under Criminal Operations and the Division increasing Yukoners’ trust in the RCMP.

    Chief Superintendent Ellis has been acting as the Commanding Officer of the Yukon RCMP since September 2024.

    The Government of Yukon and the RCMP would also like to thank Chief Superintendent Scott Sheppard for his many outstanding years of service as the Commanding Officer of the Yukon.

    “I would like to congratulate Chief Superintendent Lindsay Ellis. This appointment recognizes her exceptional work ethic, forward-thinking approach to policing services and outstanding leadership in the Yukon. Chief Superintendent Lindsay Ellis is an example of the important and vital role women have in the RCMP and she is the first female Commanding Officer for the M Division of the Yukon RCMP. I also extend my sincere gratitude to Chief Superintendent Scott Sheppard for his many years of service.” – Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee

    “I am deeply honoured and grateful for the opportunity to lead M Division in delivering policing in the Yukon as the new Commanding Officer. During my 12 years serving in the Yukon, I have been proud to promote the work of our amazing RCMP employees while developing strong, sustainable and transferable relationships with our communities, partners and stakeholders to improve public safety outcomes. I am equally as proud of our advancements to the reconciliation journey through ongoing genuine and honest effort, action and leadership to support safe and healthy Yukon First Nations. As the new leader of the RCMP in the Yukon, I look forward to continuing to provide modern policing services unique to Yukon community needs. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Chief Superintendent Scott Sheppard for his progressive and strong leadership, and my best wishes for his retirement that he will be enjoying as a Yukoner. Thank you to the employees of “Mighty M” as we continue to promote a positive, resilient and adaptive workplace as the National and the Territorial Police Service. Thank you, merci, Mäshi Cho, Shä̀w níthän, Gunalchéesh and Souga Sinla.” – Commanding Officer of the Yukon RCMP Chief Superintendent Ellis

    “It is my pleasure to announce that Chief Superintendent Lindsay Ellis has been appointed as the Commanding Officer of the RCMP in the Yukon. Chief Superintendent Ellis has served Canadians for 24 years with 12 of those years dedicated to improving public safety for Yukoners. I am confident that Chief Superintendent Lindsay Ellis will be an exceptional leader for the RCMP in the Yukon.”- Commissioner of the RCMP Mike Duheme

    Quick facts:

    Chief Superintendent Ellis Lindsay is the first female and 41st Commanding Officer for the M Division of the Yukon RCMP.

    The Commissioner of the RCMP has authority per the RCMP Act to appoint a Commanding Officer.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Curb AI Deepfakes, Protect Our Children

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    TAKE IT DOWN Act would crack down on malicious uses of AI and protect victims of “deepfake porn”
    WASHINGTON – Last week, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper joined a bipartisan group of Senate colleagues to reintroduce the Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks (TAKE IT DOWN) Act. The legislation would criminalize the publication of non-consensual, intimate imagery (NCII), including AI-generated “deepfakes,” and require social media platforms and online sites to remove NCII within 48 hours of notice.
    “It’s too easy for someone to misuse AI to generate harmful fake images depicting real people – including minors,” said Hickenlooper. “This bill will protect our children’s privacy and safety.”
    New generative artificial intelligence tools are able to create lifelike, but fake, imagery depicting real people, known as deepfakes. Deepfakes have recently been used to target minors, including incidents where classmates used AI tools to create sexually explicit images of other classmates that they then shared on social media.
    The TAKE IT DOWN Act protects Americans by making it unlawful for a person to knowingly publish sexually explicit deepfake images of an identifiable individual, and requiring social media companies and websites to remove the images promptly.
    Specifically, the TAKE IT DOWN Act would:
    Criminalize the publication of NCII in interstate commerce. The bill makes it unlawful for a person to knowingly publish NCII on social media and other online platforms. NCII is defined to include realistic, computer-generated pornographic images and videos that depict identifiable, real people. The bill also clarifies that a victim consenting to the creation of an authentic image does not mean that the victim has consented to its publication.
    Protect good faith efforts to assist victims. The bill permits the good faith disclosure of NCII, such as to law enforcement, in narrow cases.
    Require websites to take down NCII upon notice from the victim. Social media and other websites would be required to have in place procedures to remove NCII, pursuant to a valid request from a victim, within 48 hours. Websites must also make reasonable efforts to remove copies of the images. The FTC is charged with enforcement of this section.
    Protect lawful speech. The bill is narrowly tailored to criminalize knowingly publishing NCII without barring lawful speech. The bill respects first amendment protections by requiring that computer-generated NCII meet a “reasonable person” test. Meaning, it must appear to realistically depict an individual.
    Hickenlooper previously cosponsored the bill in the 118th Congress. Last Congress, the TAKE IT DOWN Act passed both the Senate Commerce Committee and the full Senate. It has widespread support from over 100 organizations, including victim advocacy groups, law enforcement, and tech industry leaders.
    Full text of the bill available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 01/27/2025, 11:21 AM (Moscow time) the values of the lower limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A1020L5 security (Samara Region 15) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    01/27/2025 11:21

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC) on 27.01.2025, 11-21 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 86.18) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 336.56 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 10.5%) of the security RU000A1020L5 (Samara Region 15) were changed

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

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

    HTTPS: //VVV. MEEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 01/27/2025, 11-11 (Moscow time) the values of the lower limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A1020L5 (Samara Region 15) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    01/27/2025 11:11

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC) on 27.01.2025, 11-11 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the price corridor (up to 87.8) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 343.14 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 8.75%) of the security RU000A1020L5 (Samara Region 15) 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 –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 01/27/2025, 10:44 (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 –

    01/27/2025 10:44

    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 27.01.2025, 10-44 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 95.6) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1045.78 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 –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 01/27/2025, 10:30 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0ZYH93 were changed (Novsib 9ob).

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    01/27/2025 10:30

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and the deposit market of PJSC Moscow Exchange by NCO NCC (JSC), on 27.01.2025, 10-30 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 93.33) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 292.38 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 11.25%) of the security RU000A0ZYH93 (Novsib 9ob) were changed.

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

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

    HTTPS: //VVV. MEEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Drug Conspiracies

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A member of the violent Boston-based gang, H-Block, has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to drug conspiracy charges.

    Avery Lewis, a/k/a “Wave,” 32, of Dorchester pleaded guilty on Jan. 21, 2025 to two counts of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun scheduled sentencing for May 13, 2025.

    Lewis was one of 10 H-Block gang members and associates charged in August 2024 following a multi-year investigation of H-Block beginning in 2021 in response to an uptick in gang-related drug trafficking, shootings and violence. Over 500 grams of cocaine, cocaine base (crack cocaine) and fentanyl, as well as over 20,000 doses of drug-laced paper were seized during the investigation.

    According to the charging documents, the H-Block street gang is one of the most feared and influential city-wide gangs in Boston. Originally formed in the 1980s as the Humboldt Raiders in the Roxbury section of Boston, the gang re-emerged in the 2000s as H-Block. Current members of H-Block have a history of violent confrontation with law enforcement, including an incident in 2015 when a member shot a Boston Police officer at point blank range without warning or provocation.

    Lewis was a long-time H-Block gang member and daily street-level dealer with a regular roster of customers. Over the course of the investigation, Lewis sold cocaine to an undercover officer on several occasions and coordinated other drug trafficking criminal activities with H-Block gang members.

    Lewis’ criminal history includes a 2017 cocaine conviction for possessing 86 bags of cocaine inside his apartment as well as a 2013 conviction for unlawfully possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number.  

    Lewis is the first defendant to plead guilty in the case.

    The charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and possession with intent to distribute cocaine each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
        
    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Andrew Murphy of the U.S. Secret Service Boston Field Office; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent in Charge of the Depart of Labor, Office of Inspector General made the announcement. The investigation was supported by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office; Massachusetts Department of Corrections; and the Braintree, Quincy, Randolph and Watertown Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit and Jeremy Franker of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime & Racketeering Section are prosecuting the cases.

    The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Crimestoppers GNO and U.S. Marshals New Orleans Task Force Operation Boo Dat Concludes with Over 50 Arrests and an Endangered Teen Recovery

    Source: US Marshals Service

    New Orleans, LA – Crimestoppers Greater New Orleans (GNO) and the U.S. Marshals Service New Orleans Task Force sponsored their annual Operation Boo Dat 2024 from Oct. 22, 2024, to Jan. 18, 2025.  The operation was a partnership between New Orleans Police Department, Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Kenner Police Department, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana Probation and Parole, Homeland Security Investigations, and USMS New Orleans Task Force resulted in 51 arrests, with 16 of the arrests being for felony sex offender registration violations.  A missing/endangered 13-year-old female was also recovered for NOPD during the operation and that recovery led to an immigration violation arrest of a 16-year-old male who was believed to have been involved in juvenile gang activity across the New Orleans metro area.  Twenty-one of the 51 arrested fugitives were arrested during the operation on felony warrants related to open sex-based offenses.  Crimestoppers GNO provided critical support during the operation to include a media released photo spread of 31 fugitives.  The photo spread resulted in the arrests or clearing of 11 of the photo spread targets.  The 20 remaining targets are still at large and Crimestoppers GNO rewards are available for information that leads to their arrest.

    During the operation, sex offender compliance checks were also conducted in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, and St. Tammany parishes.  These compliance checks require law enforcement officers to physically visit the sex offender’s reported address of residence to verify that the offender still lives at the provided address.  Countless hours of follow-up investigative work are often required during and after a compliance check.  The compliance checks led to the arrests of 16 fugitives wanted for violating their sex offender registration (Failure to Register or Update as a Sex Offender—FTR).  Several of the FTR arrests were based off Crimestoppers GNO tips.    

    Highlights of Operation Boo Dat 2024 included:

    — The Nov. 1, 2024, arrest of Kevin Dubon-Carrasco, who was wanted by JPSO on an October 2024 warrant for sexual battery, indecent behavior with juveniles, and domestic abuse battery-child endangerment. The alleged victim was an 8-year-old child.  Dubon-Carrasco was arrested in the 3300 block of Green Acres, Metairie, and later rebooked with immigration violations.

    — The Nov. 6, 2024, arrest of Michael K. Brooks on an August 2024 NOPD warrant for aggravated battery by shooting, home invasion, and first-degree rape.  He was also wanted out of Fort Smith, Arkansas, on an active warrant for aggravated assault.  After an almost three-hour standoff with Brooks fleeing on foot through a neighborhood in the 2400 block of Sixth Street, he was finally arrested with assistance from NOPD Special Operations Division.

    — The Nov. 13, 2024, USMS Missing Child Unit recovery of an endangered 13-year-old female runaway for NOPD.  She had been listed as a runaway for NOPD 3rd District earlier in November. She had a prior history of running away and allegations of prior sexual abuse.  It was determined via investigation that she was associated with alleged teenage gang members known to operate in New Orleans and Jefferson Parish and be in possession of firearms and rifles.  With critical assistance from HSI and SBPSO she was recovered in Chalmette, and a 16-year-old male was taken into immigration custody based on the female’s recovery.

    — The Nov. 19, 2024, arrest of Jose Briseno-Molina, who was wanted by the Montgomery County Texas Sheriff’s Office on a warrant for aggravated sexual assault of children.  The alleged victims were under the age of 13.  Briseno-Molina is alleged to have fled Texas to Jefferson Parish, working at a barber shop to raise money before allegedly planning to flee to Mexico.  USMS Southern District of Texas contacted the USMS New Orleans Task Force for assistance and, with critical support from JPSO, the task force arrested Briseno-Molina in the 700 block of Terry Parkway in Jefferson Parish. An ICE immigration hold was also placed on him.  

    — The Dec. 4, 2024, arrest of Ashley Karl Carambat, wanted on a November 2024 STPSO warrant for pornography involving juveniles under the age of 13 and aggravated crimes against nature.   Information was developed by the USMS New Orleans Task Force that Carambat had relocated to the Mobile, Alabama, area and a collateral lead was sent to the USMS Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, who arrested her in Spanish Fort, Alabama.

    — The Dec. 19, 2024, arrest of Jalil Jonas Williams on an NOPD warrant for second-degree murder. Williams, who was on active LA P&P supervision, is alleged to have murdered a Cox Cable technician in the 8000 block of Dwyer Road Dec. 16, 2024.  He was also wanted for an attempted armed robbery in the French Quarter and is a person of interest in another armed robbery in Jefferson Parish.  With assistance from a Crimestoppers GNO tip he was arrested at the New Orleans Bus/Train Station where he was awaiting a bus to allegedly flee from New Orleans.  He was in possession of a firearm at the time of his arrest.

    — The Dec. 20, 2024, arrest of Parnell Wilson, wanted by the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office on a July 2024 warrant for two counts of first-degree rape of a child (an 8-year-old girl).  Wilson was on active Louisiana Probation and Parole supervision. The USMS New Orleans Task Force, working with LA P&P, developed information that Wilson was going back and forth between New Orleans and Tangipahoa Parish and refusing to comply with his supervision.  He was finally arrested at the LA P&P Office in New Orleans based on work done by the USMS New Orleans Task Force and LA P&P.  

    “Operation Boo Dat demonstrates the commitment of the U.S. Marshals Service, Crimestoppers GNO, and our local law enforcement to protect our communities from violence and exploitation,” said Eastern District of Louisiana U.S. Marshal Enix Smith III.

    “Together, we will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of our residents and hold accountable those who threaten them.”  

    Any information can be provided to the U.S. Marshals Service at (504) 589-6872 or via email at usms.wanted@usdoj.gov.  Crimestoppers GNO may also be contacted with tips at (504) 822-1111.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The ICC has a key role in ensuring perpetrators are held accountable for crimes committed in Darfur: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on the ICC’s work in Sudan.

    First, the Prosecutor was clear that the conflict in Sudan has gone on for far too long.  

    My Foreign Secretary saw the scale of the suffering for himself when he visited the Adre crossing on the Chad-Sudan border on Saturday. 

    As the Foreign Secretary said, this is the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world.

    For this reason, the UK has announced a further £20m in funding to assist with increased food production and life-saving sexual and reproductive health services for refugees fleeing Sudan.  

    This builds on our announcement in November of the doubling of our aid to over £226m. 

    These funds are delivering emergency food assistance to almost 800,000 displaced people.

    They are providing improved access to shelter, drinking water, emergency healthcare and education.   

    Further efforts to galvanise international support are also required.  

    This is why my Foreign Secretary announced his intention to convene a meeting of foreign ministers to ensure aid gets to where it is needed most and to re-energise efforts to end this conflict.

    Second, the International Criminal Court has a key role to play in ensuring perpetrators are held accountable for crimes committed in Darfur.

    In that context, the United Kingdom welcomes the creation of a structured dialogue between the Office of the Prosecutor and Civil Society Organisations.  

    This can help ensure that the voices of victims are heard.

    We further welcome the conclusion of the Ali Kushayb trial in December 2024.  

    As the first trial to be concluded in a Situation referred to the Court by the UN Security Council, this represents a historic milestone. 

    We look forward to hearing updates on any further applications for arrest warrants.

    Third, the UK reiterates our call for full cooperation with the Court.  

    We welcome the constructive engagement by the Sudanese authorities with the ICC during this reporting period.  

    We further urge them to cooperate with the ICC to ensure the arrest and surrender of those subject to outstanding arrest warrants: Omar Al Bashir, Abdel Raheem Muhammad Hussein and Ahmad Harun. 

    Mr President, let me conclude by reiterating the UK’s continued support for the Court, and our respect for its independence.  

    It is important that the ICC is able to carry out its important work in Darfur and elsewhere without interference.

    Sanctioning the ICC in response to one of its decisions would impede its ability to carry out this important work, in Darfur, Venezuela, Ukraine and in all situations where the Court is active.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Events – Firefighters Compete at UFBA South Island Waterway Challenge

    Source: United Fire Brigades’ Association

    Each year, over 20,000 fires threaten precious homes, businesses, our natural environment and lives across New Zealand. We have seen several large vegetation fires this summer already and they all require one thing – lots of water and brave people to put it there!
    Firefighting relies on timing, technical expertise, and teamwork to save lives and property; the branch on the hose, the hose to the pump, the standpipe to the hydrant, and each person playing their part.
    Since 1885, the United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA) Waterway Challenge has helped firefighters test their hose-running and pump-operating skills in a fun, safe, and competitive environment. The track has 19 different setups covering rural and urban approaches to firefighting.
    On Saturday 1 February, over 50 volunteer firefighters from around the South Island will show off their teamwork and firefighting skills that they use to protect property and lives, as they compete in teams against each other in the annual UFBA South Island Waterway Challenge.
    Teams of firefighters will be coming from Lincoln, Lyttleton, Rangiora, Westport, Greymouth, Brunner, Methven, Cromwell, Mataura, Balclutha, Wyndham, Mossburn, Sefton, Rolleston, Luggate, and Ross Volunteer Fire Brigades.
    Competitors have trained all year, some are highly experienced and we have some fresh faces ready to take on the challenge. This firefighting event helps teams prepare for the biennial UFBA National Waterway Challenge a few weeks after the South Island event.
    Bring the kids along to watch this competitive display of firefighting techniques.
    Location: Darfield Domain
    Date/Time: Saturday 1 February 2025 from 0930hrs till 1600hrs (approx.) 
    About the UFBA – for over 145 years the United Fire Brigades’ Association has been the leading association representing firefighters in New Zealand. Today our services support around 14,000 firefighters throughout the fire and emergency services sector by providing advocacy, skills-based challenges, workshops and service honours.
    For more information visit www.ufba.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Canoe Lake Cree First Nation — Two charged after man stabbed on Canoe Lake Cree First Nation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Shortly after midnight on January 24, Beauval RCMP responded to a report of a stabbing at a residence on Canoe Lake Cree First Nation. The adult male victim was transported to hospital for treatment of what were described as non-life-threatening injuries.

    RCMP officers from Patuanak and Ile a la Crosse Detachments were patrolling the area and located the suspect truck. The truck fled the area at a high rate of speed on Highway 965 and then 903 towards Meadow Lake. For public safety reasons, RCMP officers, also including Meadow Lake Detachment and Police Dog Services, followed the vehicle, ultimately using a tire deflation device to stop the truck. One driver and one passenger were in the truck and both were arrested.

    As a result of continuing investigation:

    24-year-old Christopher Nolan of Meadow Lake has been charged with:

    • 1 count, aggravated assault, section 268 of the Criminal Code
    • 4 counts, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, section 88 of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, disguised with intent to commit offence, section 351(2) of the Criminal Code
    • 3 counts, failure to comply with a release order, section 145(5)(a) of the Criminal Code

    Christopher was also wanted on multiple outstanding warrants in relation to a 2024 investigation. Christopher will appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on January 27.

    34-year-old Michael Chatelaine of Flying Dust First Nation is charged with:

    • 1 count, aggravated assault, section 268 of the Criminal Code
    • 4 counts, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, section 88 of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, disguised with intent to commit offence, section 351(2) of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, section 320.13(1) of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, flight from a police officer, section 320.14(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, refusal to comply with demand, section 320.15(1) of the Criminal Code

    He will appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on January 27.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tyler County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Martin Thomas Anderson, age 36, of Sistersville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 151 months for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Anderson, also known as “Martin McNeil,” was selling methamphetamine in Marshall and Wetzel Counties. Two traffic stops recovered more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, a stolen firearm, cash, and drug paraphernalia from Anderson. Anderson has prior drug, firearms, and escape convictions.

    Anderson will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

    The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

    U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Raleigh County Woman and Man Plead Guilty to Federal Drug Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BECKLEY, W.Va. – Heather Danielle Dunbar, 37, of Terry, pleaded guilty today to distribution of methamphetamine. Dunbar admitted to her role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that distributed methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in Beckley and elsewhere within the Southern District of West Virginia. A co-defendant, David Anthony Lacy, 52, of Beckley, pleaded guilty today to use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense in a separate case.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 17, 2023, Dunbar sold 1 ounce of methamphetamine in exchange for $320 to a confidential informant at the residence of co-conspirator Tilford Joe Bradley Jr. in Beckley. Dunbar admitted to the transaction and further admitted to additional drug transactions. On October 23, 2023, Dunbar sold 25.94 grams of methamphetamine in exchange for $320. On December 26, 2023, Dunbar sold approximately 2.3 grams of fentanyl in exchange for $325. Each time, Dunbar sold the controlled substances to a confidential informant.

    On June 28, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Bradley’s  residence, where Dunbar was staying. Officers seized 38 grams of fentanyl, 6 grams of cocaine, multiple digital scales, a money counter, a large quantity of small plastic bags, and a blender containing white residue. Dunbar admitted that she intended to help Bradley distribute the seized controlled substances in and around the Southern District of West Virginia.

    Dunbar further admitted to working with Bradley to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl and crack in and around the Southern District of West Virginia during the months of April and May 2024. On April 9, 2024, Bradley called Dunbar and they discussed weighing $600 worth of drugs for an individual waiting to purchase them. On May 3, 2024, Dunbar and Bradley discussed selling $100 worth of cocaine to an individual. Dunbar admitted that she now knows that law enforcement intercepted her phone calls with Bradley.

    Lacy received cocaine base, also known as “crack,” from Bradley and redistributed it in and around the Southern District of West Virginia throughout the month of April 2024. Lacy admitted that he called Bradley using his cell phone to discuss and arrange drug transactions. On April 24, 2024, Lacy called Bradley and asked for about 3.5 grams of crack, and told Bradley that he needed to discuss buying fentanyl from Bradley to redistribute. Lacy admitted that he now knows that law enforcement officers intercepted those phone calls.

    Dunbar is scheduled to be sentenced on May 22, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1,000,000 fine. Lacy is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of four years in prison, up to one year of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

    Bradley, 47, of Beckley, pleaded guilty on January 21, 2025 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and awaits sentencing. Dunbar, Lacy and Bradley are among 12 individuals indicted on charges alleging the defendants conspired to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and crack within the Southern District of West Virginia from in or about June 2023 to in or about May 2024. Dunbar, Lacy and Bradley are also among 10 defendants who have pleaded guilty. The charges against the other defendants are pending. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, which consists of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, and the Beckley Police Department.

    United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Isabell is prosecuting the cases.

    The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:24-cr-90 (Dunbar) and 5:25-cr-1 (Lacy).

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final Two Defendants Plead Guilty to Roles in Charleston Methamphetamine Trafficking Organization

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, Kirt Ray King, 48, of Charleston, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine and Anthony Michael Mowery, 48, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. King and Mowery admitted to their roles in a Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) that distributed methamphetamine in the Charleston area.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, from in or about January 2024 to in or about May 2024, King and Mowery conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in Charleston and within the Southern District of West Virginia.

    King and Mowery are scheduled to be sentenced on April 21, 2025. King faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $10,000,000 fine. Mowery faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 in prison, at least four years of supervised release, and a $5,000,000 fine.

    King and Mowery are among four defendants indicted in the case. Co-defendant Michael Dale Cain, 49, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty on November 6, 2024, and co-defendant John Wayne Harkless, 46, of Charleston, pleaded guilty on November 20, 2024, each to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Cain and Harkless await sentencing.

    United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

    United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is prosecuting the case.

    The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-95.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Lucie County company and woman sentenced for conspiring to harbor aliens by means of employment

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – On Jan. 24, Martinez Builders Supply, d/b/a East Coast Trust (ECT) and Kelly Yanira Del Valle, 43, of Fort Pierce, Florida, were sentenced after pleading guilty to conspiring to harbor aliens by means of employment in August and October 2024. Del Valle also pleaded guilty for filing false tax returns and aiding the filing of false tax returns. 

    ECT was sentenced to two years of probation, to include the implementation of a corporate compliance program, ordered to forfeit $450,000 to the United States and ordered to pay a $100,000 fine. Del Valle was sentenced to 13 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, ordered to forfeit $100,000 to the United States and to pay $100,146 in restitution to the IRS. 

    From June 2018 through August 2021, Del Valle, who was employed by ECT at the time, along with several of ECT’s officers and employees, conspired to harbor migrants by means of employment. In June 2018, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) law enforcement agents conducted an audit of ECT. The audit revealed that dozens of ECT’s employees were migrants, who were not authorized to work in the United States. To conceal, harbor, and shield the undocumented migrants from HSI, Del Valle and several of ECT’s officers and employees, transferred the undocumented migrants from ECT’s payroll to the payroll of two shell companies. The undocumented migrants continued to work at ECT while purportedly being employed and paid by the shell companies. ECT paid Del Valle a fee for each undocumented migrant that she transferred from ECT’s to the shell companies’ payroll.

    Between June 2018 and July 2021, ECT, through its agents and employees, transferred money to bank accounts operated by Del Valle in the name of the shell companies for the express purpose of paying the undocumented migrants who worked at ECT. 

    On Aug. 6, 2021, HSI law enforcement agents discovered 28 undocumented migrants working at ECT’s headquarters in St. Lucie County.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Michael S. Davis for the Southern District of Florida, Acting Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami and Special Agent in Charge Emmanuel Gomez of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement. 

    The HSI Fort Pierce Field Office and IRS CI Miami Filed Office investigated the case with assistance from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), U.S. Border Patrol Miami Sector, U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Miami Field Office, St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, and Fort Pierce Police Department (FPPD). Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Porter prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case numbers 24-cr-14019 and 24-cr-14035.

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    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterbury Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 18 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that GAWAYNE FISHER, also known as “Fruit” and “Tank,” 49, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 217 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for heading a large-scale drug trafficking ring while on federal supervised release.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in August 2009, Fisher was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 10 years of imprisonment and eight years of supervised release for cocaine trafficking offenses.  He was released from prison in February 2015.

    In 2022, the DEA New Haven Task Force, the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad, the Waterbury Police Department, and other law enforcement agencies determined that Fisher was trafficking narcotics while on federal supervised release.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, physical surveillance, and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Fisher and others were selling large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, as well as counterfeit oxycodone and alprazolam (Xanax) pills.

    Fisher and three of his associates were arrested on April 13, 2023.  On that date, a search of a West Main Street apartment in Waterbury that Fisher used as a stash location revealed approximately 16 kilograms of cocaine, three kilograms of fentanyl, 125,000 individual glassine bags containing fentanyl, and $7,574 in cash.  A search of Fisher’s residence on Beverly Avenue in Waterbury, and his vehicle, revealed approximately $175,110 in cash.  In addition, a search of a residence on Yale Street in Waterbury that Fisher’s co-conspirator used as a stash location revealed drug-processing equipment, approximately three kilograms of loose fentanyl, and approximately 75,000 individual bags containing fentanyl.

    Fisher has been detained since his arrest.  On January 11, 2024, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and five kilograms or more of cocaine, and one count of money laundering.

    Judge Bolden sentenced Fisher to 180 months of imprisonment for the narcotics trafficking and money laundering offenses, and a consecutive 37 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.

    This investigation was conducted by the DEA New Haven Task Force, the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad, and the Waterbury Police Department, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Naugatuck, Ansonia, West Haven, Meriden, East Haven, Branford, Shelton, and Bristol Police Departments.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Lancaster Men Sentenced On Money Laundering Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Lopez, age 41, and Michael Torres, age 43, both of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, were sentenced on January 23, 2025, by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson on money laundering charges.  Lopez received a sentence of one year and one day in prison and Torres was sentenced to six months in prison.  Both defendants were ordered to serve one year on supervised release following completion of their prison terms.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Lopez owned C&D Motorsports, a car dealership located in Lancaster, where Torres was employed as a salesperson. Agents with the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) began investigating C&D Motorsports and Lopez in 2019 after receiving reports that C&D Motorsports catered to known drug traffickers who were known to have purchased vehicles from the dealership, and that the dealership had not been filing currency transaction reports for cash sales in excess of $10,000, as required by federal law.

    IRS-CI conducted an undercover operation during which agents purported to be a drug trafficker and his girlfriend.  The undercover agents met with Torres and Lopez at C&D Motorsports on October 16, 2019, and discussed purchasing a vehicle using cash from drug trafficking and ensuring that the vehicle would be put in the girlfriend’s name and that the drug trafficker’s name would be omitted from paperwork filed in connection with the sale.  On December 11, 2019, the undercover agents returned to C&D Motorsports to meet with both Torres and Lopez to complete a cash purchase of a vehicle, which Lopez and Torres caused to be titled in a third party’s name.  A federal grand jury returned an indictment in February 2022, charging Lopez and Torres with conspiring to commit money laundering involving proceeds represented to have been from drug trafficking.

    Following a four-day trial in February 2024, a jury found both Lopez and Torres guilty of conspiring together to accept more than $33,000 in cash proceeds that were represented to be from the sale of cocaine, and to conceal the nature, source, ownership, and control of those proceeds by having the vehicle titled in a third party’s name.

    “IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to unraveling complex financial transactions and money laundering schemes where individuals attempt to conceal the true source of their money,” stated Amy MacNeely, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    The case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christian Haugsby and Joseph Terz prosecuted the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden Joins Bipartisan Legislation to Support Firefighters with Service-Related Cancers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    January 27, 2025
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said today that he joined the reintroduction of legislation that would expand access to federal support for the families of firefighters and other first responders who died or became permanently disabled from service-related cancers. 
    The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act would also extend disability benefits in cases where these first responders become permanently and totally disabled due to cancer.
    “In the wake of record wildfires last year in Oregon and California’s current wildfires, we have seen firefighters and first responders work tirelessly around the clock to save lives,” Wyden said. “They put their health, safety, and lives on the line without receiving an ounce of support that comes with the long-term risks of fighting fires. Let’s give these everyday heroes and their families the help they deserve so they don’t have to shoulder these challenges alone.”
    Currently, firefighters are only eligible for support under the Public Safety Officer Benefits (PSOB) program for physical injuries sustained in the line-of-duty, or for deaths from duty-related heart attacks, strokes, mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, and 9/11 related illnesses.
    The PSOB program provides benefits to the survivors of fire fighters; law enforcement officers; and other first responders killed as the result of injuries sustained in the line of duty. The program also provides disability benefits where first responders become permanently or totally disabled. The Public Safety Officers’ Educational Assistance (PSOEA) program, a component of the PSOB program, provides higher-education assistance to the children and spouses of public safety officers killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. The Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance administers the PSOB and PSOEA programs.
    In addition to Wyden, the legislation is led by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., and Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., and cosponsored by Senators Jim Banks, R-Ind., John Barrasso, R-Wyo., Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Chris Coons, D-Del., John Cornyn, R-Texas, Ted Cruz, R-Texas, Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Dick Durbin, D-Ill., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Deb Fischer, R-Neb., Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai’i, John Hoeven, R-N.D., Jim Justice, R-W. Va., Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Mike Rounds, R-S.D., Adam Schiff, D-Calif., Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Mark Warner, D-Va., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Peter Welch, D-Vt., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.
    The legislation is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters, as well as the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies; Congressional Fire Services Institute; Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association; Fraternal Order of Police; International Association of Fire Chiefs; Major County Sheriffs of America; Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association; National Association of Police Organizations; National Fallen Firefighters Foundation; National Fire Protection Association; National Narcotics Officers’ Associations’ Coalition; National Volunteer Fire Council; and Sergeants Benevolent Association of the New York Police Department. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Enlargement without any concessions – E-002188/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The enlargement process is merit-based and depends on the objective progress made by each of the partners. The speed of the accession process depends on the speed and implementation of reforms.

    Credible reforms and irreversible progress especially on the fundamentals of enlargement are essential. This is at the core of the revised Enlargement Methodology[1] adopted in 2020 and continues to guide the process.

    The inclusion of some enlargement countries in the Rule of Law Report as of 2024[2] (Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia) supports the implementation of the related recommendations under the enlargement package[3]. Other accession countries will be included in the Rule of Law Report as and when they are ready.

    Reaping the benefits of EU membership requires thorough preparation and the putting in place of appropriate safeguards against backsliding on reforms.

    The experience of the 2004 EU enlargement demonstrates the positive impact that membership of the EU single market and structural funds has on economic convergence.

    Accelerating socioeconomic convergence already prior to accession is being pursued through dedicated instruments such as the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans[4], as well as the association agreements, including the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas (DCFTAs) with Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia.

    • [1]  COM(2020) 57 final.
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/upholding-rule-law/rule-law/annual-rule-law-cycle/2024-rule-law-report_en
    • [3] COM (2024) 690 final.
    • [4] COM(2023) 691 final.
    Last updated: 27 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Judicial reforms in Spain – E-000103/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000103/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Dolors Montserrat (PPE)

    Spain’s Prosecutor General, Álvaro García Ortiz, is currently accused of leaking secrets for political purposes. Meanwhile, the Spanish Government is preparing a reform of the Code of Criminal Procedure (LECrim) aimed at putting the Public Prosecutor’s Office, rather than judges, in charge of investigations. This would give the government indirect control over the dismissal of criminal cases, including corruption cases. The government also wants to reduce the role of third-party interventions (acusaciones populares), which can prove decisive in corruption cases, keeping the government in check.

    The General Council of the Judiciary (CGPJ) has warned that, in order to ensure the independence of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, it is ‘imperative’ to review the way in which it operates before handing it responsibility for preliminary criminal investigations.

    • 1.Does the Commission believe that the Public Prosecutor’s Office – which is appointed and controlled by the executive – can take the place of judges and oversee investigations, guaranteeing procedural rights, with the independence, impartiality and transparency required under EU law?
    • 2.Will it ask the Spanish Government about this reform and the acusaciones populares in view of the warnings from the CGPJ, prosecutors’ associations and the judiciary?

    Submitted: 13.1.2025

    Last updated: 27 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Brooklyn Park Men Plead Guilty to Trafficking Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – Two Brooklyn Park men have pleaded guilty in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine throughout central and northern Minnesota, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to court documents, on June 22, 2024, a Minnesota State Patrol trooper initiated the traffic stop of a white Ford Expedition on Highway 10 in Royalton, Minnesota. As the trooper approached the vehicle, he noticed several indications of drug trafficking activity including a single screwdriver, flashlight, black electric tape, loose panels and molding around the radio and center console, and a marijuana pipe, as well as a marijuana blunt roach and flakes all over the center console. The driver, Dillon Peter-Cody Clemens, 38, and his passenger, Jacob Seth Cobb, 30, both had revoked driver’s licenses. Clemens and Cobb claimed to be on their way to Motley, Minnesota, to purchase a motorcycle but could not provide the name or street address of the seller. The trooper deployed his K9 to search the vehicle, and the K9 alerted to the driver’s side door seam. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed what appeared to be a one-pound package of methamphetamine. Clemens and Cobb were subsequently arrested.

    Clemens and Cobb were each indicted on one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Clemens pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge Katherine M. Menendez to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Cobb also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine before Judge Menendez on January 21, 2025. Their sentencing hearings will be scheduled at a later date.

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota State Patrol and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Syngen Kanassatega is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Members consider China’s request for panel to examine electric vehicle measures in Türkiye

    Source: World Trade Organization

    DS629: Türkiye — Measures Concerning Electric Vehicles and Other Types of Vehicles from China

    China submitted a request for the establishment of a dispute panel to rule on various measures taken by Türkiye concerning electric vehicles (“EVs”) and certain other types of vehicles originating in China. Consultations took place on 20-21 November in an effort to resolve the dispute but failed to produce a mutually agreed solution, prompting China to submit its request for the panel. 

    China said Türkiye’s measures are protectionist and discriminatory, and violate Türkiye’s core obligations under the WTO agreements, including most favoured nation treatment, tariff bindings, and general elimination of quantitative restrictions. China expressed grave concerns that some members, including Türkiye, have introduced restrictive measures on Chinese new energy products, including EVs, which are inconsistent with WTO rules. Increased tech protectionism is not a solution, China said, adding that the panel request is one of the responses to such unlawful measures.

    Türkiye said the two sides had constructive consultations in November 2024 and that it shared information and clarifications with its Chinese colleagues in a cooperative manner. Türkiye said its measures are completely justified against the backdrop of the strong challenges its automotive industry has been facing for many years due to anti-competitive practices, subsidization, and excess capacity. These problems should be addressed in the relevant WTO bodies for a level playing field in industrial sectors. Against that background, Türkiye said it cannot at this time agree to the establishment of a panel.

    The DSB took note of the statements and agreed to revert to this matter should the requesting member wish to do so.

    DS597: United States – Origin Marking Requirement (Hong Kong, China)

    The United States once again raised the matter of the panel ruling in DS597 at the DSB meeting. The US said it was raising the matter as a result of recent developments in Hong Kong, China regarding free speech and human rights.  The US referred back to its previous statements regarding its position on essential security and its reasons for placing this item on the DSB agenda.

    Hong Kong, China said the US again raising this matter and questioning its inherent rights under international law was an abuse of WTO rules. The panel ruling clearly confirms that the US action lacks legal justification, Hong Kong, China said, adding that it stands ready to proceed through the due process of appeal should the US lift its blockage on the appointment of Appellate Body members.

    China reiterated its objections to the item being on the DSB agenda and said any member, regardless of its power and size, should refrain from taking unilateral and protectionism measures in the name of national security or using it as a vehicle to disregard the core principles of the WTO and interfere in other members’ internal affairs.

    Appellate Body appointments

    Colombia, speaking on behalf of 130 members, introduced for the 83rd time the group’s proposal to start the selection processes for filling vacancies on the Appellate Body. The extensive number of members submitting the proposal reflects a common interest in the functioning of the Appellate Body and, more generally, in the functioning of the WTO’s dispute settlement system, Colombia said.

    The United States noted that a new US President was inaugurated on 20 January, and the US is currently transitioning to a new Administration.  Members are aware of the longstanding US concerns with WTO dispute settlement that have persisted across US administrations; those concerns remain unaddressed and it does not support the proposed decision, the United States said.

    Twenty members then took the floor to comment. Most reiterated their support for the joint proposal and for the urgent need to restore a fully functioning dispute settlement system as soon as possible. Many welcomed the progress made in the dispute settlement reform discussions to date and the proposal by the General Council Chair to initiate consultations with interested delegations to hear views on how to build on progress made in a manner that would further advance dispute settlement reform work.

    Several members said they looked forward to hearing from the Chair on how those consultations would be organized.  Ten members urged others to consider joining the Multi-party interim appeal arrangement (MPIA), a contingent measure to safeguard the right to appeal in the absence of a functioning Appellate Body. 

    Colombia said on behalf of the 130 members it regretted that for the 83rd occasion members have not been able to launch the selection processes. Ongoing conversations about reform of the dispute settlement system should not prevent the Appellate Body from continuing to operate fully, and members shall comply with their obligation under the Dispute Settlement Understanding to fill the vacancies as they arise, Colombia said for the group.

    Surveillance of implementation

    Australia presented a status report regarding its implementation of the panel ruling in the case brought by China in DS603, “Australia — Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Duty Measures on Certain Products from China.”  Australia said it provided a written status report in this dispute on 16 January noting that Australia has fully implemented the ruling and that the matter is now resolved.

    China thanked Australia for its statement and said this case demonstrates the effectiveness of the WTO dispute settlement system. At a time when the multilateral trading system faces unprecedented challenges, cooperation among members is vital to maintaining the effective operation of the dispute settlement mechanism, China said.  China added that it is ready to work with Australia and other members to continue to resolve trade frictions under the WTO framework.

    The United States presented status reports with regard to DS184, “US — Anti-Dumping Measures on Certain Hot-Rolled Steel Products from Japan”,  DS160, “United States — Section 110(5) of US Copyright Act”, DS464, “United States — Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Measures on Large Residential Washers from Korea”, and DS471, “United States — Certain Methodologies and their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China.”

    The European Union presented a status report with regard to DS291, “EC — Measures Affecting the Approval and Marketing of Biotech Products.”

    Indonesia presented its status reports in DS477 and DS478, “Indonesia — Importation of Horticultural Products, Animals and Animal Products.” 

    Next meeting

    The next regular DSB meeting will take place on 24 February 2025.

    Share

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 28, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Information sought following incident in Palmerston North bar

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are investigating a reported stabbing in Palmerston North last night and would like to speak to witnesses.

    Police were called to a bar on Main Street about 11:30pm, after reports of an altercation between a small group of people.

    Upon arrival one person was located with a stab wound to the neck, requiring hospital treatment.

    A scene guard was in place at the premises overnight and Police will conduct a scene examination today.

    If anyone has any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 250128/6100.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 28, 2025
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