Category: Crime

MIL-OSI Security: Stratford — PEI RCMP charge Vernon Bridge man with attempted murder of seniors, assault and uttering threats
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

October 28, 2024, Stratford, PE – PEI RCMP have charged a 60-year-old Vernon Bridge man in connection with four separate incidents including two serious assaults on seniors.

RCMP began their investigation on Thursday, October 24, 2024, when they responded to a serious assault of a senior man at his residence in Stratford. On Friday, October 25, 2024 PEI RCMP responded to another serious assault and robbery with a weapon on a Stratford senior woman at her home. Island EMS attended in both cases and transported the victims to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

On October 24, 2024 RCMP also responded to an incident at a business in Mount Albion where an unprovoked man attempted to engage in a fist fight with an employee who was unknown to him. Police attended but the man was gone on arrival.

RCMP identified a suspect and on October 26, 2024 RCMP made an arrest of 60-year-old Alan Wood. Wood was held at a provincial correctional center over the weekend and while in custody Wood uttered threats to a corrections officer. Wood remains in custody and will appear in court today at 3:00 p.m. in Charlottetown Provincial Court to answer to charges of:
1. Attempted murder in connection with the Stratford man
2. Attempted murder in connection with the Stratford woman.
3. Robbery with a weapon on the Stratford woman
4. Assault on the employee of the Mount Albion business
5. Uttering threats on a correction officer.
Both seniors in this case were known to the accused.

This investigation is being led by the RCMP Major Crime Unit with the assistance of:
- RCMP Forensic Identification Services
- RCMP Digital Forensic Services
- RCMP Police Dog Services
- RCMP Provincial General Investigations Section
“PEI RCMP recognize that events like this can be disturbing to us all. In this case, a suspect was identified quickly preventing further risk to the public,” said Cpl Gavin Moore, Media Relations Officer for the Prince Edward Island RCMP.

MIL Security OSI –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: FBI Sacramento Statement on Upcoming Sikh Parade

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

The FBI routinely receives and shares information with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to assist in protecting the communities we serve. The FBI is aware of potential threats of violence involving rival gangs in or around the vicinity of the Sikh Parade in Yuba City, CA, from November 1-3, 2024. Although these threats are unverified, we will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure the safety of the community at the event. We encourage members of the public to be vigilant and report anything they consider suspicious to law enforcement.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/28/2024, 10:26 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A0JXSS1 (Akron B1P2) security were changed.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

10/28/2024

10:26

In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on 10/28/2024, 10:26 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 76.39) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 825.9 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 13.75%) of the RU000A0JXSS1 (Akron B1P2) security were changed.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://www.moex.com/n74326

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Cole Harbour — Update: One person arrested in Cole Harbour attempted robbery investigation

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

A youth has been arrested after an attempted robbery in Cole Harbour.

On October 11, at approximately 6:46 p.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a report of an attempted robbery at a recreational centre on Forest Hills Parkway. RCMP officers learned that a person approached four youths who were near the pedway, displayed a knife, and demanded jewelry from one of the youths.

The person fled on foot when the youths said they were advising security. No physical injuries were reported.

As a result of the investigation and information provided by the public, on October 18, a 15-year-old youth was identified and arrested for attempted Armed Robbery and Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose. They were released on conditions pending a first court appearance on November 7.

RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment thanks members of the community who have been engaged in promoting public safety and supporting police investigations such as this one by providing tips to police and Crime Stoppers. Information can be provided anonymously by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Rockford Man Sentenced to 35 Years in Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking

Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

ROCKFORD — A Rockford man has been sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for sex trafficking.

TRAVIS THOMAS, 34, was convicted in June of sex trafficking, including multiple counts of coercing and transporting the victim across state lines to engage in prostitution. U.S. District Judge John J. Tharp, Jr. imposed the sentence Friday during a hearing in federal court in Rockford.

The sentence was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. The Rockford Police Department, Hoffman Estates, Ill. Police Department, and Winnebago County, Ill. Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Vincenza L. Tomlinson and Jessica S. Maveus, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica V. Mallory.

In 2017 and 2018, Thomas targeted the victim, supplied her with crack cocaine that kept her dependent on him, and manipulated her drug addiction to force and coerce her to engage in commercial sex acts for Thomas’s financial benefit. Thomas transported the victim to hotels in Rockford, Wisconsin, and Texas for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts. Thomas also used and threatened physical violence against the victim to force and coerce her to continue to engage in commercial sex. Thomas then kept all of the proceeds and spent it on himself and others, including a new vehicle, gambling, clothing, and food.

In addition to the commercial sex, Thomas also used fraud and financial coercion to take the victim’s credit cards, file fraudulent tax returns and insurance claims in her name, empty her bank accounts, and sell her belongings. The victim was finally able to escape in April 2018, with the help of an individual who took the victim to a hospital after she was severely beaten by Thomas. While at the hospital, a trained nurse identified her as a victim of sex trafficking and called law enforcement.

If you believe you are a victim of sexual exploitation, you are encouraged to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by logging on to www.missingkids.com or by calling 1 800-843-5678. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Owner of Boston Pizzeria Chain Sentenced to More than Eight Years in Prison for Forced Labor

Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

BOSTON – The owner of Stash’s Pizza, a pizzeria chain in Massachusetts, was sentenced on Oct. 25, 2024 for forced labor charges. The defendant forced or attempted to force six victims to work for him and comply with excessive workplace demands through violent physical abuse; threats of violence and serious harm; and repeated threats to report the victims to immigration authorities for deportation.

Stavros Papantoniadis, a/k/a “Steve Papantoniadis,” 49, of Westwood, Mass., was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 102 months in prison, one year of supervised release and ordered to pay a $35,000 fine. At a jury trial in June 2024, Papantoniadis was convicted of three counts of forced labor and three counts of attempted forced labor. Papantoniadis has remained in custody since his arrest on March 16, 2023.

“Labor trafficking exploits the vulnerable through fear and intimidation, all in pursuit of the almighty buck. That is what Stavros Papantoniadis did when he violated the rights of the people working in his restaurants. He deliberately hired foreign nationals who lacked authorization to work in the United States and then turned their lack of immigration status against them, threatening them with deportation and violence to keep them under his control,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “I commend the bravery of the victims here for speaking out and taking a stand against their trafficker. I hope that their strength to speak out sends a message to others whose rights are being abused that the federal government will not tolerate labor trafficking. The stiff sentence imposed on Mr. Papantoniadis demonstrates that there are grave consequences for employers who engage in this type of conduct.”

“Stavros Papantoniadis exploited and abused his employees, denying them the basic dignity every person deserves. Today’s significant sentence sends a message to employers — employees deserve to work in safety, free from harassment and abuse and exploitative employers will be held to account,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol for Homeland Security Investigations, New England. “Labor exploitation targets the disenfranchised in our society but we want employees to know that they have a voice and HSI is working with our partners to uphold and enforce labor laws.”

“Stavros Papantoniadis used threats of arrest, deportation, reprisals, and physical violence to ensure his employees worked for wages lower than required by the Fair Labor Standards Act. Today’s sentencing affirms the Office of Inspector General’s commitment to work with our law enforcement and Wage and Hour Division partners to aggressively investigate labor trafficking by individuals who enrich themselves through coercion or force,” said Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent-in-Charge, Northeast Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.

Papantoniadis forced or attempted to force five men and one woman to work for him through violent physical abuse, threats of abuse, and repeated threats to report victims to immigration authorities to have them deported. Papantoniadis thinly staffed his pizza shops, and purposely employed workers without immigration status to work behind the scenes, for 14 or more hours per day and as many as seven days per week. To maintain control of those undocumented workers, he made them believe that he would physically harm them or have them deported. He monitored the workers with surveillance cameras, which he accessed from his cell phone, and constantly demeaned, insulted and harassed them. When Papantoniadis learned that one victim planned to quit, he violently choked him, causing that victim to flee the pizza shop and run to safety in the parking lot. When other victims separately expressed their intentions to quit, Papantoniadis told one victim that he would kill him and call immigration authorities; and he threatened another worker by telling him he knew where the victim lived. When another worker tried to leave and drive away from one of Papantoniadis’ pizza shops, Papantoniadis chased the victim down Route 1 in Norwood, Mass., and falsely reported the victim to the local police in an effort to pressure the victim to return to work at the pizza shop.

Papantoniadis is the owner and operator of Stash’s Pizza, a chain of pizzerias with locations in Dorchester and Roslindale, and previously had pizzerias in Norwood, Norwell, Randolph (d/b/a Boston Pizza Company), Weymouth (d/b/a Pacini’s Italian Eatery), and Wareham, Mass.

Members of the public who believe they are a victim of labor trafficking or have information about labor trafficking, please call 888-221-6023, Option 5 or send an email with contact information to USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.

Acting U.S. Attorney Levy, HSI SAC Krol and DOL-OIG SAC Mellone made the announcement today. Assistance was provided by the Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, the Boston Police Department, and the Norwood Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy E. Moran, Chief of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit, and Brian A. Fogerty of the Civil Rights & Human Trafficking Unit prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leicester angler prosecuted for fishing offences
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

The Environment Agency has prosecuted a Leicester angler who was caught fishing in the close season and without a licence on the River Soar in May this year.
 Angler caught fishing in close season on River Soar between Abbey Mills and Abbey Park

Clamp down on angling offences to protect fish stocks and make fishing sustainable

Case heard at Northampton magistrates on 21 October 2024 

At Northampton Magistrates Court on 21 October 2024, the charges against Vaidotas Jucaitis, 52, of Highfield Street, were proved in his absence. He was ordered to pay a total of £415 in fines and costs.

Jucaitis was caught fishing during the close season between Abbey Mills and Abbey Park on 9 May 2024. He was also fishing without a licence. He was fined £100 for each charge, ordered to pay costs of £135 and a victim’s surcharge of £80.

Close season

The close season restrictions, which run between 15 March-15 June, are to prevent fishing for coarse fish in rivers and streams across England. The restriction helps to protect fish when they are spawning and supporting vulnerable stocks.

Environment Agency officers conduct patrols to ensure anglers respect this no fishing period.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said:

We hope these penalties will act as a deterrent to any angler who is thinking of fishing either without a licence or during the close season.

The close season is in place to reduce disturbances to protect vulnerable stocks during their peak spawning period.

We urge anglers to respect the close season in order to help reduce pressures on our fisheries, benefitting fish and the wider environment.

Our fisheries enforcement team work seven days a week to check that anglers are following fishing regulations.

Fisheries enforcement

The Environment Agency carries out enforcement work all year round and is supported by partners including the police and the Angling Trust.

Fisheries enforcement work is intelligence-led, targeting known hot-spots and where illegal fishing is reported.  

Anyone with information about illegal fishing activities can contact the Environment Agency Incident Hotline 24/7 on 0800 80 70 60 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Fishing licences

All income from fishing licence sales is used to fund the Environment Agency’s work to protect and improve fish stocks, fisheries and the environment.

This includes improving habitats for fish, reinvesting money back to facilities and clubs for anglers and tackling illegal fishing. It also includes working with partners to encourage more people to give fishing a go.

Any angler aged 13 or over, fishing on a river, canal or still water needs a licence.  

A 1-day licence costs from just £7.10 and an annual licence costs from just £35.80. Concessions are available. Junior licences are free for 13 to 16-year-olds. 

Licences are available from www.gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence or by calling the Environment Agency on 0344 800 5386 between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. 

The charges for Vaidotas Jacaitis

On 9 May 2024, at Abbey Park to Abbey Mills, River Soar, Leicester, fished for freshwater fish in the close season. This is contrary to byelaw 2 of the Environment Agency National Byelaws made on July 12 210. And contrary to byelaw 6 confirmed 22 March 2010 and made pursuant to section 210 and schedule 25 of the Water Resources Act 1991 and contrary to Section 211 of the said Act.

On 9 May 2024, at Abbey Park to Abbey Mills, River Soar, Leicester, in a place where fishing is regulated, fished for freshwater fish or eels by means of an unlicensed fishing instrument, namely rod and line. This is contrary to Section 27 (1) (a) of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975.

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Published 28 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/28/2024, 10:59 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0ZYLQ4 (Gazpnf1P5R) were changed.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

10/28/2024

10:59

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 10/28/2024, 10:59 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 103.08) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1089.68 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 7.5%) of the security RU000A0ZYLQ4 (Gazpnf1P5R) 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 accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://www.moex.com/n74328

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Heroin Trafficking

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KEVIN JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 34, a New Orleans resident, was sentenced on October 23, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. JOHNSON was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, the Federal Bureau Investigation New Orleans Gang Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department investigated JOHNSON for his involvement in a drug distribution operation in April 2021. The investigation revealed that JOHNSON conspired with AL VERNON BROWN, CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON, DONALD MYLES, and others to distribute heroin. On June 22, 2021, agents seized a package containing 485 grams of heroin that was mailed by AL VERNON BROWN from California to New Orleans and intended for JOHNSON.

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation – New Orleans Gang Task Force, with the assistance of the New Orleans Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, led the investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Violet, Louisiana, Man Sentenced for Possessing Firearm to Further Drug Trafficking

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

NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MALI WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 26, of Violet, Louisiana, was sentenced on October 15, 2024 by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey to 60 months of imprisonment, three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

According to court documents, on October 12, 2023, New Orleans Police Officers saw WILLIAMS selling marijuana in the Central Business District of New Orleans. While attempting to flee from police, WILLIAMS dropped his backpack that contained marijuana and tapentadol tablets. When apprehended, WILLIAMS possessed a Taurus Model G3C, nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol.

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.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Ollinger of the Violent Crime Unit.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Firearm and Drug Offense

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JEREL CLAVO (“CLAVO”), age 36, of New Orleans, was sentenced on October 15, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Brandon S. Long to 62 months incarceration, five (5) years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D) (Count 1); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(i) (Count 2).

According to court documents, on November 27, 2021, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) received a call regarding shots being fired near North Claiborne Avenue and Columbus Street. NOPD Officers arrived at the scene and discovered a deceased black female. Officers learned that the victim had been riding in a gray Dodge Charger driven by CLAVO when she was shot. An NOPD officer present at University Medical Center (UMC) saw CLAVO pull up outside the emergency room driving a gray Dodge Charger with several bullet holes in the front windshield. CLAVO sustained multiple gunshot wounds, including to his neck and right arm. NOPD Detectives executed a state search warrant for the Dodge Charger and located two firearms and marijuana inside the vehicle. CLAVO admitted possessing the marijuana for later sale. Additionally, CLAVO possessed the firearms to further his marijuana sales activities.

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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Lewiston Man Arrested, Charged with Possessing Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and Illegally Possessing Firearm

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

PORTLAND, Maine: A Lewiston man was arrested on Wednesday and charged by criminal complaint today with possessing controlled substances with the intent to distribute and unlawfully possessing a firearm.

According to the criminal complaint filed in the case and other court documents, Nasir Kenya-Malik White (aka Biggie), 24, was arrested at his residence in Lewiston on Wednesday evening on probable cause following a search of his apartment. Investigators recovered more than 300 grams of suspected cocaine during the search. Ten firearms, including several assault-style rifles, were also recovered. The complaint alleges that White is precluded from possessing firearms as a result of a 2023 conviction in Androscoggin County Superior Court for reckless conduct with a firearm or dangerous weapon. White was scheduled to make his first appearance in U.S. District Court in Portland today.

The FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force is investigating the case with assistance from the Lewiston Police Department and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency.

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

###

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sorensen Announces More Than $350,000 to Prevent Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Against Children
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

PEORIA, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced a $359,034 grant to the Young Women’s Christian Association of McLean County (YWCA) to support families impacted by domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking.

“Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, free from any form of violence,” saidSorensen. “But when a child does go through such a deeply traumatic experience, we need to step up as a community and make sure that child has our support. This important funding coming to the YWCA of McLean County will ensure that local organizations, that already do so much to help our neighbors, have the resources they need to prevent and respond to crimes against our kids. I look forward to working with local leaders to deliver federal investments in the future that will keep our communities safe.”

“Being awarded this grant truly shows our dedication to building a safer community,” said Jennifer Golliday, Director of YWCA Stepping Stones. “With this additional support, we will be able to expand our reach and provide sexual violence prevention lessons to youth throughout McLean County. Our goal is to empower them with the knowledge and resources needed to recognize, prevent, and respond to instances of sexual violence, strengthening the community as a whole.”

The $359,034 in grant funding comes from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Violence Against Women’s Grants to Prevent and Respond to Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, and Sex Trafficking Against Children and Youth Program. With this funding, YWCA will expand current prevention education services and direct services for children and youth ages 11 to 24 who have been impacted by domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and/or sex trafficking.

In collaboration with Project Oz, a non-profit in Bloomington, the YWCA will:
1. Hire two prevention coordinators to provide sexual violence prevention education lessons and trainings to schools, community organizations, and businesses.
1. Partner with Project Oz to offer services to their children and youth clients who are high at-risk youth.
1. Provide stipends for after-hour, on call personnel at the hotline and hospital.
Congressman Eric Sorensen serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Prior to serving in Congress, Sorensen was a local meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities for nearly 20 years. His district includes Illinois’ Quad Cities, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal.

###

MIL OSI USA News –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sorensen Announces $400,000 to Prevent Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

ROCK ISLAND, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced a $400,000 grant to Augustana College to support efforts to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campus.

“No student should ever feel unsafe on campus,” saidSorensen. “It is our responsibility to provide our colleges and universities with the tools they need to create a safe environment where our future leaders can learn. This important funding will allow Augustana College to access even more resources to develop peer education and bystander intervention trainings to keep every student safe from domestic violence and sexual assault. I look forward to working with our schools to deliver federal investments in the future that will ensure our campus communities can thrive.”

“We’re truly grateful to receive this continuation grant from the Grants to Reduce Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking on Campus Program,” said Farrah Roberts, Assistant Dean and Director of Student Well-Being at Augustana College. “This support helps us build on what we’ve already achieved, allowing us to enhance our trauma-informed education and support services. We’re dedicated to fostering a safer, more inclusive campus environment, and with this funding, we can continue to work together as a community to tackle these important issues and support our students. Our Peer Educators program, which is funded by the grant, has been incredibly successful by empowering a diverse group of students to lead Bystander Intervention education, each year, they reach hundreds of their peers, fostering a culture of awareness and support on our campus. Peers are given the opportunity, in a safe space, to brainstorm ways that they would intervene in various situations to create safety for one another.”

The $400,000 in grant funding comes from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Violence Against Women’s Grants to Reduce Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking on Campus Program.

The Campus Program helps develop campus-based coordinated responses among campus survivor services, campus law enforcement, health care providers, housing officials, administrators, student leaders, faith-based organizations, student organizations, and disciplinary boards to enhance survivor safety, assistance, and hold offenders accountable.

Congressman Eric Sorensen serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Prior to serving in Congress, Sorensen was a local meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities for nearly 20 years. His district includes Illinois’ Quad Cities, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/28/2024, 1:40 PM (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A0JVUP7 (VimpelKBO3) security were changed.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

10/28/2024

13:40

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 10/28/2024, 1:40 PM (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 97.46) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1026.54 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 12.5%) of the RU000A0JVUP7 (VimpelKBO3) security were changed.

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

Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://www.moex.com/n74333

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/28/2024, 14:59 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A0JWHU2 security (RZhD BO-17) were changed.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

10/28/2024

14:59

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 10/28/2024, 14:59 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 77.45) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 889.42 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 22.5%) of the RU000A0JWHU2 security (RZhD BO-17) 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 accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://www.moex.com/n74337

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/28/2024, 15-10 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A0JWHU2 security (RZhD BO-17) were changed.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

10/28/2024

15:10

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 10/28/2024, 15-10 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 80.52) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 922.09 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 27.0%) of the RU000A0JWHU2 security (RZhD BO-17) 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 accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://www.moex.com/n74341

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Wapato Man Who Attempted to Avoid Arrest and Pointed Loaded Gun at Federal Officers Sentenced to Federal Prison

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

Yakima, Washington – On October 24, 2024, United States District Judge James L. Robart sentenced Leo John Yallup, age 38, of Wapato, Washington, to 10 years in federal prison for assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon. Judge Robart also imposed 3 years of supervised release.

According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on March 2, 2023, four officers with a U.S. Marshals Service task force traveled to a house at 1161 Donald Wapato Road, in Wapato, Washington, to arrest Yallup on an outstanding warrant.

When Yallup saw the officers pull into his driveway, he took off running behind the house, pursued by the officers. At the back of the property, Yallup drew a firearm and pointed it at the officers. One of the officers fired his service weapon, hitting Yallup in the head, causing him to fall to the ground.

Officers handcuffed Yallup and began to render medical aid. During this process, officers turned Yallup on his back. As officers turned him over, they saw Yallup had been lying on the weapon he pointed at officers. The gun was loaded and had a live round in the chamber. Officers also discovered Yallup was armed with a second weapon in a shoulder holster.

“Mr. Yallup attempted to escape arrest, and in the process, pointed a loaded gun at federal officers, putting their lives, and the lives of others, at great risk,” stated Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. “I am grateful for the brave men and women of law enforcement who put their lives on the line everyday to keep our communities safe and strong. My office will continue to hold offenders accountable to who threaten the safety of those who protect and serve the people of Eastern Washington.”

“A law enforcement officer does not want to shoot someone.” said Kelly M. Smith, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “However, Mr. Yallup left no other option when he drew his weapon and pointed it at officers. Fortunately, he lived and no officers were hurt. This case is a reminder of the personal sacrifice our law enforcement officers make on a daily basis.”

Craig Thayer, United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Washington commented, “Deputy U. S. Marshals in the Eastern District of Washington, and throughout the nation, serve thousands of federal, state, and local arrest warrants for the most violent offenders in the criminal justice system. They face extraordinary dangers in order to protect our communities while professionally, safely, and efficiently bringing these wanted persons before a court of law. When a wanted person, like Leo John Yallup, draws a firearm, and points it at law enforcement officers, those officers will apply necessary force to stop the threat. It should be noted that these Deputies immediately rendered aid to Yallup once his deadly threat was stopped. With his sentence today, he now faces the consequences of his violent behaviors. The fugitive apprehension mission is one of the primary responsibilities of the United States Marshals Service.”

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Courtney R. Pratten and Todd M. Swensen.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Career Offender Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Bank Robbery

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

MIAMI – Today, Terry Meach, 43, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison following a guilty to plea to two counts of bank robbery and one count of attempted bank robbery earlier this year.

As part of his guilty plea, Meach admitted that on Feb. 23, 2024, he entered a Truist Bank in Hollywood, Fla., demanded money and claimed that he had a gun. The teller complied with his demands, and Meach made off with $2,419.

Four days later, on Feb. 27, 2024, Meach entered a Fifth Third Bank in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and approached the teller with his hand in his pocket. Meach said words to the effect of “give me the money, I have a bomb.” The teller backed away and Meach fled the bank empty handed. Undeterred, Meach continued down the street about 100 yards to a Truist Bank, which he entered and approached the teller saying words to the effect of “give me the money, I have a gun.” The teller complied, and this time Meach made off with $2,379.

Prior to robbing the banks in February 2024, Meach had been convicted of robbing or attempting to rob four other banks charged in two separate federal cases. In April 2012, Meach robbed a TD Bank in Fort Lauderdale, and two days later attempted to rob a Suntrust Bank in Miami. Meach pled guilty to both charges and was sentenced to 54 months in federal prison in October 2012 (Case No. 12-cr-20302). Meach was released from prison on March 14, 2016.

Eight days after his release, on March 22, 2016, Meach robbed a Suntrust Bank in Fort Lauderdale. Two days after that, Meach robbed a Chase Bank in Doral. Meach pled guilty to both robberies in November 2016, and was sentenced to 99 months in federal prison (Case No. 16-cr-60087). Meach was released from prison on Feb. 9, 2024.

Fourteen days later, Meach committed the first of the robberies for which he was sentenced in this case.

U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement.

FBI Miami investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey O’Neal prosecuted the case.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.

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 24-cr-60100.

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MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Online Chats with Minor Females Lead to Federal Prison Sentences for Two Men

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

LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the sentencing of two men on child pornography charges.

Jason Matthew Miller, 26, of Eunice, Louisiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 210 months (17 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Miller was charged in an indictment and pleaded guilty to attempted production of child pornography. Law enforcement agents began an investigation after receiving information that Miller had communicated with a 13 year old female through Instagram, a social media platform. Through their investigation, it was revealed that in July 2018, Miller had a conversation through Instagram and on his cell phone with the minor female and he told her he was a 15 year old male, when in truth and in fact he was 20 years old at the time. Miller asked the minor female to send him sexually explicit photos of herself and she did so. At the guilty plea hearing on June 26, 2024, Miller admitted to communicating with the minor female and asking for and receiving sexually explicit photos of her.

In a separate and unrelated case, Michael Rios, 30, of San Antonio, Texas, was sentenced by United States District Judge David C. Joseph to 120 months (10 years) in prison for attempting to produce child pornography. Rios will serve 20 years of supervised release after his release from prison. At the guilty plea hearing on July 23, 2024, Rios admitted to communicating with an undercover agent who was posing as a 13 year old female on the chat application “Meet24.” In December 2022 and continuing through the spring of 2023, Rios chatted with who he believed to be a 13 year old female living in Lafayette, Louisiana. During the online conversation with the purported minor female, Rios asked her to send sexually explicit pictures and videos of herself to him and he sent sexually explicit images of himself to her. In addition, he discussed the possibility of traveling to Louisiana on numerous occasions so he and the minor female could meet at a hotel and engage in sex. Rios was subsequently arrested and charged with the offense of attempted production of child pornography.

These cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Luke Walker.

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MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Windsor Mill Woman Sentenced to More Than Five Years’ Imprisonment in Connection with Conspiracy Involving Fraudulently Obtaining and Attempting to Obtain More Than $3 Million in COVID-19 Cares Act Loans

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

Glenn Used COVID-19 CARES Act Funds to Pay for a Vacation to Jamaica, a Mercedes-Benz, Luxury Jewelry, including a 31 Carat Diamond Necklace and items from Luis Vuitton, Neiman Marcus, Dior, Cartier, Gucci, Chanel and Hermes.

Baltimore, Maryland – On October 23, 2024, Tomeka Glenn, a/k/a “Tomeka Harris” and “Tomeka Davis,” age 47, of Windsor Mill, Maryland, was sentenced by United States District Judge Richard D. Bennett to 65 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release in connection with her conviction on conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to the submission of millions of dollars in fraudulent COVID-19 CARES Act Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loan applications. Judge Bennett also directed Glenn to pay restitution in the amount of $3,016,275.62.

Glenn’s co-defendant Kevin Davis, age 43, also of Windsor Mill, Maryland, pleaded guilty on January 25, 2024 to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Judge Bennett on May 22, 2024 sentenced him to 24 months’ imprisonment.

The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge William J. Delbagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) Baltimore Field Office; and Chief Robert McCullough of the Baltimore County Police Department.

Financial assistance offered through the CARES Act included forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the Paycheck Protection Program, administered through the Small Business Administration (“SBA”). The SBA also offered an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and/or an EIDL advance to help businesses meet their financial obligations. An EIDL advance did not have to be repaid, and small businesses could receive an advance, even if they were not approved for an EIDL loan. The maximum advance amount was $10,000.

According to Glenn’s plea agreement, beginning in June 2020 and continuing through March 2021, Glenn and various co-conspirators prepared numerous false and fraudulent EIDL and PPP loan applications for various businesses (including some that did not exist in any legitimate capacity) that included false information concerning, among other things, number of employees, monthly payroll costs, and revenue. The PPP applications also routinely included false and fraudulent Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) tax forms and bank statements, which were submitted by Glenn to substantiate the false representations made in the applications.

Glenn admitted that she received kickback payments from the loan borrowers in exchange for her assistance in connection with the submission of fraudulent PPP and EIDL applications, ultimately receiving more than $400,000 in kickbacks in connection with the scheme. These kickbacks typically amounted to 10% to 20% of the loan amount. In total, the kickback scheme resulted in the disbursement of at least $2,715,649.12 in fraudulently obtained PPP and EIDL funds in connection with 23 fraudulent PPP and EIDL loans.

According to Glenn’s plea agreement, Glenn and Davis, received $300,726.50 in PPP/EIDL funds for various entities that they controlled, and Glenn attempted to obtain $601,511.20 in additional fraudulent PPP and EIDL funds too.

Glenn used the fraudulently obtained funds to pay for a luxury vacation at a resort in Jamaica, to purchase a 2021 Mercedes-Benz S580 sedan valued at $148,171.60, to buy thousands of dollars in luxury jewelry, as well as numerous other luxury goods, including items from Luis Vuitton, Neiman Marcus, Dior, Cartier, Gucci, Chanel, and Hermes.

At the time of her scheme, neither Glenn nor Davis had any legitimate source of income, and in May 2020, each applied for unemployment insurance benefits in the State of Maryland. In addition, as detailed in Davis and Glenn’s plea agreements, on January 6, 2023, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at their residence. Davis and Glenn were present at the residence at the time of the search and were arrested in connection with the fraudulent COVID-19 CARES Act loans. According to Davis’s plea agreement, during the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement found and seized four firearms loaded with ammunition—a 9mm firearm, and three .40 caliber firearms. Later investigation revealed that one of the .40 caliber firearms had earlier been reported stolen by its owner. As further detailed in Davis’s plea, the firearms were hidden by Davis in the air ducts of the residence: two firearms were hidden in the main bedroom air duct where Davis slept and kept his personal effects; the other two firearms were in the air duct of the bathroom closets to the main bedroom. Moreover, two of the firearms were further stuffed in socks in an attempt to hide them. Davis admitted that he possessed and secreted the firearms in the air ducts of his home (and in the socks) in an attempt to conceal them from law enforcement after learning that federal agents had a warrant to search his home. As admitted to at his plea, Davis’s concealment of the firearms constitutes attempted obstruction of the administration of justice with respect to the investigation. Each of the four firearms recovered from Davis’s home on January 6, 2023 were later found to have his DNA on them. A later review of Davis’s iCloud account revealed the existence of, among other things, a series of videos depicting Davis handling firearms, including a shotgun and an assault rifle. Davis knew that his previous felony conviction prohibited him from possessing firearms or ammunition.

As part of their plea agreements, Glenn and Davis will be required to forfeit their interest in any assets derived from or obtained by them as a result of, or used to facilitate the commission of, their illegal activities. Specifically, Glenn is required to forfeit a money judgment in the amount of at least $700,726.50; the 2021 Mercedes-Benz; cash in bank accounts she controlled that were held in the names of business entities; and jewelry, including her 3.03 carat yellow diamond engagement ring, Rolex, Cartier and Breitling watches, and a Diamond Miami Cuban Link Chain with 31.5 carats of VS1 diamonds. Davis must forfeit the firearms and ammunition.

The District of Maryland Strike Force is one of five strike forces established throughout the United States by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud, including fraud relating to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act. The CARES Act was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The strike forces focus on large-scale, multi-state pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.

For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

U.S. Attorney Barron commended the FBI, the SBA-OIG, and the Baltimore County Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Riley, who is prosecuting the case. He also recognized the assistance of the Maryland COVID-19 Strike Force Paralegal Specialist Joanna B.N. Huber and Paralegal Specialist Juliette Jarman.

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao/md.

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MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Pharmacy Owner Sentenced for Role in $6.9 Million Scheme to Bill Insurance for Medications Not Dispensed

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

DETROIT – A licensed pharmacist from Dearborn Heights was sentenced to 2 years in federal prison for submitting claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan for her role in a scheme to defraud health care insurers by submitting claims for pharmaceuticals that were not actually purchased, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced.

Ison was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI’s Detroit Division and Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Region of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.

In addition to the prison term, United States District Judge Nancy G. Edmunds also ordered Zeinab Makki, 61, to pay $6.9 million in restitution imposed of a forfeiture judgment of $6.9 million.

According to court records, Makki was the pharmacist in charge from 2001 through 2021 at New Millennium Drugs and Western Wayne Pharmacy. She admitted that she led a scheme to defraud Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan by submitting claims for pharmaceuticals which New Millenium Drugs and Western Wayne Pharmacy did not actually purchase.

“Fraud by health care professionals will be aggressively pursued by our office,” said U.S. Attorney Ison. “We hope that prosecutions like this one will deter health care professionals from stealing money from those who genuinely need it to order to line their own pockets.”

“This sentencing underscores our commitment to holding those who defraud Federal health care programs accountable,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “Our agency remains dedicated to working with our law enforcement partners to identify and investigate fraud allegations.”

“False medical claims divert much needed funding away from patients in need of life-saving services and Ms. Makki will serve her sentence for orchestrating and participating in this scheme,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “The FBI is proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners and pursue justice against medical professionals who defraud government healthcare programs.

The case was investigated by Special Agents of the HHS and FBI, with cooperation and assistance from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip A. Ross. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Nathan is prosecuting the related asset forfeiture matters.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Real Estate Developer Sentenced to Prison for Bribing Former Taylor Mayor

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

DETROIT –Real estate developer was sentenced to one year and a day in prison for bribing former Mayor of Taylor Richard Sollars with cash, home renovations, and other things of value in exchange for obtaining tax-foreclosed properties from the City of Taylor for redevelopment, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced.

Ison was joined in the announcement by Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Shady Awad, 44, of Allen Park was sentenced by United States District Judge Mark A. Goldsmith.

According to court documents, between 2016 and 2018, Awad provided a steady stream of bribes to then-mayor Sollars in the form of cash, home improvements to Sollars’ home and lake house, appliances, and other items of value. Awad also agreed to charge more than $19,000 to his credit cards, and then convert the charges to cash for Sollars. In total, Awad provided Sollars with goods and services valued at $85,011.73, in exchange for being permitted to acquire tax-foreclosed properties to redevelop through the City of Taylor’s Right of First Refusal (ROFR) program. This was a program designed to allow Taylor to acquire tax-foreclosed properties from Wayne County for redevelopment. As a result of the bribes Awad paid to Sollars, Sollars recommended to City Council that Awad be awarded the vast majority of the City’s ROFR properties.

“Mr. Awad’s conviction and sentence should send a strong message that not only will public officials who accept bribes be brought to justice by my office, but also, those who seek to gain an advantage by bribing public officials will face serious consequences as well,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison.

“Mr. Awad and the former Mayor of Taylor unlawfully corrupted the City of Taylor’s real estate redevelopment program, meant to benefit the city and its residents, for their own private gain,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “FBI Michigan’s Detroit Area Corruption Task Force remains committed to rigorously investigating public corruption, especially individuals who cheat the system by bribing public officials.”

The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frances Carlson and Robert Moran.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former Taylor Mayor Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in Prison for Bribery Conspiracy

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

DETROIT –Richard Sollars was sentenced to 71 months in prison for conspiring to accept bribes and engaging in wire fraud while he was the Mayor of the City of Taylor, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison.

Ison was joined in the announcement by Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Between 2016 and 2018, Sollars, 50, exercised his authority and influence as Mayor and recommended to the Taylor City Council that Realty Transition, a company owned by his co-defendant, Shady Awad, be awarded the vast majority of the tax-foreclosed properties that the City had or would acquire under its Right of First Refusal (ROFR) program. This was a program designed to allow Taylor to acquire tax-foreclosed properties from Wayne County for redevelopment. Sollars recommended Realty Transition for the ROFR program, intending to be influenced and rewarded by the free home renovations and other items of value that Awad provided to Sollars for his personal residence, office, and lake house. After an evidentiary hearing, the Court found that Sollars received bribes from Awad totaling $85,011.73 as part of this bribery scheme. The bribes included items such as home renovations, a humidor, kitchen appliances, a washer and dryer, a Dyson vacuum cleaner, a camera, and cash.

In addition, as part of his election efforts, Sollars established a campaign account entitled, “Committee to Elect Richard Sollars, Jr.” Sollars engaged in a scheme to defraud his donors by fraudulently using donated funds for his personal benefit rather than for his political campaign. In furtherance of the fraudulent scheme, Sollars directed his campaign treasurer to provide him with signed blank checks from his campaign account. Sollars then made those checks payable to Dominick’s Market in various amounts, each purporting to represent payment for catering services provided to the campaign. As known to Sollars, the owner of Dominick’s Market, Hadir Altoon, prepared false invoices for catering services that were not actually provided. Instead, Altoon would provide Sollars with some or all of the proceeds from the cashed fraudulent checks for Sollars’s personal use. After an evidentiary hearing, the Court found that Sollars received $70,362.98 from this, and other, wire fraud schemes related to his campaign account.

“Sollars, as the Mayor of the City of Taylor, pledged to represent the best interests of the citizens he represented and the voters who supported him. Instead, he used his elected office to award city contracts and spend campaign funds for his own personal financial enrichment,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison. “Sollars’s conviction and sentence demonstrate my office’s commitment to ensuring that those elected officials who place their own greed above their duties to the citizens in the community will be held to answer for their breach of trust.”

“The diligent work of the FBI’s Detroit Area Corruption Task Force, working in collaboration with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, resulted in the conviction of Richard Sollars, the former mayor of the City of Taylor,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Gibson. “This betrayal of public trust is a stark reminder of the importance of integrity and accountability in public office. We remain committed to upholding the principles of justice and transparency, ensuring that such actions do not go unpunished. Today’s sentencing of Mr. Sollars brings closure to a lengthy and thorough investigation of the former mayor’s administration.”

The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frances Carlson and Robert Moran.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Mexican National of $4.7 Million Methamphetamine Heroin Conspiracy

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national who worked with a drug-trafficking organization tied to the Cárteles Unidos cartel in Michoacán, Mexico, was convicted by a federal trial jury today of his role in a $4.7 million conspiracy to distribute more than 335 kilograms of methamphetamine and 22 kilograms of heroin in the Kansas City, Mo., metropolitan area and throughout the United States.

Luis Eduardo Pineda-Zarao, 29, a citizen of Mexico residing in Lebanon, Tennessee, was found guilty of participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin from Feb. 28, 2020, to June 1, 2022.

The indictment alleges the conspiracy involved the distribution of more than 335.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, with an average street price of $300 per ounce, and more than 22.1 kilograms of heroin, with an average street price of $1,500 per ounce.

During the investigation, federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations conducted two undercover bulk cash pickups totaling $308,775 and seized $610,400 in bulk cash, over 56 kilograms of methamphetamine, 5.5 kilograms of heroin, 2.6 kilograms of marijuana, and at least eight firearms, two of which were stolen. Law enforcement officers also seized $277,863 during a vehicle stop and $114,863 while executing search warrants at four Kansas City, Mo., residences.

Pineda-Zarao is among 44 defendants charged in this case. Nine co-defendants have been sentenced and 34 co-defendants have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.

Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., deliberated for less than an hour before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. District Judge Greg Kays, ending a trial that began Monday, Oct. 21.

Under federal statutes, Pineda-Zarao is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick C. Edwards and Megan Baker. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Jackson County Drug Task Force, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the Kansas City, Kan., Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Independence, Mo., Police Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Minnesota State Patrol, the Olmsted County, Minn., Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the FBI, the Clay County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force

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

KC Metro Strike Force

This prosecution was brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Co-located Strike Forces 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 against a continuum of priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. These prosecutor-led co-located Strike Forces capitalize on the synergy created through the long-term relationships that can be forged by agents, analysts, and prosecutors who remain together over time, and they epitomize the model that has proven most effective in combating organized crime. 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.

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January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Browning Woman Admits Assaulting Child on Blackfeet Indian Reservation

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

GREAT FALLS — A Browning woman accused of beating and injuring child in a residence on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation admitted to child abuse and assault charges today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

The defendant, Micah Lynn Brown, 25, pleaded guilty to felony child abuse and to assault resulting in substantial bodily injury of an individual under 16 years, as indicted. Brown faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, a $50,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the child abuse charge and a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years in prison on the assault charge.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Feb. 19, 2025. Brown was detained pending further proceedings.

In court documents, the government alleged that on March 21, Brown was drinking when she returned home to a residence she shared with a boyfriend and children. The boyfriend confronted Brown about her drinking and then left the house to use the phone at a nearby residence. When he returned about 10 minutes later, the front door was blocked by a couch that had been moved. Upon entering, the boyfriend heard the victim, identified as Jane Doe, who was under the age of three, screaming and found her injured in a backroom. Brown was in the same room but didn’t say anything. The boyfriend removed the children from the home and called law enforcement. Witnesses told law enforcement that the victim had soiled her diaper and threw it on the ground, angering Brown, who then assaulted the child. The victim was treated for injuries at the Browning Community Hospital.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services and the FBI conducted the investigation.

XXX

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Fly-By: October 25, 2024

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

Pfluger Fly-By: October 25, 2024

Washington, October 25, 2024

October 25, 2024

DOE Cover-Up of LNG Report

I led forty-five of my colleagues in sending a letter to Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Jennifer Granholm raising serious concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability within the agency regarding the Biden-Harris Administration’s handling of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.

In the letter, we write: “The Biden-Harris Administration’s attempt to conceal its findings on liquefied natural gas impacts is troubling. Despite evidence that U.S. LNG benefits both the economy and global energy security, the Department of Energy has imposed an indefinite ban on LNG exports to non-free trade agreement countries without legal justification.”

The American people deserve accountability on the decision-making process surrounding our energy future. Read more in the Daily Caller here or below.

CBP Releases Fiscal Year 2024 Border Apprehensions

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released final border encounters for Fiscal Year 2024, ending the year with 3 million illegal alien apprehensions and bringing the numbers under the Biden-Harris Administration up to over 10 million illegal aliens.

For the past four years, the Biden-Harris Administration has unleashed chaos at American borders by reversing President Trump’s border policies and creating mass-parole programs. Their policies have allowed millions of inadmissible aliens to be released into our communities.

House Republicans have fought to restore order at the border and enforce the laws on our books. It is four years too late for the Biden-Harris Administration to secure the border and protect Americans. Read the Committee on Homeland Security’s Startling Fact Sheet here or below.

Federal Judge Orders Virginia to Add Noncitizens to Voter Rolls

Today, a federal judge ordered the State of Virginia to reinstate 1,600 individuals who identified as noncitizens to their voter rolls. This move is alarming, especially during a presidential election year.

My legislation preventing illegal aliens and foreign nationals from voting in Washington, D.C., and the Republican-led SAVE Act, which prevents noncitizen voting nationwide, both passed the U.S. House of Representatives. These bills are being held up in the Democrat-controlled Senate.

This is not a partisan issue. Noncitizens, illegal immigrants, and foreign nationals do not have the right to vote in this country or determine the integrity of our elections. I will continue standing up for free and fair elections to ensure only citizens are voting in the United States of America.

Meta Suppressing Political Content from Users

For the past year, I have actively engaged with Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, and probed its decision to actively opt users out from viewing political content.

Social media has become a vital tool for government agencies and Members of Congress to communicate with constituents. Preventing users from viewing political or social content is a grave threat, especially during emergencies or times of need. Read more about the letter in The Hill here or below.

National Retail Federation ‘Crime Fighter Award’

I am honored to be recognized as a Retail Crime Fighter by the National Retail Federation for my support of the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act.

Organized retail crime is out of control across the country, harming small businesses and threatening public safety. As Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Law Enforcement, and Intelligence, I have led the charge to address the cause of organized retail crime along with the impact on American businesses. We must continue to aid law enforcement across the country to deter retail crime.

Female Athletes Lost Nearly 900 Medals to Transgender Athletes

A U.N. report titled “Violence against women and girls in sports” revealed that female athletes have lost nearly 900 athletic competition medals to transgender athletes.

As a father to girls in sports, this is unacceptable. I was proud to vote in favor of the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which protects female athletes by clarifying that under Title IX, sex shall be recognized solely on a person’s genetics at birth and blocks biological males from competing in school athletic programs for women or girls. It is sad that we must continue to fight for biological men to stay out of women’s sports.

I will always defend the rights of women and girls to have fair competition in sports. Read more in the New York Post here.

Biden-Harris Spent $900 Million on Flawed COVID-19 Campaign

The U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce released a report unveiling the failings of a $900 million COVID-19 public relations campaign overseen by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This campaign, funded by taxpayer dollars, was used to amplify flawed messaging on the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Biden-Harris Administration’s guidance on the COVID-19 pandemic led to prolonged closures of small businesses and schools. I am proud of the Committee for uncovering the truth behind the Administration’s use of taxpayer dollars that led to public distrust in our public health institutions. Read the report here or below.

Thank you for reading. It is the honor of my lifetime to serve you in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily updates.

Rep. August Pfluger

Member of Congress

MIL OSI USA News –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Gang related funeral, Hutt Valley and Porirua

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police will be monitoring a gang related funeral in the Hutt Valley and Porirua today, Tuesday 29 October.

The funeral is due to take place in Lower Hutt this morning, with a procession to Whenua Tapu Cemetery in Porirua.

Hutt Valley Prevention Manager Inspector Shaun Lingard says: “Police have had a visible presence in Lower Hutt overnight and will monitor the funeral procession out to Whenua Tapu today.”

Unlawful activity will not be tolerated and any unlawful behaviour will be investigated and followed up with enforcement action.”

There is likely to be some traffic disruption in the late morning in Lower Hutt, particularly around Moera, and in the early afternoon in Porirua including SH 58. Motorists should expect some temporary disruption and should plan accordingly.”

If you are concerned about your safety, or witness illegal behaviour happening now, please call 111 immediately.

To report, or send in any footage of the unlawful behaviour, we encourage you to file a report online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105, call Police on 105, or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-nz.org

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/28/2024, 17:55 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for security RU000A108124 (RZhD 1P-31R) were changed.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

10/28/2024

17:55

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 10/28/2024, 17:55 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 94.43) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 1053.67 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 27.5%) of the security RU000A108124 (RZhD 1P-31R) 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 accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

https://www.moex.com/n74353

MIL OSI Russia News –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Happy Valley-Goose Bay — Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP investigates robbery at Skipper Joe’s, seeks public’s assistance

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP is investigating a robbery that occurred on the evening of October 27, 2024, at Skipper Joe’s store on Hamilton River Road in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

The crime occurred at approximately 9:00 p.m. on Sunday. A lone man, who was wearing all black clothing and gloves, entered the store wearing a black ski mask. He approached the cashier and demanded that the employee open the register. The man departed the store with the register in hand and was last seen running east along Hamilton River Road towards Juniper Street.

The investigation is continuing. Police ask the public to check for any available surveillance footage, including dash cam footage, and to report suspicious activity.

Anyone having information about this crime, the identity of the suspect or the current location of the cash register is asked to contact Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP at 709-896-3383. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

MIL Security OSI –

January 25, 2025

Category: Crime

Close season

Fisheries enforcement

Fishing licences

The charges for Vaidotas Jacaitis

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Pfluger Fly-By: October 25, 2024

Rep. August Pfluger