Source:
As floodwaters recede in New South Wales, look after yourself – both physically and emotionally. Floods increase the risk of infections, mosquito-borne illnesses, and food and water contamination. Finding medicines can be harder, and the mental health toll, significant. Support is available.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Gel blasters and replica firearm seized
Tuesday, 27 May 2025 – 1:00 pm.
A replica pistol, gel blasters and an electronic stun device disguised as a torch were among items seized by Tasmania Police during searches of properties in the state’s north and south this morning.
A 35-year-old Hobart man has been interviewed by police and issued with a summons to appear in court at a later date, as part of the ongoing joint operation between Tasmania Police and Australian Border Force authorities.
This morning, (Tuesday, May 27) police executed simultaneous searches at two Tasmanian properties – one in the Hobart suburb of Lenah Valley and another in Mowbray, Launceston.
The operation involved members from the Tasmania Police Drugs and Firearms Units (Southern and Northern), the Police Dog Handling Unit, Australian Border Force and specialist resources.
Following the search of the Lenah Valley property, police seized four gel blaster-type pistols, one metal replica pistol, one foldable gel blaster submachine gun and quantities of alleged controlled substances (steroids).
At the Mowbray address, officers searched a shed on the property and seized three gel blaster firearms resembling pistols, an electronic stun device disguised as a torch (Taser), ammunition and various chemicals.
Also seized at the Mowbray property were body armour, ballistic helmets, balaclavas and police-style patches and insignia.
Police advise that in Tasmania, gel blasters are considered firearms under the Firearms Act 1996.
To lawfully possess any firearm in Tasmania – including a gel blaster – a licence of the category which is appropriate to that firearm is required. This means that to possess a gel blaster, which is an air rifle, a Category A licence is required.
To possess a gel blaster which is an air pistol, a Category H licence is required.
A person needs a genuine reason to possess a gel blaster, in the same way that they need a genuine reason to possess any other firearm.For further firearms information, go to www.fas.police.tas.gov.au
Source: Washington State News
SEATTLE — Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following statement today after filing an appeal of a King County Superior Court’s ruling on Initiative-2066 to the Washington state Supreme Court:
“While I personally disagreed with I-2066, it was passed by Washington voters and is the law of the state. My job as Attorney General is to enforce and defend the laws of Washington and I will continue to vigorously do so in this case.”
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Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.
Media Contact:
Email: press@atg.wa.gov
Phone: (360) 753-2727
General contacts: Click here
Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
LAS VEGAS, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jena Acquisition Corporation II (“Jena II” or the “Company”) announced today that it priced its initial public offering of 20,000,000 units at $10.00 per unit. The units will be listed on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and trade under the ticker symbol “JENA.U” beginning May 29, 2025. Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one right entitling the holder thereof to receive one-twentieth of one Class A ordinary share upon the consummation of an initial business combination. The Class A ordinary shares and rights comprising the units are expected to begin separate trading no later than the 52nd day following this date. Once the securities comprising the units begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and rights are expected to be listed on the NYSE under the symbols “JENA” and “JENA.R,” respectively.
Santander is acting as sole book-running manager. The Company has granted the underwriter a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,000,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.
The offering was made by means of a prospectus. Copies of the prospectus may be obtained from Santander US Capital Markets LLC, 437 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022, Attention: ECM Syndicate, by email at equity-syndicate@santander.us, or by telephone at 833-818-1602.
A registration statement relating to the securities became effective on May 28, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. The offering is expected to close on May 30, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.
About Jena Acquisition Corporation II
The Company is a blank check company incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. While the Company may pursue a business combination in any business or industry, it intends to capitalize on the ability of its management team and initially focus its search on identifying a prospective target business that can benefit from its co-founder and Chairman William P. Foley, II’s and its co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Richard N. Massey’s historical areas of business expertise. W. Dabbs Cavin, Dexter Fowler and Tim Hsia will be serving as board members.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the proposed initial public offering and the anticipated use of the net proceeds. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all, or that the net proceeds of the offering will be used as indicated. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s preliminary prospectus for the Company’s offering filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Copies of these documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.
Investor Contact:
Richard N. Massey
CEO
jenaacquisition.com
Source: Samsung
Since debuting in February 2024, Samsung Electronics’ Bespoke AI Laundry Combo1 has sold more than 100,000 units in Korea and won 21 major awards,2 building a strong presence in the all-in-one washer-dryer market.
Designed to boost convenience and make smarter use of time and space, the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is reshaping daily life. Samsung Newsroom took an inside look at how that transformation is taking place and why.
Wash and Dry in One Go — A Simpler Routine for Better Living
According to a Samsung survey3 of 206 buyers in Korea who purchased all-in-one washer-dryers released in 2024, respondents cited the following top reasons for their purchase — no laundry transfer needed (23%), saving space (21%), single installation for both washing and drying (12%), and one-step operation from wash to dry (11%).
As laundry becomes simpler and more convenient, how and when people do it is evolving. Compared to before purchasing all-in-one models, people are washing their clothes more frequently. Dual-income households, in particular, are increasingly doing their laundry on weeknights after work.
As washing and drying are completed in a single automated cycle, the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo allows users to simply load their clothes, press start and walk away. There’s no need to wait around or manually move wet clothes to a separate dryer. Furthermore, the Auto Open Door feature even opens the door automatically once drying is complete, releasing moisture quickly and enhancing hygiene and convenience.
Simple Setup, Smarter Use of Space and AI-Optimized Cycles
The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo also offers improved space efficiency and greater flexibility in installation. Unlike conventional setups that require separate space for both washer and dryer units, the all-in-one unit reduces spatial demand by around 40%,4 with no need to stack two machines or place them side-by-side. Its lower height also allows for extra shelving in laundry or utility rooms.
▲ The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo reduces spatial demand by around 40% compared to conventional washer and dryer setups.
In addition, the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo’s AI-powered features significantly boost efficiency. AI Wash & Dry5 automatically selects the best wash and dry settings based on weight, fabric type and soil level, removing the need for manual configuration.
In the survey, customers in Korea expressed high satisfaction6 with features like the Flex Auto Dispense System7 (91%) and AI Energy Mode8 (89%). The Flex Auto Dispense System adjusts the detergent amount to suit the load of laundry when detergent is pre-filled in the compartment, reducing maintenance hassle and preventing overuse or underuse of detergent, which is a common issue with conventional washing machines.
Energy efficiency has also improved, as the 2025 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo consumes 45% less electricity per kilogram than the minimum required for top-rated front-load washers in Korea.9 With AI Energy Mode, users can reduce energy consumption by up to 60% without compromising performance.10
Samsung continues to drive the popularization of all-in-one washer-dryers by introducing products with industry-leading drying capacity.11 The 2025 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo increases capacity by 3kg to a total of 18kg, while reducing drying time by 20 minutes to complete a full wash-and-dry cycle in as little as 79 minutes.12
“We are committed to introducing more products like the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo that bring meaningful changes to users’ daily lives,” said Jong-Hun Sung, Vice President and Head of Clothing Care R&D Group at Digital Appliances (DA) Business, Samsung Electronics. “With our innovative technology and focus on personalized user experiences, we aim to open a new chapter in home appliances.”
As laundry becomes an increasingly seamless experience, Samsung will continue to enable a smarter, more convenient way of living, one cycle at a time.
1 All information regarding the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo in this article is based on products launched in South Korea. Product specifications may vary by country and region of release. For accurate information, please refer to the official sales outlet or the manufacturer’s website in your country.
2 Recognitions include Winner of the iF Design Award (2024, 2025), Finalist of the IDEA Design Award (2024), Bronze for the Good Design Award by the Korea Institute of Design Promotion (2024), Winner of the Korea Innovation Frontier Award by the Korean Standards Association (2024), Honoree at the CES Innovation Awards (2024), Winner of the Ergonomic Design Award by the Ergonomics Society of Korea (2024), Korea Green Product of the Year by the Korea Green Purchasing Network (2024), Winner of the Jang Young-Shil Award by Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT (2024), Winner of the Korea Electronics Show Innovation Award (2024), No.1 in INNO STAR and GREEN STAR by Korea Management Registrar Inc. (2024, 2025), No.1 in Home Appliance A/S in the KS-SQI and KSQI by the Korean Standards Association and Korea Management Association Consultants respectively (2024), No.1 in the Washer-Dryer Category in the KS-QEI by the Korean Standards Association (2024), Winner of the Korea Brand Hall of Fame by the Institute for Industrial Policy Studies (2025), Winner of the Canstar Blue Most Innovative Award in Australia (2025), and No.1 in the Washer-Dryer Category by Consumer Reports in the United States (2024, 2025).
3 Based on an online survey conducted on 206 buyers of all-in-one washer-dryers in Korea, including 154 who purchased Samsung’s Bespoke AI Laundry Combo. Participants included purchase decision-makers, primary users and buyers of models released in 2024.
4 When installing the Bespoke AI Washer (25kg) and Dryer (22kg) in a stacked configuration, the required height is 1,890mm. In a side-by-side configuration, the required width is 980mm. In comparison, the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo has a height of 1,110mm and width of 686mm.
5 Detects fabric type under AI Wash & Dry mode for loads up to 3kg. Detects soil level under the same mode for loads up to 9kg. Detects a total of five fabric types — normal, towels, delicates, denim and outdoor — and when multiple fabric types are mixed, identifies them as either “normal” or the type that most closely matches.
6 Research Methodology: Satisfaction levels for each of the 2024 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo’s 14 features were measured using a 7-point scale. The results reflect the proportion of respondents who selected the top two ratings: “Very satisfied” and “Satisfied.”
7 Based on a 5kg laundry load using the standard wash cycle, with the detergent amount set to “normal” and concentration set to “regular.” Results are based on internal testing and may vary depending on actual usage conditions. When filling the main and optional compartments with regular detergent, the auto-dispense system can operate for up to 13 weeks per refill under a usage rate of three cycles per week.
8 AI Energy Mode activates immediately when “Maximum Saving” is selected as the monthly usage target within the SmartThings Energy service. When “Progressive tier” or “Custom” settings are selected, operation time and energy savings may vary depending on the user-defined conditions. To manage energy use based on tiered electricity pricing, a separate smart meter may be required depending on the user environment. AI Energy Mode is available exclusively via SmartThings, which may have limitations depending on the supported environment and usage conditions.
9 Based on data for front-load (or electric) washing machines listed on the Korea Energy Agency website. The minimum standard for Grade 1 energy efficiency is 45.8 Wh/kg. The 2025 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo’s energy efficiency rate is 24.9 Wh/kg.
10 Conducted using 3kg of standardized test fabric in accordance with KS C IEC 60456, with the fabric type identified as “normal” and the water temperature set to 20°C. Power consumption was compared with AI Energy Mode (set to “Maximum Saving”) turned on and off. Test model: WD25DB8995BZ; Reference model: WD90F25***.
11 As of March 5, 2025, the 2025 Bespoke AI Laundry Combo’s 25kg washing capacity is the largest among household washing machines registered with the Korea Energy Agency. Its 18kg drying capacity is the largest among front-load models as of March 10, 2025.
12 Based on DOE standard test fabric composed of 50% cotton and 50% polyester, using the Quick Cycle. Actual results may vary depending on fabric type, moisture content, characteristics, and laundry load in real-world usage conditions.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)
Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) joined Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44) and every Democratic member of the California Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., urging them to safeguard federal funding for the Head Start program. The letter comes in response to alarming reports that the Trump Administration considered eliminating Head Start funding during recent federal budget discussions.
“From Los Angeles County to the Central Valley to rural tribal lands, Head Start provides comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services to children who are disproportionately impacted by poverty and housing instability,” wrote the members. “These essential services support our state’s economy by allowing parents to work and go to school, while giving our future workforce the strong start that they need to be successful later in life.”
California is home to one of the largest populations of Head Start children in the nation. In Fiscal Year 2023 alone, Head Start and Early Head Start programs served more than 94,000 children across the state. These programs offer critical support to children by integrating early education with health, nutrition, and family services – providing targeted support to those experiencing poverty, housing insecurity, and systemic inequities.
“The elimination or reduction of Head Start funding would be catastrophic. In California, it would shut the doors of 1,835 Head Start and Early Head Start Centers and eliminate access to early education for tens of thousands of children – disproportionately children of color, English learners, children with disabilities, and those living in low-income and rural communities.”
Since its founding in 1965, Head Start has served over 40 million children and families nationwide. Decades of research confirm that the program improves school readiness, boosts long-term academic and employment outcomes, and helps break the cycle of poverty.
“Head Start is not optional – it is a national commitment that must be honored,” the members added. “We urge you to reject any future attempts to weaken or eliminate this program and to ensure its continued success for the children and families who rely on it every day.”
The letter was co-signed by each of the 45 Democratic members of the California Congressional Delegation: Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, and Representatives Pete Aguilar, Nancy Pelosi, Robert Garcia, Linda Sánchez, John Garamendi, Kevin Mullin, Mark Takano, Ted Lieu, Maxine Waters, Laura Friedman, J. Luis Correa, Ro Khanna, Mike Thompson, Norma Torres, Mark DeSaulnier, Juan Vargas, Gilbert Ray Cisneros, Jr., Judy Chu, Derek Tran, Raul Ruiz, Jared Huffman, Doris Matsui, Salud Carbajal, Brad Sherman, Ami Bera, Jimmy Panetta, Zoe Lofgren, Eric Swalwell, Lateefah Simon, Dave Min, Jimmy Gomez, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Jim Costa, George Whitesides, Luz Rivas, Sara Jacobs, Scott Peters, Josh Harder, Adam Gray, Mike Levin, and Sam Liccardo.
The full letter can be found here and below:
President Trump and Secretary Kennedy:
We write today to express serious concern over reports that your Administration considered proposals to eliminate federal funding for the Department of Health and Human Services’ Head Start program in recent budget discussions. While we are relieved that the White House Office of Management and Budget’s Fiscal Year 2026 proposal did not include this cut, that such an action was even contemplated underscores the vulnerability of this vital program under your Administration. As members of the California Congressional Delegation, we urge you to safeguard this critical program, which plays an irreplaceable role in supporting California’s children and families, especially those facing economic hardship and systemic barriers.
California is home to one of the largest populations of Head Start children in the nation. In Fiscal Year 2023 alone, more than 94,000 children and pregnant women in California were served by Head Start and Early Head Start programs. These services are not just beneficial – they are essential. From Los Angeles County to the Central Valley to rural tribal lands, Head Start provides comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services to children who are disproportionately impacted by poverty and housing instability. These essential services support our state’s economy by allowing parents to work and go to school, while giving our future workforce the strong start that they need to be successful later in life.
Since its founding in 1965, Head Start has supported more than 40 million children and their families nationwide – and millions in California alone. Research continues to confirm what educators and parents have long known: Head Start works. It boosts school readiness, improves long-term academic outcomes, increases high school graduation and employment rates, and helps break cycles of generational poverty.
The elimination or reduction of Head Start funding would be catastrophic. In California, it would shut the doors of 1,835 Head Start and Early Head Start Centers and eliminate access to early education for tens of thousands of children – disproportionately children of color, English learners, children with disabilities, and those living in low-income and rural communities. Thousands of parents would also lose their ability to go to work or school, and otherwise participate in the economy.
Head Start is not optional – it is a national commitment that must be honored. For these reasons, we urge you to reject any future attempts to weaken or eliminate this program and to ensure its continued success for the children and families who rely on it every day.
###
Issues: 119th Congress, Education
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)
Ahead of Anniversary, Pressley Introduced Suite of Bills to Transform Criminal Legal System, Improve Police Accountability
BOSTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) released the following statement marking the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder. Last week, ahead of the anniversary, Congresswoman Pressley reintroduced the People’s Justice Guarantee (PJG), the Ending Qualified Immunity Act, and the Andrew Kearse Accountability for Denial of Medical Care Act – a suite of bills that collectively would help build a fair, equitable, and just legal system in America, and improve police accountability.
“George Floyd should be alive today. Like every Black man, he deserved to grow old, to laugh with his children, to love and be loved. But five years ago today, George Floyd was murdered in broad daylight by police—a harrowing reminder of the brutal, state-sanctioned violence that Black folks in America have endured for generations and that we continue to endure to this day.
“In the days and weeks that followed, America underwent a so-called ‘reckoning’ on racial injustice. People from every corner of this country mobilized, demanding justice, accountability, and transformative change. But five years later, meaningful policy change remains stalled in Congress, corporations are backing away from their commitments to racial equity, and a white supremacist once again occupies the White House—continuing his unprecedented assault on Black America, rolling back policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and advancing harmful executive actions to ‘unleash law enforcement’ and threaten Black lives. Without meaningful policy and budget change, the unjust status quo will persist, and we will continue to be robbed of innocent lives.
“This anniversary must be more than hashtags, performative statements, and remembrance—it must be a recommitment to dismantling the systems of oppression that enabled George Floyd’s murder and the killing of many, many others. That means continuing to advance policies like the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and my People’s Justice Guarantee, Ending Qualified Immunity Act, and Andrew Kearse Act, which I was proud to re-introduce this past week. It means legislating to affirm housing, healthcare, food security, and education as the human rights that they are. It means centering compassion, accountability, and healing in our policymaking—not cruelty, criminalization, and incarceration.
“We’ll never have true justice for George Floyd. True justice would be George Floyd alive today, at home with his fiancée, children, and siblings. As we mark this somber anniversary, we owe it to George, his family, and everyone killed at the hands of law enforcement to continue governing like lives depend on it and building a more just America where everyone can thrive and live free from fear.”
In April 2021, Congresswoman Pressley authored an op-ed in USA Today in which she responded to reports that the guilty verdicts in the Derek Chauvin trial have reduced the appetite amongst lawmakers—in both parties—for action on police reform. In the op-ed, Rep. Pressley called for meaningful policy and budget change to dismantle every system that finances and perpetuates brutality, murder and state-sanctioned violence at home and abroad.
Congresswoman Pressley has introduced over a dozen pieces of precise legislation informed by the People’s Justice Guarantee to fundamentally redefine what justice looks like in America, including the Ending Qualified Immunity Act and Andrew Kearse Accountability for the Denial of Medical Care Act.
Congresswoman Pressley also led calls in Congress for President Biden to use his clemency authority to address mass incarceration and has applauded the President for granting clemency to thousands of people and commended him for commuting the death sentences of 37 individuals on federal death row.
###
Source: New Zealand Police
A sticky-fingered thief almost bagged nearly $1000 worth of groceries before Police tracked him down in Auckland last week.
It’s led to Police laying charges for a wider spate of offending valued at over $10,000.
At around 9am on Saturday 24 May Police received a report of a male shoplifting from a Manukau supermarket.
“This male has taken a large amount of meat products and fled the scene in a vehicle,” Counties Manukau Central Area Prevention Manager Inspector Warrick Adkin says.
Officers attending the incident made enquiries into the vehicle and discovered the same male had been involved in a shoplifting event at a Three Kings supermarket only an hour earlier.
“Police Officers immediately responded in an attempt to locate this male and the vehicle,” Inspector Adkin says.
“Not long after, the vehicle was located a short distance away, as it was about to enter State Highway 20.”
Police successfully stopped the vehicle and took the alleged offender into custody.
Inside the vehicle, approximately $800 worth of groceries were located, which were returned to the store.
“Further enquiries revealed this male has allegedly been involved in numerous shoplifting or theft incidents this year, totalling several thousand dollars,” says Inspector Adkin.
“We are pleased to have brought this spree to an end and for this male to be held accountable for his actions. We will not tolerate such brazen criminal offending.”
A 17-year-old appeared in the Manukau Youth Court on May 24 charged with multiple shoplifting.
ENDS
Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police
Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development
Vorwerk Australia Pty Ltd, trading as Thermomix in Australia, has paid $79,200 in penalties after the ACCC issued it with four infringement notices for allegedly making false or misleading representations to consumers online, suggesting two of its household appliances were endorsed by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
In November 2024, the ACCC put businesses on notice of its focus on problematic advertising practices targeting NDIS participants. Since then, it has taken compliance and enforcement action against a number of businesses.
The ACCC alleges that in November 2024 and March 2025, Thermomix made false or misleading representations on its website promoting the Thermomix TM6 cooking product and Kobold cordless vacuum and mop as being endorsed through the NDIS or registered by an entity administering the NDIS.
This included allegedly describing the products as ‘NDIS approved’, ‘NDIS-registered product’, ‘NDIS-consumables’, ‘NDIS assistive technology’, and ‘NDIS equipment’.
“The NDIS does not provide specific approval for any particular goods or services. Each NDIS participant has unique needs, and what’s funded under their plan is determined individually, not through a list of approved products. There are no categories of goods or services which are automatically NDIS approved or funded for all NDIS participants,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.
“Misleading consumers experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage is of concern to us, and we will not hesitate to take appropriate action.”
The Australian Government’s NDIS (Fair Price and Australian Consumer Law) Taskforce is comprised of the ACCC, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission and the NDIA. The taskforce was established in December 2023 to address potential breaches of Australian Consumer Law amid concerns that NDIS participants were being charged more for goods and services than other consumers.
Any person who thinks a business has made false or misleading statements about products or services, including whether they are endorsed or approved by the NDIS, or who considers their consumer rights have not been met, can make a report to the ACCC.
Further information for NDIS participants is available on the ACCC website.
The ACCC can issue an infringement notice when it has reasonable grounds to believe a person or business has contravened certain consumer protection provisions in the Australian Consumer Law.
The payment of a penalty specified in an infringement notice is not an admission of a contravention of the Australian Consumer Law. The Australian Consumer Law sets the penalty amount.
Examples of concerning advertising that may be false or misleading include:
Vorwerk Australia Pty Ltd is the sole Australian distributor of Thermomix products in Australia and the owner of TheMix Shop, an ecommerce store for Thermomix and Kobold products.
In November 2024, Vorwerk International AG, the Germany-based manufacturer of Thermomix and Kobold appliances, completed an acquisition of The Mix Australia Pty Ltd, which held the sole official licence to distribute Thermomix appliances in Australia and operated the ecommerce store TheMix Shop. After the acquisition, The Mix Australia Pty Ltd was renamed as Vorwerk Australia Pty Ltd.
In December 2024, the ACCC instituted proceedings against registered NDIS provider Ausnew Home Care Service Pty Ltd, for alleged false and misleading representations, including statements that certain products were ‘NDIS approved’ relating to aged care and disability products. The matter remains before the Court.
Last week, Bedding retailer Bedshed paid $39,600 in penalties for allegedly making false and misleading representations that some of the products it sold were ‘NDIS approved’ and ‘NDIS permitted’.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
HOHHOT, May 28 — Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng has called for greater efforts and more pragmatic measures to achieve further key results in the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program (TSFP), which is the world’s largest afforestation initiative and tackles desertification in the northwestern, northern and northeastern parts of China.
He, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks on Tuesday at a meeting on advancing desertification control for the meandering bends of the Yellow River in Bayannur, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
The Yellow River is China’s second-longest river — after the Yangtze. The areas near the meandering bends of the Yellow River are among the three key areas for the promotion of desertification control under the TSFP.
The vice premier also visited the sites of a water conservancy project, a quicksand control project along the Yellow River, and a new energy storage project.
Noting at the meeting that significant progress has been made in advancing the TSFP over the past two years, He said that the project is now at a critical stage, and stressed the need to recognize the current situation and its challenges, and to steadfastly implement strategic plans.
The TSFP was launched in 1978 and is set to conclude by 2050, aiming to restore green areas prone to desertification in the “three norths.”
By 2030, the country aims to achieve significant desertification control results through the TSFP in three regions: the Hexi Corridor-Taklimakan Desert region, the two sandy lands of Horqin and Hunshandake, and the areas near the meandering bends of the Yellow River.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHANGHAI, May 28 — Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has underscored the importance of efforts to promote the sound development of the platform economy, and of maintaining a fair, orderly market environment.
Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during an investigation and research tour in east China’s Shanghai which lasted from Tuesday to Wednesday.
During visits to online retail, livestream e-commerce and food delivery companies, Zhang said that the platform economy plays a crucial role in advancing innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as in boosting domestic circulation. He encouraged relevant businesses to allocate more resources toward the provision of high-quality products and services.
Platform rules should be established in an open and fair manner, Zhang said, stressing that malignant competition characterized by cheap, low-quality products must be prohibited.
All platforms should utilize positive, beneficial algorithms while also ensuring appropriate, transparent pricing standards, Zhang said. He called for strengthened measures to crack down on irregularities, including malicious price comparisons, false advertising and inflated sales rankings.
On market regulation, Zhang called for accelerated efforts to eliminate regulations and practices that impede a unified market or fair competition. He also emphasized the need to address illegal charges on businesses to maintain a favorable market environment.
Additionally, Zhang urged market regulators to expedite the adoption of new technologies, such as those in the fields of big data and artificial intelligence, to enhance regulatory efficiency.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
U.S.-funded financial institutions welcome to participate in China’s capital market: vice premier
BEIJING, May 28 — Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with Co-President of Morgan Stanley Dan Simkowitz in Beijing on Wednesday.
He, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China’s commitment to promoting high-quality development through high-level opening up will invigorate and add impetus to the Chinese and global economies.
He welcomed more U.S.-funded financial institutions and long-term capital, including Morgan Stanley, to continuously deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with China and actively participate in the construction and development of China’s capital market.
Simkowitz was pleased with the substantive progress made in the U.S.-China economic and trade talks and said that he would continue to focus on the Chinese market and provide high-quality services to promote investment cooperation between U.S. and Chinese enterprises.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
OPM encourages agencies to offer maximum salary to Trump political appointees, encouraging them to sidestep agency HR offices & standard vetting process
Lawmakers: “Padding the pockets of political operatives while firing food safety inspectors is nothing short of an egregious abuse of taxpayer dollars.”
Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) sent a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) calling out its recent memo encouraging agencies to ignore the recommendations of agency HR offices and offer the maximum available salary of $195,200 to Schedule C political appointees.
As the Trump administration fires dedicated federal employees en masse across government, the senators demanded information about the Trump administration’s hiring of Schedule C political appointees, their salaries, the number of appointees making the maximum salary, justification for sidestepping HR recommendations and vetting processes, any guardrails implemented to prevent cronyism, and the costs to taxpayers.
“You issued a memo to the heads and acting heads of departments and agencies encouraging them to offer the maximum available salary to political appointees and sidestep the regular hiring process,” write the senators. “This memo, coupled with the Administration’s widespread layoffs of career government workers who have loyally served in the Executive Branch for Presidents of both political parties, makes clear your intention: fire dedicated public servants in droves, cut essential government services, and use taxpayer dollars to instead hire underqualified and overpaid political cronies.”
“While this Administration pushes out scores of public servants and guts entire agencies, often in defiance of Congress and federal law, your memo encourages agencies to help install loyalists who have not been properly vetted, in critically important positions—and to pay them at the highest possible rate. As dedicated career public servants are receiving notice that they have been fired, the Administration is offering higher pay for those hired under Schedule C,” they continue.
“Per your memo, agencies may consider setting initial salaries at up to $195,200, almost five times the median income for individuals in the U.S.,” write the lawmakers.
The lawmakers note that the OPM memo “demonstrates a desire for the expeditious hiring of underqualified and overpaid political elites. Schedule C hires are not career civil servants. They will not be answering phones at Social Security field offices or conducting food inspections or fighting wildfires.”
“Padding the pockets of political operatives while firing food safety inspectors is nothing short of an egregious abuse of taxpayer dollars and massively wasteful,” they state.
The full letter is available HERE and below:
Mr. Charles Ezell
Acting Director
Office of Personnel Management
1900 E Street N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20415
Dear Acting Director Ezell:
On April 10, 2025, you issued a memo to the heads and acting heads of departments and agencies encouraging them to offer the maximum available salary to political appointees and sidestep the regular hiring process. This memo, coupled with the Administration’s widespread layoffs of career government workers who have loyally served in the Executive Branch for Presidents of both political parties, makes clear your intention: fire dedicated public servants in droves, cut essential government services, and use taxpayer dollars to instead hire underqualified and overpaid political cronies.
Since President Trump took office, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has worked with Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to facilitate the firings of tens of thousands of government employees under the guise of government efficiency. The American people have experienced only chaos as a result. The phone lines at Social Security are overwhelmed, food inspections are down, and as fire season begins, the Forest Service is planning to layoff wildland firefighters—to name just a few of the consequences of this administration’s arbitrary and thoughtless cuts. Put simply, OPM’s actions have sowed inefficiency and counter-productivity for the essential government services that our constituents depend on.
While this Administration pushes out scores of public servants and guts entire agencies, often in defiance of Congress and federal law, your memo encourages agencies to help install loyalists who have not been properly vetted, in critically important positions—and to pay them at the highest possible rate. As dedicated career public servants are receiving notice that they have been fired, the Administration is offering higher pay for those hired under Schedule C, a type of appointment for those serving in confidential or policy roles, including as confidential assistants, policy experts, special counsel, and schedulers. Per your memo, agencies may consider setting initial salaries at up to $195,200, almost five times the median income for individuals in the U.S. Further, your memo encourages agency heads to sidestep the standard hiring process and remove the objective additional reviewer of candidates. This would allow appointees to begin work in sensitive roles without any vetting, including for conflicts of interest or background checks, bypassing the basic guardrails that have been in place for decades. On its face, OPM’s April 10 memo demonstrates a desire for the expeditious hiring of underqualified and overpaid political elites.
Schedule C hires are not career civil servants. They will not be answering phones at Social Security field offices or conducting food inspections or fighting wildfires. They do not work for the American people; they work to advance the political agenda of the President. OPM’s April 10 memo makes clear the Trump Administration’s ultimate goal is to decimate the nonpolitical career civil service and use taxpayer dollars to enrich and reward political allies, all at the cost of the government services that people rely on.
Padding the pockets of political operatives while firing food safety inspectors is nothing short of an egregious abuse of taxpayer dollars and massively wasteful.
In order to ensure OPM works to actually promote efficiency and productivity in the government workforce, we request you provide the following information:
The salary information of all Schedule C appointees, and the current number of Schedule C appointees, broken down by agency. For those Schedule C appointees the administration has hired at a pay level of GS-15 or $195,200, please provide a brief job description for each.
The justification for revoking the authority of agency HR departments to set the terms for Schedule C appointment and additional information as to how agencies will set the terms for Schedule C appointment without HR involvement.
Any guidance or detail OPM has provided to agencies as to how to set the terms for a Schedule C appointment in order to avoid widespread corruption.
The agency-level cost of hiring the desired number of Schedule C appointees.
Any written information detailing the role of the Presidential Personnel Office (PPO) in hiring Schedule C appointees.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward receiving your responses no later than June 4, 2025.
Sincerely,
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), for his monthly Local Spotlight, congratulated Louisiana native and LSU freshman John Foster on finishing strong in the American Idol finale. Each month, Cassidy highlights a local story that truly reflects Louisiana values of humility, respect, and resiliency.
Read his full May 2025 Local Spotlight below:
Mr. President, I want to congratulate John Foster, a Louisiana native and fellow LSU Tiger, on an impressive run on American Idol.John was the runner-up on this season of American Idol. And while it was not the outcome everyone in Louisiana was hoping for, he represented himself and Louisiana well on a national stage. John’s performances were excellent and inspiring. He was also practicing and performing as he is pursuing pre-med!John, well done on pursuing both your dream and your education. From all of us back home, keep singing. You are first place in Louisiana.
Background
Last month, Cassidy highlighted Mrs. Louise McClelland for her 105th birthday. Louise served her community for 35 years as a teacher and continues to inspire her community with her joy and adventurous spirit.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
1. On the results of the passage of housing and communal services enterprises and electric power industry entities in the autumn-winter period of 2024-2025 and the tasks of preparing for the passage of the autumn-winter period of 2025-2026
2. On the draft federal law “On the execution of the federal budget for 2024”
3. On the draft federal law “On ratification of the Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of the United Arab Emirates on the elimination of double taxation with respect to taxes on income and capital, and on the prevention of tax avoidance and evasion”
The bill aims to ratify the agreement signed in Abu Dhabi on February 17, 2025.
4. On the implementation and evaluation of the effectiveness of state programs of the Russian Federation based on the results of 2024
The materials of the Consolidated Report contain information on the assessment of the effectiveness of 37 state programs.
5. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Article 33332–1 of Part Two of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation”
The bill is aimed at forming a common market for veterinary drugs within the Eurasian Economic Union.
6. On Amending the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 30, 2004 No. 327 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance)
The draft act is aimed at granting Rosselkhoznadzor the right to establish departmental awards.
7. On amendments to certain acts of the Government of the Russian Federation (in terms of amendments to the Regulation on the Federal Agency for Fisheries)
The development of the draft act was dictated by the lack of authority of the Federal Agency for Fisheries to create a certification commission, which is necessary to conduct, in the established manner, the certification of the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Northern Expeditionary Squad for Emergency Rescue Operations” and the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Far Eastern Expeditionary Squad for Emergency Rescue Operations”, subordinate to the Federal Agency for Fisheries, which carry out emergency rescue operations to ensure the safety of fishing vessels in fishing areas during fishing.
8. On the draft federal law “On the execution of the budget of the Federal Compulsory Medical Insurance Fund for 2024”
9. On amendments to the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 19, 2012 No. 608 (in terms of amendments to the Regulation on the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation)
The draft resolution supplements the provision with a new authority to approve the procedure for providing representatives of a medical insurance organization with consultations to insured persons in filing claims against medical organizations in connection with refusal to provide medical care or poor-quality medical care and the collection of funds for the provision of medical care.
10. On the draft federal law “On Amending Article 49 of the Air Code of the Russian Federation”
The bill was developed with the aim of improving the legal regulation of the procedure for concluding lease agreements in relation to federal real estate of civil aviation airfields.
11. On the distribution of subsidies to the budgets of the Donetsk People’s Republic, the Lugansk People’s Republic, the Zaporizhia region and the Kherson region
The development of the draft act is dictated by the need to bring public roads of regional, inter-municipal or local significance, including the street road network, into compliance with the regulatory requirements by 2025.
12. On the allocation to the Ministry of Construction of Russia in 2025 of budgetary allocations reserved in the federal budget for the provision of subsidies to the budgets of the Republic of Kalmykia and the Pskov Region for the implementation of measures to modernize the public utility infrastructure
The draft order is aimed at achieving the goals of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”.
13. On the allocation to the Ministry of Construction of Russia in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation of budgetary appropriations for the provision of one-time financial assistance in the form of a subsidy to the budget of the Saratov Region
The draft order proposes to allocate additional funds to the Saratov Region budget for the implementation of measures to improve public and courtyard areas.
14. On the draft federal law “On the execution of the budget of the Pension and Social Insurance Fund of the Russian Federation for 2024”
15. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 151 and 18 of the Federal Law “On the Legal Status of Foreign Citizens in the Russian Federation”
The bill is aimed at improving the implementation of state migration policy, as well as legal regulation of issues related to the need for foreign citizens to confirm their proficiency in the Russian language, knowledge of Russian history and the fundamentals of legislation.
16. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 35 and 38 of the Federal Law “On Basic Guarantees of Electoral Rights and the Right to Participate in a Referendum of Citizens of the Russian Federation”
The adoption of the bill will make it possible to avoid refusal to register a list of candidates, candidates for single-mandate (multi-mandate) electoral districts due to the expiration of the statutory deadline for submitting documents required for registration, if the failure to comply with this deadline was caused by a refusal to certify the list of candidates, the list of candidates for single-mandate (multi-mandate) electoral districts and this refusal was cancelled or recognized as illegal.
17. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 3 and 9 of the Federal Law “On Combating the Legalization (Laundering) of Criminally Obtained Incomes and the Financing of Terrorism”
The implementation of the draft federal law will improve the effectiveness of the national system for combating money laundering and terrorist financing.
18. On Amendments to Certain Acts of the Government of the Russian Federation (in terms of amendments to the Regulation on the Federal Service for Environmental, Technological and Nuclear Supervision)
The draft act is aimed at bringing certain provisions of the regulation into line with current legislation.
Moscow, May 28, 2025
The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.
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.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Previous news Next news
Alexander Novak chaired the 39th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting and the 60th OPEC Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee meeting
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, as co-chairman, held the 39th ministerial meeting of OPEC and non-OPEC countries, as well as the 60th meeting of the Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee of OPEC countries via videoconference.
The parties to the deal confirmed their commitment to follow the Declaration of Cooperation signed on December 10, 2016. They confirmed the agreements agreed upon at the 38th Ministerial Meeting of the countries participating in the deal on December 5, 2024, on the overall level of crude oil production until the end of 2026.
The Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee, assisted by the OPEC Secretariat, will continue to review global oil market conditions and the compliance levels of oil production by the parties to the deal with their agreed quota. The Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee will meet every two months.
The Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee reserves the right to call additional meetings or request a ministerial meeting of OPEC and non-OPEC members if necessary.
The meeting participants confirmed the importance of full compliance with the agreements within the framework of the OPEC deal and commitment to the conditions for compensating for oil overproduction should it occur.
Following the meeting, the OPEC Secretariat was tasked with developing a mechanism for assessing the maximum sustainable production capacities of countries participating in the deal, which will be used as a reference for determining oil production levels in 2027 for all countries participating in the agreement.
The 40th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting will take place on November 30, 2025.
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.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect
HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.MO/N90589
Categories24-7, Mil-SOSI, Moscow, Moscow Stock Exchange, Russian Economy, Russian Federal, Russian Language, Russian economy
Previous PostPrevious Financial News: On the start of securities trading on “29” May 2025
Next PostNext Financial news: 05/28/2025, 18-11 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0ZZNW5 (IA DOM 4P2) were changed.
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| Parameters | |
|---|---|
| Date of the deposit auction | 05/29/2025 |
| Placement currency | Rub |
| Maximum amount of funds placed (in placement currency) | 409,000,000.00 |
| Placement period, days | 151 |
| Date of deposit | 05/30/2025 |
| Refund date | 08.10.2025 |
| Minimum placement interest rate, % per annum | 20.20 |
| Conditions of imprisonment, urgent or special | Urgent |
| Minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in placement currency) | 409,000,000.00 |
| Maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. | 1 |
| Auction form, open or closed | Open |
| Basis of the Treaty | General Agreement |
| Schedule (Moscow time) | |
| Preliminary applications | from 11:30 to 11:40 |
| Applications in competition mode | from 11:40 to 11:45 |
| Setting a cut-off percentage or declaring the auction invalid | until 11:55 |
| Additional terms | |
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –
05/28/2025 18:11
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 05/28/2025, 18-11 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 98.17) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 123.11 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 30.0%) of the security RU000A0ZZNW5 (IA DOM 4P2) 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.
Source: Independent Police Conduct Authority
The Independent Police Conduct Authority has completed a review of the Police’s use of the Complex Investigation Phased Engagement Model (CIPEM) interviewing method and found that, although it was a laudable attempt to enhance officers’ investigative interviewing skills, its implementation fell short in several respects.
The Authority’s review was prompted by criticism that arose after evidence in a murder case was ruled inadmissible in September 2021 and concerns were subsequently raised in the media. We also received several complaints. However, the review ultimately focused on examining the development and use of CIPEM, rather than tangential allegations of misconduct that could not be substantiated.
The Authority found that CIPEM had a heavy focus on engagement skills and building rapport, which is consistent with international best practice. However, the normal processes for quality assurance and implementation of the training were not followed, and the model was not reviewed by an independent expert until about two and a half years after the training began.
We reviewed five cases in which CIPEM-trained interviewers had been brought in to assist investigation teams. In two of the five cases, we found that the questioning itself departed from good practice and failed to comply with the Judges’ Rules on Police Questioning. However, these failures were generally not integral to CIPEM and were due to poor practice and inadequate oversight.
We also found that Police leadership should have done more to support the individual officers impacted by persistent media criticism and proactively correct the perception that CIPEM alone caused the downfall of the case in which evidence was ruled inadmissible.
Police have taken steps to identify and address the problems they are experiencing with interviewing. A recent review has resulted in recommendations for improvement, including creating a new Manager of Investigative Interviewing role.
The Authority recommends that Police proceed with establishing that role, which should focus among other things on improving investigative interviewing and engagement training and making it available to all staff; ensuring that the interviewing trainers have a high level of operational experience and excellent engagement skills; and developing training for interviewing suspects and hostile witnesses.
Police Investigative Interviewing and the Complex Investigation Phased Engagement Model (PDF 628 KB)
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Published: May 28, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that 15 Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) in Maine have been awarded a total of $10,772,889 through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Public Housing Capital Fund Formula Grant program to support the development, financing, and modernization of Public Housing properties.
“The dedicated staff at housing authorities throughout Maine work hard to connect seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income individuals and families to programs that help them improve their quality of life,” said Senator Collins. “With this funding, housing authorities across the state will continue the important work within their local communities to ensure that the needs of their residents are met.”
The grant funding is allocated as follows:
Portland Housing Authority – $3,413,858
Bangor Housing Authority – $2,052,361
Lewiston Housing Authority – $1,298,068
Waterville Housing Authority – $745,293
Presque Isle Housing Authority – $688,006
Auburn Housing Authority – $478,784
Brewer Housing Authority – $452,242
Bar Harbor Housing Authority – $383,748
Van Buren Housing Authority – $332,926
Fort Fairfield Housing Authority – $266,251
Old Town Housing Authority – $252,695
Ellsworth Housing Authority – $156,688
Southwest Harbor Housing Authority – $139,133
Tremont Housing Authority – $60,782
Mount Desert Housing Authority – $52,054
HUD’s Public Housing program ensures safe, decent, and affordable housing, and creates opportunities for residents’ self-sufficiency and economic independence.
Source: New Zealand Police
Attributable to Commissioner Richard Chambers:
Police acknowledge and fully accept the findings and recommendations of the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) report into Police’s use of the Complex Investigation Phased Engagement Model (CIPEM) interviewing method.
The CIPEM interviewing programme was implemented in 2018 with the knowledge and support of the Police Executive, and the staff involved acted in good faith striving to improve an acknowledged gap in our interviewing capacity.
While there are lessons to be learned for Police, the staff involved displayed passion and dedication in working to try to advance difficult and complex cases. Police acknowledge that more support should have been afforded to the officers involved at the time and apologise to the staff involved for not providing that support, particularly during a prolonged period of media reporting.
The murder case interview referenced in the IPCA media statement was subject to an independent review, which found that those involved in that interview were not involved in the wider investigation management, including making key decisions relevant to progressing the investigation or prosecution. They were brought in to conduct an interview phase only. In these circumstances, it would be both wrong and unfair for conclusions to be drawn that these staff were to blame for the charges being withdrawn.
Consequently, the internal review also focussed on the way the Police lead, review and manage serious crime investigations and an examination of those areas specific to that case. Police are unable to release a full copy of that review as it contains sensitive information that would prejudice further investigation and potential prosecution outcomes. A summary of the review (previously released under the Official Information Act 1982) is provided with this release.
Police also commissioned a broad review of interviewing practices across all of Police, which was completed in November 2024. The recommendations of that review and the recommendations of the IPCA review are accepted and are being implemented as a programme of work. A full copy of this review is provided with this release.
Police is also establishing a new position, the Manager Investigative Interviewing, to lead this programme of work, as was recommended by the IPCA. Police expect to recruit for this position in coming weeks.
Engaging with and interviewing victims, witnesses and suspects is a core policing skill and pivotal to advancing all investigations and other aspects of policing.
The Police Executive is committed to ensuring that NZ Police’s interviewing training programme is world leading.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
DALLAS — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in a joint operation with state and federal law enforcement, arrested Daikerlyn Alejandraa Gonzalez-Gonzalez, a 22-year-old citizen of Venezuela in Dallas on May 27, following a state warrant execution for felony manslaughter.
Gonzales was operating a personal watercraft with a female passenger at high speed near the shoreline of Oak Grove Park May 25, when she collided with a kayak occupied by 18-year-old Ava Moore. The collision resulted in Moore’s death. Gonzalez fled the scene with her passenger on board.
Gonzalez and the passenger returned to Oak Grove Park. The passenger remained on the scene with witnesses and was interviewed by Grapevine Police Department while Gonzalez left in a vehicle with 21-year-old Maikel Coello Perozo, also of Venezuela.
Perozo has been charged with hindering apprehension. As the investigation unfolds, more state charges could be filed.
“This criminal alien and her boyfriend will account for the tragic accident that ended the life of a young woman who exhibited enormous potential,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas acting Field Office Director Josh Johnson. “ICE Dallas will remain steadfast in our commitment to arresting and removing criminal aliens who pose threats to the safety of our communities.”
ERO Dallas lodged immigration detainers with the Grapevine Police Department following Gonzalez and Coello’s arrests. Both are in removal proceedings pursuant to the policies of the Immigration and Nationality Act as aliens present without admission or parole.
“Our partnerships with law enforcement across jurisdictions are key during these types of investigations,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Dallas Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “This investigation will continue to be driven by facts, evidence and a firm commitment to justice. The arrests of these two illegal aliens reflect the diligence and professionalism of our law enforcement team.”
On Sept. 28, 2023, Gonzalez illegally entered the United States without inspection or parole by an immigration officer. On the same day, the U.S. Border Patrol arrested and processed Gonzalez with a Notice to Appear and released her on an order of recognizance.
On Jan. 22, 2023, Coello arrived at the Camino Real Port of Entry without authorization. He was released pending an immigration hearing.
This investigation included law enforcement officials from ERO Dallas, HSI Dallas, the Texas Department of Wildlife, the Grapevine Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Texas Office of the Attorney General, the Dallas Police Department and the Dallas U.S. Marshals office.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form .
Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @ERODallas or @HSI_Dallas.
Source: New places to play in Gungahlin
If you’ve decided to start a not-for-profit (NFP), you need to be aware of the tax and super obligations that come with it.
Once you have chosen an appropriate legal structure for your NFP, you may need to register for an Australian business number (ABN). You need an ABN to register with us for tax obligations such as PAYG, GST or FBT, or if you are seeking endorsement for tax concessions or deductible gift recipient (DGR) status.
An NFP is an organisation that operates for its purpose, as outlined in its governing documents, and not for the profit or personal gain of its individual members.
Depending on the type of NFP, your organisation may either be eligible for a range of tax concessions or it may need to pay income tax.
NFPs fall within 3 broad categories:
We recommend you review your organisation’s entitlement to tax concessions on an annual basis and whenever there is a change in your structure or operations.
Starting an NFP is a lot like running a business – in particular, a lot of the same tax and super obligations apply. Our small business resources and guidance may help you get ready for running your NFP. The resources explain key tax, super and registration obligations you need to consider so you can start your NFP journey on the right foot. This includes some important information you need to know if your NFP will employ staff.
Source: US Department of Homeland Security
The Biden Administration released both illegal aliens into the country in 2023
WASHINGTON – On May 25, 18-year-old Ava Moore was hit by an illegal alien on a jet ski while kayaking in Lake Grapevine and tragically killed. The illegal alien fled the scene. Moore recently accepted an appointment to join the U.S. Air Force Academy as a member of the class of 2029.
The driver of the jet ski was allegedly Daikerlyn Alejandraa Gonzalez-Gonzalez, an illegal alien from Venezuela. Following the collision, Gonzalez allegedly fled the scene with Maikel Alexander Coello-Perozo, also an illegal alien, and they also struck two vehicles while leaving.
Ava Moore, one of the countless victims of illegal alien crime.
Gonzalez has been charged with felony manslaughter.
Daikerlyn Alejandraa Gonzalez-Gonzalez
Perozo has been charged with hindering apprehension.
Maikel Alexander Coello-Perozo
ICE lodged immigration detainers with the Grapevine Police Department following the arrest of Gonzalez and Perozo. Both are in removal proceedings.
Gonzalez entered the United States illegally on Sept. 28, 2023, and was released by the previous administration into the country.
Perozo entered the country illegally on January 22, 2023, and was released by the previous administration into the country.
“Ava Moore was a patriot serving her country when she was killed by an illegal alien in a hit-and-run over Memorial Day weekend. This senseless tragedy was 100 percent preventable,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Daikerlyn Gonzalez and Maikel Perozo should have never been in our country and Ava Moore should be alive today preparing for the Air Force Academy. The previous administration’s open border policies have cost too many Americans their lives. President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue to stand with victims of illegal alien crime and their families.”
###
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
WASHINGTON – Tywanna Johnson, 29, of Washington, D.C., was indicted today by a grand jury on charges stemming from a stabbing aboard a Metro Bus in January 2025, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Michael Anzallo of the Metro Transit Police Department. A Superior Court grand jury indicted Johnson on robbery while armed, assault with intent to rob while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon – knife, assault with a significant bodily injury while armed, and felony threats.
This case is set for a status hearing on July 14, 2025, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia before the Honorable Robert Salerno.
According to the government’s evidence, on January 22, 2025, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Johnson was aboard Metro Bus #3303 in the vicinity of 15th Street NE and Duncan Street NE, when she snatched the phone out of another passenger’s hands. The passenger was able to get his phone back, but then Johnson pulled a knife out of her jacket. Johnson then demanded the passenger’s phone, threatening to kill the passenger if they did not comply. While the passenger ran to the front of the bus to escape Johnson, she lunged forward and stabbed the passenger in the lower back. Johnson was arrested on scene.
This case is being investigated by the Metro Transit Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jasmine Dohemann.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a 41-count indictment against Warren Soto Delfin, 54, of Fairfield, charging him with failure to pay more than $2 million in trust fund taxes to the IRS, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, between January 2018 and December 2022, Delfin owned and operated five home health care businesses that accumulated more than $2 million in employment taxes. The employment tax liabilities stem from amounts Delfin withheld from his employee’s paychecks. Instead of paying the employee withholdings to the IRS as required under the law, Delfin retained them and made purchases of luxury items including a Lamborghini, jewelry, and real estate.
This case is the product of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nchekube Onyima is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Delfin faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each charged count. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Henry Joseph Garcia, 49, of Fresno, was arraigned today on an indictment charging him with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, as well as possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.
According to court documents, on May 13, 2025, Garcia possessed more than 400 grams of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl with the intent to distribute it to another person. Garcia also possessed two loaded firearms, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Clovis Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Calvin Lee is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Garcia faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison, a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, and a $10 million fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
SAN FRANCISCO – Lafayette Davenport was sentenced today to 90 months in federal prison for carjacking a San Francisco AIDS Foundation vehicle in the Tenderloin in August 2023, unlawfully possessing a firearm, and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Senior U.S. District Judge William Alsup handed down the sentence.
Davenport, 30, of San Francisco, was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 17, 2024, on charges of carjacking in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2119(1), brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1), and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). Davenport pleaded guilty on Feb. 11, 2025, to all three counts.
According to the plea agreement and court documents, on the morning of Aug. 24, 2023, Davenport saw an employee of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation driving in the Tenderloin neighborhood in a vehicle marked with the nonprofit organization’s logos. As the victim driver completed a pickup of discarded needles and returned to the car, Davenport, wearing a ski mask, ran up to the victim and pointed a pistol at him, saying “Don’t make me shoot you” and “I swear I’ll shoot you right here.” Davenport stole the victim’s watch and car keys and drove the San Francisco AIDS Foundation vehicle several feet before fleeing on foot to a nearby apartment building.
On Feb. 22, 2024, San Francisco Police Department officers arrested Davenport in the Tenderloin neighborhood. Officers found Davenport with the ski mask and the loaded pistol that he had used during the carjacking. At the time of his arrest, Davenport was on probation and had been convicted of prior felonies, including second-degree burglary of automobiles while on parole.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Alsup also sentenced the defendant to a five-year period of supervised release and ordered $500 in restitution.
United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara E. Henderson prosecuted the case with the assistance of Claudia Hyslop, Alycee Lane, and Janice Pagsanjan. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI and San Francisco Police Department.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
May 28, 2025
Trump, DOGE service cuts will require people to make nearly 2 million additional trips to understaffed Social Security field offices each year
In 31 states, over 25% of seniors must travel over an hour to access nearest Social Security field office
Washington, D.C. – A new analysis from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities revealed that recent cuts to Social Security phone services are forcing long, unnecessary travel burdens on seniors and other beneficiaries.
The Trump Administration and Elon Musk’s DOGE made cuts to Social Security Administration (SSA) phone service, including removing the ability to change direct deposit and other banking information over the phone. These changes will require Americans to make nearly 2 million additional trips to already-understaffed Social Security field offices each year — resulting in hours of wasted time, money spent on gas, and more.
The new analysis found that half of all seniors must drive at least 33 minutes to visit a field office, and nearly a quarter of seniors (13.5 million) live more than an hour round trip from their nearest office. Further, an estimated over 6 million seniors do not drive, and nearly 8 million seniors report a medical condition or disability that makes it hard to travel.
Earlier this year, DOGE identified dozens of Social Security Administration offices across the country it proposed to close — which would make accessing offices even more difficult and time-consuming for Americans.
Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Senate Dems’ Social Security War Room is a coordinated effort to fight back against the Trump administration’s attack on Americans’ Social Security. The War Room coordinates messaging across the Senate Democratic Caucus and external stakeholders; encourages grassroots engagement by providing opportunities for Americans to share what Social Security means to them; and educates Senate staff, the American public, and stakeholders about Republicans’ agenda and their continued cuts to Americans’ Social Security services and benefits.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia
ICYMI: Senator Reverend Warnock, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall Sit for Joint Interview, Discuss Farm Bill Priorities, Tariffs
Senator Reverend Warnock and American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall sat down with Southeast AgNet Radio’s Dale Sandlin to talk about the prospects of a 2025 Farm Bill and the Trump administration’s reckless tariff policy
Senator Reverend Warnock on the Farm Bill: “I remain focused on supporting farmers in Georgia and across the Southern region. The Farm Bill is a tool that we need to get that done”
Senator Reverend Warnock on the Farm Bill: “Coming from Georgia, I understand the importance of reference prices. Math is math, we need a raise in reference prices, I’ve advocated for that for Georgia farmers”
Zippy Duvall: “It’s absolutely necessary that we get a Farm Bill and that we get it done now”
Washington, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall spoke with Southeast AgNet Radio’s Dale Sandlin about the prospects of a 2025 Farm Bill and the Trump administration’s inconsistent tariff policy. The Senator shared his thoughts about the prospects of getting a Farm Bill this year.
“We need a Farm Bill and it’s something that I’ve been pushing for, for a long time…the Farm Bill won’t happen until after reconciliation and so I think what happens there in that piece of legislation will greatly impact the terms of the debate,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I remain focused on supporting farmers in Georgia, and across the southern region, and the Farm Bill is a tool that we need to get done.”
“It’s absolutely necessary that we get this done and get it done now. We have had two extensions, we’re in a Farm Bill that was created in 2018, and a lot of things have happened in agriculture, not just in Georgia, but all across America,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall, echoing the Senator’s comments. “With COVID, inflation, the cost of everything has gone up and reference prices – as the Senator referred to – does need some attention. Modernizing this Farm Bill will bring certainty to rural America and family farmers across the country.”
Senator Warnock acknowledged farmers concern about negative impacts of the current administration’s sweeping tariffs and stressed he will continue to advocate on their behalf to fight for Georgia farmers’ bottom line:
“I know how important trade is for our Georgia farmers,” said Senator Warnock. “The big problem with the tariffs is that it is creating a lot of uncertainty. And with that uncertainty it’s very difficult to plan any business in a marketplace that’s already very, very challenging.”
“Our policy at the Farm Bureau does not supports tariffs but we are encouraged that the president is trying to level the playing field and to open up markets,” said AFBF President Duvall. “20 percent of our farmers’ income comes from trade, and we need to have open markets across the world. Mexico, China, and Canada are our three largest trading partners. It’s not only just affecting farmers, it’s also affecting input costs, but it’s our job to be the voice of agriculture and we continue to work with senators like Senator Warnock and with the administration to let them know how they affect farmers so that hopefully they can either massage or exempt agriculture to the point where it won’t cause any collateral damage.”
As a veteran member of the Senate committee overseeing federal agriculture policies, and as a senator representing a leading agricultural state, Senator Warnock is a champion of smart policies that help Georgia farmers keep more profits in their pockets and keep the industry at the frontlines of Georgia’s economic success. Last year, Senator Warnock introduced the Southern CROPS Act, a comprehensive package of legislation to provide Georgia row crop farmers additional financial security to help farmers get ahead and remain on their land. Additionally, during last year’s Farm Bill negotiations, Senator Warnock pushed for a raise in reference prices for southeastern commodities. Senator Warnock has also used his perch on the Senate Agriculture Committee to fight for Georgia pecan and peanut farmers, including leading successful, bipartisan efforts to lower India’s tariffs on U.S. grown pecans by 70 percent. The Senator has continued to be outspoken about any concerning impacts President Trump’s inconsistent trade policy pose for hardworking Georgians and their bottom lines.
Listen to the conversation on the Farm Bill HERE.
Listen to the conversation on Tariffs HERE.