NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Wister Resident of First-Degree Murder

    Source: US FBI

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that Kendall Lee Forrester, age 35, of Wister, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury of one count of First Degree Murder in Indian Country, one count of Use, Carry, Brandish and Discharge of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, and one count of Causing the Death of a Person in the Course of a Violation of Title 18 United States Code Section 924(c).

    The jury trial began with testimony on February 24, 2025, and concluded on February 27, 2025, with the guilty verdicts.

    During the trial, the United States presented evidence that on the morning of October 31, 2023, Forrester shot and killed the victim with a single gunshot wound to the head.  On November 1, 2023, the victim’s body and a set of bloody towels were discovered wrapped in plastic sheeting inside a hope chest in the back of the victim’s vehicle.  At trial, the United States presented evidence from the officers who conducted a traffic stop on Forrester that while inventorying Forrester’s vehicle they discovered a 9mm handgun, one 9mm magazine loaded with 9 rounds ammunition, and a trash bag of freshly washed clothes and towels.  Investigators also testified that a search of Forrester’s Wister residence a few hours later uncovered more towels appearing to be from the same set and a roll of plastic sheeting matching the plastic wrapped around the victim’s body.  Additionally, a fingerprint comparison expert testified that a latent print found on the sheeting around the victim’s body matched Forrester’s prints.  The United States also presented evidence that the chest had been in Forrester’s living room only hours before.

    The guilty verdicts were the result of investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police, and the Heavener Police.

    The crimes occurred in LeFlore County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation of Oklahoma, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the trial and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  The sentencing will be scheduled following completion of the report.  Forrester will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals until sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jordan Howanitz and Dean Burris represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Portland Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Fentanyl and Stealing COVID Relief Program Funds

    Source: US FBI

    PORTLAND, Ore.—A local man was sentenced to federal prison today for distributing counterfeit Oxycodone pills containing fentanyl in and around Portland and stealing federal funds intended to help small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Yuriy Viktorovich Vasilchuk, 33, a Portland resident, was sentenced to 49 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $32,855 in restitution to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

    According to court documents, in early 2021, special agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) identified Vasilchuk as a Portland area source of supply for counterfeit Oxycodone pills containing fentanyl. In December 2021, Vasilchuk was located in a stolen vehicle. He was arrested with 88 counterfeit Oxycodone pills and later released.

    On May 3, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Vasilchuk with one count of possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl. Following his indictment, HSI special agents and probation officers from the Multnomah County Department of Community Justice (DCJ) attempted to arrest Vasilchuk who was again located in a stolen vehicle. As the probation officers approached Vasilchuk’s stolen vehicle, Vasilchuk sped off, nearly striking a nearby probation officer. After fleeing for several miles and causing multiple accidents, Vasilchuk’s vehicle became inoperable and he fled on foot. Soon after, investigators located Vasilchuk hiding in an abandoned RV and placed him under arrest.

    Following his arrest, investigators obtained evidence that, between March and November of 2021, while he was actively distributing fentanyl, Vasilchuk applied to receive Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the SBA. In his applications, Vasilchuk falsely stated that he had not, within the past five years, been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a felony involving fraud, bribery, embezzlement, or making a false statement on a loan application. Based on the false information provided, the SBA disbursed more than $32,000 to Vasilchuk, which he in turn spent on various personal expenses.

    On August 22, 2023, Vasilchuk was charged by criminal information with wire fraud. On March 11, 2024, he pleaded to one count each of wire fraud and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, resolving both of his criminal cases.

    These cases were investigated by HSI, the Westside Interagency Narcotics Team (WIN), and the SBA Office of Inspector General with assistance from the Portland Police Bureau and DCJ. They were prosecuted by Cassady A. Adams and Rachel K. Sowray, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

    WIN is a Washington County, Oregon-based multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program that includes members from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Beaverton and Hillsboro Police Departments, Oregon National Guard Counter Drug Program, FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

    The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Leader of International Drug Trafficking Organization Operating in Lane County Sentenced to Federal Prison

    Source: US FBI

    PORTLAND, Ore.—The leader of an international drug trafficking organization operating in Lane County, Oregon, responsible for trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine into the state between 2018 and 2020, was sentenced to federal prison today.

    Victor Diaz-Ramirez, 33, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

    “While communities across our state continue to struggle with the ongoing drug crisis, there are criminal enterprises, like the Diaz-Ramirez drug trafficking organization, whose sole purpose is to profit from addiction and suffering. This far-reaching investigation demonstrates the deep commitment of all involved law enforcement agencies to combatting drug trafficking and keeping our communities safe,” said Nathan J. Lichvarcik, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eugene and Medford Branch Offices.

    “Drug traffickers like Mr. Diaz-Ramirez prey on our communities by peddling large amounts of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine, often to our most vulnerable,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Seattle Field Division. “I am gratified that the hard work of DEA, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our many partners from law enforcement agencies across Oregon led to the lengthy sentence Mr. Diaz-Ramirez received in this case. Justice was truly served.”

    According to court documents, from at least March 2018 through August 2020, while operating out of Mexico, Diaz-Ramirez helped lead an international drug trafficking organization responsible for trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine from Mexico into the United States. Diaz-Ramirez’s organization used a network of associates to transport the drugs from Southern California to Oregon and deliver them to local distributors in exchange for cash. 

    As part of this investigation, law enforcement seized more than 178 pounds of methamphetamine, 12 pounds of heroin, six pounds of fentanyl, 18 rifles, three rifle optics, and ammunition. Investigators also forfeited approximately $1.2 million from the organization, including more than $400,000 in cash. In total, 35 people—including sources of supply in Mexico, couriers, local cell operators in Lane County, and first and second level distributors responsible for sales in and around Eugene—were charged and have been convicted for their roles in Diaz-Ramirez’s organization.

    On August 5, 2020, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Diaz-Ramirez with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. On November 1, 2023, Diaz-Ramirez pleaded guilty to a one-count superseding criminal information charging him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by DEA, FBI, IRS-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, Springfield Police Department, Eugene Police Department, Lane County Sherriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (LINE), and Douglas Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (DINT). It was prosecuted by Joseph Huynh and Judi Harper, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of International Drug Trafficking Organization Operating in Lane County Sentenced to Federal Prison

    Source: US FBI

    EUGENE, Ore.—A Springfield, Oregon member of an international drug trafficking organization operating in Lane County, Oregon, was sentenced to federal prison.

    Rodolfo Arroyo-Segoviano, 38, was sentenced to 145 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. 

    According to court documents, between April and August 2020, Arroyo-Segoviano managed the local distribution network for an international drug trafficking organization responsible for trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine from Mexico into the United States. While the organization leaders operated out of Mexico, Arroyo-Segoviano was responsible for the local operations in Oregon. He coordinated the receipt, storage, and distribution of methamphetamine, the collection of drug proceeds, and payment to organization leadership in Mexico. Arroyo-Segoviano also supervised the local associates, including recruitment, pay, and directing activities.    

    As part of this investigation, law enforcement seized more than 178 pounds of methamphetamine, 12 pounds of heroin, six pounds of fentanyl, 18 rifles, three rifle optics, and ammunition. Investigators also forfeited approximately $1.2 million from the organization, including more than $400,000 in cash. In total, 35 people—including sources of supply in Mexico, couriers, local cell operators in Lane County, and first and second level distributors responsible for sales in and around Eugene—were charged and have been convicted for their roles in the drug trafficking organization.

    “The prosecution of this international drug trafficking organization represents the tireless dedication of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners combatting the drug trafficking plaguing our communities,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

    On July 31, 2020, Arroyo-Segoviano was charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. On April 3, 2024, Arroyo-Segoviano pleaded guilty to a one-count superseding criminal information charging him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by DEA, FBI, IRS-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, Springfield Police Department, Eugene Police Department, Lane County Sherriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Linn Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (LINE), and Douglas Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (DINT). It was prosecuted by Joseph Huynh and Judi Harper, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Washington State Man Faces Federal Charges for Damaging Two Portland Area Energy Facilities

    Source: US FBI

    PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Portland has returned an indictment charging a Tacoma, Washington, man with damaging two Portland area energy facilities.

    Zachary Rosenthal, 33, has been charged with three counts of damaging an energy facility.

    According to the indictment, on November 24 and 28, 2022, Rosenthal is accused of knowingly and willfully damaging two energy facilities—the Ostrander Substation in Oregon City, Oregon and the Sunnyside Substation in Clackamas, Oregon—with the intent of interrupting or impairing the function of both facilities. The indictment further alleges that Rosenthal caused damages exceeding $100,000 to the Ostrander Substation and $5,000 to the Sunnyside Substation. Both facilities are involved in the transmission and distribution of electricity.

    A single accomplice, Nathaniel Adam Cheney, 30, of Centralia, Washington, is named alongside Rosenthal in charges stemming from the November 28, 2022, damage to the Sunnyside Substation.

    A second indictment was also unsealed today charging Rosenthal with stealing firearms from a federal firearms licensee and illegally possessing firearms as a convicted felon. According to this indictment, in January 2023, Rosenthal is alleged to have stolen 24 firearms he was restricted from possessing from a federal firearms licensee in the Portland area.

    Rosenthal made his initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned on both indictments, pleaded not guilty to all charges, and detained pending further court proceedings.

    On April 10, 2023, Cheney made his first appearance in federal court. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and released on conditions pending a two-day jury trial currently scheduled to begin on August 20, 2024.

    Damaging an energy facility and causing more than $100,000 in damages is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. Damaging an energy facility and causing more than $5,000 in damages is punishable by up to five years in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

    This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). It is being prosecuted by Parakram Singh, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

    An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cottage Grove Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Threatening Coworkers on Facebook

    Source: US FBI

    MEDFORD, Ore.—A Cottage Grove, Oregon woman was sentenced to federal prison today for threatening violence against her coworkers on Facebook.

    Elizabeth Ballestros West, 56, was sentenced to six months and three weeks in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

    According to court documents, in late September 2023, the FBI received an anonymous tip that West was threatening coworkers on Facebook. Later, in November 2023, the FBI learned West had established an account on X (formerly known as Twitter) that she used to post and repost memes, videos and statements containing violent messages targeting particular ethnic groups. Several of West’s posts included what appeared to be self-produced photos of firearms including several handguns, a shotgun, and an AR-style assault rifle.

    On January 3, 2024, West admitted to posting and reposting messages on X that contained hateful and violent rhetoric. West also admitted to possessing multiple shotguns and AR-15 assault rifles at her Cottage Grove residence.

    One week later, on January 9, 2024, the FBI executed federal search warrants on West’s person, vehicle, and residence. They located and seized 12 handguns, 16 rifles, thousands of rounds of ammunition and firearm accessories, and a journal that appeared to contain writings and drawings that included additional hateful and violent statements. On January 12, 2024, West was charged by criminal complaint with transmitting a threat in interstate commerce and arrested by the FBI the same day at her workplace in Eugene.

    Approximately one week later, on January 18, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene indicted West on the same charge. On May 29, 2024, West pleaded guilty.

    This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Cottage Grove Police Department, Eugene Police Department, and Lane County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Adam E. Delph, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: President of Masonry Contractor Charged with Conspiring to Bribe Amtrak Employee in Exchange for Millions of Dollars in Extra Work on 30th Street Station Project and Making a False Claim

    Source: US FBI

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Mark Snedden, 69, of Munster, Indiana, was charged by information with conspiracy to commit federal program bribery and making and presenting a false claim.

    As presented in the information, on or about December 10, 2015, a masonry restoration contractor (the “Contractor”) was awarded a $58,473,000 contract by Amtrak to be the main contractor on a façade repair and restoration project at Amtrak’s 30th Street Station in Philadelphia.

    Federal funding supplied approximately 90 percent of the money Amtrak used to pay the Contractor for the repair and restoration of the 30th Street Station façade.

    The defendant was the sole owner and President of the Contractor with responsibility to provide executive oversight of the Vice Presidents of the Contractor and the Contractor’s performance on the 30th Street Station façade project.

    Donald Seefeldt, Lee Maniatis, and Khaled Dallo, each charged elsewhere, were Vice Presidents of the Contractor, with responsibility to supervise the Contractor’s performance on the 30th Street Station façade project.

    Amtrak Employee #1 was employed by Amtrak as the Project Manager on the repair and restoration project. In that capacity, Amtrak Employee #1 was responsible for communicating with the Contractor about the work being done on 30th Street Station. Amtrak Employee #1 was also responsible for reviewing the invoices, change orders, and requests for payment that the Contractor submitted to Amtrak. Amtrak Employee #1 had the power to approve or reject these invoices, change orders, and requests for payment. Although Amtrak Employee #1 did not have the singular authority to approve Amtrak payments to the Contractor, his approval was a critical step in that process.

    The contract between Amtrak and the Contractor prohibited Snedden and other Contractor officials from “offer[ing] to any Amtrak employee, agent, or representative any cash, gift, entertainment, commission, or kickback for the purpose of securing favorable treatment with regard to award or performance of any contract or agreement.”

    As alleged in the information, from in or about May 2016 through in or about November 2019, in Philadelphia, in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and elsewhere, the defendant conspired and agreed with others known and unknown to the United States Attorney, including Amtrak Employee #1, Lee Maniatis, Khaled Dallo, and Donald Seefeldt, to commit an offense against the United States, that is, to knowingly and corruptly give, offer, and agree to give, a thing of value to Amtrak Employee #1, intending to influence and reward Amtrak Employee #1 in connection with any business, transaction and series of transactions.

    Specifically, the information alleges, Donald Seefeldt, Lee Maniatis, Khaled Dallo, and others known to the United States Attorney, with Snedden’s knowledge and agreement, provided Amtrak Employee #1 with gifts and other things of value totaling approximately $323,686, including, among other things, paid vacations, jewelry, cash, dinners, entertainment, a dog, training for that dog, and transportation, to ensure that Amtrak Employee #1 used his power and influence to benefit the Contractor during the performance of the 30th Street Station Repair and Restoration Project.

    In return for these gifts and other things of value, Amtrak Employee #1 used his position at Amtrak to access internal agency information available only to Amtrak employees about the 30th Street Station Project and shared this internal information with the defendant and other officials with the Contractor.

    The information further alleges that Amtrak Employee #1 used his position at Amtrak to approve additional, more expensive changes to the 30th Street Station Repair and Restoration Project, thereby increasing the amount and value of the work to be performed by the Contractor. These additional expenses were reflected in a series of change orders or contract modifications. In total, Amtrak Employee #1 approved over $52 million of additional payments from Amtrak to the Contractor. Amtrak Employee #1 and officials with the Contractor falsely inflated the true costs of some of the work to be performed by the Contractor under these change orders, causing Amtrak to be substantially overbilled by over $2 million for the completion of the 30th Street Station Repair and Restoration Project.

    If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a three-year period of supervised release, a $500,000 fine, and $200 special assessment.

    The case was investigated by the FBI, the Amtrak Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason Grenell.

    An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Minister Senzo Mchunu & National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola present CrimeStats

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

    Minister of Police, Mr Senzo Mchunu, together with the National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, present the quarterly #CrimeStats, reflecting on crimes that occurred during the fourth quarter of the previous financial year (1 January 2025 – 31 March 2025).

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1nD1gpvIkg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Croix Women Pleads Guilty to $372,000.00 Embezzlement Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    St. Croix, VI – United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced today that Nicole Morales, 48, of Altadena, CA, and native of St. Croix, pleaded guilty before Magistrate Judge Emile A. Henderson III, to three counts of Wire Fraud. The sentencing in this matter is scheduled for March 19, 2025, where Morales faces a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    According to court records, on November 10, 2015, Morales began working as the Office Manager at Nichols, Newman, Logan, Grey, and Lockwood, P.C. in St. Croix, where her duties included processing payroll through Banco Popular. Beginning on December 31, 2015, Morales began fraudulently inflating her payroll using QuickBooks accounting software. Thereafter, Morales wired unauthorized funds from her employer’s Banco Popular account into three separate personal bank accounts owned by Morales. After transferring the funds, Morales would change the inflated amounts in QuickBooks to reflect her correct income and payroll figures. Morales would later generate reports in QuickBooks with the correct payroll figures which were approved by her employer. Morales continued this conduct until January 11, 2019. In total, Morales embezzled $372,496.34 from her employer. 

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel H. Huston.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pupils take a stand against the bullies

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Ten pupils from the Wolverhampton school, along with two members of staff, took part in the programme run by The Diana Award, working alongside other 11 to 18 year olds to build their skills and confidence to address situations, both off and online.

    The Diana Award’s free Anti-Bullying Ambassador Programme, which is available to schools across the UK, sees facilitators working with students and other young people to change attitudes around bullying.

    It has a strong peer to peer focus, with facilitators giving young people the tools they need to become Anti-Bullying Ambassadors and to tackle bullying in their own schools long after the training has finished. The Diana Award’s anti-bullying work is recognised as world class thanks to this sustainable approach.

    The training looked at bullying in different situations, with pupils making action plans of how to approach bullying issues that may arise in their schools.

    Headteacher Claire Gilbert said: “We’re incredibly proud of our students for taking this initiative. Partnering with The Diana Award reinforces our commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment.

    “Our school will be working closely with the charity over the coming years, as their values and principles align closely with our own. Together, we aim to raise awareness and stand up against bullying.”

    A Year 10 Anti-Bullying Ambassador at Coppice said: “The training helped us understand the impact of bullying and gave us the confidence to make a real difference in our school community.”

    Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “Sadly, bullying is still a prevalent issue amongst young people and it is crucial that we collectively take steps to help prevent it.

    “It is brilliant to see Coppice Performing Arts School taking a lead in this, and empowering its pupils with the skills and confidence they need to help tackle the problem.”

    The Diana Award was founded as a lasting legacy to Diana, Princess of Wales, who believed that young people have the power to change the world. The Anti-Bullying Ambassadors Programme has trained over 50,000 young people across the UK to lead on anti-bullying campaigns in their schools.
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Operation Sindoor Outreach: Delegation meets Japanese leaders, reiterates India’s stance against terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party parliamentary delegation led by Janata Dal (United) MP Sanjay Jha held a meeting on Friday with Yasuhiro Hanashi, Acting Chairperson of the Research Committee on Counter-terrorism of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and former Minister of Justice, to highlight India’s firm stance against terrorism as part of a global outreach campaign.

    “All-party delegation from India met Yasuhiro Hanashi, Acting Chairperson of the Research Committee on Counter-terrorism of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and former Minister of Justice. India’s unified and determined stance against terrorism in all its forms was highlighted. Both sides reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism,” the Embassy of India in Japan said in a post on X.

    Earlier in the day, the delegation engaged with the diplomatic corps in Tokyo at the Indian Embassy, underscoring India’s steadfast commitment to combating terrorism.

    “Proactive engagement by the all-party delegation from India with the diplomatic corps in Tokyo at the Embassy of India in Japan reaffirms India’s unwavering national resolve against terrorism. United in voice, firm in action,” the Embassy of India in Japan said.

    The delegation, led by Sanjay Jha, includes BJP MPs Aparajita Sarangi and Brij Lal, Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member John Barla, and senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid.

    Their visit marks the beginning of India’s unprecedented diplomatic campaign to expose Pakistan’s continued role in cross-border terrorism, following the April 22 Pahalgam attack.

    On Thursday, the Indian delegation attended the inaugural session of Raisina Tokyo 2025, joining leaders and experts from India, Japan, and across the Indo-Pacific region. Speakers at the session reiterated Japan’s support for India’s fight against terrorism.

    The delegation also held key talks with Takashi Endo, Chairman of the Japanese House of Representatives Committee on National Security, and conveyed India’s unified and resolute stance against terrorism in all its forms. Endo expressed Japan’s strong solidarity with India in its fight against terror, according to the Indian Embassy.

    Expressing solidarity with India, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya praised New Delhi’s restraint and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to counter-terrorism cooperation

    Iwaya emphasized the need to bring the perpetrators of terror to justice and voiced strong support for India’s response to the Pahalgam attack.

    The delegation also interacted with prominent Japanese think tanks, briefing them on India’s zero-tolerance policy and presenting detailed accounts of Pakistan’s support for terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).

    The session saw strong expressions of support for India’s stance on regional security and combating state-sponsored terrorism.

    —IANS

  • Bangladesh’s Yunus could quit over lack of reform progress, student leader says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Bangladesh’s de-facto prime minister has threatened to step down if political parties cannot agree on reforms that citizens await with growing impatience, a top student leader has said, deepening uncertainty in the wake of deadly protests last year.
     
    Nobel peace laureate Muhammad Yunus, 84, took over as interim head of the South Asian nation of 173 million last August after a student-led uprising forced then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to flee to India.
     
    Nahid Islam, the head of the newly-formed National Citizen Party (NCP), which wants national elections held only after the completion of reforms, said Yunus was finding it difficult to work without the backing of political parties.
     
    “He was visibly upset,” Islam told reporters after meeting the leader on Thursday.
     
    “He said if he cannot do the work he was asked to do – reform the system and prepare for fair elections – then he may have to leave. He feels trapped between demands from different political camps and growing public impatience.”
     
    Yunus promised major reforms in various sectors after Hasina’s exit, but a lack of progress and growing political disagreement have put his administration in a tight spot.
     
    “We told him clearly that people didn’t rise up just to switch governments, but to change the system,” said Islam, whose party emerged from last year’s student-led protests. “Elections without reform will only take us back to the same problems.”
     
    He gave no further details.
     
    With the interim government caught between competing demands for swift general elections and reforms, such a resignation could lead to further uncertainty. Yunus has said the elections could be delayed until 2026.
     
    The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has been pushing for polls by December. On Wednesday, BNP leaders said it would be “difficult” to continue supporting the interim government without a firm election plan.
     
    Yunus’ press wing and the BNP did not immediately respond to telephone calls and messages requesting comment.
     
    Adding to the pressure, Bangladesh’s army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, also called for elections in December in a speech at Dhaka cantonment this week, expressing his dissatisfaction over the political situation.
     
    The registration of Hasina’s Awami League party was suspended this month, effectively barring the party from contesting the next elections.
     
    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Gawler West

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are at the scene of a serious crash at Gawler West.

    About 3.45pm on Friday 23 May, police and emergency services were called to Gosford Street and Ryde Street after a pedestrian was stuck by a car.

    The pedestrian sustained serious injuries and was rushed to hospital.

    Traffic restrictions are in place at the intersection of Ryde Street and Gosford Street and motorists are asked to avoid the area.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General visits Norway’s High North in preparation for the Summit in The Hague

    Source: NATO

    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited northern Norway on Thursday (22 May 2025), where he met Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide, and Minister of Defence Tore Sandvik. The Secretary General also observed a demonstration of NATO’s multidomain capabilities in the High North.

    Speaking alongside Prime Minister Gahr Støre aboard the Norwegian Coast Guard vessel Svalbard, the Secretary General praised Norway’s leadership and emphasised the strategic importance of the region. He said the visit was important not only for NATO and Norway, but also for understanding how Allies are working together to keep NATO territory safe.

    Secretary General Rutte underlined the value of coordination among the seven NATO countries with territory in the High North: Iceland, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Canada and the United States. “With Norway being one of the seven High North countries, this is an important element of this vision to understand better what is the situation in the High North,” he said. “We are doing more and more together, and also NATO is getting more and more involved to see how we can best coordinate all those efforts. And we know that these sea lanes are opening up, that the Russians and the Chinese are more and more active here.”

    Turning to the NATO Summit in The Hague, the Secretary General noted the need to increase defence spending. He emphasised that Allies must invest in order to deliver the capabilities needed to defend NATO not only today, but in the years ahead, “knowing that Russia is actively reconstituting itself.” Mr Rutte also pointed to China’s military build-up and ongoing terrorist threats as examples of why NATO Allies will need to invest well above the 2% of GDP target. 

    The Secretary General also highlighted the importance of civil preparedness. “Norway is an absolute leader when it comes to a whole society approach,” he said. “We need the whole society to be involved if the Russians are a long term threat.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Allies review progress with NATO cyber defence pledge, identify next steps to increase cyber resilience

    Source: NATO

    On 20-21 May 2025, NATO Allies and several Partner nations met in Poland for NATO’s annual Cyber Defence Pledge Conference.

    Held at the Polish Cyber Command in Legionowo, the Conference brought together representatives from NATO member states as well as from Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iraq, Ireland, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Ukraine and the European Commission and the European External Action Service. Commander of the Polish Cyber Command Major General Karol Molenda and NATO’s Assistant Secretary General for Innovation, Hybrid and Cyber, Ambassador Jean-Charles Ellermann-Kingombe co-chaired the event.

    The NATO Cyber Defence Pledge Conference provides a unique platform for Allies and, since 2023, for a selected group of Partners to share experiences and exchange best practices in implementing NATO’s Cyber Defence Pledge, a mechanism that helps guide national efforts to boost the cyber defences of their networks and infrastructures.

    At the 2023 NATO Summit in Vilnius, Allies took further steps to enhance the Pledge, including new national goals to further strengthen national cyber defences.

    At the 2025 Conference, participants reflected on national progress made to achieve greater cyber maturity for critical infrastructure, particularly for the energy, transport, communications and water sectors. They explored best practices for stronger cooperation between public institutions and the private sector, at both the national and international levels. They addressed challenges to increasing cyber resilience and underlined the importance of leveraging innovation for cyber defence.   

    Looking ahead, participants agreed on the need to increase information exchange, in order to increase national and collective cyber resilience.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Suspension af afdeling under Kapitalforeningen Blue Strait Capital som følge af skifte af forvalter

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    I forlængelse af meddelelser offentliggjort af Kapitalforeningen Blue Strait Capital den 10. februar 2025 og den 20. maj 2025 fastholdes suspensionen fra den 22. maj 2025 i nedenstående afdeling i dag den 23. maj 2025, da foreningen skifter forvalter til Invest Administration A/S.

    Afdeling ISIN Short name
    Blue Strait Capital KL DK0060868107 BLKBSCKL

    Suspensionen forventes at blive ophævet igen mandag den 26. maj 2025.
                                
    Eventuelle henvendelser vedrørende denne meddelelse kan rettes til undertegnede på telefon 3814 6600.

    Med venlig hilsen
    Invest Administration A/S

    Niels Erik Eberhard
    Direktør

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Galaxy S25 Ultra: Explore More with Your Truest AI Companion

    Source: Samsung

    From everyday dilemmas to complex curiosities, the Galaxy S25 Ultra powered by Google Gemini Live is here to help you think faster, act smarter, and do more. Whether you’re figuring out what to cook, how to style your outfit, or breaking down big life questions, your true AI companion has your back, instantly.
     
    Explore new ways to learn, create, and connect with the world like never before.
     
    Find more here:
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: View from The Hill: Coalition is being glued together again after crisis week

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    The Coalition is being glued together again, after a Liberal Party meeting on Friday gave the go ahead for Liberal leader Sussan Ley to negotiate with Nationals leader David Littleproud on the fine print of a settlement on policy.

    The Liberal party room agreed to accept broadly the Nationals’ four policy demands, with the two leaders to deal with the details.

    A new agreement between the parties is expected within days.

    The rapprochement followed days of chaos after the Nationals on Tuesday walked out of the Coalition.

    The turmoil has done significant damage to Littleproud, who has received widespread criticism of his handling of the relationship, including from within his own party. The crisis has raised questions about whether he will survive in his position in the longer term.

    The Liberal meeting had before it four policies that the Nationals insisted should be kept, and not be caught up in the Liberals’ planned review of all policies.

    The four were:

    • removing the moratorium on nuclear energy, with a review of the remaining elements of the nuclear policy

    • a $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund, including a $1 billion annual budget allocation until the fund matured

    • court-ordered divestiture powers in relation to major supermarkets and “big box” retailers

    • and Universal Service Obligation reforms to boost mobile phone and internet services for regional Australians.

    The Nationals’ demand on nuclear drops the core of the policy the opposition took to the election, which was for the government to fund a string of nuclear power plants.

    The Liberals are divided over nuclear energy, with some wanting any policy on it scrapped.

    Probably the most difficult of the Nationals’ policy points for the Liberals is the divestiture power, which was controversial within the Liberals when it was adopted last term as opposition policy.

    A number of Liberals are particularly opposed to extending it to “big box” retailers.

    There was also some concern among Liberals about the fiscal arrangements around the regional fund – whether it should be off budget or on budget.

    While Liberals resent the Nationals’ behaviour, they were also aware of the political problems presented by a Coalition split and were anxious to get the two parties together again.

    In a provocative tweet the Nationals Matt Canavan said: “Well done David Littleproud! Liberals back down on all requests.”

    “Great win for the Nationals.”

    Canavan ran against Littleproud for the leadership after the election.

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

    – ref. View from The Hill: Coalition is being glued together again after crisis week – https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-coalition-is-being-glued-together-again-after-crisis-week-257332

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy Sector – Financial close for Bałtyk 2 and Bałtyk 3 – Equinor

    Source: Equinor

    23 MAY 2025 – The project joint venture partners Equinor (50%) and Polenergia (50%) have reached financial close for the Bałtyk 2 and Bałtyk 3 projects. Two project financing packages of over EUR 3 billion for Bałtyk 2 and over EUR 3 billion for Bałtyk 3 including ancillary facilities, have been secured.

    The offshore wind projects were awarded Contracts for Difference (CfD) in 2021, securing power prices at approximately EUR 71 per MWh (2021 price) for 25 years, with inflation indexation. The wind farms are project financed with gearing of approximately 80%. The projects support Equinor’s expected double-digit nominal equity rate of return for renewables and low carbon investments.

    Equinor is responsible for the construction phase and will be the operator of the two offshore wind farms. Onshore construction work is ongoing, fabrication of key components has started, while marine operations will start next year. Total power capacity of the projects is 1440 MW, enough to power 2 million Polish homes. Full commercial power production is expected in 2028. The individual project finance packages will fund the capital investment and the other expenses of each of the projects during the construction process totaling approximately EUR 7.2 billion.

    Danske Commodities, an Equinor subsidiary, will provide route-to-market services including balancing and power offtake for the first three years of operations.

    Following strong interest from lenders, Bałtyk 2 and Bałtyk 3 have secured competitive terms and conditions. The final group, comprising of around 30 financial institutions, includes the most experienced in the sector along with many of Equinor’s core banks, the Nordic Investment Bank and the European Investment Bank.

    Final investment decisions for Bałtyk 2 and Bałtyk 3 were taken by the project joint venture partners, 19 May.

    Senior vice president for Renewables in Europe, Trine Borum Bojsen:

    “Building a profitable renewables business through safe execution and operations is key to delivering on Equinor’s strategy. With financial close reached for Bałtyk 2 and Bałtyk 3, the last important milestone is passed ahead of full-scale construction. We appreciate the strong interest and support from lenders. This underpins the attractiveness of the projects and the confidence in Polenergia and Equinor as developers.”

    Country Manager in Poland, Michał Jerzy Kołodziejczyk:

    “Bałtyk 2 and Bałtyk 3 represent the beginning of a new era in Poland’s offshore wind energy development. These wind farms are set to contribute to Poland’s industrial future by producing renewable electricity for Polish households, creating employment opportunities, and enhancing both energy security and the energy transition. We will collaborate with industry partners to ensure their delivery is safe and efficient.”

    About Bałtyk 2 and Bałtyk 3

    Bałtyk 2 and Bałtyk 3, developed by Equinor (50%) and Polenergia (50%), the largest private energy group in Poland, are two offshore wind projects with a total capacity of 1440 MW (720 MW each). The two wind farms, developed in parallel, largely within the same time schedule, will consist of 100 fixed bottom turbines, placed 22-37 km off the Polish coast. All key suppliers have been selected and contracted and are among the most experienced in the industry. The operations and maintenance base will be situated in Łeba, located in the region of Gdańsk in northern Poland. The base will serve as a centre for marine operations and support during the construction phase. Equinor is the owner of the base and will be the operator of the projects.

    Equinor in Poland

    Equinor is among the leading renewables energy developers in Poland. In addition to Bałtyk 2 and 3, the company together with Polenergia is maturing Bałtyk 1 (up to 1560 MW) for the second phase of Poland’s offshore wind development where an auction is expected late 2025. Equinor’s subsidiary, Wento, is a multi-tech power producer operating three solar plants and one onshore wind park in Poland with a total capacity of ~200 MW. It has also a >3GW pipeline of onshore renewables and battery storage projects. Equinor also supports Poland’s energy transition and security through the supply of natural gas via the Baltic Pipe.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Anchorage Man Charged with Child Exploitation Offenses

    Source: US FBI

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A man was arrested early Saturday morning in Anchorage on criminal charges related to his alleged involvement with attempted enticement of a minor, attempted production of child pornography and possession of child pornography depicting a minor under 12 years of age.

    According to court documents, Benjamin Roundy, aka “Aleks” or “Alekzander Marko”, 41, of Anchorage, attempted to produce child pornography and coerce a minor to engage in sexually explicit actions through communications on a messaging app and text messages. He is also charged with allegedly possessing child pornography on his cell phone.

    Roundy is charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2422(b), attempted production of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2251(a), and possession of child pornography depicting minors who have not attained 12 years of age in violation with 18 U.S.C. §2252A(a)(5)(b) and (7)(b)(2). If convicted, Roundy faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum life term in prison following conviction on all counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force is actively investigating the case. If anyone has any information concerning Roundy’s alleged actions or may have encountered someone using the name “Aleks” in person, via text message or on an online messaging app, please contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at (907) 276-4441 or anonymously online at tips.fbi.gov.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander is prosecuting the case.

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

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Men Arrested, Indicted for Trafficking Fentanyl to Alaska

    Source: US FBI

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Two Arizona men were arrested over the last three weeks on warrants from a federal indictment charging them with trafficking fentanyl to Alaska.

    According to court proceedings, a federal grand jury returned an indictment on July 18 charging Odarious Shaw, 24, and Corrion James, 25, with allegedly distributing large amounts of fentanyl to Alaska from their home state of Arizona over a four-month period. James was arrested at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport when he arrived carrying a package of 40,000 fentanyl pills, and Shaw was arrested in Arizona.

    James and Shaw are charged with one count conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances in violation of 21 U.S.C. §846 and 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and one count possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute in violation of 21 U.S.C. §841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A). If convicted, Shaw faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; Statewide Drug Enforcement Unit Commander Captain Cornelius Sims of the Alaska State Troopers; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.

    The Alaska State Troopers, Anchorage Police Department and the FBI are investigating the case as part of the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Alaska High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) initiative.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Schroeder is prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Anchorage Man on Child Pornography, Attempted Enticement Charges

    Source: US FBI

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment today charging an Anchorage man with allegedly attempting to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity.

    According to court documents, Peter Joseph Hickel Jr., 33, was arrested on July 25 near Sunset Park in Anchorage after communicating with and attempting to meet an individual that he believed to be a 12-year-old girl.

    Hickel is charged with attempted production of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2251(a), attempted coercion and enticement of a minor in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2422(b), and possession of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2251A(a)(5). If convicted, Hickel faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office is investigating the case. If anyone has any information concerning Hickel’s alleged actions or may have encountered him in person, via text message or on an online messaging app, please contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at (907) 276-4441 or anonymously online at tips.fbi.gov.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers is prosecuting the case.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Anchorage Man Arrested for Recent Credit Union Robberies

    Source: US FBI

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was arrested by the FBI yesterday on criminal charges related to recent alleged robberies of a local credit union.

    According to court documents, Etuale Ioane, 20, allegedly stole more than $3,400 after robbing the Credit Union 1 branch on Debarr Road in July and August.

    On July 17, around 1:15 p.m., Ioane allegedly entered the credit union and waited in line until being called forward by a teller. The defendant produced a handwritten note commanding the employee to give him money, and stated to hurry up because he had a gun and would shoot everyone inside. The defendant left the credit union with roughly $2,118.

    On Aug. 28, around 2:42 p.m., Ioane allegedly entered the same credit union and presented a demand note that stated people within the building would be harmed if his demands were not met. The note said to not alert anyone, press any buttons or try to give him bait bills. The defendant fled with around $1,340.

    The Anchorage Police Department received a tip on Aug. 30, stating the suspect was Ioane and he was in a van near a grocery store on East Northern Lights Boulevard. Local officers located and detained Ioane shortly after receiving the tip.

    A search warrant was executed on Ioane’s residence and clothing consistent with those worn by the suspect in both July and August robberies were recovered.

    Ioane is charged with four counts of credit union robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2113(a) and 2113(b). If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Anchorage Police Department, is investigating the case as part of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Schroeder is prosecuting the case.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eagle River Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography, Sexual Abuse of a Minor

    Source: US FBI

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Eagle River man pleaded guilty today to one count sexual exploitation of a child for production of child pornography and one count possession of child pornography.

    According to court documents, Michael V. Ross, 32, coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct and documented some of the abuse through pictures and videos kept on his cell phone. It is alleged that the abuse occurred between March 2017 and August 2021, sometimes occurring weekly.

    The defendant faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement.

    The FBI Anchorage Field Office and Anchorage Police Department investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Brickey and Adam Alexander are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Anchorage Man Sentenced to 14 Years for Trafficking Fentanyl, Methamphetamine

    Source: US FBI

    FAIRBANKS, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced on Sept. 5 to 14 years in prison for distributing large quantities of controlled substances in Alaska.

    According to court documents, Darrell Latory Moss Sr, 45, sold over 1,300 grams of methamphetamine and 100 fake prescription pills containing fentanyl over a three-month period.

    The defendant was arrested in Bethel, Alaska, in March 2023. The defendant pleaded guilty to one count of distributing a controlled substance, in violation of 21 U.S.C.§841(a)(1). Moss was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison, five years’ supervised release, and he is required to forfeit two vehicles and over $8,500 cash.

    ”Mr. Moss’s sentence brings us another step closer in our efforts to keep Alaskans safe,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Drugs are affecting communities and villages large and small and create serious public safety issues. Our office will continue to prioritize working with our Federal, State and local law enforcement partners to identify, investigate and prosecute people who choose to push dangerous drugs out into our communities. Their actions will not be tolerated.”

    “This defendant sought to financially gain from distributing dangerous drugs, including deadly fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone pills, at the expense of Alaska’s communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “This sentencing ensures accountability for those crimes, and is a result of law enforcement partnerships across Alaska working to keep illicit drugs out of our communities.”

    The FBI Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), IRS Criminal Investigation, Alaska State Troopers, Anchorage High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) team, Fairbanks HIDTA team and Mat-Su Valley HIDTA team investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Vosacek and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Tansey prosecuted the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arrest Made in Recent Anchorage Credit Union, Bank Robberies

    Source: US FBI

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was arrested last week by the FBI on criminal charges related to recent robberies of a credit union and bank.

    According to court documents, Tyler Ching, 34, entered the Global Credit Union on Industry Way in Anchorage on Sept. 19. He approached two customers who were speaking with a bank teller, and he pointed what appeared to be a handgun at them. The defendant placed a bag on the counter and demanded the teller put money inside. The defendant left the credit union with roughly $2,320.

    On Sept. 20, Ching allegedly entered the Wells Fargo Bank branch on Jewel Lake Road in Anchorage. He approached a teller who was speaking to a customer and pointed what appeared to be a handgun at the customer and teller. He demanded the teller put money in a bag he brought with him. The defendant fled with around $2,820.

    Law enforcement received multiple tips on Sept. 20 stating the suspect resembled Ching. After further investigation, the suspect was identified as Ching, and he was arrested in Cooper Landing on Sept. 22.

    Ching is charged with two counts of bank robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2113(a). If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska; and Special Agent in Charge Antony Jung of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Alaska State Troopers and the Anchorage Police Department, is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Alana Weber is prosecuting the case.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oro Valley Man Indicted for Assaulting a Border Patrol Agent with a Firearm

    Source: US FBI

    TUCSON, Ariz. – Erik Alberto Beal, 26, of Oro Valley, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Tucson on May 1, 2024, on two counts of Assault of a Federal Officer with a Dangerous Weapon, that is, a Firearm, and Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence. 

    The indictment alleges that, on April 11, 2024, in Nogales, Arizona, Beal assaulted a United States Border Patrol Agent with a firearm while the agent was on duty. Border Patrol agents were working near the United States-Mexico Border when a subject jumped the International Boundary Fence and ran onto a nearby property. The victim agent ran in search of the suspected undocumented non-citizen. During the search, Beal came out of a residence adjacent to the border fence and confronted the agent. Beal pointed his firearm, a Sig Sauer, Model P250, .45 caliber pistol, at the victim agent before eventually being subdued and arrested.

    A conviction for Assault of a Federal Officer with a Dangerous Weapon carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. A conviction for Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years up to life imprisonment, a fine of $250,000 or both.

    An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of United States Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Professional Responsibility, is conducting the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Serra M. Tsethlikai, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:            CR-24-02352-TUC-SHR
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2024-064_Beal

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stalker Arrested for Cyberstalking and Transmitting Interstate Threats to University of Arizona Student

    Source: US FBI

    TUCSON, Ariz. – Caleb Alfred Tifft, 29, of Tucson, was arrested on May 8, 2024, on a federal indictment warrant by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Southern Arizona Violent Crime and Gang Task Force on charges of Cyberstalking and Transmitting Interstate Threats, for stalking and threatening a student at the University of Arizona.

    On February 7, 2024, Tifft is alleged to have transmitted a threat in interstate commerce when he sent a message via Facebook Messenger to the victim, stating “Think I’ll just go rape and kill a girl at this point. I give up. I’m the bad guy.” The next day, Tifft was served with an Injunction Against Harassment, which prohibited contact with the victim. Tifft was also served with a 12-month Exclusionary Order from all University of Arizona properties.

    Tifft continued to cyberstalk the victim when on March 1, 2024, he made an anonymous 911 call to the Pima County Sherriff’s Department (PCSD), stating that his friend had sent him a message that the friend was going to commit a mass shooting and that the friend was at the “[specific University of Arizona] building.” The call to PCSD was disconnected before it was able to be transferred to the University of Arizona Police Department (UAPD). However, PCSD provided the phone number to UAPD and UAPD recognized that the phone number belonged to Tifft.

    Later that day, UAPD received a call from a Tucson Police Department dispatcher who transferred a 911 caller. A male caller, later identified as Tifft, told the UAPD dispatcher he was calling because a friend of his “sent some threatening messages about wanting to commit a mass shooting.” Tifft said the friend was “[the victim]” and confirmed the victim was at the “[specific University of Arizona] building.” The call was then disconnected. A UAPD officer familiar with Tifft from having interacted with him previously listened to the recorded call and determined the voice matched Tifft’s. The telephone number associated with the call was the same number used to contact the PCSD. Tifft turned himself in to the FBI on an indictment warrant.

    A conviction for Cyberstalking and Transmitting Interstate Threats each carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both, and a maximum term of three years of supervised release.

    An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the University of Arizona Police Department, as part of the FBI’s Southern Arizona Violent Crime and Gang Task Force, conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Rossi, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-24-02373-TUC-SHR
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2024-067_Tifft

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Carolina Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Transporting Arizona Minor with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct

    Source: US FBI

    TUCSON, Ariz. – Timothy Mikell Schultheis, 26, of Hilton Head, South Carolina, was sentenced on Tuesday by United States District Judge Rosemary Márquez to 27 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. Schultheis also will have to register as a sex offender. Schultheis pleaded guilty to Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity on January 10, 2024.

    Schultheis, aka Jackson Oden, transported a 12-year-old minor, from Arizona to South Carolina, with the intent to engage in sexual activity. After using social media to meet and groom the minor, Schultheis drove from South Carolina to Safford to pick up the minor and drive her back to his South Carolina residence. The investigation revealed Facebook communications between the minor and then-24-year-old Schultheis, which included his travel plans and detailed his intention to participate in sexual conduct with her. When Schultheis was arrested at his apartment in South Carolina on March 30, 2022, the minor was found inside.

    “Our efforts to protect the public start with safeguarding our youth from predators on social media” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino.  “Defendant will have a long time in custody to reflect on his crimes, and upon release decades from now, his supervised release conditions will restrict his use of smart phones and encryption technology to further protect the community.”

    “This sentencing puts a stop to Timothy Schulthies and his repeated offenses. He can no longer hurt children or their families across the country,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Akil Davis. “This case demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to follow the evidence wherever it leads. We will use all tools available to bring to justice those who seek to harm children. We are extremely grateful for the swift actions of our law enforcement partners who worked nonstop to locate and apprehend Schultheis.”

    Schultheis had been previously arrested and released by South Carolina authorities for similar conduct involving a different 12-year-old and was wearing an ankle monitor at the time of his offense in this case. The plea agreement in this case required that Schultheis plead guilty to the South Carolina charges of Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

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

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation in Sierra Vista and the Graham County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carin Duryee, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-22-00973-TUC-RM
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2024-071_Schultheis

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two in Custody in Gila River Indian Community Officer-Involved Shooting

    Source: US FBI

    PHOENIX, AZ—The FBI’s Phoenix Field Office and Gila River Police Department along with other law enforcement partners continue their investigation of the officer-involved shooting that occurred in District 4 of the Gila River Indian Community during the early morning hours of Saturday, June 1. Gila River Police Officer Josh Briese and a bystander were killed, and another police officer was wounded.

    Two subjects have been identified and were taken into custody yesterday. One is an adult and the other is a juvenile. Both are males and both are receiving medical care for injuries they received during yesterday’s shooting.

    While the FBI does not comment on operational specifics, the FBI and Gila River PD are conducting interviews, gathering evidence, sharing information, and collectively working to identify all angles of the investigation. There is a widely variable pace to investigations given the need for methodical and thorough evidence-gathering.

    Once the FBI’s case is complete, it will be handed over to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona for a charging decision.

    Department of Justice guidelines do not allow for investigative updates. As in any given matter, if/when charges are filed, they will eventually become a matter of public record.

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