NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Leads Letter Backing President Trump’s Call for Full Dismantlement of Iran’s Nuclear Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led a letter to President Donald Trump regarding the administration’s ongoing negotiations with Iran. The letter calls on the Trump administration to secure a deal that results in the full dismantlement of the Iranian nuclear program, including permanently ending the regime’s capacity to enrich uranium. The letter was signed by 52 Senate Republicans. The letter states:
    “We write to express our strong support for your efforts to secure a deal with Iran that dismantles its nuclear program, and to reinforce the explicit warnings that you and officials in your administration have issued that the regime must permanently give up any capacity for enrichment.
    “We cannot afford another agreement that enables Iran to play for time, as the JCPOA did. The Iranian regime should know that the administration has Congressional backing to ensure their ability to enrich uranium is permanently eliminated,” the letter continues. “As always we stand ready to provide you and your administration whatever resources you need to advance American national security interests.”
    The letter was also signed by Senators Ted Cruz (TX), Tom Cotton (AR), Leader John Thune (SD), Jim Risch (ID), Mike Crapo (ID), Jim Justice (WV), Steve Daines (MT), John Curtis (UT), John Cornyn (TX), Kevin Cramer (ND), Chuck Grassley (IA), Dave McCormick (PA), James Lankford (OK), Tim Scott (SC), Susan Collins (ME), Markwayne Mullin (OK), Tim Sheehy (MT), Rick Scott (FL), Cynthia Lummis (WY), Jim Banks (IN), John Hoeven (ND), John Boozman (AR), Jon Husted (OH), John Barrasso (WY), Roger Wicker (MS), Thom Tillis (NC), Shelly Moore Capito (WV), Mike Lee (UT), Katie Britt (AL), Marsha Blackburn (TN), Ashley Moody (FL), Ted Budd (NC), Mitch McConnell (KY), Dan Sullivan (AK), Joni Ernst (IA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (MS), Mike Rounds (SD), Deb Fischer (NE), Bill Cassidy (LA), Todd Young (IN), John Kennedy (LA), Tommy Tuberville (AL), Bernie Moreno (OH), Jerry Moran (KS), Lisa Murkowski (AK), Bill Hagerty (TN), Eric Schmitt (MO), Roger Marshall (KS), Josh Hawley (MO), Ron Johnson (WI), and Lindsey Graham (SC).
    Read the full letter here or below:
    Dear Mr. Trump:
    We write to express our strong support for your efforts to secure a deal with Iran that dismantles its nuclear program, and to reinforce the explicit warnings that you and officials in your administration have issued that the regime must permanently give up any capacity for enrichment.
    During your first term you withdrew the United States from the deeply broken Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and imposed maximum pressure on the regime. As you said then, a fatal flaw of the deal was that it “allowed Iran to continue enriching uranium and, over time, reach the brink of a nuclear breakout.”  The JCPOA allowed Iran to sell oil, provided waivers allowing third countries to help Iran build out its nuclear program, and included the termination of United Nations sanctions on the regime. Despite critics claiming your withdrawal from the deal would allow Iran to advance its nuclear ambitions, the Iranian regime remained deterred from making substantial nuclear progress throughout your term because of your maximum pressure campaign.
    Tragically, the Biden administration systematically undid that pressure, functionally re-implementing the nuclear deal. They immediately rescinded your decision to reimpose U.N. sanctions, allowed Iran to sell oil at JCPOA-levels, and even re-issued waivers allowing Iran to build out its nuclear program. As you predicted, those policies indeed allowed Iran to reach the brink of nuclear breakout, which is where they are today. The Biden administration made those concessions without any reciprocal concessions from Iran, and Iran even ceased providing international inspectors access to significant parts of its nuclear program in the early days of the Biden administration.
    The scope and breadth of Iran’s nuclear buildout have made it impossible to verify any new deal that allows Iran to continue enriching uranium. In its most recent report, published on February 26, the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that because of Iran’s activities over the last four years, “the Agency has lost continuity of knowledge in relation to the production and current inventory of centrifuges, rotors and bellows, heavy water and UOC, which it will not be possible to restore.”
    You and your administration have therefore correctly drawn a redline against any deal that allows Iran to retain any enrichment capability. Your National Security Presidential Memorandum on Iran stated that “Iran’s nuclear program, including its enrichment- and reprocessing-related capabilities and nuclear-capable missiles, poses an existential danger to the United States and the entire civilized world,” and you recently said that only “full dismantlement” of those capabilities would be acceptable. Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff has made it clear in that context of negotiation that for any final arrangement to work, “Iran must stop and eliminate its nuclear enrichment and weaponization program.” 
    We cannot afford another agreement that enables Iran to play for time, as the JCPOA did. The Iranian regime should know that the administration has Congressional backing to ensure their ability to enrich uranium is permanently eliminated. 
    As always we stand ready to provide you and your administration whatever resources you need to advance American national security interests.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Republican Governors in Support of Jewish American Heritage Month and Recognizing Israel’s Independence Day

    Source: US Republican Governors Association

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –All Republican governors joined together in a statement in support of Jewish Heritage month and to stand in solidarity with Israel on the 77th anniversary of Israel’s independence.

    All Republican governors wrote:

    “As public servants and governors, we are proud to recognize May as Jewish American Heritage Month. We encourage all Americans to honor and celebrate the profound historical, cultural, and economic contributions of Jewish Americans who continue to enrich our communities and strengthen our nation. In our classrooms and at the kitchen table, we encourage our citizens to learn more about the strong heritage of our nation’s Jewish American community that has long been a part of our nation’s fabric, beginning with the Revolutionary War.

    “The United States was proudly the first nation to recognize the State of Israel, cementing what has been an unbreakable bond for nearly 80 years. We reaffirm our continued, unwavering support for the nation of Israel and her people.

    “We stand in solidarity with our nation’s Jewish community, and we condemn the rampant antisemitism, vile religious bigotry, and brutal terrorism that still festers in our country and across the globe.”

    Signatories to the statement include:Governor Kay Ivey (AL), Governor Mike Dunleavy (AK), Governor Sarah Sanders (AR), Governor Ron DeSantis (FL), Governor Brian Kemp (GA), Governor Brad Little (ID), Governor Mike Braun (IN), Governor Kim Reynolds (IA), Governor Jeff Landry (LA), Governor Tate Reeves (MS), Governor Mike Kehoe (MO), Governor Greg Gianforte (MT), Governor Jim Pillen (NE), Governor Joe Lombardo (NV), Governor Kelly Ayotte (NH), Governor Kelly Armstrong (ND), Governor Mike DeWine (OH), Governor Kevin Stitt (OK), Governor Jenniffer González-Colón (PR), Governor Henry McMaster (SC), Governor Larry Rhoden (SD), Governor Bill Lee (TN), Governor Greg Abbott (TX), Governor Spencer Cox (UT), Governor Phil Scott (VT), Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA), Governor Patrick Morrisey (WV), and Governor Mark Gordon (WY).

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USGS Coastal Landscape Change Products Help the U.S. Department of Defense Safeguard Military Infrastructure Along the Coast

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Our coasts are dynamic, continually changing in response to extreme weather events, high tide flooding, and coastal erosion. This landscape change can threaten important infrastructure along the coast, including structures important to our national security and public safety.

    Each hurricane season, the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf Coasts generally endure a series of storms of varying intensities, where heavy rainfall, high winds, and increased water levels cause significant coastal change and pose risks to lives, military installations, defense communities, and the critical infrastructure assets and utilities on which U.S. Department of Defense missions rely. In the 2024 hurricane season alone, we saw a total of 18 named storms—resulting in $182.7 billion in damages1. 

    To safeguard national security and public safety along our coastlines, preparedness is of paramount importance. USGS landscape change maps provide key answers to ‘where’ and ‘when’ questions regarding coastal change trends and environmental conditions necessary for effective decision making.  

    The Department of Defense partnered with the USGS to better understand future coastal landscape changes that are and will continue to impact military installations, defense access roads, and Sentinel Landscapes along the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf Coasts. The Department of Defense requires this knowledge to meet statutory requirements in Title 10, U.S. Code. Understanding the location and timing of these changes and resulting impacts (e.g., inundation or erosion), enables the development of proactive strategies to protect assets, investments, and resources that ensure the prosperity of the Nation and its citizens. 

    The USGS Coastal Change Likelihood and Coastal Landscape Response assessments address the probability of our coasts to resist change or transform due to coastal hazards caused by extreme storms and/or long-term sea level change. 

    Assessment outcomes can be used in conjunction with other products or tools used in installation planning and design, such as the Department of Defense Extreme Conditions Assessment Tool (DECAT) and the Department of Defense Regional Sea Level (DRSL) Database. Together, these products can highlight vulnerable areas, where resources can be prioritized to ensure installation resilience, which mitigation measures are most effective for a given location, areas that may be naturally more resilient or resistant to coastal change, and what hazards are of highest concern. 

    This information will support both near- and long-term Department of Defense planning objectives, helping them determine whether to adapt in place, change a military mission, or relocate due to extreme weather and coastal changes.

    USGS Coastal Change Likelihood (CCL) outcomes are displayed for Wallops Joint Expeditionary Base in Virginia. Warm colors indicate areas of high expected coastal change and cool colors indicate areas with lower expected change. Results are based on existing information on the composition of the landscape and the common coastal hazards at work in a given location.

    Coastal Change Likelihood

    The Coastal Change Likelihood assessment synthesizes over 20 existing datasets from federal, state, and private organizations to understand observed changes and evaluate the likelihood of coastal change over the next decade. The datasets describe the coastal landscape and six common coastal hazards: erosion, storm frequency, relative sea level change, tidal flooding, storm overwash probability, and wave power.  

    Understanding where landscape change is most likely to occur, and which types of hazards are more likely to adversely affect a specific location (e.g., storm-driven waves, shoreline erosion, and/or sea level change) is essential to planning. 

    Visit the Coastal Change Likelihood web page to learn more, download the data, and access the geonarrative and interactive maps. 

    Coastal Landscape Response

    The Coastal Landscape Response assessment creates multidecadal predictions of where and when the coast is likely to adapt or inundate. Results are produced for four decades—the 2020s, 2030s, 2050s, and 2080s. This information helps users determine where land will be available in its current or changed form or become submerged in response to future sea level change. 

    By informing people of where coastal land will likely be available—or not—for future use, land use managers can make long-term plans concerning important infrastructure and valuable resources. 

    Visit the Coastal Science Navigator product summary page for the Coastal Landscape Response assessment to learn more and access the data for download. 

    Both products were originally developed for the U.S. Northeast coast. The U.S. Department of Defense is supporting the geographic expansion of these products to the U.S. Southeast and Gulf Coasts.  

    Products that forecast coastal change likelihood are critical to support informed and proactive planning ensuring national security. By understanding where and when change is expected, decision makers help ensure lives and critical infrastructure are safe and secure, and taxpayer dollars are not wasted on preventable damages and lost revenue. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arkansas Guard Participates in CENTAM Guardian 2025 in Guatemala

    Source: United States SOUTHERN COMMAND

    More than 60 Arkansas National Guardsmen are participating in CENTAM Guardian 2025 in Guatemala. CENTAM Guardian 2025 is an annual multi-national exercise designed to strengthen interoperability, information sharing and counter-threat capabilities between the United States and participating Central American and Caribbean partner nations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ferryland — Two men arrested after fleeing from Ferryland RCMP and crashing in St. John’s

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Following the report of a break and enter in progress in Bay Bulls, two men — 44-year-old Grant Payne and 42-year-old Matthew Payne, both of Grand Falls-Windsor — were arrested after fleeing from police and crashing a vehicle in St. John’s.

    Shortly before 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, Ferryland RCMP responded to a report of a break and enter in progress at a commercial property in Bay Bulls. The suspect vehicle, a Ford F150, was located by police after it fled the scene of the crime. Ferryland RCMP attempted a traffic stop, however the vehicle continued to drive in a dangerous manner and failed to stop for police. The vehicle was last seen heading east on the Trans-Canada Highway. Information about the vehicle, its last known location and its involvement in a crime was shared with the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC).

    Information received confirmed that the suspect vehicle crashed on Pitts Memorial Highway and that the two occupants fled on foot. RCMP and RNC officers conducted a foot chase and located the two men, Grant and Matthew Payne, who were arrested without further incident.

    The pair attend court today, each charged with the following criminal offences:

    • Break and enter
    • Flight from police
    • Dangerous operation
    • Breach of a release order

    Matthew Payne is charged with an additional count for breach of a release order.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Working together, RCMP and RNC police officers are dedicated to the protection of pubic safety and enforcement of the law in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 5 Defendants Federally Charged in Los Angeles, Orange Counties as Part of Nationwide Crackdown on Child Sexual Abuse Offenders

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Attorney General Pamela Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel recently announced an unprecedented national initiative to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities. The FBI launched a coordinated effort with all field offices in a sweeping action to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.

    Since the end of April, the FBI arrested 205 subjects across the country and rescued 115 children during Operation Restore Justice. These subjects are accused of various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. They include school leaders and registered sex offenders, among others. 

    In the Central District of California, a seven-county jurisdiction that includes Los Angeles and Orange counties, five defendants were charged with federal crimes as follows:

    • Andrew Castillon, 47, of El Monte, was arrested May 1 on a federal criminal complaint charging him with possession of child pornography. A federal magistrate judge ordered him released on $5,000 bond. Castillon’s arraignment is scheduled for May 27 in United States District Court in Los Angeles. Assistant United States Attorney Thi H. Ho of the General Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.
    • Jose Olvera, 34, of North Hollywood, was arrested May 1 on a federal indictment charging him with two counts of distribution of child pornography and five counts of possession of child pornography. He pleaded not guilty to all charges at his arraignment and a June 23 trial was scheduled in this case. A federal magistrate judge ordered him jailed without bond. Assistant United States Attorney Mikaela W. Gilbert-Lurie of the General Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.
    • Steven Martin Nuss, 66, of San Juan Capistrano, was arrested May 9 on a two-count federal grand jury indictment charging him with distribution of child pornography and possession of child pornography. He pleaded not guilty to both charges and a federal magistrate judge ordered him jailed without bond. He is scheduled to go to trial on July 1. Assistant United States Attorney Melissa S. Rabbani of the Orange County Office is prosecuting this case.
    • David Eugene Parker, 55, of La Palma, was arrested April 30 on federal grand jury indictment charging him with two counts of possession of child pornography. He pleaded not guilty to the charge and a federal magistrate judge ordered him released on $100,000 bond. A June 24 trial date is scheduled in this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Lauren E. Border of the General Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.
    • Gregory Cole Jr., 30, of Lancaster, was arrested April 30 in Arizona after he failed to appear at his trial earlier last month in which a jury found him guilty in absentia of one count of production of child pornography, one count of enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity, and one count of receipt of child pornography. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 23, at which time he will face a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison. Assistant United States Attorney Derek R. Flores of the Violent and Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

    Two additional individuals were arrested in Los Angeles for sexual exploitation of a child and charges of coercion and enticement, respectively; however, those cases are being prosecuted in separate districts.

    “Sexual predators who target children leave emotional scars that can last a lifetime,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “Along with our law enforcement partners, we seek to bring a measure of solace to victims and put criminals on notice that they risk lengthy prison sentences and severe penalties for harming children.”

    “The amount of child predators arrested during Operation Restore Justice should shock the conscience of any law-abiding citizen and parents or guardians, in particular,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office.  “Each day, our agents are tackling criminal allegations involving children, whether it be online dangers such as ‘sextortion,’ emerging nihilist extremist networks such as ‘764,’ or children being groomed by someone close to them. We urge caretakers of all children to educate themselves about these constant threats targeting the most vulnerable members of our society.”

    As the nation marked National Child Abuse Prevention month in April, the timing of this effort was a culmination of countless hours by hundreds of FBI agents. It further underscores the FBI’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Bureau works relentlessly to investigate these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prevention and community education.

    The FBI takes a proactive approach to identify unknown individuals involved in the sexual exploitation of children and the production of child sexual abuse material. We do that through our Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Forces (CEHTTFs) located in each field office. This allows the FBI to combine resources with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The FBI also partners with the nonprofit National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org. 

    In 2004, the FBI created the Endangered Child Alert Program (ECAP) to identify individuals involved in the sexual abuse of children and the production of child sexual abuse material. The program is a collaborative effort between the FBI and the NMCEC.

    The FBI also offers resources for parents and caregivers to stay engaged with their children’s online and offline activities. The FBI’s Safe Online Surfing (SOS) program teaches students in grades 3 to 8 how to navigate the web safely.

    The FBI urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through our tiplines at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office. 

    Other online resources:

    • Electronic Press Kit:

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stanislaus County Man Sentenced to over 15 Years in Prison for Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Cristian Ceja, 28, of Turlock, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge John A. Mendez to 15 years and eight months in prison for transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, between Aug. 27, 2023, and Jan. 3, 2024, Ceja transported a minor victim from the Eastern District of California to Idaho with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. Ceja met the minor victim when Ceja was working as a delivery driver and delivered food to the minor’s house. Ceja thereafter used the minor victim’s phone number to track her down on social media and communicate with her. Ceja began a lengthy sexual relationship with the minor victim who, at that time, was 15. During the course of their sexual relationship, Ceja would sneak into the minor victim’s bedroom to have sex with her without being detected by her parents. On at least two occasions, Ceja video recorded himself engaging in sexual contact with the minor victim. Ceja kept used condoms and used feminine hygiene products in his storage unit as souvenirs of his relationship with the minor victim.

    On Aug. 26, 2023, the minor victim’s mother contacted law enforcement because she found provocative photographs of the minor victim in her bedroom and was concerned her daughter was having a sexual relationship with an adult. In the early morning hours of Aug. 27, 2023, Ceja took the minor victim and fled to avoid detection and to continue the sexual relationship. While on the run, Ceja attempted to evade detection by placing stolen license plates on his vehicle, obliterating the VIN from his vehicle’s dashboard, spray painting the vehicle a different color, and adopting a false name. In order to avoid detection, Ceja discarded his cellphone while in flight and used a “burner” phone.

    Ceja first took the minor victim to Nevada where they lived in his vehicle for approximately one week. Ceja then took the minor victim to a rural part of Idaho where they lived for several months in a small camper trailer without running water or heat. Law enforcement found the minor victim after she contacted a family member via social media to let her family know that she wanted to come home but could not leave on her own. On Jan. 3, 2024, law enforcement officers arrived at the camper trailer, rescued the minor victim, and arrested Ceja

    This case was the product of an investigation by the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shea J. Kenny prosecuted 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 the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Statement by U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley Regarding Attempts to Obstruct ICE Operations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    “The interference with ICE operations around Massachusetts has been disturbing, to say the least. This conduct poses significant public and officer safety risks. It is conduct that should be vilified rather than glorified. I will not stand idly by if any public official, public safety officer, organization or private citizen acts in a manner that criminally obstructs or impedes ICE operations. The United States Attorney’s Office, along with our federal partners, will investigate any violations of federal law and pursue charges that are warranted by such activity.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dominican National Indicted for Illegally Reentering the United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE – A Dominican national convicted for drug trafficking and deported has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Rhode Island for illegally reentering the United States, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.

    Kelvin Roberto Feliz, 54, who has been detained at the Adult Correctional Institution in an unrelated matter since June 2024, was ordered deported from the United States in September 2014, following a conviction for trafficking heroin. He was removed from the United States on July 7, 2015.

    A federal indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul F. Daly, Jr. The matter was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Sentenced to 17.5 Years in Prison for Leadership Role in a Drug Trafficking Conspiracy and for Being a Felon in Possession of Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Michael Garcia, 36, of Sacramento County, was sentenced Tuesday to 17 years and six months in prison for conspiring to possess and distribute methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, Michael Garcia conspired with his wife Nancy Garcia, his father Gonzalo Garcia, Tyler Combs (all co-defendant in this case), and others to sell methamphetamine and heroin in Sacramento and Solano Counties. Michael Garcia began this conspiracy while he was serving a state sentence for narcotics offenses at the Tulare County Jail.

    Michael Garcia worked with his wife, father, and other coconspirators to sell a confidential informant a total of five pounds of methamphetamine and a quarter pound of heroin over five separate occasions, and he personally sold the CI a total of 4 pounds of methamphetamine. During the initial transactions, Nancy Garcia began to negotiate a firearms sale with the confidential informant and was present at the illegal firearms sale described below.

    Once out of state custody, Michael Garcia continued the conspiracy to sell methamphetamine and heroin. He also set up a deal with Tylor Combs to sell firearms to the confidential informant. Nancy Garcia, Michael Garcia, and Tyler Combs were present at this illegal firearms deal, which involved 10 firearms, including an unserialized machine gun.

     Screenshot of video Michael Garcia sent to confidential informant bragging about his drug proceeds, saying “Sac money is good money.” 

    The 10 firearms that Garcia and Combs sold to the confidential informant.

    Michael Garcia and his wife also admitted that they bought a home in Arizona with drug proceeds. The United States is in the process of the forfeiture of this home.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the FBI’s Solano County Violent Crimes Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adrian T. Kinsella prosecuted the case.

    Gonzalo Garcia passed away while in pretrial custody for this case. Tylor Combs has since pleaded guilty both to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and heroin and to being a felon in possession of firearms. On November 12, 2021, he was sentenced to six years and six months in prison. Nancy Garcia pleaded guilty to a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin. On September 10, 2024, she was sentenced to five years in prison.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see www.justice.gov/projectguardian.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colonie Man Pleads Guilty to Murder-for-Hire Plot

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jeal Sutherland, age 57, of Colonie, New York, pled guilty today to using an interstate commerce facility in a murder-for-hire scheme targeting a Capital Region man.  United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.

    As detailed in Sutherland’s plea agreement and an earlier-filed criminal complaint, between November 2024 and January 2025, Sutherland used his cell phone to arrange the murder of a man who is the father of a child with Sutherland’s then-partner.  As part of this plot, Sutherland agreed to forgive a debt of the person he hired to kill the victim.  Sutherland also agreed to pay an undercover FBI agent – whom Sutherland believed to be a hog farmer – for use of a Pennsylvania farm to dispose of the victim by having pigs consume the body.  Sutherland admitted that in late January 2025, he had another man put the carcass of a Canada goose on the doorstep of the victim’s mother.  When the dead bird was discovered, it had a threatening note stuffed in its beak that had been written at Sutherland’s direction.      

    The intended victim was not harmed and the FBI arrested Sutherland on January 27, 2025. Sutherland has been in custody since his arrest.

    United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “Jeal Sutherland hatched a vicious plot to kill a romantic rival and intimidate his victim’s family.  When members of the FBI and my office learned of Sutherland’s plans, they acted quickly and did not rest until Sutherland was brought to justice.”

    FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “Mr. Sutherland’s diabolical plot intended to violently end a man’s life and intimidate his family. Thanks to the swift actions taken by FBI Albany and our law enforcement partners, that plan never came to fruition and Mr. Sutherland was quickly arrested and remains in custody. The FBI will continue to work with our partners at the United States Attorney’s Office to aggressively pursue and hold accountable anyone looking to commit such egregious acts of violence in our communities.”

    Sutherland faces up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years when he is sentenced by United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino on September 22, 2025.  A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

    The FBI’s Capital District Safe Streets Gang Task Force investigated this case, with assistance from the Colonie Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua R. Rosenthal and Joseph S. Hartunian are prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, FBI investigation reveals illegal alien from Guatemala fraudulently sponsored unaccompanied alien children

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — An illegal alien from Guatemala was charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of New Jersey for allegedly submitting sponsorship applications with false statements to the U.S. government to gain custody of two unaccompanied alien children after they entered the United States illegally, following a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, FBI investigation.

    “Attempting to exploit the sponsorship system to gain custody of unaccompanied alien children puts those minors at serious risk,” said ICE acting Director Todd Lyons. “ICE works alongside our law enforcement partners to prevent trafficking and exploitation by individuals falsely claiming to be family. ICE remains firmly committed to detecting deception, upholding the integrity of the immigration process, and, above all, protecting these at-risk children.”

    According to the criminal complaint, Luciano Tinuar Quino, also known as “Luciano Tinuar Guino,” 57, who illegally entered the United States in 2016 and previously resided in the area of Orange, New Jersey, submitted multiple applications to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement under penalties of perjury to sponsor and obtain custody of two UACs.

    “Protecting children means holding individuals accountable when they use deception to exploit our systems. ORR acted swiftly to identify the fraud and share with our law enforcement counterparts who located the children and ensured justice was served,” said ORR acting Director Angie M. Salazar.

    As alleged in the complaint, after a 15-year-old Guatemalan male (UAC-1) illegally entered the United States in April 2022, Tinuar Quino submitted applications to sponsor this UAC that falsely: (1) claimed to be his father; (2) claimed his own name was “A.S.T.” as listed on a Guatemala national identification card he submitted; and (3) provided his date of birth. To prove his relationship with UAC-1, Tinuar Quino submitted a photoshopped image, which he asserted was a photo of himself with UAC-1’s mother. As a result, the boy was transported from Texas to New Jersey to live with Tinuar Quino.

    “The prior administration’s border policies created chaos and allowed bad actors to prey upon the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This Department of Justice will always seek strong legal penalties to protect children from those who would do them harm.”

    “This prosecution is an example of my office’s dedication to keeping children safe,” said U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District New Jersey. “We will continue to bring to justice those who take advantage of our country’s Unaccompanied Alien Children program and threaten the safety of our community.”

    “This was a clear attempt from an individual unlawfully in the United States seeking to undermine our laws and target children, and the FBI will not tolerate it,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We remain laser-focused on ensuring people who come into the United States intending to wreak havoc and intentionally violate our rule of law will face serious consequences.”

    Tinuar Quino is also charged with submitting false information in an attempt to obtain custody of another UAC. Specifically, the complaint charges that in June 2022, Tinuar Quino submitted an application to sponsor a 17-year-old Guatemalan male (UAC-2) who had entered the United States illegally. As alleged, Tinuar Quino falsely: (1) claimed to be UAC-2’s father; (2) stated that his name was “J.R.M.” as listed on a Guatemala national identification card he submitted; and (3) provided his date of birth. ORR did not approve this application.   

    Tinuar Quino is charged with two counts of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five 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.

    These charges are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha. JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security, has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 365 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 334 U.S. convictions; more than 281 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    The ICE Homeland Security Investigations and FBI Newark field offices are jointly investigating with assistance from the FBI’s Legal Attaché team in Guatemala. Additionally, the DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C. and ORR have provided valuable assistance.

    Senior Trial Attorney Christian Levesque of HRSP, JTFA Trial Attorney Spencer M. Perry of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Sussman of the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case, with assistance from HRSP Analyst/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and other transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods.

    As a federal criminal investigatory agency, ICE HSI’s role is to take swift action to investigate any criminal activity for which HSI has jurisdiction related to UAC. This includes investigating the exploitive smuggling networks that bring UAC to the United States as well as any criminals who may exploit these at-risk youths here in the United States.

    Individuals across the world can report suspicious criminal activity to the ICE Tip Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 866-DHS-2-ICE. Highly trained specialists take reports from both the public and law enforcement agencies on more than 400 laws enforced by ICE.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, SLCPD investigation sends woman to prison for 25 years for producing child exploitation material involving toddler

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    ST. LOUIS — U.S. District Judge Rodney W. Sippel on Tuesday sentenced a woman from St. Louis County, Missouri to 25 years in prison for producing child sexual abuse material involving a two-year-old, following a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, St. Louis County Police Department investigation.

    Judge Sippel also ordered Raven Ainesis Pointer, 27, to pay $15,000 in restitution. After her release from prison, Pointer will be on supervised release for life.

    Pointer pleaded guilty in October in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of production of child pornography. Pointer admitted coercing the victim in 2022 into engaging in sexual conduct and using her phone to produce videos containing child sexual abuse material.

    On six occasions, Pointer recorded the sexual abuse of the toddler and shared it with others for their “perverse sexual” entertainment, a sentencing memo filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Becker says. In jail, Pointer continued to try and contact the child and berated the child’s father for seeking restitution, the memo says.

    “The production and sharing of child sexual abuse material is an appalling betrayal of human decency. This defendant targeted an innocent toddler – someone who should have been protected, not exploited – and did so for her own twisted purposes and the gratification of others who feed on this sickness. Crimes like this are not only horrific, but they are also unforgivable,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Mark Zito. “We will use every tool we have to find predators like this, to stop them, and make sure they spend as many years as possible behind bars. There is zero tolerance for those who harm children.”

    The investigation began in August of 2023 in Montgomery, Alabama, where ICE HSI special agents learned that a man who had been distributing child sexual abuse material had received videos involving a two-year-old victim from Pointer. Investigators then tracked down Pointer in St. Louis. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

    If you suspect a child may be a victim of online CSEA, call the Know2Protect Tipline at 1-833-591-KNOW (5669) or visit the NCMEC CyberTipline™. If you believe a child has been abducted or is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement and the NCMEC Tipline at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).

    Know2Protect is a national public awareness campaign from the Department of Homeland Security. K2P’s aim is to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults, and policymakers to prevent, combat, and report online child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information, please visit our YouTube playlists at Know2Protect Campaign PSA Playlist and Know2Protect Digital Safety Series Playlist on the DHS main channel. Additional resources are available at know2protect.gov and @Know2Protect on Instagram, Facebook and X.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Illegal alien sentenced for prohibited person in possession of a firearm, following ICE, local law enforcement partner investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LINCOLN, Neb. — Michael Alexander Ayala-Ramirez, 20, an illegal alien from El Salvador, was sentenced on May 8, 2025, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of prohibited person in possession or a firearm or firearms, following a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, local law enforcement investigation.

    U.S. District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Ayala-Ramirez to a total of 70 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Ayala-Ramirez’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release and will face removal from the United States.

    “This case is a stark reminder of why strong collaboration between federal and local law enforcement is non-negotiable,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Mark Zito. “A convicted felon and illegal alien in possession of firearms isn’t just breaking the law — he’s a direct threat to the people of Lincoln. When dangerous individuals enter and remain in this country illegally, they put all of us at risk. HSI will “aggressively” investigate, dismantle, and bring to justice anyone who endangers American lives.”

    On July 4, 2024, a pickup truck was reported stolen from the Denver International Airport. On July 6, 2024, an Ogallala police officer observed the stolen truck and attempted to contact it. The stolen truck had three occupants, Michael Ayala-Ramirez, codefendant Pablo Escobar-Alas, and codefendant Selvin Escobar-Rivera. The driver of the vehicle, Ayala-Ramirez, attempted to flee from law enforcement, which lead to a high-speed chase through multiple counties and involved multiple law enforcement agencies. Stop sticks were successfully deployed near the Deuel and Keith County line and the truck ended up in a ditch near a farmyard in Deuel County.

    Ayala-Ramirez and Escobar-Alas were the driver and front seat passenger. They got out of the vehicle carrying bags and attempted to hide under another vehicle in the farmyard momentarily. The bags were later found to contain a Smith & Wesson pistol that was reported stolen, a Sig Sauer pistol, a Glock pistol, and a Del Ton DTI-15 rifle. Ayala-Ramirez and Escobar-Alas then stole a pickup truck from the farmyard, which lead to another high-speed chase. They were arrested after stop sticks were successfully deployed once again.

    Escobar-Rivera was in the backseat of the first stolen truck and he fled on foot after the initial stop. He was later arrested, and a second Smith & Wesson pistol was found on the floorboard of the backseat where he had been sitting. This pistol was also reported stolen.

    All three of the defendants have previously been deported and have no legal basis to return to the United States.

    Pablo Escobar-Alas and Selvin Escobar-Rivera’s cases are still active and pending.

    This case was investigated by ICE HSI, Nebraska State Patrol, Deuel County Sheriff’s Office, Ogallala Police Department, and the Denver Police Department.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hageman Joins Wyoming Law Enforcement Officers to Honor Officer Nevada Krinkee of Sheridan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman

    Washington, D.C. – This week Congresswoman Hageman joined Law Enforcement Officers from across Wyoming in the nation’s capital to honor the life of Seargent Nevada Krinkee from Sheridan, WY. 

    “I am humbled to take a moment to recognize Seargent Nevada Krinkee. His death shook our state and law enforcement community to the core and left his family without a father and a husband. Seargent Krinkee is an example of someone who selflessly served his country, both in the U.S. Army and as a Sheridan police officer. His life will be remembered in Wyoming for generations.” Hageman stated, “He was a man of honor and integrity and serves as an example to all of us of living a life for the betterment of others. This week was a particularly special opportunity to join with some of Seargent Krinkee’s colleagues and to ensure his name is ever etched in our hearts and on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. I encourage all of Wyoming to take a moment to visit the memorial when you have the opportunity and, when you do, to pray for the perseverance and peace of mind for his wife and young daughter.”  

    National Police Week is a collaborative effort of many organizations dedicated to honoring America’s law enforcement community and is taking place May 11-17th, 2025.

    Pictured above: The Wyoming Delegation with the Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police Executive Board.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Russell Fry (SC-07) and Mike Levin (CA-49) Introduce MAPOceans Act to Enhance Access to Recreational Waterway Data

    Source:

    Reps. Russell Fry (SC-07) and Mike Levin (CA-49) Introduce MAPOceans Act to Enhance Access to Recreational Waterway Data

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressmen Russell Fry (SC-07) and Mike Levin (CA-49) introduced the Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans (MAPOceans) Act, legislation that will modernize public access to vital data about U.S. waterways. By requiring the Secretary of Commerce to digitize and display real-time marine data through GPS and smartphone applications, the bill aims to improve the recreational experience for boaters and anglers, support safe and legal activity on the water, and strengthen coastal economies.

    Building on the success of the MAPLand Act (2022) and the MAPWaters Act (which passed the House in January 2025), the MAPOceans Act would require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to consolidate, standardize, and digitize public information about U.S. marine waters and make that information easily accessible in real time.

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Provide real-time status updates on which waterways are open or closed to entry or watercraft, low-elevation aircraft, or diving.

    • Digitize restrictions related to motorized propulsion, fuel type, and specific types of watercraft (e.g., motorboats, kayaks, personal watercraft, airboats, ships).

    • Display fishing regulations and restrictions, including no-take zones, marine protected areas, and rules about specific equipment or bait (such as circle hooks or descending devices).

    • Publish continuously updated geographic information (GIS) data on navigation, bathymetric information, and depth charts.

    • Require the Department of Commerce to partner with non-federal entities—including states, Indian Tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, private industry, data experts, and academic institutions—to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.

    “The MAPOceans Act is a commonsense bill to help Americans enjoy our nation’s waters and coastlines more safely and responsibly,” said Congressman Fry. “Whether you’re a fisherman or a boater, this bill gives individuals the easily accessible real-time information they need and ensures that Americans who rely on our waterways—whether for work or recreation—have the tools to access and enjoy our natural resources.”

    “Our district is home to terrific coastal waters that offer recreational and economic benefits to our entire region,” said Congressman Levin. “Every resident and visitor should be able to easily access clear information about how to responsibly enjoy these areas. This bipartisan bill will help ensure that’s the case while promoting the long-term protection of these natural resources. I look forward to working with Rep. Fry to advance this important legislation through the House.”

    Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Angus King (I-ME) reintroduced the bill in the Senate, where it passed the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee by voice vote in March 2025.

    The bill has received endorsements from the following organizations: South Carolina Boating & Fishing Alliance, American Sportfishing Association, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, International Game Fish Association, Center for Sportfishing Policy, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS), and National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).

    “Boaters and anglers want to follow the rules, but too often those rules are buried in scattered websites or outdated PDFs,” said President and CEO of the South Carolina Boating & Fishing Alliance Gettys Brannon. “For a coastal state like South Carolina, where access to our waterways drives tourism, supports small businesses, and defines our way of life, the MAPOceans Act will bring clarity to the chaos. It gives the public one clear source to understand where they can fish, anchor, or operate. It’s a long-overdue fix that makes federal waterways more accessible and more manageable for everyone on the water. We thank Congressman Fry for his leadership on this important legislation.”

    “The MAPOceans Act will provide many benefits for the millions of saltwater anglers who fish our nation’s marine waters every year,” said President and CEO of the American Sportfishing Association (ASA) Glenn Hughes. “This legislation will ease access to information on federal fishing regulations through navigation tools and mapping applications, helping anglers and boaters stay up-to-date with changing regulations and opportunities. ASA and the recreational fishing industry thank Representatives Fry and Levin for their leadership of this legislation, which will simplify access to a wide range of recreational information, allowing anglers to feel confident they’re in compliance with the law as they’re heading out on the water.”

    “America’s incredible saltwater recreation opportunities should be easily enjoyed by all,” said President and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership Joel Pedersen. “The MAPOceans Act will help simplify boating and recreational fishing information by digitizing not easily accessible regulations and making them readily available to the public. TRCP thanks Representatives Fry and Levin for their leadership to introduce and advance this important public access legislation.”

    “Accurate charts are one of the basic safety tools for all boaters,” said Government Affairs Manager for Boat Owners Association of The United States, BoatUS David Kennedy. “The MAPOceans Act will ensure the information collected by federal agencies will get on the chart plotters, mobile devices and even paper charts that boaters rely upon.”

    “The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) applauds the introduction of the MAPOceans Act, which would provide recreational boaters and anglers with more easily accessible resources and information to enjoy America’s waterways in a responsible and safe way,” said NMMA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer. “NMMA appreciates Representatives Fry and Levin’s support of the $230 billion recreational boating community and their steadfast leadership on this issue.”

    Several organizations also submitted this letter.

    Congressman Fry serves on both the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Judiciary Committee. To stay up to date with Congressman Fry and his work for the Seventh District, follow his official Facebook, Instagram, and X pages and visit his website at fry.house.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Alford Introduces PELOSI Act to Ban Members of Congress from Owning, Selling Individual Stocks

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

    Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) introduced the Preventing Elected Leaders from Owning Securities and Investments (PELOSI) Act. The PELOSI Act will stop Members of Congress and their spouses from owning or trading individual stocks.

    This follows widespread reports of suspicious transactions associated with public officials that raise concerns members are trading on non-public information. President Trump has announced he would sign such a bill into law if passed by Congress. The Senate version of this legislation is led by Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO).

    “As public servants, we should hold ourselves to a higher standard and avoid the mere appearance of corruption,” said Congressman Alford. “Unfortunately, too many members of Congress are engaging in suspicious stock trades based on non-public information to enrich themselves. These gross violations of the public trust make clear: we must finally take action to ban members and their spouses from owning or selling individual stocks.”

    “Members of Congress should be fighting for the people they were elected to serve—not day trading at the expense of their constituents,” stated Senator Hawley. “Americans have seen politician after politician turn a profit using information not available to the general public. It’s time we ban all members of Congress from trading and holding stocks and restore Americans’ trust in our nation’s legislative body.”

    Read the full text of the legislation here.

    Background:

    The PELOSI Act bans lawmakers and their spouses from holding, purchasing, or selling individual stocks while in office, but allows investments in diversified mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, or U.S. Treasury bonds.

    The legislation gives current lawmakers 180 days to comply with the restrictions and allows newly elected members of Congress the same 180-day compliance timeline after taking office.

    Violations of the PELOSI Act require the forfeiture of any stock profits to the U.S. Department of the Treasury as well as monetary penalties imposed by the House and Senate ethics committees.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK advocates clean energy development in Guatemala

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UK advocates clean energy development in Guatemala

    An official from the UK’s Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) engaged with stakeholders in Guatemala to advance energy transition.

    Mitchell Lloyd, Senior Policy Advisor on International Energy Transition at DENZ visited Guatemala 12-14 May.  He met with the General Directorate of Energy at the Ministry of Energy and Mines, other government departments, private sector and international financing institutions developing clean energy initiatives in Guatemala.

    The discussions included a series of topics ranging from the need to galvanize global and local leadership and foster international cooperation on a clean energy transition, to unlocking clean growth, job opportunities and build robust clean energy supply chains.

    Guatemala has significant potential to develop clean energy projects, with a renewable capacity potential of 3,700 MW that could be integrated into the country’s electricity grid between 2024 and 2040. This includes various sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy.

    The visit supports the UK’s government mission to become a clean energy superpower, protecting households from unstable fossil fuel markets, including coal, while at the same time unlocking job opportunities at home and abroad for the clean energy sector.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard detains 4 Mexican fishermen, seizes 450 pounds of illegally caught fish off Texas coast

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 05/14/2025 02:16 PM EDT

     News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 8th District Public Affairs Detachment Texas
    Contact: 8th District Public Affairs Detachment Texas
    Office: 281-464-4810
    After Hours: 832-293-1293
    PA Detachment Texas online newsroom

     

    05/14/2025 01:49 PM EDT

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The Coast Guard interdicted and detained four Mexican fishermen engaged in illegal fishing and seized approximately 450 pounds of fish in federal waters off southern Texas, Tuesday.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada delivering middle class tax cut

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    May 14, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

    Last month, Canadians called for a serious plan for change to address the rising cost of living that has eroded Canadians’ quality of life. Change that puts more money in the pockets of Canadians. Change that builds a more affordable Canada. The government is delivering that change.

    The Minister of Finance and National Revenue, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, today announced one of the first orders of business on the government’s legislative agenda for the new session of Parliament: tax relief for nearly 22 million Canadians, saving two-income families up to $840 a year in 2026.

    Once legislated, the lowest marginal personal income tax rate will be reduced from 15 per cent to 14 per cent, effective July 1, 2025. This tax cut will help hard-working Canadians keep more of their paycheques to spend where it matters most.  This measure is expected to deliver over $27 billion in tax savings to Canadians over five years, starting in 2025-26. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: US FDA Orphan Drug Rare Disease Market Clinical Trials Drug Sales Insight 2030

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Delhi, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — US Orphan Designated Drugs Market Opportunity, Drugs Sales, Price, Dosage and Clinical Trials Insight 2030 Report Offering and Highlights:

    • US Orphan Designated Drugs Market Opportunity: > US$ 190 Billion By 2030
    • Insight On FDA Designated Orphan Drugs In Clinical Trials: > 850 Orphan Drugs
    • Clinical Trials Insight By Company, Indication, Phase and Priority Status
    • Insight On FDA Designated Marketed Orphan Drugs: > 500 Orphan Drugs
    • Pricing and Dosage Insight: > 400 Marketed Orphan Drugs
    • US, Global, Regional, Annual Sales Insight (2019 – Q1’2025): >150 Orphan Drugs
    • Sales, Price and Dosage Data Represented In More Than 1000 Charts and Tables
    • Orphan Designation Insight By Indication, Company, Trial Phase, Marketed Drugs  Represented In 1000 Tables

    Download US Orphan Designated Drugs Market Opportunity, Drugs Sales, Price, Dosage and Clinical Trials Insight 2030 Report:

    https://www.kuickresearch.com/report-fda-orphan-drug-database

    Research Methodology:

    This report on the US orphan designated drugs market is the result of comprehensive primary and secondary research, encompassing over 1400 FDA designated orphan drugs, alongside in-depth analysis of their pricing, dosing, and sales data. Market size, marketed drugs regional sales analysis and recent trends are also included in the report. To ensure the accuracy and reliability of our analysis on US orphan designated drugs pricing and market performance, we leveraged an extensive array of sources, including company reports, exchange filings, annual and quarterly reports, and official press releases.

    • Over 50000 distinct web links were reviewed for comprehensive clinical trial information.
    • For annual, quarterly, global and regional sales analysis, more than 1500 PDF documents were analyzed.
    • More than 2000 distinct web links were examined to gather detailed drug pricing and dosage information
    • More than 400 orphan designated drugs specific websites were accessed for drug profiling
    • More than 2000 distinct web links were accessed to validate FDA designated orphan drug indications by indications and developer.

    Throughout the world, there are numerous diseases that occur in only a few patients, and in many cases, they have limited or no treatment. For pharmaceutical companies, creating therapies for these rare diseases, which are also known as orphan diseases, has historically been economically impractical. The reason lies in the fact that the market is so minute that the return on investment hardly ever pays for the significant costs of research and development. Due to this fact, rare disease patients have long suffered from the practical difficulty of getting access to treatments specifically designed for their special conditions.

    Seeing this niche, the US federal government acted on behalf of suffering patients by authorizing the passage of the Orphan Drug Act of 1983, an innovative legislation with the aim to promote the establishment of drugs to treat rare illnesses through a menu of financial incentives and regulatory perks. Since the act went into effect, the Orphan Drug Act has worked to turn once-overlooked medicine into an exciting and robust sector of the pharmaceutical market.

    To date, as of May 14, 2025, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) to over 7,300 molecules and drugs. Of these, over 1,300, or about 17.9%, have come through the approval process successfully. These statistics reflect the increasing interest and activity in the orphan drug sphere. Statistically, since 2020, over half of all new drug approvals by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) at the FDA annually have been granted orphan status. This indicates how important orphan drugs have become in the overall strategy of treating rare and complex diseases.

    The incentives provided by the Orphan Drug Act are one of the main reasons pharmaceutical firms are now more inclined to pursue treatments for orphan diseases. The incentives involve federal grants to fund clinical trials, tax credits for research costs, exemptions from some FDA fees, and quite possibly most significantly, a seven-year marketing exclusivity post-approval. This exclusivity bars competitors from bringing similar products for the same indication to market, providing a vital window of opportunity for companies to recover their investment.

    A recent example of the Orphan Drug Designation at work is Thermosome’s development of THE001, a thermosensitive liposomal doxorubicin formulation. THE001 has been classified as an orphan drug to treat soft tissue sarcoma, a rare form of cancer that occurs in merely 1% of all cancers affecting adults. Although the limited patient base may render uncertain the commercial prospects of the drug in regular market conditions, the orphan status works considerably in curtailing development expenses and enhancing the way to market.

    While oncology is the largest of the orphan drug areas, several other disease categories are also receiving growing attention. Therapies for metabolic diseases, neurological disorders, and autoimmune or inflammatory conditions all are taking advantage of the incentives offered under the Orphan Drug Act.

    An aspect that tends to attract public criticism is the hefty price tag of orphan drugs. Due to the fact that they treat very limited patient groups, and in many cases have involved intricate manufacture, these treatments are some of the costliest in the world. A recent example is Zevaskyn (prademagene zamikeracel), a gene therapy put on the market by Abeona Therapeutics for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. Approved in April 2025, Zevaskyn has a list price of US$ 3.1 Million and is considered one of the costliest therapies to make it to market. Such exorbitant prices are usually defended on the grounds of the expense of development, the difficulty of running small-scale clinical trials, and the urgent need for effective therapies where alternatives do not exist.

    Therefore, drug companies now see the orphan drug model not just as a humanitarian boon but as a sound business strategy. Fewer competitors, shorter FDA approval times, and market exclusivity have made orphan drugs one of the fastest-growing categories in the global pharmaceutical industry. Industry estimates indicate that by 2030, US orphan drugs market may surpass USD 190 Billion opportunity in annual sales.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SOL NEWS: Kaanch presale live at Solana’s Presale Price — with XRP-Like Utility Already Live

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Everyone wants to catch the next Solana — the kind of early-stage entry that turns a few hundred dollars into life-changing gains.

    Back in 2020, Solana was quietly selling its tokens for around $0.20. There were no headlines, no hype. Just a powerful new chain that most people ignored — until it didn’t just rise, it exploded.

    Fast forward to today, and Kaanch Network is showing similar early-stage signs. Priced at $0.16 in Stage 5 of its presale, Kaanch offers what Solana didn’t have at launch: a working product already in use.

    Secure your Kaanch tokens now

    Why the Comparison Matters

    Solana was built on speed and scalability. Kaanch is built on utility and functionality — with a focus on governance, staking, and decentralized infrastructure.

    Like Solana, Kaanch is a Layer-1 chain with impressive performance: up to 1.4 million transactions per second and near-zero gas fees. But where Solana spent months rolling out developer tools, Kaanch has already delivered them.

    Its platform is live, and early Web3 teams are using it now to launch DAOs, configure staking systems, and manage on-chain proposals — all without code.

    The $KAANCH token powers every feature, from DAO deployment to treasury role management. That means adoption fuels demand automatically.

    A Rare Chance at a Sub-$0.20 Token With Real Usage

    This isn’t a whitepaper pitch. It’s a live, scalable blockchain protocol — and it’s still being offered at $0.16.

    But not for long. Stage 6 of the presale is already confirmed at $0.32, and listings are expected after that. As more teams integrate Kaanch and token visibility grows, it’s only a matter of time before the price catches up to the product.

    Presale access is open here

    Final Word

    Catching the next Solana isn’t about luck — it’s about spotting patterns.
    A high-performing chain. A low entry price. A working product. A token that does more than sit idle.

    Kaanch checks every box. And right now, before listings hit, you still have time to act.

    Join the presale before Stage 6 begins

    Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of the future of blockchain technology!
    For more details and to join the presale, visit:
    Website | Presale | Twitter/X | Telegram

    Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice

    Contact:
    Ved Singh
    info@kaanch.com

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Kaanch Network. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/430c5ebd-ad80-4a39-b7c6-356b06bde375

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6a279140-9e30-460b-8bf4-473f271e5b9f

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d3972237-d712-49de-9a9a-9a13c1629e47

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Scottsdale’s Youtech Fuels National Growth with Local Talent Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    •   Youtech’s strategic growth aims to further enhance Arizona’s legal, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors

    •   Solidifying its position as one of the United States’ largest digital marketing agencies, Youtech demonstrates momentum for future growth

    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Youtech, a leading global full-service digital marketing agency deeply rooted in Scottsdale, today announced a significant phase of national growth fueled by the expansion of its talented workforce, including a growing team right here in the Valley. This strategic initiative will allow the agency to further enhance its service capabilities and better support its expanding client base, both locally and nationwide.

    Building upon its strong Scottsdale presence, a vital component of its 120-strong national team, Youtech is actively hiring with the ambitious goal of increasing its total employee count to over 150 by the end of 2025. A significant portion of this hiring effort will be focused on solidifying the teams within Youtech’s Scottsdale office, strengthening its capacity to deliver exceptional results for a diverse range of Arizona businesses.

    This local expertise spans various sectors, from legal services helping firms connect with those in need, to e-commerce suppliers of pool and spa equipment reaching homeowners, and the dynamic world of fine dining, supporting iconic steakhouses and seafood restaurants in elevating their brand and attracting discerning patrons. The agency also provides crucial digital marketing support for the home services industry (HVAC, roofing, plumbing) and outdoor cooling solutions manufacturers, demonstrating tangible marketing ROI in both traditional and AI-driven search environments.

    Looking ahead, Youtech projects substantial long-term growth, with a clear trajectory to exceed 250 employees nationally within the next three years. This ambitious forecast reflects the Scottsdale office’s consistent track record of success in driving results for Arizona businesses across diverse industries, its client-centric approach, and the increasing demand for its data-driven digital marketing expertise. This includes optimizing local online visibility for businesses through Google Ads, backed by its status as a Google Premier Partner (top 3% of U.S. agencies), and crafting captivating web design and branding that resonates with target audiences, whether they are seeking expert legal counsel, reliable aquatic supplies, a memorable dining experience, or effective climate control for outdoor spaces, ensuring relevance in AI-generated content.

    “This rapid growth marks an exciting chapter for Youtech, and our Scottsdale team is instrumental in our national success,” said Wilbur You, CEO and Founder of Youtech. “Strengthening our physical presence in key markets like Scottsdale allows us to even better serve our valued local clients across vital Arizona industries while also attracting top-tier talent from the Phoenix metro area to our growing team. Our focus remains on delivering exceptional results, and this strategic growth, including the launch of our innovative YouRank GEO service, will enable us to elevate the marketing performance of businesses right here in Arizona and across the nation in the age of AI.”

    As one of the largest digital marketing agencies in the nation, with a significant and expanding team right here in Scottsdale serving a diverse portfolio of Arizona-based clients in sectors like law, e-commerce, hospitality, manufacturing, and home services, Youtech continues to set new benchmarks in the industry, driving measurable results for businesses across a wide range of sectors through its comprehensive suite of services.

    About Youtech
    Youtech & Associates Inc. (“Youtech”) is a leading, full-service digital marketing agency providing solutions to brands of all sizes. Bootstrapped in 2012 with an investment of just $600, the agency has since become an award-winning powerhouse serving over 2,000 clients, completing over 10,000 projects, and generating over $10 billion in client sales worldwide. With a strong and expanding presence in Scottsdale, alongside offices in Chicago and Dallas, Youtech is one of the fastest-growing digital marketing firms in the country. Learn more about Youtech at https://www.youtechagency.com/.

    Company Contact
    Michael Norris
    mnorris@youtechagency.com

    Media Contact
    Jessica Starman
    media@elev8newmedia.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Meriwest Credit Union Sets Stage for Silicon Valley Corporate Campus with $9.6M Property Purchase

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SILICON VALLEY, Calif., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Meriwest Credit Union, a trusted San Jose-based financial institution since 1961, has acquired the property at 620 Blossom Hill Road in south San Jose. This transaction was completed on May 5, 2025, in a $9.6 million cash transaction, as recorded by the Santa Clara County Recorder’s Office.

    Located in the Sunrise Plaza shopping center near Blossom Hill Road and State Route 85, the acquired property includes a former Marie Callender’s restaurant site, closed since 2022. The site is directly adjacent to Meriwest’s headquarters at 5615 Chesbro Avenue. This acquisition positions Meriwest to develop a cohesive campus, enhancing accessibility and member-focused services.

    “Our vision is to expand our long-time headquarters into a Meriwest ‘Campus’. When complete, our campus will elevate our visibility and community engagement, better serve our members with increased access to services, and strengthen our roots in San Jose.” said Lisa Pesta, President and CEO of Meriwest.

    “Completing this purchase on May 5th, Meriwest’s 64th birthday, was made possible because of our incredibly loyal members and our deeply committed team,” Pesta added. “I am looking forward to welcoming everyone over for a campus tour, when the project is complete.”

    For more details on Meriwest Credit Union’s acquisition of 620 Blossom Hill Road, read the full story in The Mercury News here.

    About Meriwest Credit Union

    Founded in San Jose, California in 1961, Meriwest Credit Union, ($2.1B in assets) is one of Silicon Valley’s most established financial institutions. Dedicated to delivering advice-based, personal, convenient, and innovative financial services to over 80,000 families and businesses throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Pima County, Arizona, Meriwest offers a wide array of personal banking, business services, and wealth advisory services. Meriwest has been voted one of the ‘Best Credit Unions in Silicon Valley’ in the Mercury News’ Annual ‘Readers’ Choice Awards’ and a “Best Place to Work” by the Silicon Valley Business Journal 2020 through 2025. More information can be found at www.meriwest.com.

    Media Contact:
    Jeffrey Zane
    Meriwest Credit Union
    Public Relations
    408-612-1484
    jzane@meriwest.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2ad8b497-136b-4cad-bee5-ef9736e882c4

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “REPUBLICANS CAN’T DEFEND THESE MEDICAID CUTS, THAT’S WHY THEY’RE TRYING TO HIDE THEM”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on CNN’s The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer where he emphasized that Democrats will continue pushing back against the reckless Republican scheme to rip healthcare and nutritional assistance away from the American people. 

    WOLF BLITZER: Turning back now to the very contentious budget battle here in Washington, Republicans remain sharply divided over funding key pieces of President Trump’s agenda, as Democrats hammer them for proposing major cuts to Medicaid. For more on that, I want to bring in the House Minority Leader, the Democratic Congressman Hakeem Jeffries. Congressman, thanks so much for joining us. From your vantage point, do you think Republicans have the votes to get these important pieces of legislation through committee and onto the House Floor?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, that remains to be seen. House Democrats are going to continue to stand up on behalf of the American people and make clear that what Republicans are trying to do will actively harm everyday Americans. This reckless Republican budget would inflict the largest healthcare cut to Medicaid in American history, and at the same time, inflict the largest cut to supplemental nutritional assistance to the American people in history, literally taking food out of the mouths of children, veterans and seniors. It’s shameful and Republicans need to stand up for their constituents and stop being a reckless rubber stamp for Donald Trump’s agenda.

    WOLF BLITZER: And on that point Leader Jeffries, how does it—what does it say to you that many of these proposed Medicaid cuts in the current proposal are scheduled to take effect after the 2026 midterm elections?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, once you set these cuts in motion, there will be a dramatic impact on the healthcare ecosystem. And so, despite the Republican gamesmanship, the reality is, if you begin to set in motion collapsing the healthcare system in the United States of America, and more than 80 million Americans rely on Medicaid for their health insurance, what’s going to happen is that hospitals are going to close, nursing homes are going to shut down and, in fact, people will die. And so, this is a matter of life and death, no matter what type of legislative gamesmanship Republicans are playing, they can’t defend these Medicaid cuts. And that is why they are trying everything they can to try to hide them from the American people.

    WOLF BLITZER: Republicans, Leader Jeffries, say they can save a significant amount of money by cutting Medicaid funding to those states that help undocumented immigrants purchase health insurance. What’s your position on that proposal? And if Democrats try to fight that proposal, do you worry it could open up your members to Republican attacks that they support tax dollars, U.S. tax dollars going to people who are in the United States illegally?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, this is actually another lie in terms of what Republicans are trying to do. The Congressional Budget Office has been clear that if these Medicaid cuts were to become law, approximately 14 million Americans will lose their healthcare. And the Republicans aren’t even trying to make the argument that the overwhelming majority of those 14 million Americans aren’t actually citizens. Of course they are. These are everyday Americans who work hard. They’re our children and our families and our women and everyday Americans with disabilities. And, of course, those seniors who rely on Medicaid for their nursing home care or for their home care.

    WOLF BLITZER: Another key disagreement, as you know, is among Republicans—a disagreement among Republicans—is what to do about state and local tax deductions that primarily benefit blue states out there. You’ve called on letting the caps on those deductions expire altogether, but that would cost the government a significant amount of revenue. So where else would you find that money?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, one of the things that we should be doing is providing tax relief to working families, working-class Americans, middle-class Americans, those who have been struggling to live paycheck to paycheck. Donald Trump and House Republicans spent all of last year promising that they were going to lower the high cost of living. In fact, they promised, Wolf, that costs would go down on day one. We know that’s not happened. Costs, in fact, aren’t going down. They’re going up. Inflation is going up. And Donald Trump, with his reckless tariffs, is actually crashing the economy and driving us toward a painful recession. And instead of trying to actually provide tax relief to help out those everyday Americans to build an affordable economy, part of this GOP tax scam is to cut Medicaid, hurt veterans, cut nutritional assistance to families and children and others, all to give massive tax breaks to their billionaire donors like Elon Musk. The more we expose this tax scam, the worse it gets for Republicans, which is why they are on the run, it’s why they’re not holding town hall meetings and it’s why they’re trying to manipulate the facts and the reality of this toxic piece of legislation.

    WOLF BLITZER: As you know, President Trump is in Qatar right now amid major bipartisan criticism over his plan to accept a luxury jet from that country. Are you and your Republican colleagues in Congress taking any steps to try to stop the President of the United States from accepting this gift from Qatar?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Pursuant to the United States Constitution, it’s our view that in order for the president to accept this flying palace in the sky, a $400 million gift, which is a joke and an embarrassment, and it’s malignant, that it’s even under consideration, but in order for the president to lawfully accept this flying palace in the sky, he has to come before Congress pursuant to the Constitution, and ask permission to accept what is technically referred to as an emolument. It’s a fancy word for gift from a foreign power that the framers of the Constitution were very clear should never be accepted or, if it is accepted, only with the permission of Congress.

    WOLF BLITZER: In regards to the CBO, the Congressional Budget Office, each party asked the CBO to assess different combinations of the bill text. I just wanted to point that out, Congressman. You want to react to that?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, listen, I mean, I think the reality is the Congressional Budget Office is a nonpartisan organization that was stood up in a bipartisan way by Democrats and Republicans for decades in order to provide us with an actual, fact-based assessment of the legislation that we are considering. And the Congressional Budget Office has made clear that these cuts will be devastating to the health, safety and well-being of the American people. And the Republicans can try to run from that fact as much as they want. We will never let them hide it from the American people.

    WOLF BLITZER: Before I let you go, Leader Jeffries, I want to quickly get your thoughts on this new book that’s about to come out from CNN’s Jake Tapper and Axios’s Alex Thompson detailing President Biden’s decline during his time in the White House? According to one rather stunning passage from the book, President Biden didn’t even recognize George Clooney at a fundraiser that the movie star was actually hosting for him. Why should voters trust Democrats when it’s clear so many in your party went to great lengths to keep Biden’s condition hidden from the public?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, I can’t tell you what happened between George Clooney and President Biden. I wasn’t at that event. What I can say is that we’re not looking back. We’re going to continue to look forward, because at this moment, we’ve got real problems that need to be addressed on behalf of the American people, including the Republican effort to snatch away healthcare, snatch away food assistance and hurt veterans.

    WOLF BLITZER: You interacted with President Biden during those days, those final days he was President of the United States. Did you see, did you sense there was a major deterioration?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, in the conversations that I was able to have on behalf of the House Democratic Caucus in those final days, we simply expressed our perspective as to what would be best for the party at that given moment in time. President Biden subsequently made the decision that he was going to pass the baton to Vice President Kamala Harris. Of course, that was the decision that we supported strongly.

    PAMELA BROWN: Just very quickly, I want to ask you, Congressman Jeffries. You know, you say we’re not looking back, we’re looking forward. But what happened in the past has to do with what’s going to happen in the future and whether voters can trust Democrats. As you look back, you were in a leadership position when President Biden decided to run again. Should you have done more at that point to intervene?

    LEADER JEFFRIES: That’s a great question in terms of whether voters can trust Democrats or not. Every single high-profile special election that has taken place since President Trump was inaugurated—a special election victory in Iowa in January, a special election victory in New York in February, a special election victory in Pennsylvania in March, a special election victory in Wisconsin in the Supreme Court race in April and yesterday, decisively defeating a Republican incumbent in Omaha and a surprise to many observers. Clearly, voters are trusting Democrats this year when they go to the ballot, repeatedly rejecting MAGA extremism.

    WOLF BLITZER: Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic Leader in the House, thanks so much for joining us.

    PAMELA BROWN: Thank you very much.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Thank you.

    Full interview can be watched here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Republicans Are Securing the Border While House Democrats Want to Empty the Jails

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    WASHINGTON — This morning, at the weekly House Republican Leadership press conference, Speaker Johnson addressed House Democrats engaging in a physical altercation with ICE agents and provided an update on budget reconciliation.

    Watch the Speaker’s full remarks here

    On House Democrats engaging in a physical altercation with ICE officers:

    Three Democrat members of Congress got into a physical altercation with our ICE agents outside the Delaney Hall Detention Center in New Jersey. What a spectacle that was, what a horrible display for our children to see. Amid a long list of shameful and embarrassing episodes this year, that altercation, I think it takes the cake. I think it’s a new low for congressional Democrats. Instead of condemning the action, of course, the Democrat leadership in the House sent out a statement of support. My friend Hakeem Jeffries said, “We will never bend the knee.” Bend the knee to what, Hakeem? To ICE?

    The reason the Democrats were even at the detention facility is equally concerning. The purpose was they were there demanding to shut down the detention facility. Now look, here’s who’s housed in the detention facility: violent gang members, rapists and murderers. They want to shut it down. We already know the Democrats support open borders. They support MS-13 gang members. They go visit them in jail. They want to allow illegals to vote, so many of them. But this really is, this is a new this a new low.

    Republicans want to detain and deport criminal illegal aliens. Democrats want to empty the jails. Could you have a stronger contrast than that right there? We don’t need less detention beds and facilities, we need much more, and that behavior is just unacceptable. We’re grateful to US Attorney Alina Habba in New Jersey, she’s opened an investigation into this matter, and that legal process will play out. We’re having conversations, we had them this morning in the House Republican conference meeting this morning about appropriate action that we need to take here to address that inappropriate behavior, the wildly inappropriate behavior, and we will do that.

    On budget reconciliation:

    The bill is coming together. As you’ve heard, the last three committees are reporting out today. Everybody in this room gets fixated on a few final details about all this, but I think it’s important to just state one more time what we’re achieving through reconciliation. This will be the one of the most consequential pieces of legislation ever passed by the United States Congress. It is large, it is comprehensive, and it deals with reconciling the budget in a way that will be fiscally responsible. We’re going to slash taxes, including on tips overtime, Social Security for seniors and job creators, restore American energy dominance, secure our border, and deport illegal aliens. We’re going to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse, return to peace through strength and reduce spending, all at the same time.

    And I put reconciliation on an aggressive timetable. Back in January, I said that we would try to do this as quickly as possible. We’re still on target to hit that Memorial Day deadline, which people balked at when we first said it. The American people are counting on us to get this done and get it done quickly, and we are on target to do it. President Biden left virtually every area of public policy in disrepair, and it is incumbent upon Congress to fix it and pass laws that cannot be easily undone or overwritten. We’re working around the clock to build consensus to get the 218 votes and deliver on President Trump’s America first agenda so the American people can really begin to feel relief.

    On House Democrats lying about Medicaid:

    As we’re working to get this done, House Democrats are working overtime to deceive the American people about this. We’ve discussed it already this morning, but they’re not talking about what the bill actually does. They’re using talking points that are pretty stale. They’re not afraid to lie about what’s in it, and we’re not afraid to tell the truth about what the Democrats are doing. They’ve already been forced to take down their advertisements because they were filled with falsehoods about what the bill supposedly was going to have in it. You probably saw last week. They’re at it again. They released a CBO report, so called, that claims that our legislation cuts many millions of Americans out of Medicaid. It’s obviously, demonstrably false.

    Other outlets have reported on this. They included policies that are not even in the legislation. How could they have done that? Because they released a report before the bill text was issued. And most of the media ran with that, okay? And I’m just going to say this to my friends in the media, on the hill press corps in particular, right? If you allow Democrats to make these intentionally false claims without pushback, then you’re aiding and abetting in the spread of misinformation. I mean, you know, I’m stating the obvious. The job is to get the facts out there. So, we hope you will.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Managing risk-reduction even in times of crisis: UK Statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    Managing risk-reduction even in times of crisis: UK Statement to the OSCE

    Ambassador Holland reiterates the UK’s support to Ukraine, calls on Russia to end its war and to use this unique Forum for risk-reduction, even in crisis.

    Thank you Madam Chair, dear Kaja, and to the Secretary General, for setting out Estonia’s priorities for the Forum for Security Co-operation this Trimester.  You can count on the UK’s continued support, as you chair our Forum at this crucial time for Euro-Atlantic Security. 

    Madam Chair, as we know, the FSC’s mandate is broad and has rightly evolved over decades.  In 1996, our Heads of State and Government adopted a Decision tasking the Forum to manage “preventive diplomacy, crisis management and post-conflict rehabilitation”.  In the 1996 Budapest Document, Ministers tasked the FSC with: “tackling regional security problems (including crises) flexibly in ways appropriate to each case”.  So not only did our Ministers mandate the Forum to manage risk-reduction, they also saw value in our politico-military dialogue continuing even in times of crisis.   

    The OSCE has an extensive acquis and toolkit to do this work.  But it relies on political will to be effective.  Participating States have used the toolkit, including transparency mechanisms, to offer de-escalation.  For example, by Georgia in 2008, by Ukraine – twenty times – in 2014, and again by Ukraine in 2022.  As these examples proved, transparency mechanisms can offer a ladder to defuse a situation or at least an early warning indicator.  But no tool can substitute for the political will required to de-escalate.  Especially if that State has decided to invade, as Russia’s actions have shown so clearly. 

    Madam Chair, the Code of Conduct commits us to act in solidarity if OSCE norms and commitments are violated.  As catalogued by the OSCE Moscow Mechanisms, ODIHR and UN, there is irrefutable independent evidence of Russia violating international law.  As per the Code, such breaches are a “direct and legitimate” concern for us all.  

    That is why our weekly statements will continue reiterating our support for Ukraine and calling for Russia to end its war and return to abiding by the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act.  That is why we welcome Estonia’s three Security Dialogue topics on the Code of Conduct; Women, Peace & Security; and protection of children in armed conflicts, keeping a focus on Russia’s invasion.  That is also why we will keep on using this Forum and its tools to execute our mandate, including on risk-reduction and voluntary briefs on military exercises. 

    Madam Chair, our Ministers mandated the Forum to hold a weekly politico-military dialogue in order to execute our vital mandate.  We can only do that if we respect the Forum and meet weekly to fulfil, not to frustrate, its work. 

    I wish to conclude by welcoming Finland to the FSC Troika, and to thank Denmark for their work as they leave the Troika.  And most importantly, I wish you, Madam Chair, and your able teams here in Vienna and in Tallinn the best of luck this Trimester.  You can count on the support of the UK delegation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul Scores Another Bust

    Source: United States SOUTHERN COMMAND

    The littoral combat ship USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul (LCS 21) interdicted a suspected drug smuggling vessel May 1 while supporting Joint Interagency Task Force South. This is the ship’s third successful interdiction during its maiden deployment. In mid-April, the Minneapolis-Saint Paul interdicted two vessels, confiscating 580 kilograms (1,279 pounds) of cocaine valued at $9,463,860 and 1,125 kilograms (2,480 pounds) of marijuana valued at $2,807,360.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Continuing Promise 2025 Set to Begin

    Source: United States SOUTHERN COMMAND

    The U.S. Navy Mercy-class hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) will deploy this June-August to the U.S. Southern Command area of operations as part of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet’s Continuing Promise 2025 mission. After several months of detailed planning, USNS Comfort is scheduled to visit Grenada, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Dominican Republic during the nearly three month-long mission.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colorado man indicted for drug trafficking and firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Colorado man for drug trafficking and illegal firearms. 

    According to court documents, Russell Scott IV, 37, of Denver was indicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Ola Odeyemi is prosecuting the case.

    OTHER INDICTMENTS

    Chase Boyd, 39, of Wichita was indicted on two counts of possession of firearms and ammunition by a prohibited person. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting the case.

    Jose Galan-Andrade, 39, was indicted on one count of illegal reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly Gordon is prosecuting the case.

    Jose Louis Gonzalez-Gonzalez, 35, was indicted on one count of illegal reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ola Odeyemi is prosecuting the case.

    Darius Isaiah Jackson, 25, of Wichita was indicted on one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ola Odeyemi is prosecuting the case.

    Greggory K. O’Neal, 41, of Wichita was indicted on one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and Park City Kansas Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch is prosecuting the case.

    Guadalupe Rios-Edeza, 29, was indicted on one count of illegal reentry after deportation. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ola Odeyemi 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 –