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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Kansas Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Kansas of the June 23 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning Oct. 15, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the Kansas counties of Bourbon, Butler, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Cowley, Crawford, Elk, Labette, Neosho, Sedgwick and Sumner as well as the Missouri counties of Barton, Jasper and Vernon and the Oklahoma counties of Kay and Osage.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than June 23.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Colorado Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Colorado of the June 23 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning Oct. 15, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the Colorado counties of Boulder, Clear Creek, Eagle, Gilpin, Grand, Jackson, Larimer, Routt and Summit.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than June 23.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Cut Red Tape in the Livestock Feed Sector

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is introducing bipartisan legislation to increase the efficiency and efficacy of livestock feed — leading to higher produce yields and harvests. Under current law, farmers and ranchers do not have access to the most up-to-date additives to help improve the quality and quantity of their meat and dairy products. The Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (FEED) Act would help cut bureaucratic red tape at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to spur innovation in the livestock feed sector and equip farmers with the supplies they need.
    “Everyone benefits when healthy livestock produce safe, high-quality meat and dairy products — and that begins with how they eat,” said Senator King. “Unfortunately, manufacturers of supplemental additives to livestock feed face needless, burdensome hurdles and bureaucratic red tape which prevents farmers and ranchers from getting their hands on new, innovative products. The bipartisan Innovative FEED Act will expedite the period between the early stages of development and regulatory approval — creating a level playing ground for the agricultural industry and ensuring healthier, sustainable options for consumers.”
    The Innovative FEED Act would:
    Amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act establishing a new category in the animal food additive petition process to cover ingredients that address animal health, food safety, or environmental benefits in an animal’s diet.
    Help American livestock producers cut regulatory red tape while adding value to their products and remaining competitive on a global scale.
    Ensures farmers are rewarded for participating in voluntary, producer-led sustainability efforts, and market their products to companies and nations that have set climate reduction goals.
    Modernize the approval process by establishing a new pathway for manufacturers to receive approval for feed additives that improve efficiency in meat and dairy production while also reducing byproducts.
    Establish strict guardrails to ensure only qualifying products are eligible for this pathway while also ensuring products are safe to use. 
    In addition to Senator King, the legislation is cosponsored by Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and Chuck Grassley (R-IA).
    The full text of the legislation can be found here.
    Senator King is a staunch advocate for the Maine agriculture industry. This session of Congress, Senator King cosponsored the Honor Farmer Contracts Act which released withheld federal funding and allocated it back to farmers as Congress had intended. He is an original sponsor of the bipartisan Dairy PRIDE Act which combats the mislabeling of non-dairy products and requires accurate labeling of dairy and non-dairy products as mislabeling is harmful to dairy farmers selling their products in a crowded marketplace. Senator King also cosponsored the Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act to direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to give milk producers a greater voice in dairy pricing. Additionally, Senator King is an annual cosponsor of the federal ‘National Dairy Month’ resolution.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Introduces Bill to Help Secure Border with New Technology

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act to strengthen U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) ability to combat human and drug trafficking at the southern border using new, innovative technology. The bill makes Innovation Teams—the division within CBP created in 2018 to implement new technologies—permanent.
    “President Trump secured the southern border in his first 30 days. Let’s secure the border forever by using new technology,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Let’s stop fentanyl from flowing into our country.”
    Investments in border security technology will strengthen CBP’s detection and response time to cases of trafficking and illicit border crossings in remote areas.
    The Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act will:
    Authorize the CBP Commissioner to maintain one or more CBP Innovation Teams to research and adapt commercial technologies to assist in border security operations and urgent mission needs;
    Require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to submit a plan to Congress that assesses the performance parameters and security impacts of potential technologies, as well as the deactivation of former CBP technology;
    Require CBP Innovation Teams to make standard operating procedures; and
    Require DHS to submit information to Congress that describes CBP Innovation Team activities and operating procedures.
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) in introducing the bill. A similar version of this legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Morgan Luttrell (R-TX-08) and Lou Correa (D-CA-46).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What action can Israel’s allies take over its expansion of military operations in Gaza?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Catherine Gegout, Associate Professor in International Relations, University of Nottingham

    The British, French and Canadian leaders issued a joint statement on May 19 in which they condemned Israel’s “egregious actions” in Gaza, warning that concrete action could follow if it does not stop its military offensive. They said an 11-week blockade on humanitarian aid reaching the territory had led to an “intolerable” level of human suffering.

    Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu – who the International Criminal Court (ICC) alleges is responsible for war crimes in Gaza – responded angrily. He accused the leaders in London, Ottawa and Paris of offering Hamas a “huge prize” for its October 7 attack on Israel.

    This drew a rebuttal from the British foreign secretary, David Lammy, who declared that “opposing the expansion of a war that’s killed thousands of children is not rewarding Hamas”. So, what action can Israel’s western allies take over its offensive in Gaza?

    The most realistic option is probably the recognition of Palestinian statehood. The Netanyahu government has expressed fierce opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state, saying recently it would be a “win for terrorism”.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    But this recognition would send a strong message of support for a two-state solution, which most of the world has long seen as the only way to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. And the UK, along with Canada, has said it is joining a French initiative to recognise Palestine as a state at a June conference in New York, organised to advance a two-state solution.

    By doing so, the UK, France and Canada would join 160 states that already recognise Palestine. These include 11 states in the EU: Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Ireland, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

    Stop selling arms

    Another option is for western states to stop selling arms to Israel. France has done this already. And the British government partially suspended arms exports to Israel in September 2024 over concerns they could be used unlawfully in Gaza.

    However, in the three months that followed, the government reportedly approved US$169 million (£126 million) worth of military equipment to Israel. This is more than the total amount it approved between 2020 and 2023.

    The UK maintains that its “exports of military goods to Israel are low”, and the same is true for Canada. The UK and Canada together provide less than 1% of the annual value of Israel’s military imports. But a full suspension would be a major political statement, demonstrating diminishing international support for Israel’s military offensive in Gaza.

    For a total ban to have any effect on the Israeli military’s operations, it needs to be complemented by similar action from more significant arms providers. Germany, for instance, accounted for 30% of Israel’s arms imports between 2019 and 2023.

    The UK and Canada are also part of the global F-35 jet fighter programme, with the UK alone supplying 15% of the value of each jet. F-35 jets play a key role in Israel’s military operations in Gaza. But stopping British-made parts for F-35s from being supplied to Israel is unlikely.

    It would involve pulling out of the entire programme, which the government says is crucial for international security. However, given the High Court is hearing a case that alleges the sale of components for F-35s indirectly to Israel breaks domestic and international law, its stance could change.

    Western countries could also suspend their trade with Israel. The EU accounts for almost 30% of Israeli exports, with a similar amount of Israeli imports coming from the EU. The UK is the 11th-largest importer of Israeli goods.

    This option would have a significant impact on Israel’s economy, and is being considered by both the UK and EU. On May 20, Lammy announced the suspension of negotiations over a new free trade deal between the UK and Israel. And the EU has said it will review its trade association deal with Israel, after 17 of the bloc’s 27 foreign ministers backed the move.

    A complete suspension of the EU’s trade agreement with Israel would require unanimity, so it is unlikely. But a partial suspension is possible, as this would only require at least 55% of member states to vote in favour.

    Sanction Israeli settlers

    One more option is the expansion – and coordination – of efforts to sanction Israeli nationals who promote violence against Palestinians. In 2024, France, Canada and the EU imposed financial sanctions and travel bans against extremist Israeli settlers who had been found guilty of using violence against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank.

    The UK has now taken a similar approach, introducing sanctions on several individuals and entities involved in the Israeli settler movement. This includes prominent Israeli settler Daniella Weiss, who featured in Louis Theroux’s recent documentary, The Settlers. Weiss has dismissed the sanctions, saying they will not affect her or the broader settler movement.

    Britain’s government is also reportedly considering sanctions against Israel’s finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, and national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. Lammy referred to Smotrich’s recent comments that the Israeli military offensive will be “destroying everything that’s left” of Gaza as “monstrous”.

    Sanctions could, in theory, be complemented by bans on the import of goods from Israeli settlements. Israel’s finance ministry says that 2.5% of the country’s agricultural exports and 1.5% of industrial exports to the EU originate in settlements.

    This type of ban would be difficult for France to introduce due to EU law, but it might not be impossible. Ireland is also trying to ban the trade of goods from such settlements.

    Above all, Israel’s allies should step up their efforts to respect international law. In November 2024, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu over alleged war crimes relating to the Gaza war.

    The UK and Canada have said they would arrest Netanyahu if he travels to either country – and they could apply pressure on France to join them. France has not said whether it would arrest Netanyahu if he sets foot on French territory.

    The humanitarian situation in Gaza is likely to worsen over the coming weeks and months. If Israel’s western allies want to use their influence to force the Israeli government to end the conflict, now is the time.

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

    – ref. What action can Israel’s allies take over its expansion of military operations in Gaza? – https://theconversation.com/what-action-can-israels-allies-take-over-its-expansion-of-military-operations-in-gaza-257154

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jackson County Man Pleads Guilty to Extorting State Probationers and Witness Tampering

    Source: US FBI

    Gulfport, MS – An Ocean Springs, Mississippi man pleaded guilty today to extortion by official right and witness tampering.

    According to court documents, Steven Wood, 64, used his position as a Mississippi Probation and Parole officer to extort drugs, sexual photos, and sexual services from multiples state probationers.  The investigation was initiated when a probationer reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) that Wood was having her bring him methamphetamine.  Subsequent investigation including additional witness interviews, and the forensic examination of Wood’s phone revealed that he solicited methamphetamine, sexual photos, and videos from multiple probationers.  Wood took official action on those probationer’s behalf by not reporting their use, possession, or transfer of illegal drugs, not requiring them to report for their probation visits, not requiring some of them to pay their probation fees and writing at least one letter to be submitted by a probationer in a child custody dispute.

    During the course of the investigation, Wood contacted multiple probationers, and he told one probationer to lie about her relationship with Wood and to hide evidence.

    Wood pleaded guilty to one count of extortion by official right in violation of the Hobbs Act and one count of witness tampering. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 17, 2025.  He faces not more than 20 years of imprisonment for both the Hobbs Act and Witness Tampering offenses. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and FBI Special Agent in Charge, Rob Eikhoff, made the announcement.

    The FBI, with assistance of the Mississippi Department of Corrections and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Buckner is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Releases Documents Detailing the Rap Sheets of 8 Criminal Illegal Aliens after Activist Judge Ruling Halts their Deportation

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    President Trump and Secretary Noem are getting vicious criminals out of our country while activist judges are fighting to bring them back onto American soil

    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released records on the eight convicted murderers and rapists that an activist judge halted their deportation. All eight of these barbaric criminal illegal aliens have final orders of removal and have been convicted in a court of law. These records reveal even more details about these illegal aliens’ heinous crimes.  

    To download the documents, click here.

    “Today, DHS released the rap sheets for eight of these uniquely monstrous, criminal illegal aliens who have final deportation orders that the U.S. government is actively trying to deport. The American public should know the heinous crimes of these murderers, rapists, and pedophiles that this activist district court judge is trying to bring back to American soil,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “As he spits in the fact of victims, this Massachusetts district court judge is stalling the final removal of these barbaric individuals from the country and wants taxpayers to continue to foot the bill to keep these criminals in DHS custody overseas. It is deranged.”  

    Below are excerpts of the rap sheets of each of the criminal illegal aliens, detailing heinous crimes.  

    Nyo Myint: Convicted sexual assault of a mentally disabled woman 

    Nyo Myint, an illegal Burma and registered sex offender was arrested by ICE St. Paul on February 18, 2025. Myint is convicted of first-degree sexual assault involving a victim mentally and physically incapable of resisting; sentenced to 12 years confinement. Myint is also charged with aggravated assault-nonfamily strongarm. He was issued a final order of removal on August 17, 2023.

    Enrique Arias-Hierro: Convicted homicide, armed robbery 

    Enrique Arias-Hierro, an illegal alien from Cuba, was arrested by ICE Miami on May 2, 2025. His criminal history includes convictions for homicide, armed robbery, false impersonation of official, kidnapping, robbery strong arm. He was issued a final order of removal on September 13, 1999.

    Tuan Thanh Phan: Convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree assault 

    On May 3, 2025, ICE Seattle arrested Tuan Thanh Phan, an illegal alien from Vietnam. Phan is Convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree assault; sentenced to 22 years confinement. Prior to that, he was charged with possession of a dangerous weapon on a school facility as a juvenile in 1999. He was issued a final order of removal on June 17, 2009.

    Jose Manuel Rodriquez-Quinones: Convicted of first-degree murder 

    On April 30, 2025, ICE Miami arrested Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Quinones, an illegal alien from Cuba. He has been convicted of attempted first-degree murder with a weapon, battery and larceny, cocaine possession and trafficking. Additionally, he was charged with attempted first-degree murder, trafficking and possessing cocaine, assault, credit card fraud, and theft. He was issued a final order of removal on December 4, 2012.

    Dian Domach: Convicted of robbery  

    Dian Domach is an illegal alien from South Sudan that ICE first encountered in 2011 and was charged as a deportable alien. While in the U.S. Domach was convicted of robbery and possession of a firearm, of possession of burglar’s tools and possession of defaced firearm and driving under the influence. He was arrested by ICE on May 8, 2024, and was issued a final order of removal on July 19, 2011.

    Thongxay Nilakout: Convicted Murderer Sentenced to Life in Prison 

    Thongxay Nilakout, an illegal alien from Laos, was arrested by ICE Los Angeles on January 26, 2025. Nilakout was convicted of first-degree murder and robbery; sentenced to life in prison. He was issued a final order of removal on July 12, 2023.

    Jesus Munoz-Gutierrez: Convicted murderer sentenced to life in prison 

    On May 12, 2025, ICE Miami arrested Jesus Munoz-Gutierrez, an illegal alien from Mexico. He is convicted of second-degree murder; sentenced to life confinement. He was issued a final order of removed on June 16, 2005.

    Kyaw Mya: Convicted of rape of a child 

    Kyaw Mya, an illegal alien from Burma was arrested by ICE St. Paul on February 18, 2025. Mya is convicted of Lascivious Acts with a Child-Victim less than 12 years of age; sentenced to 10 years confinement, paroled after 4 years. He was issued a final order of removal on March 17, 2022.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Individuals Indicted in Insider Trading Scheme

    Source: United States Attorneys General 5

    Five individuals were charged in a 19-count indictment yesterday for their participation in a scheme to trade securities on the basis of material nonpublic information about the merger between two companies that resulted in profits of over $600,000.

    According to court documents, between May and June 2023, Rouzbeh “Ross” Haghighat, 61, of West Newbury, Massachusetts, Behrouz “Bruce” Haghighat, 60, of Laguna Niguel, California, Kirstyn Pearl, 35, of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, Seyedfarbod “Fabio” Sabzevari, 31, of North Hollywood, California, and James Roberge, 70, of Westford, Massachusetts, allegedly profited more than $600,000 by unlawfully purchasing the securities of a biopharmaceutical company in Seattle, Washington (Company-1), where Ross Haghighat served as a director. As alleged, the defendants traded securities based on material nonpublic information about another pharmaceutical company’s (Company-2) proposed acquisition of Company-1. The indictment alleges that, in May 2023, Company-2 made a confidential proposal to acquire Company-1 at a price per share above the then current market value. The two companies then negotiated an agreement for the acquisition, which was announced in June 2023, causing the share price to spike.

    “The defendants were charged yesterday for allegedly trading on inside information and reaping hundreds of thousands in illicit profits,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Securities fraud and insider trading distort our financial markets and disadvantage Americans who play by the rules. These charges demonstrate that the Criminal Division is committed to maintaining the integrity of markets by holding accountable all those who defraud investors.”

    “Our office is committed to protecting the integrity of the market and holding accountable those who attempt to gain unfair advantages through trading on insider information,” said U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District of New Jersey.

    “This case makes one thing clear: if you think you can game the system using insider information, think again,” said Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group. “Ross Haghighat and his associates thought they were above the law and colored outside the lines for financial gain, but yesterday’s indictment proves no one is above the law. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will not hesitate to pursue and bring to justice anyone who tries to corrupt the integrity of our financial markets.”

    In his position as a director on the board of Company-1, Ross Haghighat allegedly obtained material nonpublic inside information about its acquisition, including sensitive deal terms. He then purchased securities, and tipped others — including Bruce Haghighat, Pearl, Sabzevari, and Roberge — for personal benefit with the expectation that they would purchase securities, which the defendants allegedly did.

    Ross Haghighat was charged with one count of securities fraud, 16 counts of insider trading, and two counts of conspiracy. He was previously charged with one count of conspiracy to commit insider trading.

    Bruce Haghighat was charged with one count of securities fraud, one count of insider trading, and one count of conspiracy. 

    Pearl was charged with one count of securities fraud, one count of insider trading, and one count of conspiracy.

    Sabzevari and Roberge were both charged with one count of securities fraud and seven counts of insider trading.

    If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison on the securities fraud charge and 20 years in prison on each of the insider-trading charges. If convicted of conspiracy, Ross Haghighat, Bruce Haghighat, and Pearl face a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison.

    The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney John J. Liolos of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Mezzanotte for the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 15 charged in wide-ranging narcotics and weapons conspiracy

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    HOUSTON – A 29-count indictment has been unsealed following the arrests of nine individuals for their roles in a drug trafficking organization. Some are also charged with related gun offenses.

    Houston residents James Michael Brewer aka Creeper, 33, Jonathan Alvarado aka Joker, 28, Alexis Delgado aka Chino, 28, Hector Luis Lopez aka Capulito, 23, Kylie Rae Alvarado, 24, Ruby Mata, 31, Victor Norris Ellison, 35, Mexi Dyan Garcia aka Mexi, 31, and Jesus Gomez-Rodriguez aka Jr., 33, made their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Yvonne Ho, at which time the indictment was unsealed.

    Also charged are Enzo Xavier Dominguez aka Smiley, 32, William Alexander Lazo aka Miclo, 21, and Alfredo Gomez aka Fredo, 26. They are currently in custody and expected to make their initial appearances in the near future.

    Three others are considered fugitives and warrants remain outstanding for their arrests – Mexican national Jose Francisco Garcia-Martinez aka Paco, 29, Guatemalan national Marcos Rene Simaj-Guch aka Taco Man, 41, as well as Jose Eduardo Morales aka Primo, 22, Houston.

    “The defendants are alleged to have engaged in a multi-drug narcotics distribution ring, and, as often seen in the drug trade, are also alleged to have used illegal firearms to facilitate their enterprise,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. “Some of the charges indicate methamphetamine was alleged to have been sourced from Mexico, and thus this investigation highlights why this office’s enforcement efforts on the border are so critical. The Southern District of Texas will do everything it can to prevent narcotics from entering our country and will be relentless in apprehending those that would distribute drugs in our communities.”

    “As alleged, this drug trafficking organization imported methamphetamine directly from Mexico and used the U.S. mail, a taco truck, and homes in different Houston neighborhoods to distribute and sell methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Several of the defendants are also alleged to have used firearms in furtherance of their narcotics trafficking and illegally possessed firearms despite having previously been convicted of felonies. The Criminal Division, along with our federal, state, and local partners, will continue to work tirelessly to combat the scourge of drug trafficking in communities.”

    “For years, the transnational criminal organization allegedly operated by these gang members has brazenly flooded our local communities with deadly narcotics,” said Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Houston Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz. “Working in conjunction with the Houston Police Department (HPD) and our Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) partners, we were able to expose and dismantle their drug trafficking scheme, eliminating a significant contributor to violent crime in the area and saving an untold number of Houstonians from becoming addicted.”

    The indictment, returned under seal May 14, alleges all were members of a drug trafficking organization that distributed methamphetamine, powder cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, oxycodone, Xanax psylocibin mushrooms and marijuana. They are alleged to have used several drug houses and a food truck to store illegal drugs and conduct drug transactions. In one notable instance in June 2023, authorities seized 29 kilograms of methamphetamine that one defendant was attempting to transport into the United States, according to the charges.

    With the exception of Simaj-Guch who faces up to 40 years, the rest could receive up to life, upon conviction. Brewer, Alvarado, Lopez, Gomez and Ellison are further charged with firearms offenses which carry up to another 15 years. 

    ICE-HSI and the HPD led the investigation with the assistance of the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Texas Board of Criminal Justice-Office of the Inspector General.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco Rodriguez is prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorneys Ralph Paradiso and Amanda Kotula of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.

    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 and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s OCDETF and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    This case is also part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative to prosecute violent crimes in Houston. The Criminal Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas have partnered, along with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, to confront violent crimes gang members and associates have committed through the enforcement of federal laws and use of federal resources to prosecute the offenders and prevent further violence.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: MAKE AMERICA HEALTHY AGAIN 🇺🇸

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    We caught up with MAHA Moms, doctors, business leaders and more at the White House yesterday and that are all excited about president trump’s efforts to MAKE AMERICA HEALTHY AGAIN

    “We are so excited to be part of this movement… This is a unique moment in the United States. It’s a chance for all of us to think differently about how we’re eating and what we’re doing to live healthier lives.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0ZuyPUNSHs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Seeks the Public’s Help in Finding Missing Children in Saipan

    Source: US FBI

    “There is no conclusion to where these girls might’ve ended up,” Park said. “Our hope’s we find these girls alive somewhere.”

    The girls’ disappearance has profoundly impacted Faloma and Maleina’s families and community, investigators said. “They left a big hole in a lot of people’s hearts, left a lot of questions unanswered,” Park said.

    The incident also shattered Saipan’s reputation for being a safe place for children to roam. “It’s a very loving community, and that is why it was so detrimental when this occurred, because that safety was snatched from the community,” said FBI Special Agent Rick Bauer, who’s currently leading this case for FBI Honolulu. “That’s just another reason to drive us and the law enforcement—and the community—to get answers.”

    Looking for clues on the ‘coconut wire’

    Investigators say additional clues in this case may come from across an ocean.

    A large number of Micronesians have migrated to the continental United States—mainly to the Pacific Northwest, but also to states like Idaho and Texas. Since the Micronesian community’s bonds are strong, a steady flow of individuals in the diaspora travel home to attend annual community events. Likewise, Saipan residents frequently travel to the continental U.S. to visit friends and loved ones.

    Chatter between current and former Saipan residents naturally ensues—a phenomenon Park said is known as the “coconut wire.” And, he said, “news travels fast.” For this reason, the FBI is also asking anyone who might’ve heard information about Faloma and Maleina’s whereabouts through the grapevine—on either side of the Pacific Ocean—to come forward.

    “We want to reach out to those Micronesians that might have been here during that time or heard something,” he said. “We want to see if they want to come forward, help us, help the family, bring closure, or give us some evidence that we can use.”

    If you have any information about Faloma and Maleina’s whereabouts or what might’ve happened to them—even if you’ve already spoken with law enforcement about the case—we encourage you to contact the FBI.

    You can submit tips by phone at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or online at tips.fbi.gov. Tips may be shared anonymously, and no detail is too small to potentially help investigators solve this case.

    “We believe there are people out there that know something,” Bauer said. “No matter how big or how little it may be, it could be something that law enforcement can use in solving this mystery.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Insect trafficking poses risk to wildlife and human health

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Rhinoceros beetles are just one of the insect species being traded illegally

    By Angus Nurse, Anglia Ruskin University and Elliot Doornbos, Nottingham Trent University

    Four men were recently arrested and fined for attempting to smuggle more than 5,000 ants out of Kenya. Aiming to sell them as part of the exotic pet trade, these ants were being stored in individual test tubes and syringes with small amounts of cotton wool for transportation. This unusual case highlights an important yet overlooked aspect of wildlife trafficking.

    Wildlife trafficking is a crime against nature which occurs mainly because of consumer demand. Trafficking refers to the illegal smuggling and continued exploitation of wild animals, plants or timber. That includes, as in this case, insects.

    Much conservation effort, reporting, study and enforcement activity focuses on recognised species such as rhinos. Wildlife trafficking is often associated more with these charismatic species and products made from them such as elephant tusks and rhino horn.

    But wildlife trafficking includes a whole spectrum of illicit animal trade from poaching and smuggling to the distribution of protected and endangered species. There is also thriving illegal trade in insects.

    For avid collectors, trophies and the exotic pet trade a wide array of insects have been seized over the years including rhino beetles into Japan, praying mantis eggs into the US and butterflies out of Sri Lanka.

    Globally, insect species are declining. This is caused by an array of threats such as pollution, pesticides, climate change and urbanisation. Although the extent of the harm being caused by trafficking is unknown, this adds further pressure to species that already face extinction.

    Protections for insects vary. The conservation status of each ant species affects their level of protection both nationally and internationally.

    Ants that are on the red list – which is the largest classification of endangered species produced by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) – and classed as critically endangered or endangered cannot be captured, killed or disturbed in any manner. An example is the anathema ant, which is currently listed as an endangered species.

    International law puts controls on wildlife that may be threatened by trade. Some ants are protected under UK law which makes it an offence to disturb or destroy the nests of species like the red wood ant.

    This case shows how wildlife trafficking extends to areas such as the smuggling of, and illegal trade, in ants. Some organised crime groups have moved from smuggling drugs and weapons to trafficking in plants, medicinal compounds and animals – including insects. Organised crime can include smaller and partially disorganised groups and networks. Where there is money to be made smuggling, networks will target wildlife.

    The scale of the insect smuggling problem is unknown. Many cases will go unreported due to the clandestine nature of the trade. As such, both law enforcement and the wider public might not know or care about this being an offence.

    Although there have been some insect trade seizures, law enforcement agencies are often underresourced and may view wildlife crimes as a low priority in comparison to other areas of criminality, such as drugs.

    Often, insects are easily concealed. For example, 37 rhino beetles were discovered at Los Angeles International airport hidden within sweet and crisp packets.

    Even once insects are seized, it can be difficult to identify the species to find out whether they are protected, given so many different levels of protections for species internationally.

    Invasive species risk

    Insect trafficking could introduce non-native species to new places. If they establish a breeding population and pose a threat to local ecosystems, they can become known as “invasive species”. Invasive species can outcompete native species for food. Some destroy habitats. Others have the potential to bring new diseases to a country.

    Not only can invasive insects pose threats to the environment such as the ongoing issue of invasive Asian hornets within Europe, but also affect people. Hawaii spends US$10 million (£7.5 million) on invasive species control measures – US$2.4 million of that is set aside just for coconut rhinoceros beetles.

    Although predicting which species and when they may become invasive is a challenge, insect trafficking can cause serious consequences. Undervaluing some species protections provides avenues for traffickers, so enforcing trafficking laws for all wildlife, including insects, is crucial.

    Elliot Doornbos, Senior Lecturer of Criminology, Nottingham Trent University and Angus Nurse, Professor of Law and Environmental Justice, Anglia Ruskin University

    This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

    The opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARU.

    If you wish to republish this article, please follow these guidelines: https://theconversation.com/uk/republishing-guidelines

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New study shows millions still lack access to glasses

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Millions of people across the world still lack access to basic eye care such as glasses according to a new study led by Professor Rupert Bourne of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).

    The research, published in The Lancet Global Health, measured the global availability and quality of treatment for uncorrected refractive error, one of the most common forms of vision loss.

    The study used data from 815,273 participants from 76 countries and found that global refractive correction (eREC) is currently at 65.8%, just six percentage points higher than in 2010.

    The researchers say the results mean the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s target, set in 2021, of a 40 percentage point increase in eREC by 2030 is likely to be missed unless urgent action is taken across the world to increase the access to basic treatments such as spectacles.

    The results are grouped into ‘super regions’: north Africa and the Middle East; Sub-Saharan Africa; Latin America and the Caribbean; south Asia; southeast Asia, east Asia and Oceania; central Europe, eastern Europe and central Asia; and high income (areas of north America and western Europe, which includes the UK).

    The burden of uncorrected vision loss falls more heavily on low-income countries, women, and older adults. In the high income region, eREC is at 85% for men and 83% for women, while in sub-Saharan Africa the figure is around 30% for men and 27% for women. The WHO targets are set at country level, with high income countries such as the UK expected to strive for 100% eREC by 2030.

    The data shows some encouraging trends. Between 2000 and 2023, there was a 50% improvement in the number of people receiving the correct prescription for eyeglasses. However, the authors note that the need for glasses has also increased, largely driven by lifestyle-related risk factors, for example increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities during childhood.

    The research cites examples of action that individual countries have already taken and could be adopted by others. In France, full reimbursement of the cost of spectacles was introduced as part of universal health insurance in 2021/22. Pakistan has implemented a series of national eye-care plans over the past 20 years that have increased spectacle use and reduced vision impairment caused by uncorrected refractive error.

    Rupert Bourne, Professor of Ophthalmology at Anglia Ruskin University, is Principal Investigator for the Vision Loss Expert Group, a global network of health researchers that carried out the study.

    “Correction of refractive error is the safest, most efficient, and most economical intervention to improve daily vision quality for the majority of individuals affected by vision impairment worldwide, contributing to reducing poverty and improvements in wellbeing, work productivity, education, and equity.

    “Data from 815,000 people across 76 countries in our new study shows that we are off track to meet World Health Organisation targets. Urgent global action is needed to reach the goal of a 40% increase in eyeglasses coverage by 2030.”

    Professor Rupert Bourne of Anglia Ruskin University

    To read the study, visit https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(25)00194-9/fulltext

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Repair work to start on St Leonard’s Place on Tuesday 27 May

    Source: City of York

    Published Friday, 23 May 2025

    City of York Council has shared travel advice ahead of the urgent repair works on St Leonard’s Place which start next week.

    Having completed an inspection yesterday (Thursday) and undertaking essential safety work the council removed the temporary lights in place so that over the busy bank holiday weekend (when we also have the Queen Street closure at the railway station), two-way traffic can flow on St Leonard’s Place until we begin repair work next week.

    Work to make these urgent repairs will start after rush hour on the morning of Tuesday 27 May. From 9.30am on Tuesday 27 May we will start repairing the underground damage and road surface, which will require a lane closure.  These works may take around two weeks but we will share updates.

    These emergency repairs will mean St Leonard’s place will be closed to inbound traffic from Bootham Bar with diversions in place. Outbound traffic (from Museum Street to Bootham/Gillygate) will be able to use St Leonard’s place.

    Pedestrian access along St Leonard’s Place in both directions is still open. Inbound cyclists (traveling from Bootham or Gillygate) will need to follow the diversion under Bootham Bar. Those travelling towards Bootham from Museum Street will be able to use St Leonard’s Place.

    For drivers coming into the city centre travelling down Bootham there will be diversions in place. We have added travel information, including information about bus diversions to our website which can be found at www.york.gov.uk/StLeonardsPlace

    York, the Theatre Royal and its neighbouring businesses are open for business.

    Cllr Kate Ravilious, Executive Member for Transport said:

    We thank everyone for their patience while we carry out these urgent repairs. Our team will be carrying out repair work between the hours of 8am and 5pm on most days and no work is planned to take place later than 8pm.

    “While we are doing all we can to minimise disruption during these emergency works, we’re expecting the inner ring road to be very busy so we’re asking people to plan ahead and consider other ways to travel to the city centre. That includes getting the bus, walking or cycling. While some buses are being diverted they will continue to serve communities across the city and information is available at www.york.gov.uk/StLeonardsPlace. York is very much open for business throughout these works and we hope the travel information on our website will help those get around the city this half-term.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A criminal who planned a terrorist attack in Kaliningrad has been detained in Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Moscow, May 23 /Xinhua/ — The Federal Security Service of Russia has detained a Russian citizen who was planning to commit a terrorist attack in Kaliningrad during the celebration of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the agency’s press service reported on Friday.

    It was established that a citizen born in 2000 voluntarily joined a terrorist organization banned in Russia. Following an assignment from a Ukrainian curator received in the Telegram messenger, he was preparing to detonate an explosive device on the route of a parade column of military personnel, which is confirmed by his correspondence with a member of the terrorist structure.

    A criminal case has been opened on aiding terrorist and sabotage activities. For all the crimes committed, the detainee faces up to 20 years in prison. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Ready to Open New Chapter in Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Germany – Xi Jinping

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) — China is willing to work with Germany to open a new chapter in the history of bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership, promote new progress in China-EU ties, and make new contributions to the stable growth of the world economy, Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday.

    During a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Xi Jinping once again congratulated him on taking office. He noted that in a world where changes unseen in a century are accelerating and the international situation is volatile and unstable, the strategic and global significance of China-Germany and China-Europe relations is becoming even more noticeable.

    Healthy and stable relations between China and Germany serve the interests of both countries and meet the expectations of various social circles in China and Europe, the Chinese president said.

    The Chinese leader stressed that China and Germany have always developed their bilateral relations based on the spirit of mutual respect, seeking common ground while preserving differences, and cooperation for mutual benefit. Such a fine tradition should be carefully preserved and developed, Xi Jinping said.

    First, the Chinese President called for strengthening political mutual trust. He noted that China regards Germany as a partner, welcomes its development and prosperity, and is ready to strengthen close high-level exchanges with Germany, respect each other’s fundamental interests, and strengthen the political foundation of interstate relations.

    Secondly, Xi called on the two sides to enhance the resilience of bilateral relations. He said that they should not only continue to expand existing cooperation in traditional areas such as automobiles, machinery and chemicals, but also cultivate cooperation in cutting-edge sectors such as artificial intelligence and quantum technology, and strengthen exchanges and cooperation in areas such as climate change and green development, bringing the wisdom and solutions of China and Germany to global sustainable development.

    Third, the Chinese President noted that it is important to increase the momentum of cooperation. He assured that China is willing to share with Germany the development opportunities brought by high-level opening up, adding that China hopes that Germany will provide more policy support and promotion for mutual investment, and provide a fair, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises.

    According to Xi Jinping, facts have fully proven that partnership is the correct positioning of China-Germany and China-EU relations, and a stable and predictable political environment is an important guarantee for bilateral cooperation.

    The Chinese president pointed out that the responsibility of major countries is the common mission of both sides. Recalling that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, Xi said the two sides should jointly summarize the successful experience of developing China-EU ties and send a positive signal to safeguard multilateralism and free trade, as well as deepen open and mutually beneficial cooperation. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mountain Gateway Museum Launches Hands-On ‘Second Saturdays’ Summer Workshop Series

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Mountain Gateway Museum Launches Hands-On ‘Second Saturdays’ Summer Workshop Series

    Mountain Gateway Museum Launches Hands-On ‘Second Saturdays’ Summer Workshop Series
    jejohnson6

    The Mountain Gateway Museum & Heritage Center in Old Fort is launching Second Saturdays, a new summer workshop series offering hands-on classes in traditional crafts and music.  Learn how to make a berry basket, cane a chair seat or practice your musical skills on the harmonica in this exciting and fun new workshop series taught by local artists. The Mountain Gateway Museum & Heritage Center is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.  

    Held on the second Saturday of each month from June through September, each session begins at 10 a.m. and lasts approximately two hours. Classes take place inside the historic ca. 1885 Morgan Cabin on the museum’s grounds at 24 Water St., Old Fort.

    Workshops are open to participants age 12 and up. Space is limited to 12 people per class. All materials and tools are provided. Cost is $25 per person. Pre-registration and payment are required 10 days prior to each workshop. Payment can be made by cash, check, debit, or credit card. Classes will take place rain or shine.

    Workshop Schedule:

    June 14 – Crafting a Bark Berry Basket 
    Learn to make a natural bark-covered berry basket with handle. Taught by sixth-generation basket-maker Joe Williams. 
    Registration deadline: June 4 at 5 p.m.

    July 12 – Caning a Ladderback Chair 
    Learn to weave a chair seat using ash splits. Old chairs will be provided, or participants may bring their own. 
    Instructor: Sam Scroggin of Asheville Furniture Repair 
    Registration deadline: July 2 at 5 p.m.  

    Aug. 9 – Beginner’s Guide to Traditional Musical Instruments 
    Learn the basics of guitar, banjo, fiddle, and harmonica. Perfect for beginners of all ages. 
    Instructor: Local musician and educator Freddy Bradburn 
    Participants will receive a free harmonica, courtesy of the McDowell Arts Council Association (MACA). 
    Registration deadline: July 30 at 5 p.m.

    For more information or to register, contact RoAnn Bishop at 828-619-5103 or roann.bishop@dncr.nc.gov.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    May 21, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Five Individuals Indicted in Insider Trading Scheme

    Source: US State of California

    Five individuals were charged in a 19-count indictment yesterday for their participation in a scheme to trade securities on the basis of material nonpublic information about the merger between two companies that resulted in profits of over $600,000.

    According to court documents, between May and June 2023, Rouzbeh “Ross” Haghighat, 61, of West Newbury, Massachusetts, Behrouz “Bruce” Haghighat, 60, of Laguna Niguel, California, Kirstyn Pearl, 35, of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, Seyedfarbod “Fabio” Sabzevari, 31, of North Hollywood, California, and James Roberge, 70, of Westford, Massachusetts, allegedly profited more than $600,000 by unlawfully purchasing the securities of a biopharmaceutical company in Seattle, Washington (Company-1), where Ross Haghighat served as a director. As alleged, the defendants traded securities based on material nonpublic information about another pharmaceutical company’s (Company-2) proposed acquisition of Company-1. The indictment alleges that, in May 2023, Company-2 made a confidential proposal to acquire Company-1 at a price per share above the then current market value. The two companies then negotiated an agreement for the acquisition, which was announced in June 2023, causing the share price to spike.

    “The defendants were charged yesterday for allegedly trading on inside information and reaping hundreds of thousands in illicit profits,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Securities fraud and insider trading distort our financial markets and disadvantage Americans who play by the rules. These charges demonstrate that the Criminal Division is committed to maintaining the integrity of markets by holding accountable all those who defraud investors.”

    “Our office is committed to protecting the integrity of the market and holding accountable those who attempt to gain unfair advantages through trading on insider information,” said U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District of New Jersey.

    “This case makes one thing clear: if you think you can game the system using insider information, think again,” said Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group. “Ross Haghighat and his associates thought they were above the law and colored outside the lines for financial gain, but yesterday’s indictment proves no one is above the law. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will not hesitate to pursue and bring to justice anyone who tries to corrupt the integrity of our financial markets.”

    In his position as a director on the board of Company-1, Ross Haghighat allegedly obtained material nonpublic inside information about its acquisition, including sensitive deal terms. He then purchased securities, and tipped others — including Bruce Haghighat, Pearl, Sabzevari, and Roberge — for personal benefit with the expectation that they would purchase securities, which the defendants allegedly did.

    Ross Haghighat was charged with one count of securities fraud, 16 counts of insider trading, and two counts of conspiracy. He was previously charged with one count of conspiracy to commit insider trading.

    Bruce Haghighat was charged with one count of securities fraud, one count of insider trading, and one count of conspiracy. 

    Pearl was charged with one count of securities fraud, one count of insider trading, and one count of conspiracy.

    Sabzevari and Roberge were both charged with one count of securities fraud and seven counts of insider trading.

    If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison on the securities fraud charge and 20 years in prison on each of the insider-trading charges. If convicted of conspiracy, Ross Haghighat, Bruce Haghighat, and Pearl face a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison.

    The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney John J. Liolos of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Mezzanotte for the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment 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 Canada: The Governments of Canada and Nova Scotia finalize a ten-year agreement to get more homes built

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Halifax, Nova Scotia, May 23, 2025 —The Government of Canada is using every tool at its disposal, leveraging technology, innovation and partnerships, to build homes at a scale and speed not seen since the Second World War.

    To that end, the Governments of Canada and Nova Scotia have finalized a 10-year agreement under the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF), to get more homes built in Nova Scotia. Nova Scotia will receive $170.9 million to invest in foundational infrastructure – including drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste systems – necessary to unlock sustainable, long-term housing supply.

    As part of this agreement, Nova Scotia will extend the freeze on development charges announced on November 10, 2023. Reducing development charges makes the housing market work better by bringing down costs for builders, making it easier to build more homes.

    As we build a strong Canadian housing sector, purposeful collaboration between all orders of government will be essential. The Government will make housing more affordable by unleashing the power of public-private cooperation, catalysing a modern housing industry, and creating new careers in the skilled trades.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bedford — RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment seize a loaded handgun and drugs

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment (HRD) Street Crime Enforcement Unit (SCEU) has charged two people following the execution of a search warrant.

    On May 22, in relation to an ongoing drug trafficking investigation, RCMP HRD SCEU officers, with the assistance of the Halifax Regional Police Emergency Response Team, safely arrested a 25-year-old man from Halifax and a 33-year-old man from Dartmouth. The men had been traveling in a GMC Canyon that had stopped at a building supply store in Shubenacadie. A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of pre-packaged baggies of cocaine and a collapsible baton.

    Simultaneously, a search warrant was executed at a residence near the 500 block of Bedford Highway in Bedford. A 24-year-old woman from Timberlea was safely arrested at the home.

    During the search, officers seized a quantity of cocaine, a cash counting machine, a vacuum sealer, more than $10,000 in cash, ammunition and a stolen loaded handgun.

    Devin Patrick Wilson and Kristen Grace Parnell have been charged with:

    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking
    • Careless Use of Firearm
    • Contravention of Storage Regulations
    • Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose (two counts)
    • Possession of Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
    • Possession of Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
    • Possession of Weapon Obtained by Commission of Offence
    • Laundering Proceeds of Crime

    Parnell and Wilson were held in custody. They will appear in Halifax Provincial Court today.

    The 33-year-old man was later released without charges.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    Anyone with information about illicit drugs or other criminal activity in the Halifax Regional Municipality is encouraged to contact police at 902-490-5020. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    File: 25-61504

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New teams to boost wildfire preparedness

    [. This includes record investments in equipment and personnel, as well as targeted strategies to enhance local firefighting capacity, readiness and resilience.

    Alberta’s government is responding proactively to wildfire threats by funding six local fire departments through the Wildland Urban Interface Program to boost wildfire preparedness and response capabilities. This initiative quadruples the number of existing Wildland Urban Interface teams, ensuring a stronger, more coordinated effort to protect communities from potential wildfire emergencies.

    “Alberta’s government continues to make critical investments to strengthen the way emergencies are handled. We are effectively quadrupling the number of Wildland Urban Interface teams in Alberta to ensure the safety of Albertans’ businesses, neighbourhoods and critical infrastructure during wildfires.”  

    Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

    “Firefighting teams like this can truly make the difference when it comes to protecting Alberta’s communities. Having more Wildland Urban Interface teams improves our capabilities and adaptability when our wildland firefighting teams are fighting fires across Alberta.” 

    Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks

    The Wildland Urban Interface Program targets zones where developments such as homes, farms or industrial sites border or mix with natural vegetation at risk from wildfire. Fires that occur in these transitional areas between forests, grasslands and populated communities are often challenging and demand the expertise of both wildland and structural firefighters. Wildland Urban Interface teams consist of firefighters who have the specialized training and equipment needed to respond to wildfires that enter a community or where developed areas meet wildland areas.

    This program is a partnership between the provincial government and local authority fire services and includes funding from Natural Resources Canada. The province is responsible for coordination and funding, while local fire departments contribute personnel, firefighting equipment and resources. The expansion of this program will enhance the overall deployment of specialized resources across the province and improve municipal fire service capacity through additional training and technical support.

    “The announcement of almost $7 million in funding to quadruple the number of Wildland Urban Interface teams will strengthen Alberta’s wildfire preparedness and significantly improve safety for Strathmore residents. As the local MLA, I am proud to support the growth of these versatile teams, which are deployed across the province to support municipalities like ours and reinforce our local firefighting capabilities.”

    Chantelle de Jonge, MLA for Chestermere-Strathmore

    “Strathmore’s firefighters have repeatedly shown their skill, commitment and leadership during emergency deployments. Participation in the WUI Program allows us to strengthen those capabilities, enhance regional partnerships, and help build a sustainable response model for our community and province.”

    Pat Fule, mayor, Town of Strathmore

    Each new Wildland Urban Interface Team will receive $1.09 million over two to three years for personnel costs, administrative support, equipment, maintenance and travel costs to help develop and expand the program’s training and operational capacity.

    The local authorities receiving funding are:

    • Town of Strathmore
    • Town of Hinton
    • Town of Slave Lake
    • Lac La Biche County
    • Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council
    • Kananaskis Improvement District

    There are two existing teams based out of Clearwater County and the Town of High Level.

    Quick facts

    • Funding for the Town of Hinton, Town of Slave Lake, Lac La Biche County and Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council is shared equally between Natural Resources Canada and Alberta Forestry and Parks.  
    • Funding for the teams based in the Town of Strathmore and Kananaskis Improvement District will be provided by the Alberta Emergency Management Agency.
    • Each team will receive a total of $1.09 million for a combined total of close to $7 million.

    Related information

    • Wildland Urban Interface Program

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Details Bipartisan Solution to Supercharge American Manufacturing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    Published: May 21, 2025
    WASHINGTON – During a Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship hearing featuring Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler, Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) highlighted her bipartisan solution to continue the great American manufacturing resurgence happening under the Trump administration.
    Ernst went on to thank Loeffler for restoring fiscal sanity to the SBA’s flagship 7(a) loan program and ending the era of sloppy underwriting.
    Click here to watch Chair Ernst’s remarks.
    Loeffler praised Ernst’s Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act as a key bipartisan solution that will “supercharge the return of American manufacturing.” Ernst described how doubling the size of crucial manufacturing loans will give small businesses the fuel they need to grow and bring jobs back.
    She then applauded the hard work of Loeffler in righting the ship within the 7(a) loan program after a series of reckless changes by the Biden administration resulted in rising defaults, threatening to force taxpayers to foot the bill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ERO El Paso deportation officers turn over a previously removed Mexican fugitive to Mexican authorities

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    EL PASO, Texas — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement deportation officers on May 22 removed a previously removed Mexican national wanted in his home country for possessing methamphetamine and firearms.

    Miguel Sifuentes Jimenez, 36, was turned over to Mexican authorities on the top of the Stanton Street Bridge on the international boundary between the United States and Mexico.

    Sifuentes last illegally entered the United States on May 3, 2021, by walking across the U.S.-Mexico international boundary east of the Santa Teresa Port of Entry near Santa Teresa, New Mexico. The following day, he was processed as a reinstatement of prior order of removal and presented for prosecution. Upon time served, he was released to the streets by the Luna County Detention Center in Deming, New Mexico.

    He was first ordered removed from the United States on Jan. 9, 2013, and removed to his home country on Jan. 28, 2013, from Calexico, California. His criminal history in the United States includes convictions in California for felony robbery in 2008, for which he was sentenced to 364 days in jail; aggravated battery/spouse, a misdemeanor, in 2009, for which he was sentenced to serve 60 days in jail; and inflicting corporal injury spouse/cohab, a felony, in 2011, for which he received a two-year sentence.

    On May 12, Enforcement and Removal Operations deportation officers encountered Sifuentes at the Eddy County Detention Center in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where he was serving time after being convicted for aggravated battery against a household member/strangulation or suffocation. ERO lodged a detainer and arrested him when he was released from jail that same day.

    On May 13, he was charged with alien inadmissibility and alien previously removed as an arriving alien, which is an aggravated felony.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Zinke Introduces Bill to Modernize Outdated Foreign Military Sales Congressional Notification Process

    Source: US Congressman Ryan Zinke (Western Montana)

    (Washington, D.C.)  As Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Foreign Military Sales Task Force, Congressman Ryan Zinke has introduced bipartisan legislation to modernize the Congressional Notification (CN) thresholds for Foreign Military Sales (FMS) and Direct Commercial Sales (DCS). Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) co-sponsored this legislation. Read the full text of the bill here.

    FMS and DCS purchases by allies have surged, however, CN thresholds have remained unchanged for over 20 years. The outdated process delays key defense and diplomatic partnerships, potentially pushing allies toward adversaries like China and Russia.

    Zinke’s bill raises CN dollar thresholds to reflect inflation and global realities, streamlining approval timelines while maintaining rigorous security and human rights reviews by the Department of State and Department of Defense. The legislation also updates reporting requirements under the Arms Export Control Act to improve efficiency and oversight.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McClellan, Sánchez Introduce Bill to Improve Affordability of Student Transportation Costs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) and Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (CA-38) introduced the Accessible Campus Commuting and Expanded Student Savings (ACCESS) Act to improve accessibility and affordability of higher education.

    The cost of transportation is a significant barrier for many students, yet is often overlooked as students weigh the affordability of college and apprenticeship programs. 

    The ACCESS Act would help reduce barriers to access, make higher education more affordable and alleviate student pressure by helping American families use their savings to cover more of their children’s education expenses. 

    “Student parking and transportation costs add up fast for commuting students — and the problem is only getting worse,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “High commuting costs hurt student retention and success at a time when institutions already see declining enrollments post-COVID, yet many scholarship and financial aid awards still don’t cover transportation expenses. The ACCESS Act empowers students to use their 529 savings plan to cover transportation and parking expenses, ensuring that they have the tools they need to succeed regardless of zip code or socioeconomic status.”

    “Commuting to class shouldn’t be what keeps someone from getting their degree. But for a lot of students, the cost of parking or public transit adds up quickly. This is a smart, straightforward way to make things a little bit easier,” said Congresswoman Sánchez. “I appreciate Congresswoman McClellan for her work to make college more affordable for more students.”

    The ACCESS Act has been endorsed by Commonwealth Savers (formerly Virginia 529), the College Savings Plans Network (CSPN), the Virginia College Advising Network (VCAN), the Virginia Community College System, the College Savings Foundation, and the Council for Independent Colleges of Virginia (CICV).

    Specifically, H.R.3574, the Accessible Campus Commuting and Expanded Student Savings Act would:

    • Amend Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code to allow 529 savings plans to include student parking and transportation costs at colleges, universities, and apprenticeship programs as eligible educational expenses covered by the 529 Program.

    Read the full bill text here. Read the one-pager here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump Approves Governor Kehoe’s Requests for Major Disaster Declaration to Assist Missourians Impacted by March 14-15 and March 30-April 8 Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MAY 23, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced that President Donald J. Trump has approved two of Missouri’s requests for a major disaster declaration in response to the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that impacted the state from March 14-15 and March 30-April 8.

    The additional request for April 29 storms is still under review, and the process to request a major disaster declaration for May 16 storms is still underway.

    “This is important and very welcome news for the Missouri families and communities hit hard by the devastating storms and tornadoes that began in March and have affected so much of our state,” Governor Kehoe said. “The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) will be working closely with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to move the federal assistance process forward, which will provide millions of dollars in much needed recovery support for individuals, families, and local jurisdictions. We appreciate the work of our federal congressional delegation in advocating for these requests and future assistance for Missourians.”

    Individual Assistance:

    The President’s action makes Individual Assistance available to eligible residents in 18 counties impacted by the March 14-15 storms, including: Bollinger, Butler, Camden, Carter, Franklin, Howell, Iron, Jefferson, Oregon, Ozark, Perry, Phelps, Reynolds, Ripley, St. Louis, Wayne, Webster, and Wright counties.

    Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance with temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses.

    Individuals who sustained damage or losses due to the March 14-15 severe weather may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling FEMA’s toll-free application line at 1-800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. They can also download the FEMA app to apply. Affected individuals are encouraged to document losses, photograph damage, and retain receipts. The faster Missourians register with FEMA, the faster they may be able to receive assistance.

    The deadline for most Individual Assistance programs is 60 days following the President’s major disaster declaration. Disaster assistance to eligible individuals generally falls into the following categories:

    • Housing Assistance may be available for up to 18 months for displaced persons whose residences were heavily damaged or destroyed. Funding also can be provided for housing repairs and replacement of damaged items to make homes habitable.
    • Disaster Grants are available to help meet other serious disaster related needs and necessary expenses not covered by insurance and other aid programs. These may include replacement of personal property, and transportation, medical, dental, and funeral expenses.
    • Low-Interest Disaster Loans are available after a disaster for homeowners and renters from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover uninsured property losses. Loans may be available for repair or replacement of homes, automobiles, clothing, or other damaged personal property. SBA loans are also available to businesses for property loss and economic injury. Businesses can visit sba.gov or call 1-800-569-2955.
    • Other Disaster Aid Programs include crisis counseling, disaster-related unemployment assistance, legal aid and assistance with income tax, Social Security, and veterans’ benefits.

    Public Assistance:

    The President’s action also makes the FEMA Public Assistance program available to local governments and qualifying nonprofits for the repair of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure as well as reimbursement of emergency response costs.

    For the March 14-15 storms, public assistance is available in the following 20 counties: Bollinger, Butler, Callaway, Carter, Dunklin, Franklin, Howell, Iron, Madison, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Perry, Phelps, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne.

    The Governor’s April 2 request for March 14-15 storms included more than $26.9 million in qualifying expenses already identified.

    For the March 30-April 8 storms, public assistance is available in the following 25 counties: Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Cooper, Douglas, Dunklin, Howell, Iron, Madison, Maries, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Pemiscot, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Texas, Vernon, Wayne, and Webster.

    The Governor’s April 30 request for March 30-April 8 storms included more than $25.5 million in qualifying expenses already identified.

    For more information on the federal disaster declaration process, visit this link.

    For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, please visit recovery.mo.gov.

    SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or www.211helps.org or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

    FEMA APPLY FOR IA GRAPHIC.jpg

    The following outlines the current status of Governor Kehoe’s additional federal assistance requests:

    April 29 Storms

    Status: Awaiting Federal Disaster Declaration approval

    Details: On May 19, Governor Kehoe requested that President Donald Trump approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance to six counties that sustained major damage as a result of a cluster of severe storms that swept through the area and produced eight tornadoes on April 29.

    May 16 Storms

    Status: Awaiting Federal Emergency Declaration approval

    Preliminary Damage Assessments for Individual Assistance have now been completed in the St. Louis region, and are ongoing in counties in southeast Missouri. The State anticipates requesting Preliminary Damage Assessments of damage to roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure in St. Louis City and Scott County in the near future in preparation for a request by the Governor for a federal Major Disaster Declaration for these areas.

    Details: On May 19, Governor Kehoe made these requests to expedite federal assistance to Missouri following the severe storms and tornadoes that struck the state on May 16, causing seven deaths and widespread damage in the St. Louis region and areas of southeast Missouri.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump Approves Federal Disaster Declaration for March Storm

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Damage resulted from a severe winter storm that impacted the state on March 18 and 19. The application for assistance was submitted in mid-April. Cost estimates from that storm exceeded $64.8 million – the bulk of which resulted from downed electrical lines and damaged utility poles.

    Counties eligible under the declaration include Boone, Burt, Butler, Cass, Clay, Colfax, Cuming, Dodge, Douglas, Fillmore, Hamilton, Jefferson, Johnson, Lancaster, Nuckolls, Otoe, Platte, Polk, Saline, Sarpy, Saunders, Seward, Thayer, Thurston, Washington, Webster, and York.

    “This was a significant storm, impacting more than 25 counties and leaving many people without power – some for several days. I appreciate President Trump’s attention to Nebraska and his approval of this disaster request,” said Gov. Pillen. “Federal funding will help cover the tremendous costs that were incurred as a result of this weather event.”

    The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has begun working with local emergency managers and public entities now eligible for assistance under this declaration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU-Brazil relations: President Costa to travel to Brazil to strengthen partnership and launch investment dialogue

    Source: Council of the European Union

    European Council President António Costa will travel to Brazil from 27 to 29 May 2025 to meet with Brazilian President Lula da Silva and participate in the EU-Brazil Investment Forum. The visit highlights the EU’s commitment to a forward-looking strategic partnership with Brazil to advance joint priorities, including climate action and multilateral cooperation.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Offer Reward for Scranton Homicide Suspect

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Scranton, PA – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Middle District of Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force is asking for the public’s assistance in locating Malachi Allah Darden, 20. 

    On May 17, 2024, a warrant for Homicide and related charges was issued by the Scranton Police Department for Darden’s role in the shooting of a man on the 1800 block of Jackson Street in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

    The U.S. Marshals Service is offering up to a $2,500 reward for information leading to Darden’s arrest.

    Darden stands 5 feet 11 inches and weighs approximately 160 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes. He is known to frequent the Bronx, New York. He is also associated with addresses in Northeastern Pennsylvania, specifically Lackawanna and Luzerne counties.

    Tips can be called in to the USMS tip line at 1-877-WANTED2 (926-8332) or by using the USMS Tips App.

    The USMS Middle Pennsylvania Fugitive Task Force comprises 22 state, county, and local police agencies, including the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, the Wilkes-Barre Police Department, the Kingston Police Department, the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office, Carbon County Sheriff’s Office and the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Brockton Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Fentanyl; Multiple Machineguns and Kilograms of Fentanyl Recovered During Searches

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant sold fentanyl to a cooperating witness while on probation for a 2019 drug conviction and on pretrial release for a separate pending drug charge

    BOSTON – A Brockton man pleaded guilty yesterday to selling fentanyl to a cooperating witness during multiple controlled purchases. At the time of the controlled purchases, the defendant was on probation for a 2019 fentanyl conviction and on pretrial release for a separate March 2024 drug arrest.

    Joshua Tavares, 29, pleaded guilty to three counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and fentanyl analogue. U.S. District Court Judge Brian E. Murphy scheduled sentencing for Sept. 9, 2025. In December 2024, Tavares was indicted by a federal grand jury.

    During today’s hearing, Tavares admitted to conducting six sales of fentanyl and fentanyl analogue to a cooperating witness from September to November of 2024. Over the course of the six transactions, Tavares sold approximately 549 grams of fentanyl analogue to a cooperating witness. All of the transactions were captured on video recording.

    After the controlled purchases, an arrest warrant and search warrants were executed on Dec. 3, 2024 at multiple residences and stash houses in Brockton. During the searches, approximately four kilograms of suspected fentanyl, cocaine, packaging materials for distribution of controlled substances and over $89,000 in cash were recovered. A .40 caliber Glock firearm and a 9mm Glock firearm with a machinegun conversion device were also located in the residence where Tavares was located.

    A 9mm Glock firearm with a machinegun conversion device and a tactical laser sight was recovered from a stash location along with numerous rounds of ammunition and multiple loaded magazines, including a 50 round “drum” style magazine. Machinegun conversion devices, commonly referred to as “switches,” are designed to convert firearms into fully automatic weapons.

    The charge of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams and more of fentanyl analogue provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Brockton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

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