Category: Finance

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Further appeal in relation to missing man Thomas Basire

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Martin Todd, Hutt Valley Area Investigations Manager:

Hutt Valley Police are continuing to appeal for the public’s help to locate missing 28-year-old Thomas Basire, who has not been seen since November 2024.

Thomas was last seen walking towards Petone on the stop bank near the Ewen Bridge on Railway Ave, on 24 November 2024.

Since his disappearance, Police have conducted a number of searches around the Hutt River and riverbank area in an attempt to locate him, which have all been unsuccessful to date.

Footage taken from a search in February was analysed, with no further items or locations of interest identified.

Police have received a wealth of information from the public regarding the potential whereabouts of Thomas, however based on follow-up enquiries, we do not believe there have been any confirmed sightings of him since November.

Over the course of our investigation, Police staff have spoken with a number of people who knew Tom, and urge anyone who associated with him who has not yet spoken to Police, to come forward and speak with us.

Despite the period of time he has been missing, the investigation team are keeping an open mind with this investigation.

While there is no further search activity planned at this time, Police will often review these cases as information is received by members of the public.

If you have any information that could assist Police, no matter how small, please contact us via 105, either over the phone or online.

You can quote reference number 241213/6143.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Canada’s countermeasures against auto imports from U.S. to take effect on Wednesday

Source: China State Council Information Office

Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne on Tuesday confirmed that Canada’s new countermeasures announced last week in response to the U.S. tariffs on the Canadian auto industry will come into force at 12:01 a.m. EDT on Wednesday, April 9.

Champagne said Canada would continue to “respond forcefully” to all unwarranted and unreasonable tariffs imposed by the United States on Canadian products.

“The government is firmly committed to getting these U.S. tariffs removed as soon as possible, and will protect Canada’s workers, businesses, economy and industry,” Champagne said in a release issued by the Finance Ministry.

The countermeasures, announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney Prime Minister last week, include 25-percent tariffs on non-Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) compliant fully-assembled vehicles imported into Canada from the United States, and 25-percent tariffs on non-Canadian and non-Mexican content of CUSMA compliant fully-assembled vehicles imported into Canada from the United States.

A remission framework for auto producers that incentivizes production and investment in Canada, and helps maintain Canadian jobs, will also be implemented, said the release.

On April 3, U.S. tariffs of 25 percent on Canadian automobiles came into effect, targeting the auto industry and the more than 500,000 Canadians this industry supports across the country, said the release, adding that the United States also intends to apply 25-percent tariffs on certain automobile parts on May 3.

Vehicle imports from the United States totaled 35.6 billion Canadian dollars (25 billion U.S. dollars) in 2024, said the release.

MIL OSI China News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Global markets plunge as ‘reciprocal tariffs’ spark fears on Black Monday

Source: China State Council Information Office

Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange in New York, the United States, April 3, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Major stock indexes across the globe plunged sharply on Monday, as investors dumped riskier assets amid mounting fears over U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs.

Panic sentiments took hold of the market once trading opened in the morning. The day of April 7, with similarities to the 1987 stock market crash, is being seen as another “Black Monday” by analysts and the media.

Washington’s controversial new set of tariffs has stirred tensions since its announcement on Wednesday, hitting global markets hard, sparking backlash from other countries and drawing widespread criticism from economists and investors.

Global turbulence

Major markets across the globe witnessed a turbulent day.

Three major benchmarks of the U.S. stock market met with major setbacks on Monday.

The S&P 500 Index, which is composed of 500 leading companies listed in the United States, dived as much as 21.41 percent from its record high on Feb. 19 and entered the technical territory of the bear market in the morning session.

As of 9:40 a.m. Eastern time (1340 GMT), the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.63 percent, the S&P 500 shed 3.14 percent, and the Nasdaq Composite Index dropped by 3.85 percent.

Later, false reports that the White House would pause most of Trump’s tariffs for 90 days had pumped up the market, leading to a sudden surge. However, as the White House denied the news, the market declined again. The up and down within hours indicate how desperate investors were for any potential relief from the tariffs.

All the leading European benchmark indexes opened in the red on Monday, down by 4 to 7 percent compared with the closing prices on the previous trading day.

Britain’s blue-chip stock index, the FTSE 100, dropped by about 5 percent, France’s CAC 40 went down by over 5 percent, and the pan-European STOXX 600 index dropped over 6 percent in morning trade.

Germany’s DAX index was among the hardest-hit, opening down by 9.5 percent before paring back part of the losses later in the morning. The significant gains since the beginning of the year have thus been almost completely wiped out.

The S&P/ASX 200 — Australia’s benchmark share market index — closed down 4.2 percent on Monday in a plunge worth more than 100 billion Australian dollars (60.1 billion U.S. dollars). The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that it was the index’s biggest one-day fall since May 2020.

Singapore’s Straits Times Index on Monday plunged by 8.7 percent at the open. The sharp drop marked the index’s steepest single-day decline since an 8.9 percent plunge during the 2008 global financial crisis, and exceeded the 8.4 percent fall seen in March 2020 amid COVID-19.

A pedestrian passes a screen showing stock market information in Tokyo, Japan, April 7, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Fear and fury

The aggressive tariffs that triggered the global stock market plunge have drawn widespread criticism of the U.S. government, amid fear and fury across the globe.

Trump’s tariffs have a shocking effect on stock markets, Gilles Moec, chief economist at AXA Group, told Les Echos, a French economy-specialized daily.

“This shock has no real precedent in history, which amplifies market volatility because investors have no point of reference,” he said.

Moec noted that the current damage to global stock markets is “entirely self-inflicted by the U.S. authorities,” unlike past stock market crises which were reflections of then macroeconomic situations.

Richard Branson, British entrepreneur and co-founder of Virgin Group, said it is time for Washington to change course. “Otherwise, America will face ruin for years to come,” he warned.

Branson noted that companies should be given enough time to adapt, and the current market response is preventable.

Hasan Tevfik, a research analyst at advisory firm MST Marquee, also warned of severe consequences for the U.S. economy.

“The U.S. economy has endured a barrage of headwinds, all self-inflicted, and the end consequence will be a contraction in the economy that was humming along, exceptionally, over the last couple of years,” he told the Australian Financial Review newspaper.

This photo taken on April 7, 2025 shows a screen at the foreign exchange dealing room of the KEB Hana Bank headquarters in Seoul, South Korea. [Photo/Xinhua]

Independent Australian economist Saul Eslake noted the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s next decisions and what he called the “madness” of the White House. He warned that the impact on the Australian economy was likely to be worse than the Treasury’s forecast that the country is well-placed to avoid a recession despite the “damage” being done by the U.S. tariffs.

Doom and gloom

Investors have lost trillions of dollars since the tariff announcement on Wednesday. Recession odds are rising, and massive trade wars are looming. With no constructive response in sight, market confidence has been severely hit.

DBS economists in a weekly review released on Monday noted that global markets and economies are still struggling to absorb the seismic tariff shock, with risk aversion and market selloff.

“The key reason for that is that despite the spate of announcements, there is still substantial fear that more measures are to come. Perhaps more critical is the notion that nations trying to do a deal with the U.S. will not be able to rest easy upon signing agreements, as no deal with the U.S. seems to be reliable any longer,” wrote DBS economists Taimur Baig and Radhika Rao.

David Gerald, president of the Securities Investors Association (Singapore), told The Straits Times, “If tariffs are sustained, they could contribute to higher inflation and slower global growth, which may in turn trigger further volatility and potential sell-offs in markets globally, including Singapore.”

Germany’s Friedrich Merz, who is expected to become the next chancellor, also fears that U.S. trade policy could further escalate the turmoil in global stock markets. “The situation on international equity and bond markets is dramatic and threatens to worsen further.”

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon warned on Monday, “The recent tariffs will likely increase inflation and are causing many to consider a greater probability of a recession.”

MIL OSI China News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Media release: Statement on the Coalition’s Frontier Economics gas policy modelling – Australian Energy Producers

Source: Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association

Headline: Media release: Statement on the Coalition’s Frontier Economics gas policy modelling – Australian Energy Producers

Attributable to Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch:

The Frontier Economics modelling of the Coalition’s gas price controls policy released last night leaves many unanswered questions about how the policy would work and reaffirms industry’s fundamental concerns.

The policy would introduce price controls in the east coast gas market and would be yet another heavy-handed intervention that will drive away investment and risk exacerbating the supply pressures in the longer term.

The Coalition rightly opposed a similar policy in 2022, when the Federal Government introduced price caps that ultimately delayed new supply and damaged investor confidence.

At the time, the Coalition noted that “price caps in the gas market would be a disaster” that could lead to “a collapse in industry confidence resulting in job losses and long-term investment downturns”, and cited EnergyQuest modelling “that showed a $10-per-gigajoule cap could remove or delay more than 700 petajoules of new gas supply in less than eight years.”

Rather than increasing gas supply, the Coalition’s policy risks reducing domestic gas production and supply because there would be no incentive to produce sub-economic gas, and it would damage already suppressed investor confidence.

The modelling also ignores the material infrastructure constraints that limit how much gas from Queensland can be sent to the southern states, with the pipes already running at full capacity during peak periods – a point the Coalition made less than six months ago.

There is much in the Coalition’s broader gas plan that is welcome and responds to what industry has been calling for, including streamlining environmental approvals, providing more certainty and protection from lawfare for critical energy projects, including gas in the Capacity Investment Scheme, and support for pipeline and storage to address infrastructure constraints.

We will continue to work with both major parties on sustainable solutions that promote a functioning, competitive and well supplied east coast gas market.

Media contact: 0434 631 511

MIL OSI Economics –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: OCR reduction affirms spending discipline

Source: New Zealand Government

The reduction in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) affirms the work done by the Government to bring public spending back under control, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

The Reserve Bank today reduced the OCR by 25 basis points, meaning the rate has come down 200 basis points since August last year.

“That is good news for households because it means lower mortgage rates and more money in people’s pockets to help with the cost of living,” Nicola Willis says.

“For example, for someone with a $500,000 mortgage over 25 years, a two percentage point drop in their interest rate reduces their repayments by about $300 a fortnight.

“The fall in the OCR is also good news for businesses because it means more money flowing through their tills.

“The Government knows many families and businesses are still doing it tough but our focus on stopping wasteful spending has made a difference.

“When the Government is disciplined with its spending, it takes the heat out of inflation and gives the Reserve Bank more room to reduce interest rates.

“Since peaking at 7.3 per cent in June 2022, the annual inflation rate has fallen to 2.2 per cent.

“The OCR is now down to 3.5 per cent. By contrast, the OCR rose from 1.75 per cent when the previous government took office to 5.5 per cent when it left office.

“Increasing global uncertainty will present further challenges to the economy in coming months, but New Zealanders can be assured this Government will continue to act in a fiscally prudent manner while putting a premium on stability and certainty and promoting pro-investment policies.

“Now more than ever, we need to ensure we get value for every dollar of public money spent.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Demands Honesty and Transparency about the Impacts of Trump Tariffs on Economy during Senate Hearing

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

Washington, D.C. – Today during a Senate Finance Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) pressed U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer about the impacts of President Trump’s blanket tariffs on Nevadans, particularly those employed in the tourism and hospitality industry.

“We have a billion-dollar economy when it comes to tourism into the United States. People know Las Vegas, my state is Nevada, we rely on tourism to our state, and now we’re seeing an impact because of these tariffs” said Senator Cortez Masto. She went on to ask Representative Greer what the Trump administration is doing to address the impact blanket tariffs are having on tourism.

After Greer repeatedly failed to provide a substantive answer, Cortez Masto said, “You haven’t thought about this, and the administration hasn’t really thought about it because I haven’t heard anybody talking about tourism. So, why don’t you come talk to me in my office, and let’s talk about it and put a plan together, because these blanket tariffs are having an impact in my state and across the country.”

Senator Cortez Masto is a champion of Nevada’s tourism economy. In the American Rescue Plan, Senator Cortez Masto secured $3 billion in funding to assist states with their economic recovery and their vital tourism industries, including Nevada. She also delivered resources to the state’s businesses and secured flexibility for the gaming industry. She has been a Senate leader in passing the seven-year reauthorization of ‘Brand USA’, which is a public-private partnership that enhances tourism and job creation across the country.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: University Research – Global infant mortality will rise – in contrast to United Nations projections – Flinders

Source: Flinders University

A new report presented in New York on 8 April reveals that current United Nations projections on infant mortality rates are inaccurate.

The Fragile Futures report says crucial factors missing from current United Nations projections – the impacts of climate change and population on infant mortality – will cause infant mortality to rise and children’s overall health to decline this decade.

While current United Nations projections predict a continuing decline in infant mortality, new evidence in the Fragile Futures report shows that climate change and population dynamics in the most climate-vulnerable regions will increase infant mortality rates.

UK-based NGO Population Matters funded the independent Fragile Futures evidence review, conducted by the Future Child Health research team at The Kids Research Institute Australia, with help from The University of Western Australia and Matthew Flinders Professor of Global Ecology Corey Bradshaw from Flinders University in South Australia.

Representatives from Population Matters and the Future Child Health research team attended the United Nations Commission on Population Development in New York, and presented the Fragile Futures research at a side event (“A Discussion on Child Health and Climate”) on 8 April.

Report co-author Professor Corey Bradshaw from Flinders University says that evidence revealed in the Fragile Futures report shows that infant mortality is rising.

“Although United Nations’ projections on infant mortality show a continuing decline to 2100, recent evidence suggests that infant mortality is increasing in several countries, including the United States, France, India, Madagascar, Cambodia, Nepal, and the Philippines.”

The report also presents evidence that climate change will increase pre-term births. “Rising temperatures are linked to a 60% increase in preterm births, a major contributor to higher rates of infant mortality and health complications later in life even in those children who survive,” says co-author Dr Melinda Judge from The Kids Research Institute Australia and The University of Western Australia.

“The risk of pre-term birth is already higher in low- and middle-income countries. Sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia accounted for 65% of all preterm births globally in 2020, and this will increase due to more frequent and persisting heatwaves.”

Children’s respiratory health is identified as being at increased risk. “Climate change and higher population density also causes more exposure to air pollution, increasing cases of asthma, eczema, and allergies in young children,” says co-author Professor Peter Le Souëf from The University of Western Australia and The Kids Research Institute Australia. “In Africa, air pollution was linked to 449,000 additional infant deaths in 2015.”

The report shows that preventable deaths of women and newborns are increasing. In 2020, 287,000 women died from preventable pregnancy-related complications, and 80% of newborn deaths were due to preventable and treatable conditions. Investment in sexual and reproductive healthcare saves lives.

Cuts to international aid budgets are also having an effect on these figures. “The withdrawal of USAID support between 2025 and 2028 is projected to result in 1,200 additional preventable maternal deaths in Afghanistan alone,” says Professor Bradshaw.

“The total impacts of lost aid on women and children’s health remains unknown – but will be catastrophic without intervention.”

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Qualcomm Executive Convicted by Jury in $180 Million Fraud

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SAN DIEGO – Dr. Karim Arabi was convicted by a federal jury today of fraud and money laundering charges in connection with a massive $180 million scheme targeting his then-employer, Qualcomm.

After a four-week trial, the jury deliberated for less than two days. The jury found that while working as vice president of Qualcomm’s Research and Development Department, Dr. Arabi committed fraud by developing a valuable microchip technology, marketing the technology through a company, Abreezio, which he created to conceal his involvement, and then selling the company and its purported technology to Qualcomm for $180 million.

As part of his employment with Qualcomm, Dr. Arabi had agreed that virtually all technology he invented while working at Qualcomm belonged to Qualcomm. To perpetrate the fraud, Dr. Arabi carefully hid his role as the new company’s shadow CEO, picked its corporate name (Abreezio) and weighed in on its office furniture.

Dr. Arabi created fake email accounts and sent phony emails to impersonate his sister, Sheida Alan, the supposed inventor of the new technology. In truth, Sheida was a nonentity throughout its formation, development, marketing and sale. In the summer of 2015, when Abreezio was filing a new round of patent applications, Sheida legally changed her last name from “Arabi” to “Alan,” to further conceal her relationship with Dr. Arabi.

According to evidence presented at trial, after the deal closed and Qualcomm unwittingly paid almost $92 million to Dr. Arabi’s sister, the campaign of concealment continued: Dr. Arabi invested the money in Canadian and Norwegian real estate while hiding his involvement, funneled funds back to his U.S. companies via intermediary shells, lied repeatedly through Qualcomm’s subsequent civil fraud suit, and received steady installments of laundered fraud proceeds until the month before his arrest in this case.

“The defendant took advantage of the trust placed in him, lining his pockets with millions by orchestrating a scheme to deceive and then bleed his own employer,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden. “His actions weren’t just a betrayal of the company – they were a direct attack on the very principles of fairness and integrity that keep business honest. Today’s jury verdict sends a clear message: In the Southern District of California, fraud has consequences. We will relentlessly pursue justice against those who try to profit through lies and deceit.”

“Dr. Arabi perpetrated an elaborate and exhaustive scheme to conceal, deceive, and defraud his own employer out of millions of dollars,” said FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi. “With today’s verdict, Dr. Arabi will now face the consequences of this massive fraud, sending the clear message that corporate executives who facilitate fraud will be held accountable for their crimes.”

“As vice president of Research and Development, Mr. Arabi was entrusted with protecting Qualcomm’s intellectual property rights,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “Mr. Arabi executed a scheme to swindle Qualcomm out of $180 million for what was rightfully their own technology. This guilty verdict is reflective of outstanding investigative work by IRS-CI and our partners at the FBI and U.S. Marshal’s Service.”

Qualcomm actually paid $150 million to the coconspirators and others before discovering the fraud.

Two other defendants pleaded guilty in the scheme prior to Arabi’s trial. Ali Akbar Shokouhi, another former Qualcomm employee and the primary investor in Abreezio, pleaded guilty to money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on August 1, 2025; Sanjiv Taneja, Abreezio’s nominal CEO, pleaded guilty to money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 11, 2025.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas W. Pilchak, Janaki G. Chopra and Eric R. Olah.

DEFENDANT Case Number 22-CR-1152

Karim Arabi Age: 58 San Diego, CA

CHARGES

Wire Fraud Conspiracy, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1349

Maximum Penalties: Twenty years in prison; $1 million fine or twice the amount of the criminally derived property involved in the transaction

Wire Fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343

Maximum Penalties: Twenty years in prison; $1 million fine

Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h)

Maximum Penalties: Twenty years in prison; fine of $500,000 or twice the amount of the criminally derived property involved in the transaction

INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

Federal Bureau of Investigation

Internal Revenue Services, Criminal Investigation

United States Marshals Service

MIL Security OSI –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI: ZENMEV Launches New MEV-Based Staking Model amid Global Market Shakeup

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, NY, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In response to heightened market volatility and investor uncertainty, ZENMEV has introduced a new staking model leveraging Maximal Extractable Value (MEV) to offer structurally resilient returns.

A New Frontier in Long-Term Investment Strategies Based on MEV

Global stock markets have recently experienced significant downturns due to tariff issues and fluctuating interest rates, causing widespread investor anxiety over plummeting asset values. Financial experts suggest avoiding panic-driven, short-term selling and instead recommend stable long-term investment strategies resilient to market volatility. One alternative gaining institutional attention is staking based on Maximal Extractable Value (MEV), with the ZENMEV platform emerging as a leading player. Unlike traditional major exchanges or regular staking services, ZENMEV returns the structural profits generated from blockchain mechanisms directly to ordinary users, quickly becoming a prominent choice.

Market Volatility and Emergence of Staking Alternatives

According to recent economic reports, growing recession fears and geopolitical risks have weakened trust in traditional stock markets. Historically, investors have gravitated toward safer assets like gold or bonds in such environments, but cryptocurrencies have recently emerged as alternative investments. However, their significant volatility remains a psychological hurdle during bear markets.

In these circumstances, staking has been increasingly popular as a more stable income strategy. Users lock assets for a certain period to help validate network transactions and earn rewards in the form of block rewards or transaction fees. Notable examples include Ethereum (since transitioning to Proof of Stake), Cosmos (ATOM), and Tezos (XTZ), all providing annual fixed interest rates. Staking helps minimize impulsive short-term trading decisions, allowing investors to accumulate assets steadily.

However, typical staking models rely solely on block rewards, limiting their profitability. Achieving satisfying returns can be challenging without significant market growth. To address this limitation, staking strategies utilizing MEV have emerged prominently, with ZENMEV leading the way.

Understanding ZENMEV Redefining the MEV Ecosystem
MEV refers to profits generated by blockchain validators who rearrange or insert transactions within a block to extract additional value. Decentralized Finance (DeFi) activities such as large swaps, arbitrage, or collateral liquidations create MEV opportunities. Historically, these opportunities were accessible only to specialized bots, large validators, or miners, attracting criticism as an exclusive insider game.

ZENMEV disrupts this exclusivity by transparently distributing MEV gains to everyday users. Users deposit assets like Ethereum (ETH) or Solana (SOL), and ZENMEV’s MEV trading bots, known as Zenbots, analyze on-chain data in real time to identify and execute MEV opportunities within milliseconds. For example, if a large buy order appears on a decentralized exchange, ZENMEV strategically purchases the asset at a lower price immediately before executing the large order, realizing risk-free profits from the subsequent price increase.

These profits are instantly and transparently distributed to stakeholders through ZENMEV’s smart contracts. Users simply deposit assets and automatically share in the structural profits derived from blockchain mechanisms. This added value distinguishes ZENMEV from conventional staking, which relies only on block rewards.

Stable Returns in Bear Markets through Market-Neutral Strategies

Bear markets usually lead to reduced asset prices and declining trading volumes in cryptocurrency markets. However, ZENMEV remains attractive as MEV profits derive from volatility and trading activities rather than asset price direction. For instance, front-running strategies capture profits by quickly executing transactions before large orders that push prices upward, independent of overall market trends.

Provided meaningful trading volumes or volatility persist, MEV opportunities remain present even during downturns. Research suggests MEV opportunities continue to emerge unless markets become completely stagnant. Thus, MEV’s market-neutral strategy offers relative stability during bear markets, occasionally surpassing typical validator rewards. This structural advantage underscores ZENMEV’s growing appeal in challenging market conditions.

Core Strength: Advanced Zenbot Algorithms and Mempool Scanning

ZENMEV’s robust performance relies heavily on sophisticated algorithms and mempool scanning technologies. The platform efficiently processes thousands of transactions per second using deep learning models, enabling Zenbots to accurately identify and swiftly execute profitable opportunities such as liquidity pools, significant swaps, and rapid token price fluctuations. These AI-driven bots prioritize transactions strategically to maximize profit, ensuring competitive execution within blockchain networks.

Rapid Multichain Expansion and Strategic Global VC Investment

Though MEV discussions commonly focus on Ethereum and BNB chains, ZENMEV also seeks opportunities across networks like Solana and Cosmos. By customizing strategies to each blockchain’s unique characteristics, ZENMEV allows users seamless access to diversified MEV opportunities from multiple chains through a single platform.

ZENMEV recently attracted strategic investments totaling approximately $140 million from prominent Web3 venture capitalists. These funds will accelerate global market expansion, enhance AI-driven MEV detection models, and further strengthen ZENMEV’s competitive position. The company is actively expanding into North America, Europe, and Asia, solidifying its global footprint.

Combining Node Rewards with MEV Profits

ZENMEV’s staking model uniquely combines basic validator rewards with additional MEV-generated income. Users who participate as validators typically receive standard block rewards but also benefit from additional profits derived from MEV strategies, significantly enhancing overall annual returns.

The platform simplifies this process by automatically identifying and capitalizing on MEV opportunities, requiring no specialized technical knowledge from users. Participants simply stake assets as usual and benefit from structurally enhanced returns, making sophisticated MEV strategies broadly accessible.

Mental Stability and Long-term Investment Approach in Bear Markets

During bear markets, investor psychology often drives premature selling due to fear of further losses. ZENMEV’s staking model mitigates these emotional decisions by offering consistent returns from MEV strategies, encouraging investors to maintain a long-term perspective despite short-term volatility.

ZENMEV’s continuous, AI-driven monitoring of blockchain activities eliminates the need for users to track news and market movements manually. By capturing fleeting profitable transactions automatically, ZENMEV safeguards asset values and bolsters investor confidence even during downturns.

Conclusion and Outlook

ZENMEV staking emerges as a uniquely robust investment alternative amid current market uncertainties, effectively harnessing blockchain inefficiencies to generate consistent returns. By democratizing previously inaccessible MEV strategies and automating the process with advanced AI technology, ZENMEV significantly enhances traditional staking models.

With multi-chain capabilities, cutting-edge AI integration, and recent strategic funding, ZENMEV’s growth potential appears substantial. As market-neutral and volatility-responsive strategies gain prominence, platforms like ZENMEV could significantly shape the future landscape of decentralized finance.

For detailed information, visit ZENMEV’s official website or explore technical documentation.

Social Links

CoinMarketCap: https://coinmarketcap.com/community/profile/zenmev/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zenmev/

X: https://x.com/zenmev

Telegram: https://t.me/ZENMEV_Channel

Medium: https://medium.com/@zenmev

Media contact

Brand: ZENMEV

Contact: Media team

Email: support@zenmev.com

Website: https://zenmev.com/

The MIL Network –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray, Rep. Houlahan Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation Strengthening Menopause Research at DoD and VA

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
Senator Murray also leads major bipartisan legislation endorsed by Halle Berry to boost menopause research, expand training and awareness
Washington, D.C. — Today, Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, and Joni Ernst (R-IA), joined Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D, PA-06) and Stephanie Bice (R, OK-05) in reintroducing the Servicewomen and Veterans Menopause Research Act. This legislation requires the Department of Defense (DoD) in coordination with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to research and study the effects of menopause on women servicemembers and women veterans. This research would, for the first time ever, analyze any gaps in treatment and research for women servicemembers and veterans experiencing perimenopause or menopause, with a focus on the effect of combat roles, toxic exposure, and on overall mental health.
“Every woman goes through menopause—but for far too long, research that would help us better understand and treat the symptoms of menopause has been underinvested in and overlooked. I’ve been working to tackle this problem from every angle so that women can have the information and the tools they need to enter menopause with confidence and get the care that’s right for them, and our women in uniform and women veterans are no exception,” said Senator Murray. “I’m proud to join Rep. Houlahan in introducing this legislation to strengthen research at VA and DoD on menopause and mid-life women’s health—and I’ll be pushing to include it in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act.”
“Servicewomen and women veterans need dedicated resources and research to better understand the unique way military service impacts menopause. Not only is this a health care issue, but it is also a workforce and family-building issue. Women are going into perimenopause earlier, struggling with debilitating health conditions and being forced to leave the workforce earlier due to medical difficulties from menopause,” said Representative Houlahan. “Service members, including those in non-combat roles, face significantly more stress than their civilian counterparts, potentially leading to early onset menopause and other unique challenges. It is essential to understand the health implications through research, not only for the readiness of our force, but our broader workforce as well.”
Research proves that stress on the body often leads to earlier perimenopause, cutting child-bearing years short, and other physical and mental health conditions that impact women’s ability to work. Servicemembers are disproportionately affected due to the high-stress nature of their jobs. This bill will require a report and identification of gaps in health care knowledge and coverage so that DOD and VA can better serve those that serve us. With a fast-growing number of women veterans, this research is more important than ever for the readiness of our armed forces, as well as our workforce.
Read the full text of the bill here.
“Let’s Talk Menopause applauds the introduction of the Servicewomen and Veterans Menopause Research Act by Representatives Houlahan and Bice. This groundbreaking initiative shines a necessary light on the unique health challenges faced by our service members and veterans as they navigate menopause. Understanding the impact of military service on menopause is crucial for developing tailored support and treatments, ensuring our heroes receive the care they deserve,” said Donna Klassen, Co-Founder/CEO of Let’s Talk Menopause.
“As the population of women veterans continues to grow, it’s imperative that the VA not only continues to study our healthcare needs but also takes proactive steps to address them,” said Elisa Cardnell, President of Service Women’s Action Network. “Military service has a lifelong impact on health, and we applaud the efforts of Rep. Houlahan and Rep. Bice to determine how it may impact perimenopause and menopause.”
“Menopause is a natural life stage that all women will encounter. This includes our nation’s service members and veterans,” said Society for Women’s Health Research President and CEO Kathryn Schubert, MPP, CAE. “Yet, as in so many areas of women’s health, we are operating with a lack of information. This new legislation from Representative Houlahan will give us important insights into menopause’s impact on our service members, including how it affects military service and combat roles. It is our hope that members of Congress will work together in a bipartisan way to quickly pass this legislation.”
Last Congress, Senator Murray introduced the Advancing Menopause Care and Mid-Life Women’s Health Act, new comprehensive bipartisan legislation that would be the most expansive effort so far to boost federal research on menopause and would—for the first time—coordinate the federal government’s existing programs related to menopause and mid-life women’s health. Senator Murray has always championed women’s health care and fought to boost investments in women’s health care research in particular. As the previous top Democrat on the HELP Committee, Murray led negotiations and passage of the 21st Century Cures Act in 2016, bipartisan legislation that provided $4.8 billion over the next 10 years to invests in a wide range of health priorities including with regards to women’s health care. Murray leads and has repeatedly introduced the Jeanette Acosta Invest in Women’s Health Act, which would increase women’s access to preventive and lifesaving cancer screenings. Murray has also been a strong advocate for women veterans’ health care—transforming the VA over decades to meet the needs of women veterans, whether by authoring and passing the Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act in 2010 or by delivering annual funding as an appropriator to help VA provide the necessary care for women veterans. Last year as Chair of the Appropriations Chair, Senator Murray delivered a record $900 million investment in women veterans’ health care.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: As Republicans Attack Public Education, Pressley Reintroduces Bills to Invest in Safe, Nurturing Learning Environments for All Students
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

Pair of Bills Would Address Pushout of Black Girls, Invest in Counselors and End Over-Policing of Public K-12 Schools

Ending PUSHOUT Act | Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act

WASHINGTON – Today, as Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Republicans attack public education, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) is leading her colleagues in reintroducing a pair of bills, the Ending PUSHOUT Act and Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act, which would collectively end the discriminatory treatment of Black and brown students, LGBTQIA+ students, and students with disabilities in schools, and invest in safe, nurturing learning environments for all students.

“Classrooms should be a place for students to learn, grow, and thrive – not be overpoliced and criminalized. With Republicans gutting public education and attacking vulnerable students, our bills would help protect our students by promoting trauma-informed policies and investing in counselors, nurses, social workers, and other trained professionals who actually make our schools safer,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “I’m grateful to my House and Senate colleagues for their ongoing partnership and for the coalition of individuals and organizations from across the country who joined us in support of these bills. We must affirm the right for every student to learn in a setting free from fear.”

Rep. Pressley is joined by Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) in reintroducing the Ending PUSHOUT Act, which would end the punitive pushout of girls of color from schools.

“Over the last 25 years, more than $1 billion in federal funds have been used to put police officers in our nation’s schools without any evidence that this funding has improved school safety or student outcomes,” said Senator Booker. “Additionally, research shows that students of color, particularly girls, are often subjected to harsher and more frequent disciplinary action compared to their white counterparts. The Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act and Ending PUSHOUT Act are critical bills that invest federal dollars in counselors, social workers, and other trauma-informed personnel to support students so we can keep create safer academic environments for all students to thrive.”

“I want my granddaughter to learn, grow, and receive an education in an environment where she is loved and valued,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “But we know, both from the data and our own experience, that this is not always the case for Black girls. They are disproportionately likely to face severe punishment for similar behaviors compared to their white peers and we must take action to dismantle this systemic discrimination. The school-to-prison pipeline is real, and it has specifically harmed and targeted Black girls. I’m proud to support Rep. Pressley’s End PUSHOUT Act to put an end to this injustice, and foster a learning environment where every student, regardless of race, gender, or ZIP code, has the opportunity to thrive.”

“It’s heartbreaking but not surprising that across the country, Black girls and Indigenous girls are still being pushed out of classrooms at staggering rates. Black students in Minnesota are eight times more likely to be suspended than white students. For Indigenous students, it’s ten times,” said Rep. Omar. “The Ending PUSHOUT Act is about creating school environments where girls of color feel safe, supported, and free to learn. I’m proud to stand with Congresswoman Pressley and Congresswoman Watson Coleman to say our girls deserve better and we’re going to fight for them.”

Rep. Pressley is joined by Congresswoman Omar (MN-05), Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12), and Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) in introducing the Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act, which would invest in safe and nurturing school climates that support all students and end over-policing in our nation’s public K-12 schools.

“Every kid deserves to feel secure and supported in their classroom. But too often students, especially kids of color and students with disabilities, are arrested at school instead of getting the help that would actually address the root causes of their behavioral issues. While a number of school districts across the country have made progress by taking police out of classrooms and giving our kids the kind of support that we know leads to better results, other schools have gone back to old rules that just punish kids but don’t help them get back on track. This legislation would put more counselors and social workers in schools and make sure school districts have the resources they need to make classrooms safe for all students,” said Senator Murphy.

“Our children deserve to feel safe, supported, and seen in their schools, not criminalized for simply being kids. Schools have increasingly relied on policing to manage behavior in our classrooms, a practice that has disproportionately harmed Black, brown, LGBTQ+, and disabled students,” said Rep. Omar. “This bill moves us toward justice by directing resources toward counselors, social workers, and the support systems our students actually need to thrive. I’m proud to join my colleagues in fighting for a future where every child has the freedom to learn in an environment that uplifts their potential instead of policing their existence.”

“Schools should be a place our students feel safe and supported without fear of surveillance or punishment,” said Rep. Summer Lee. “Rather than increasing police presence in schools, the Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act would invest in trauma-informed counselors and social workers to create more positive learning environments. We should be bringing students in, not pushing them out—especially marginalized students disproportionately criminalized for normal childhood and adolescent behavior.”

Across the country, the education of Black and brown students is often disrupted as a result of discriminatory and punitive discipline policies that criminalize and push them out of school. In particular, Black girls are suspended, expelled, referred to law enforcement, and arrested on school campuses at disproportionately higher rates than white girls due to unfair dress code and hair policies and a lack of understanding of the historical, social, and economic inequities such as poverty, trauma, hunger, and violence that often impact student behavior. Overall, Black girls, girls of color, LGBTQ+ students, and students with disabilities are disproportionately subjected to exclusionary school discipline policies such as suspension and expulsion, which can have long-term effects on the safety, wellbeing, and academic success of all students.

Additionally, research shows that the presence of mental and behavioral health personnel in schools, like counselors, social workers, and psychologists, improves educational outcomes for kids, specifically by improving attendance and graduation rates while lowering the rates of suspension, expulsion and other disciplinary incidents. Meanwhile, the presence of police in schools leads to an increase in arrests of students — disproportionately students of color, LGBTQ+ students, and students with disabilities — often for common misbehavior that a school could address without the involvement of law enforcement.

The Ending PUSHOUT Act will work to disrupt the school-to-confinement pathway by investing in safe and nurturing school environments for all students, especially girls of color. Specifically, the bill would:
- Establish new federal grants to support states and schools that commit to ban unfair and discriminatory school discipline practices and improve school climate.
- Protect Civil Rights Data Collection and strengthen the Department of Education’s (ED) Office for Civil Rights (OCR).
- Establish a federal interagency taskforce to end school pushout and examine its disproportionate impact on girls of color.
The Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act would:
- Prohibit the use of federal funds for maintaining police in schools: Since 1999, the federal government has spent more than $1 billion to increase the number of police in schools. However, evidence does not show this funding has improved student outcomes and school safety. This legislation would prohibit federal funds from being used to hire or maintain police in K-12 schools, diverting that funding toward other uses related to school safety within applicable grant programs.
- Invest billions to help schools hire counselors, social workers, and other trauma-informed support personnel necessary to create safe, supportive learning environments for all students: This legislation helps schools build safe and positive learning cultures by establishing a new $5 billion grant program to support the hiring of counselors, social workers, school psychologists, and other personnel. The grant would also help schools implement programs to improve school climate, such as school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports, as well as invest in trauma-informed services and professional development. As more schools move away from policies that criminalize students and push them out of school, this historic investment will ensure districts have the resources to provide students with the support they need to feel safe in school and thrive.
Last year, Congresswoman Pressley, along with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro released a groundbreaking report they requested from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), which found that across the United States, Black girls face disproportionately severe discipline compared to other girls and receive harsher punishments than their white peers for similar behaviors. These disparities are further exacerbated for Black girls with disabilities and Black girls that are part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Both bills are informed by Rep. Pressley’s People’s Justice Guarantee and is a continuation of her longstanding history of working to address issues of disparate school discipline and education inequities during her tenure on the Boston City Council.

###

MIL OSI USA News –
April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Colleagues Announce Intent to File Legislation to Challenge Trump’s Senseless Trade Wars

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR), U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) were joined by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in announcing their intent to file legislation to repeal the cost-raising, across-the-board tariffs President Donald Trump announced on April 2, which will cost the average American household nearly $4,000 a year and have already led to significant market declines and raised the odds of a recession. Once filed, the legislation will be privileged, meaning it will receive a vote before the full Senate.

The announcement follows last week’s Senate passage of legislation led by Kaine and Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Mark R. Warner (D-VA) to repeal Trump’s tariffs on Canada.

“No President has the authority to unilaterally impose such sweeping across-the-board tariffs without congressional approval,” said Kaine. “President Trump’s tariff strategy is raising costs on American families, threatening alliances our national security depends on, and creating opportunity for China and other adversaries to take advantage of global instability. The time is now for Congress to reassert its authority in matters of international trade, and I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will join us.”

On April 2, Trump announced tariffs on imports from all countries around the world. In response, nations are exploring aggressive countermeasures on goods imported from the U.S.

Text of the resolution is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Housing Market – NZ residential construction cost growth slows to near-record low – CoreLogic

Source: CoreLogic

New Zealand’s residential construction costs are rising at one of the slowest annual rates on record with CoreLogic NZ’s latest Cordell Construction Cost Index (CCCI) recording a growth rate of 0.9% over the past year. (ref. https://www.corelogic.co.nz/news-research/reports/cordell-construction-cost-index )

The Q1 2025 national CCCI, which tracks the cost to build a typical new dwelling, rose 0.3% in the March 2025 quarter, down from 0.6% in Q4 and well below the long-term quarterly average of 1.0%.

CoreLogic NZ Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson said it’s the second-lowest annual increase since the index began in 2012 and a significant shift after the double-digit growth seen during the COVID-era construction boom.

The CCCI’s peak annual growth rate was 10.4% in Q4 2022, and the long-term average is 4.2%.

“After several years of intense upward pressure, construction costs have now settled into a much slower rate of growth,” Mr Davidson said.

“But this is a moderation, not a retreat. Labour doesn’t tend to get cheaper, and while materials pricing has flattened out, we’re not seeing any decline in the overall cost to build.”

The March quarter saw a familiar mix of price shifts across key materials. Roof flashings and sheet metal rose by 3–4%, structural steel ticked up by around 1%, while kitchen cabinetry fell 2% and plumbing PVC pipework and fittings dropped by 3%.

Mr Davidson said these changes reflect a sector returning to more normal patterns after several years of disruption.

“We’re well past the extremes of 2021 and 2022, where costs surged across the board. These days, we’re seeing more nuanced movements, driven by specific supply and demand factors rather than industry-wide pressure,” he said.

The sharp drop-off in new dwelling consents and eventual building work over the past 2-3 years has helped take the heat out of costs. Stats NZ figures show approvals are down across most regions in the past 12 months, except for Otago, which recorded a 25% lift.

Overall, national consent volumes are around one-third below their peak.
“Some builders now have spare capacity, which is helping cap further price rises,” Mr Davidson said.

“Construction activity appears to have stabilised, however any signs of a recovery remain tentative.”

Looking ahead, Mr Davidson said easing interest rates and favourable lending conditions for new builds may support a modest lift in construction demand, but any return to the double-digit growth rates for costs experienced in 2022 is unlikely.

“If new-build activity picks up again, and there are signs it might, we could see construction costs start to rise a little more quickly over the next year or two,” he said.

“The key trend this year is construction costs are no longer spiralling but they’re also not falling. For now, we’re in a holding pattern, which will come as a welcome relief for builders, developers and households alike.”

CoreLogic NZ is a leading, independent provider of property data and analytics. We help people build better lives by providing rich, up-to-the-minute property insights that inform the very best property decisions. Formed in 2014 following the merger of two companies that had strong foundations in New Zealand’s property industry – Terralink Ltd and PropertyIQ NZ Ltd – we have the most comprehensive property database with coverage of 99% of the NZ property market and more than 500 million decision points in our database.
We provide services across a wide range of industries, including Banking & Finance, Real Estate, Government, Insurance and Construction. Our diverse, innovative solutions help our clients identify and manage growth opportunities, improve performance and mitigate risk. We also operate consumer-facing portal propertyvalue.co.nz – providing important insights for people looking to buy or sell their home or investment property. We are a wholly owned subsidiary of CoreLogic, Inc – one of the largest data and analytics companies in the world with offices in New Zealand, Australia, the United States and United Kingdom. For more information visit corelogic.co.nz.

About Cordell Building Indices
The Cordell Building Indices (CBI) are a series of construction industry index figures that are used to monitor the movement in costs associated with building work within particular segments of the industry. The CBI indicate the rate of change in prices within particular segments of the New Zealand construction industry.
The changes in prices are measured daily through the use of detailed cost surveys, and are reported on a quarterly basis. This ensures the most current and comprehensive industry information available. Each index is based on a combination of labour, material, plant hire and subcontract services required to construct buildings within the particular segment being measured. The CBI measure the change in the cost of constructing buildings, and as such do not provide the actual costs.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Three Indicted for $1 Million Bank Fraud Scheme Involving Stolen Treasury Check

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

MIAMI – Today, a federal grand jury indicted three members of a bank fraud conspiracy.

Orelien Martial Nguepi-Tankoua, Jean Paul Bayoi, and Tamblyn Milton Frasier were implicated in a bank fraud conspiracy involving a stolen United States Treasury check, the use of fraudulent identities to establish illegitimate bank accounts, and subsequent money laundering activities.

In September 2021, Frasier opened a bank account in the Northern District of Georgia using a falsified driver’s license and a fabricated identity, both of which were obtained with the assistance of Bayoi. The account details were based on the payee information listed on a stolen United States Treasury check valued at over $1 million. After the account was established, Nguepi-Tankoua deposited the stolen Treasury check via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM).

Attempts were made to withdraw the funds from the fraudulent account; however, the U.S. Department of the Treasury – Office of Inspector General and the United States Secret Service intervened. They successfully seized the remaining funds available in the account.

On the dates of March 13, 14, and 19, Frasier, Nguepi-Tankoua, and Bayoi made their respective initial appearances before a United States Magistrate Judge.

On April 8, Nguepi-Tankoua, Bayoi, and Frasier were formally indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, and money laundering. The individuals have previously appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judges in both Florida and Georgia. Each defendant faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Javan Wilson of the U.S. Department of Treasury Office of Inspector General, Acting Inspector in Charge Steven L. Hodges, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Miami Division, Special Agent in Charge Rafael Barros of the United States Secret Service Miami Field Office, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office announced the indictments.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Treasury – Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, United States Secret Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rinku Tribuiani is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Paster is handling asset forfeiture.

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

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-mj-8126.

###

MIL Security OSI –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Prior felon going to prison for 10 years on multiple drug and gun charges

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Nader Ngoopos a/k/a Nike, 26, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribute, 500 grams or more of cocaine and 100 grams or more of heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison pleaded guilty by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who handled the case, stated that between 2016, and late 2018, Ngoopos agreed with others to obtain cocaine and heroin in the Buffalo area and travel to Olean, NY, to distribute the cocaine and heroin. Ngoopos personally traveled to Olean on at least a weekly basis, selling cocaine and heroin out of various locations in Olean, including North 8th Street and South 11th Street. Co-conspirators also sold cocaine and heroin as part of the conspiracy on a weekly basis.

On October 15, 2018, Ngoopos participated in an armed robbery at St. Bonaventure University in Olean, with two others. The three gained entry to a dormitory at St. Bonaventure, and broke into a dorm room where Ngoopos, who possessed a firearm, believed he and his co-conspirators would find marijuana and money. Once they gained entry, Ngoopos and his co-conspirators pointed their firearms at the heads of the two occupants of the dorm room, threatened them, and then stole about an ounce of marijuana and approximately $300 – $400.

On September 2, 2021, law enforcement officers observed Ngoopos get into a vehicle in Buffalo. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but it sped away leading officers on a high-speed chase. Eventually, the car came to a stop on East Amherst Street. As the car came to a stop, Ngoopos got out of the car and ran away, dropping a pistol. In June 2020, Ngoopos was convicted in Cattaraugus County Court of a felony and legally prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Olean Police Department, under the direction of Chief Ron Richardson, the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Eric Butler, the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Alphonse Wright, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.

# # # #

MIL Security OSI –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Multi-billion-pound investment secured as Universal theme park and resort set to be built in Bedford, bringing thousands of jobs
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Multi-billion-pound investment secured as Universal theme park and resort set to be built in Bedford, bringing thousands of jobs

A multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford has been agreed between Universal, the government and the local council, in a move that represents a major vote of confidence in the UK economy and the future of partnerships between the UK and the US.
The Prime Minister has today closed the deal on a new Universal theme park in Bedfordshire

Plans will bring an estimated £50bn boost for the economy and create around 28,000 jobs in total across creative, hospitality and construction industries

Set to open in 2031, the theme park will form part of a new planned entertainment resort, due to include immersive storytelling, rides, attractions and hospitality

Deal firmly puts the UK on the global investment stage, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change, which will create growth and opportunities across the country

A multi-billion-pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford has been agreed between Universal, the government and the local council, in a move that represents a major vote of confidence in the UK economy and the future of partnerships between the UK and the US.

The theme park, which is set to be one of the largest and most advanced in Europe, will bring nearly 20,000 jobs during the construction period, with a further 8,000 new jobs across the hospitality and creative industries when it opens in 2031.

Supporting the government’s Plan for Change to create economic growth and opportunities by getting people into well-paid, decent jobs across the creative, technology, tourism and hospitality sectors, Universal has committed to working with local colleges and universities to train the next generation of its hospitality workforce, including through a range of apprenticeships and internships.

As well as generating significant opportunities, the new theme park and resort will bring significant local benefits – with approximately 80% of employees at the theme park expected to come from local areas – and support a stream of ongoing work to unleash the potential of the Oxford-Cambridge corridor through growth, infrastructure revitalisation and further job opportunities.

Universal expects the site to generate nearly £50 billion for the economy by 2055, with 8.5 million visitors expected in its first year – becoming the largest visitor attraction in the UK. This will support the government to deliver its growth mission – creating higher living standards and putting more money in people’s pockets.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.

This is our Plan for Change in action, combining local and national growth with creating around 28,000 new jobs across sectors such as construction, AI, and tourism.

It is not just about numbers; it’s about securing real opportunities for people in our country. Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK, getting people into work and ensuring our economy remains strong and competitive.

The development, working with Bedford Borough Council, will be the first Universal-branded theme park and resort destination in Europe and will be part of a larger 476-acre entertainment resort complex.

Proposed plans from Universal Destinations & Experiences, a business unit of Comcast, include a world-class theme park with several themed lands featuring Universal’s distinct brand of immersive storytelling, thrilling rides, innovative attractions and exciting entertainment, all utilising sophisticated and advanced technology. Initial resort plans also feature a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex.

Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, said:

We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom, which complements our growing US-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe. We appreciate the leadership and support of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Minister for Investment Poppy Gustafsson, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and their teams, as we work together to create and deliver a fantastic new landmark destination.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

At a time of global change, this investment is a vote of confidence in Britain as a place to do business. Universal’s investment will bring billions to the economy and create thousands of jobs to the UK, putting more money in people’s pockets.

Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said:

Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe. We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.

As part of the Plan for Change, the government will commit to a major investment in infrastructure around the site to support the delivery of the project and ensure it is well connected and easily accessible. It comes just days after the government signed-off the expansion of Luton Airport, showcasing how the government’s pro-growth agenda is delivering real-life benefits for working people.

The deal supports the UK’s world leading creative industries, a growth-driving sector identified in the government’s modern Industrial Strategy, which will be published this spring. The Strategy will drive investment into high growth sectors, unlocking jobs and growth right across the country.

Universal Destinations & Experiences has a proven track record of building and operating major theme parks and resorts across the globe. A Universal development in the UK will join the company’s existing portfolio of destinations across the United States and Asia-Pacific.

The proposals remain subject to a planning decision from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Additional details on the project:

Please contact Universal Destinations & Experiences for artist impression and drone footage of the site: uprcorpcomm@uniparks.com

Further details on Government plans for infrastructure investment around the site will be set out in due course.

The theme park resort will be built on the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks. More information on the project can be found at universalukproject.co.uk.

The theme park and resort is subject to planning permission, which will be considered at a later date.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page

Published 9 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: At Hearing, Warren Grills Greer on Potential Job Losses From Trump Tariffs

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

April 08, 2025

Warren: “What you’re telling us is the fact that hundreds of thousands, even millions of people, could lose their jobs and that prices could go up will not be a factor for you or for Donald Trump for rolling those tariffs back.”

Video of Exchange (YouTube)

Washington, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, demanded answers from Ambassador Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative, on President Trump’s reckless tariffs that have the potential to lead the nation into an economic crisis.

After President Trump’s announcement on his “reciprocal” tariffs on almost every country in the world, the stock market experienced its biggest drop since the first days of the pandemic. Senator Warren sounded the alarm about a likely recession, citing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who warned that the tariffs could lead to both “higher prices” and “higher unemployment.”

Greer is responsible for developing and promoting the U.S. trade agenda and leading trade negotiations on behalf of the U.S. When asked if the Trump administration would reverse course on their tariffs if they cost workers their jobs and raised prices, Ambassador Greer refused to provide a straight answer.

In fact, Greer insisted that Donald Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs on China would bring “lower unemployment, lower inflation,” putting him at odds with economists of all political leanings.

“What you’re telling us is the fact that hundreds of thousands, even millions of people, could lose their jobs and that prices could go up will not be a factor for you or for Donald Trump for rolling those tariffs back,” said the senator.

Today, Senator Warren joined Ranking Member Ron Wyden in introducing legislation to repeal Donald Trump’s global tariffs. The resolution would terminate the emergency that Trump declared to slap tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries.

“Look, if Republicans are serious about protecting American jobs and fighting inflation, then they can join Democrats right now to pass a resolution to fix Trump’s restless tariffs,” said the senator. “This economy is teetering on the edge of collapse. We have the power right here in the Senate and over in the House of Representatives to take this authority away from Donald Trump.”

Transcript: Hearing to examine the President’s 2025 trade policy agenda.

Senate Finance Committee

April 8, 2025

Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Donald Trump is single-handedly driving this economy off a cliff. With no evidence to back him up, he’s claimed emergency authorities to slap new tariffs on nearly every product we import, from nearly every country.

But Congress has the power to reverse those tariffs—and we should do so immediately.

Tariffs can be a tool to help build things in America. But Trump has slapped tariffs on, then off, on then off again with no rhyme or reason—and the uncertainty about the long-term rules makes companies far less likely to invest in manufacturing or jobs here in the United States.

If Congress doesn’t stand up to Trump, economists predict a recession before the end of the year, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell says we’re in a real danger of “both higher unemployment and higher inflation.” Translation: Trump’s tariffs will push millions of workers out of jobs and push prices up at the same time.

So, Ambassador Greer, we’ve heard a lot of conflicting statements about whether these tariffs are here to stay, how many more rounds of on/off we’re going to do. So, let me ask the question from a different perspective.

Ambassador Greer, we lost 700,000 jobs each month in the last recession. If 700,000 Americans lose their jobs, will the Trump administration suspend these tariffs?

Ambassador Jamieson Greer: Senator, I think the economists who are making these projections, who often are in favor of fully unfettered free trade, are the same ones, you said in the first Trump term, that put tariffs— I just don’t think it’s going to happen, Senator.

Senator Warren: Mr. Greer, let me just stop you there. I’m not asking about projections. I’m asking, if the numbers show that 700,000 people have lost their jobs because of these new tariffs that Trump has slapped on, will the administration reverse course and lift those tariffs?

Ambassador Greer: Senator, that’s not going to happen. We’ve lost 5 million manufacturing jobs over the years, which is the number I’m most worried about, and we have to get those jobs back.

Senator Warren: So, I take that as a no. Let me try another one. Moody says that if the Trump tariffs remain in place, we will definitely plunge into a recession, which will ultimately cost three and a half million Americans their jobs.

So, Ambassador Greer, if Trump’s tariffs push three and a half million people out of work, will the Trump administration reverse course and lift those tariffs?

Ambassador Greer: Senator, the Wall Street analysts are wrong. They never want to have any kind of change to the status quo–

Senator Warren: I’m not asking if they’re right or wrong–

Ambassador Greer: But that’s who you’re quoting to me, Senator.

Senator Warren: I’m giving you a number. If the number is three and a half million, if it never comes to pass, you don’t have to worry about your answer, but if three and a half million people lose their jobs because of these tariffs, is the Trump administration prepared to lift them?

Ambassador Greer: Right now, this minute, we’re working on negotiations with countries who believe they can achieve reciprocity with us and get their trade deficit down, and that’s the emergency we’re focused on. There’s not going to be a situation where, years from now, we’ve lost millions of jobs.

Senator Warren: Let me try one more time: if Trump tariffs push workers out of their jobs and raise prices as Fed Chair Powell has predicted, will you reverse course then?

Ambassador Greer: I think also with respect to Chairman Powell, who I don’t know personally, but I know the President makes decisions on trade, and he rarely takes advice from Chairman Powell on this. We found in Trump One that you could put tariffs on China and you could make it work and have lower income, sorry, lower unemployment, lower inflation, and increase real median household income over time as we reshore and that’s what we have to do, Senator.

Senator Warren: What I’m hearing you say is that no one can hear a rhyme or reason to why the tariffs are off again, on again, off again, on again. But what you’re telling us is the fact that hundreds of thousands, even millions of people, could lose their jobs and that prices could go up will not be a factor for you or for Donald Trump for rolling those tariffs back. Look, if Republicans are serious about protecting American jobs and fighting inflation, then they can join Democrats right now to pass a resolution to fix Trump’s restless tariffs. This economy is teetering on the edge of collapse. We have the power right here in the Senate and over in the House of Representatives to take this authority away from Donald Trump. We can get this voted on. Senator Wyden and I have already, are about to, introduce the bill to do that, and if Republicans are serious about not playing the red light green light with tariffs but instead about protecting our economy, our families, our jobs, and keeping prices low, then Republicans should join us on that. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI: Matthews Asia Co-Founder Mark Headley Returns as Executive Chairman

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN FRANCISCO, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Matthews Asia today announced that co-founder and former Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mark Headley, has been appointed Executive Chairman and will assume the CEO responsibilities. Mark, who will continue to serve on the Matthews Asia Board of Directors and as the newly appointed Chairman and interim CEO, succeeds Cooper Abbott, who left the firm on April 7, 2025.

Mark Headley brings his extensive investment and operational leadership back to the firm he co-founded with Paul Matthews in 1995. During his long tenure at the firm, he held both CEO and CIO roles as well as being a Portfolio Manager on a range of mutual funds. Under Mark’s leadership, he helped guide the firm through a significant period of growth as well as managing the firm during challenging periods in financial markets that included the Global Financial Crisis in 2007.

Over his two decades at Matthews, and in partnership with Paul Matthews, Mark helped lead the evolution and growth of the firm to become a leading and highly regarded Emerging Market investment manager for Asia-focused investments. With a strong commitment to active management and fundamental research, he helped the firm develop its investment approach and build a deep bench of investment talent. The firm’s focus on investments in Asia and Emerging Markets created a unique value proposition which remains in place today along with a deeply embedded client-centric culture.

Paul Matthews, founder, said, “I am extremely pleased that Mark has been appointed Executive Chairman of the firm we founded together over 30 years ago. During Mark’s time at Matthews, the success of this firm had been driven by his deep understanding of Asia’s markets and an unwavering focus on exceeding our clients’ expectations. I am confident that Mark is the right person to lead the company. As a former CEO and Portfolio Manager of Matthews, he has the proven strategic and operational leadership experience that will help the firm navigate through these challenging markets and set the firm onto a path towards its next period of growth and innovation.”

Mark Headley, Executive Chairman, said, “I am delighted to be rejoining Matthews. I am particularly excited to work closely with Sean Taylor, CIO, and a talented group of experienced professionals at the firm. I am confident that we can deliver long-term growth opportunities for our clients, employees and shareholders.”

About Matthews Asia

Matthews is an independent, privately owned investment manager founded in 1991 on a belief that Global Emerging Markets offer exceptional long-term growth potential. As a trusted and experienced investor, Matthews takes a long-term, active, fundamental investment approach to construct highly differentiated portfolios that focus on Emerging Markets, Asia and China. The firm manages assets on behalf of institutions, advisors and individual investors globally in vehicles that include SMAs, mutual funds and active ETFs. For more information about Matthews, please visit www.matthewsasia.com.

Media Contact in the U.S.:
Dukas Linden PR
Sarah Lazarus/Christian Healey
+1 617-335-7823/+ 1 781-439-2500
sarah@dlpr.com/christian@dlpr.com

Media Contact in Europe/Asia:
Mark Lidstone
Matthews Asia
mark.lidstone@matthewsasia.com

Disclosure
This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not, in any way, constitute investment advice or an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security or product mentioned herein. Investing in international and emerging markets may involve additional risks, such as social and political instability, market illiquidity, exchange-rate fluctuations, a high level of volatility and limited regulation.

Matthews Asia is the brand for Matthews International Capital Management, LLC and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.

The MIL Network –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Booker, Nehls, Dean Introduce Bill to Help Law Enforcement Better Prosecute Child Abusers
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representatives Troy Nehls (TX-22) and Madeleine Dean (PA-04) today introduced the Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act, which would close loopholes in existing criminal child sexual abuse statues to help law enforcement better prosecute offenders and protect victims:

“Perpetrators who attack our children must face consequences for their heinous actions,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By closing loopholes in current law, our legislation would ensure these dangerous offenders aren’t able to escape accountability on a technicality and are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

“Last Congress, Senator Cornyn and I introduced and passed this bipartisan legislation in the Senate to ensure that those who exploit and abuse children are held accountable,” said Sen. Booker. “This bill would close loopholes in current law to better allow us to protect our nation’s most vulnerable from predators. I urge my colleagues in both chambers to pass this critical legislation so we can better protect children from exploitation and sexual abuse and provide justice for victims.”

“Any existing loopholes in United States federal law that allow child predators to escape justice must be closed immediately,” said Rep. Nehls. “The abuse of a child, in any form, is completely unacceptable. As a father and a former Texas Sheriff, I’m proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing bipartisan legislation that will empower our nation’s law enforcement and our justice system to hold bad actors who abuse our children, here at home and abroad, accountable.”

“As lawmakers, we have the solemn duty of protecting our nation’s children from kidnapping and sexual exploitation,” said Rep. Dean. “Yet under current law, there are loopholes that allow bad actors to evade prosecution. This legislation clarifies and strengthens federal law to ensure offenders are held accountable. I’m grateful to Congressman Nehls, Senator Booker, and Senator Cornyn for their partnership to ensure our kids are kept safe.”

Background:

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) published the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, which made a series of recommendations for Congress to strengthen federal enforcement of child exploitation laws. The Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act aims to incorporate those recommendations and define the DOJ’s authority to prosecute perpetrators by:
- Closing the kidnapping loophole by clarifying that kidnapping of a child can occur by deceiving a third party and the circumstances where consent can be used as a defense;
- Closing the international travel loopholes by clarifying that traveling to sexually abuse a child includes crossing international lines and that committing a sexual abuse felony against a child while abroad is a crime;
- Closing the sexual contact loophole by clarifying that causing a child to commit a sexual act themselves is also a crime;
- And closing the attempt loophole by clarifying that attempting to commit the sexual contact offenses is also a crime.
The Strengthening Child Exploitation Enforcement Act is endorsed by the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, Major County Sherriff’s of America, Rights4Girls, Hope for Justice, Street Grace, 3Strands Global Foundation, Fraternal Order of Police, the National Children’s Alliance (NCA), Protect All Child from Trafficking (PACT), and the National District Attorney’s Association (NDAA).
MIL OSI USA News –
April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Discusses Trade Reciprocity with USTR Greer

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
WASHINGTON – Today in the Senate Finance Committee, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the Trump administration’s efforts to achieve fair and balanced trade with United States Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.
CORNYN: “Our friends in Australia basically have put up barriers to the export of beef from the United States. My state, Texas, happens to produce a lot of beef cattle, and Australia basically denies access to its huge market, but not as a result of tariffs so much as non-tariff barriers to trade. Could you speak to that?”
GREER: “It’s always surprising because we have a free trade agreement with Australia, and we would expect that we would have fair, reciprocal trade. Last year, I think we imported about $3 billion worth of Australian beef, and we exported zero dollars of American beef to Australia—and it’s not just beef.”
“It’s incredible that they do this. We have zero exports of the fresh and frozen U.S. pork to Australia.”
CORNYN: “I find it interesting that people express surprise at President Trump’s policies, when he’s been talking about these policies for—best I can tell—for decades and how unfair trading arrangements are between various countries.”
“Indeed, some of these unfair trading practices have resulted in the deindustrialization of America. We’ve exported manufacturing to Asia, particularly China, and other countries that now appear to be willing to hold us hostage to those supply chains.”
“Would you speak to the vulnerabilities that exist as a result of China basically processing 90 percent of the critical minerals in the world that are essential for our daily lives?”
GREER: “That figure is always one that gives me great concern.”
“That’s a very dangerous situation to be in. I mean, this is part of the urgency of what we’re talking about, and I think as the Trump administration certainly takes action on trade, but also takes action on the environmental side and permitting and regulation. That’s an area we can actually have more of that activity here in the United States or we can work with our trading partners to try to incentivize production there as well.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Shapiro Administration Officials Visit Blair County to Highlight Proposed Investments to Help Solve Rural Health Care Workforce Shortages

Source: US State of Pennsylvania

April 08, 2025 – Tyrone, PA

Shapiro Administration Officials Visit Blair County to Highlight Proposed Investments to Help Solve Rural Health Care Workforce Shortages

In an ongoing effort to strengthen the rural health care workforce and support rural hospitals in Pennsylvania, Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen and Secretary of Human Services Dr. Val Arkoosh visited Penn Highlands Tyrone to highlight Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed investments in Pennsylvania’s rural health care workforce as part of the 2025-26 budget to improve access to care.

“The Shapiro Administration is taking a multi-pronged approach to address challenges facing rural hospitals across Pennsylvania,” said Secretary Bogen, who has visited nearly a dozen rural hospitals throughout the state. “Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal offers recruitment and retention incentives that would support additional health care professionals, including behavioral health providers and health professionals to work in rural hospitals and communities.”

Pennsylvania is facing shortages of health care professionals, particularly in rural communities, where there is only one primary care physician for every 522 residents. Conversely, in urban areas, there is one primary care physician for every 222 residents. That means rural Pennsylvanians, who already must travel further distances to see their doctors, also have less access to health care.

Speakers Include:
Penn Highlands Healthcare Chief Medical Officer Dr. Trina Abla
Department of Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen
Department of Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Shapiro Delivers Keynote at Pennsylvania Farm Bureau State Legislative Conference in Harrisburg, Highlighting His Administration’s Historic Investments in Agriculture to Support the Commonwealth’s Farmers, Growers, and Producers

Source: US State of Pennsylvania

April 08, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA

Governor Shapiro Delivers Keynote at Pennsylvania Farm Bureau State Legislative Conference in Harrisburg, Highlighting His Administration’s Historic Investments in Agriculture to Support the Commonwealth’s Farmers, Growers, and Producers

Governor Josh Shapiro delivered the keynote address at the annual Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) State Legislative Conference, speaking to agricultural industry leaders from all across the Commonwealth about his Administration’s strong record of supporting Pennsylvania’s farmers. During his remarks, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to investing in the Commonwealth’s agricultural industry, and warned of the risks posed by new federal tariffs and cuts to U.S. Department of Agriculture programs that support farmers and food banks.

Governor Shapiro emphasized that agriculture is at the center of his Administration’s efforts to create economic opportunity across Pennsylvania. The Governor’s Economic Development Strategy – the first statewide economic development plan in nearly two decades – puts agriculture at the forefront, recognizing that a thriving agricultural industry is essential to the Commonwealth’s economic growth. The Shapiro Administration has consistently prioritized investments that strengthen and support the agriculture sector.

“Over the last two years, I’ve spent a lot of time on farms across Pennsylvania, listening to our farmers and seeing firsthand the challenges they face and the incredible work they do to power our economy and put food on our tables. I kept those conversations top of mind as we developed the Commonwealth’s first Economic Development Strategy in nearly 20 years – and I made sure agriculture is front and center in that plan,” said Governor Shapiro. “My Administration has made real investments in the future of agriculture – from funding the PA Farm Bill, to launching the first-in-the-nation Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, to opening new Centers of Excellence, and expanding PA Preferred. We’ve delivered commonsense solutions to help farmers lower costs, preserve farmland, open new markets, address the real challenges they face, and strengthen the entire agricultural industry. Pennsylvania is leading the way in driving economic growth in our agriculture sector, and I will keep fighting for our farming families.”

Speaker list:
Chris Hoffman, President, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
Governor Josh Shapiro

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: LANCASTER COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Visit Lancaster Small Businesses, Highlight Administration’s Historic Investments in Main Streets Across Pennsylvania

Source: US State of Pennsylvania

April 09, 2025 – Lancaster, PA

ADVISORY – LANCASTER COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Visit Lancaster Small Businesses, Highlight Administration’s Historic Investments in Main Streets Across Pennsylvania

Governor Josh Shapiro will join local leaders for a tour of small businesses along a main street in Lancaster to highlight the Shapiro Administration’s actions to grow Pennsylvania’s economy while investing in our Main Streets and commercial corridors.

This week, Governor Shapiro announced that his Administration is investing in 81 community projects across Pennsylvania through the Main Street Matters program, fulfilling a key promise he made to help revitalize downtowns, support small businesses, and strengthen local economies. Lancaster County alone is receiving more than $1 million as part of this week’s announcement.

WHO:
Governor Josh Shapiro
Mayor Danene Sorace
Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El
Marshall Snively, President of Lancaster City Alliance
Laura Haiges, Owner of BellaBoo

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 10:45 AM

WHERE:
Ric’s Bread
24 N. Queen Street,
Lancaster, PA 17603

LIVE STREAM:
pacast.com/live/gov
governor.pa.gov/live/

RSVP:
Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phone numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI: TransAlta to Host Annual Meeting of Shareholders and First Quarter 2025 Results Conference Call

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

CALGARY, Alberta, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

2025 Annual Meeting of TransAlta Corporation Shareholders

On Thursday, April 24, 2025, TransAlta Corporation (“TransAlta”) (TSX: TA) (NYSE: TAC) will hold its annual meeting of shareholders at 11:30 a.m. Mountain Time (1:30 p.m. Eastern Time) in a virtual-only meeting format via live audio webcast (https://meetings.400.lumiconnect.com/r/participant/live-meeting/400-164-661-424). The management proxy circular (available at https://transalta.com/investors/results-reporting/) provides detailed information about the business of the meeting and the voting process. TransAlta will only conduct the formal business of the meeting and there will not be a management presentation.

First Quarter 2025 Conference Call

TransAlta will release its first quarter 2025 results before markets open on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. A conference call and webcast to discuss the results will be held for investors, analysts, members of the media and other interested parties the same day beginning at 9:00 a.m. Mountain Time (11:00 a.m. Eastern Time).

First Quarter 2025 Conference Call:
Webcast link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/wzq2tgtc

To access the conference call via telephone, please register ahead of time using the call link: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI49f11ff999b449caa13c201afbb053aa. Once registered, participants will have the option of 1) dialing into the call from their phone (via a personalized PIN); or 2) clicking the “Call Me” option to receive an automated call directly to their phone.

Related materials will be available on the Investor section of TransAlta’s website at https://transalta.com/investors/presentations-and-events/. If you are unable to participate in the call, the replay will be accessible at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/wzq2tgtc. A transcript of the broadcast will be posted on TransAlta’s website once it becomes available.

About TransAlta Corporation:

TransAlta owns, operates and develops a diverse fleet of electrical power generation assets in Canada, the United States and Australia with a focus on long-term shareholder value. TransAlta provides municipalities, medium and large industries, businesses and utility customers with affordable, energy efficient and reliable power. Today, TransAlta is one of Canada’s largest producers of wind power and Alberta’s largest producer of thermal generation and hydro-electric power. For over 113 years, TransAlta has been a responsible operator and a proud member of the communities where we operate and where our employees work and live. TransAlta aligns its corporate goals with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Future-Fit Business Benchmark, which also defines sustainable goals for businesses. Our reporting on climate change management has been guided by the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S2 Climate-related Disclosures Standard and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations. TransAlta has achieved a 70 per cent reduction in GHG emissions or 22.7 million tonnes CO2e since 2015 and received an upgraded MSCI ESG rating of AA.

For more information about TransAlta, visit its website at transalta.com.

Note: All financial figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.

For more information:

Investor Inquiries: Media Inquiries:

Phone: 1-800-387-3598 in Canada and U.S. Phone: 1-855-255-9184

Email: investor_relations@transalta.com Email: ta_media_relations@transalta.com

The MIL Network –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry and Amending Executive Order 14241

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose. In order to secure America’s economic prosperity and national security, lower the cost of living, and provide for increases in electrical demand from emerging technologies, we must increase domestic energy production, including coal. Coal is abundant and cost effective, and can be used in any weather condition. Moreover, the industry has historically employed hundreds of thousands of Americans. America’s coal resources are vast, with a current estimated value in the trillions of dollars, and are more than capable of substantially contributing to American energy independence with excess to export to support allies and our economic competitiveness. Our Nation’s beautiful clean coal resources will be critical to meeting the rise in electricity demand due to the resurgence of domestic manufacturing and the construction of artificial intelligence data processing centers. We must encourage and support our Nation’s coal industry to increase our energy supply, lower electricity costs, stabilize our grid, create high-paying jobs, support burgeoning industries, and assist our allies.
Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States that coal is essential to our national and economic security. It is a national priority to support the domestic coal industry by removing Federal regulatory barriers that undermine coal production, encouraging the utilization of coal to meet growing domestic energy demands, increasing American coal exports, and ensuring that Federal policy does not discriminate against coal production or coal-fired electricity generation.
Sec. 3. Strengthening Our National Energy Security. The Chair of the National Energy Dominance Council (NEDC) shall designate coal as a “mineral” as defined in section 2 of Executive Order 14241 of March 20, 2025 (Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production), thereby entitling coal to all the benefits of a “mineral” under that order. Further, Executive Order 14241 is hereby amended by deleting the reference to “4332(d)(1)(B)” in section 6(d) of that order and replacing it with a reference to “4532(d)(1)(B)”.
Sec. 4. Assessing Coal Resources and Accessibility on Federal Lands. (a) Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Secretary of Energy shall submit a consolidated report to the President through the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy that identifies coal resources and reserves on Federal lands, assesses impediments to mining such coal resources, and proposes policies to address such impediments and ultimately enable the mining of such coal resources by either private or public actors.
(b) The Secretary of Energy shall include in the report described in subsection (a) of this section an analysis of the impact that the availability of the coal resources identified could have on electricity costs and grid reliability.
Sec. 5. Lifting Barriers to Coal Mining on Federal Lands. (a) The Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture shall prioritize coal leasing and related activities, consistent with applicable law, as the primary land use for the public lands with coal resources identified in the report described in section 4(a) of this order and expedite coal leasing in these areas, including by utilizing such emergency authorities as are available to them and identifying opportunities to provide for expedited environmental reviews, consistent with applicable law.
(b) The Secretary of the Interior, pursuant to the authorities in the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, as amended and supplemented (30 U.S.C. 181 et seq.), the Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands of 1947, as amended (30 U.S.C. 351-359), and the Multiple Mineral Development Act of 1954 (30 U.S.C. 521-531 et seq.), shall acknowledge the end of the Jewell Moratorium by ordering the publication of a notice in the Federal Register terminating the “Environmental Impact Statement Analyzing the Potential Environmental Effects from Maintaining Secretary Jewell’s Coal Leasing Moratorium”, and process royalty rate reduction applications from Federal coal lessees in as expeditious a manner as permitted by applicable law.
Sec. 6. Supporting American Coal as an Energy Source. (a) Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of the Treasury shall identify any guidance, regulations, programs, and policies within their respective executive department or agency that seek to transition the Nation away from coal production and electricity generation.
(b) Within 60 days of the date of this order, the heads of all relevant executive departments and agencies (agencies) shall consider revising or rescinding Federal actions identified in subsection (a) of this section consistent with applicable law.
(c) Agencies that are empowered to make loans, loan guarantees, grants, equity investments, or to conclude offtake agreements, both domestically and abroad, shall, to the extent permitted by law, take steps to rescind any policies or regulations seeking to or that actually discourage investment in coal production and coal-fired electricity generation, such as the 2021 U.S. Treasury Fossil Fuel Energy Guidance for Multilateral Development Banks rescinded by the Department of the Treasury and similar policies or regulations.
(d) Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Energy, the Chief Executive Officer of the International Development Finance Corporation, the President of the Export-Import Bank of the United States, and the heads of all other agencies that have discretionary programs that provide, facilitate, or advocate for financing of energy projects shall review their charters, regulations, guidance, policies, international agreements, analytical models and internal bureaucratic processes to ensure that such materials do not discourage the agency from financing coal mining projects and electricity generation projects. Consistent with law, and subject to the applicable agency head’s discretion, where appropriate, any identified preferences against coal use shall immediately be eliminated except as explicitly provided for in statute.
Sec. 7. Supporting American Coal Exports. The Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Energy, the United States Trade Representative, the Assistant to the President for National Security, and the heads of other relevant agencies, shall take all necessary and appropriate actions to promote and identify export opportunities for coal and coal technologies and facilitate international offtake agreements for United States coal.
Sec. 8. Expanding Use of Categorical Exclusions for Coal Under the National Environmental Policy Act. Within 30 days of the date of this order, each agency shall identify to the Council on Environmental Quality any existing and potential categorical exclusions pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act, increased reliance on and adoption of which by other agencies pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 4336c could further the production and export of coal.
Sec. 9. Steel Dominance. (a) The Secretary of Energy, pursuant to the authority under the Energy Act of 2020 (the “Act”), shall determine whether coal used in the production of steel meets the definition of a “critical material” under the Act and, if so, shall take steps to place it on the Department of Energy Critical Materials List.
(b) The Secretary of the Interior, pursuant to the authority under the Act, shall determine whether metallurgical coal used in the production of steel meets the criteria to be designated as a “critical mineral” under the Act and, if so, shall take steps to place coal on the Department of the Interior Critical Minerals List.
Sec. 10. Powering Artificial Intelligence Data Centers. (a) For the purposes of this order, “artificial intelligence” or “AI” has the meaning set forth in 15 U.S.C. 9401(3).
(b) Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior, Secretary of Commerce, and the Secretary of Energy shall identify regions where coal-powered infrastructure is available and suitable for supporting AI data centers; assess the market, legal, and technological potential for expanding coal-based infrastructure to power data centers to meet the electricity needs of AI and high-performance computing operations; and submit a consolidated summary report with their findings and proposals to the Chair of the NEDC, the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology and the Special Advisor for AI and Crypto.
Sec. 11. Acceleration of Coal Technology. (a) The Secretary of Energy shall take all necessary actions, consistent with applicable law, to accelerate the development, deployment, and commercialization of coal technologies including, but not limited to, utilizing all available funding mechanisms to support the expansion of coal technology, including technologies that utilize coal and coal byproducts such as building materials, battery materials, carbon fiber, synthetic graphite, and printing materials, as well as updating coal feedstock for power generation and steelmaking.
(b) Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Energy shall submit a detailed action plan to the President through the Chair of the NEDC outlining the funding mechanisms, programs, and policy actions taken to accelerate coal technology deployment.
Sec. 12. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
DONALD J. TRUMP

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Statement on Trump Coal Executive Actions

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a series of actions at the White House to help the U.S. American coal industry. House Committee on Energy and Commerce Environment Subcommittee Chair and U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) attended the White House event. Following the event, Rep. Griffith issued the following statement:

“The ‘War on Coal’, launched by the Obama Administration and continued by the Biden Administration, destroyed American jobs and devastated communities whose lifelines depended on coal.

“It is clear that coal is not going away anytime soon. Not only does the United States have the resources to be a leading coal supplier. But we can also make use of coal in a manner which is cleaner than anywhere else in the world.

“I welcome President Trump’s actions to support American coal jobs, boost America’s energy independence and rein in harmful regulations.”

BACKGROUND

In the 118^th Congress, Rep. Griffith chaired the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations.

The 119^th Congress is Rep. Griffith’s first term as the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Environment Subcommittee Chair.

Rep. Griffith is Co-Chair of the Congressional Coal Caucus.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Colleagues Release Bipartisan Legislation to Repeal Trump’s Ruinous Global Tariffs

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee,joined Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in releasing a bipartisan resolution to repeal Donald Trump’s global tariffs and reassert Congress’s trade authorities. The Senators’ resolution would terminate the emergency that Trump declared in order to apply tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries. In the wake of Trump’s tariff declaration, markets have cratered, manufacturers have laid off thousands of workers and foreign countries have retaliated by imposing their own tariffs on U.S. agricultural and manufactured goods.
“The President’s reckless global trade war has already gone far beyond everyone’s worst predictions. In just a matter of days, President Trump has thrown the economy into chaos and wiped out Vermonters’ retirement funds–all in an apparent attempt to achieve deeply misguided foreign policy goals,” said Senator Welch. “Congress must stand up and reassert our constitutional role in setting trade policy before Trump’s tariffs ruin more lives and livelihoods.”
“Trump is driving our economy into a recession, killing jobs and wiping out seniors’ retirement funds as we speak,” said Senator Wyden. “Enough is enough. No president should have the power to tax everything Americans buy without being accountable to Congress. Unless Republicans join with Democrats and take back Congress’s power over trade policy, the damage could take years to reverse.”
“Tariffs are taxes, and the power to tax belongs to Congress—not the president. Our Founders were clear: tax policy should never rest in the hands of one person,” said Senator Paul. “Abusing emergency powers to impose blanket tariffs not only drives up costs for American families but also tramples on the Constitution. It’s time Congress reasserts its authority and restores the balance of power.”
“Make no mistake – the president’s ill-conceived and chaotic trade war is nothing but a tax on American families,” said Senator Schumer. “Trump is leading America headfirst into a recession, with no plans on how to right the cratering economy. The Senate has the power and authority to stop this madness and we have a duty to act in a bipartisan way to repeal these tariffs, which is why I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation. It’s time for Republicans to stand up for American families, lower costs, save seniors’ retirement funds, and prevent a global economic crisis.”
“No President has the authority to unilaterally impose such sweeping across-the-board tariffs without congressional approval,” said Senator Kaine. “President Trump’s tariff strategy is raising costs on American families, threatening alliances our national security depends on, and creating opportunity for China and other adversaries to take advantage of global instability. The time is now for Congress to reassert its authority in matters of international trade, and I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will join us.”
“The administration’s ill-considered, short-sighted tariffs are a historic tax hike on American families – jacking up the price of gas, fruit, coffee and other groceries, electronics, cars and everything in between,” said Senator Shaheen. “President Trump’s chaotic trade war targets close allies like Canada and Europe even while sparing adversaries like Russia — leaving America weaker, more isolated and distrusted around the globe. I’m proud to help introduce this resolution to force the administration to end these taxes before it does irreparable harm to American families and our international leadership role.”
“Donald Trump’s reckless agenda will hurt American families, small businesses, and manufacturers,” said Senator Warren. “The Trump tariffs are economic sabotage, and Congress has the power to stop them. Republicans can join Democrats and end this today.”
The resolution will be formally filed at a later point, when it will be treated as a privileged resolution that must receive a vote on the Senate floor. Read and download the full text of the resolution.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Welch Demands Answers from Trade Representative on Trump’s Trade War: “This is utter chaos, arbitrary and willful on the part of the President.”

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a contentious Finance Committee hearing today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) demanded answers from U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer on how President Trump’s destructive trade war has created global economic chaos and harmed Vermont businesses, farms, and families. Senator Welch pressed Ambassador Greer on how the Trump Administration’s reckless across-the-board tariffs are undercutting fair competition and creating an ‘access economy’ in which success is determined based on personal relationships with officials in President Trump’s inner circle.
“What is being rolled out and the way this is being done is so destructive, and so reckless, and so irresponsible, that it’s creating nothing but economic chaos, uncertainty, and suffering for a lot of people. These are really disastrous for Vermont…” said Senator Welch. “Let me tell you the frustration I have. There is a place for targeted tariffs to help us and also to push back on unfair trade practices. I support that. That’s not what this is. This is utter chaos, arbitrary and willful on the part of the President that is setting up a dynamic where he picks winners and losers rather than companies compete to do the best they can and have the benefit of good work and a good product.”
Watch the exchange between Senator Welch and Ambassador Greer:
Read excerpts of their exchange below:
Welch: The issue of these tariffs—now the phone is ringing off the hook at the White House from countries wanting to get a break, right?
Greer: They want to talk about how to have reciprocal trade with us and how to get that deficit down.
Welch: That’s right. So, here’s the structural issue that is really alarming to me, and I hope to all of us. We are using these tariffs—or the President is using these tariffs—from going from an economy that’s based on competition to one that’s based on access. You know, in a competitive economy, your product, your service, determines the outcome and how well you do. In an access economy, it’s who’s got Donald Trump’s number, who’s got your number, who’s got [Commerce Secretary] Lutnick’s number. You call up and you get a break. That’s an access economy. Is this going to be the arbitrary authority of the President to decide: ‘Yes, we’ll cut the Vietnam tariff,’ and ‘No, we’ll sustain the tariff on Lesotho’?
Greer: The way this works, Senator, is we have long-standing relationships with trade officials in these foreign countries and they work with our staff, our career staff, and they develop—if someone comes to us with an offer, we review it, we analyze it, and we present it to the President…
Welch: They’re calling the President. I mean, you’ve got Donald Trump, as President, basically picking and choosing winners and losers—and who knows on what basis. That’s not a trade regime that anybody can count on. That’s something they can gain if they know you, they know Lutnick, they know Donald Trump…We’ve got farmers on the border with Canada, they get their grain—it’s going to be 25% hit. We’ve got consumers whose electricity bills are going up because of retaliation from Canada. Can they make a call to you, to Howard Lutnick, to the President, and ask for relief?
Greer: Well, we certainly talk to all kinds of constituents—we talk to labor unions, we talk to civil society, we talk to business. I would say with Canada and Mexico, they receive duty-free treatment for things that follow the rules of USMCA. If they bring in Chinese content and send it down, they won’t get a break.
Welch: Well, let me tell you the frustration I have. There is a place for targeted tariffs to help us and also to push back on unfair trade practices. I support that. That’s not what this is. This is utter chaos, arbitrary and willful on the part of the President that is setting up a dynamic where he picks winners and losers rather than companies compete to do the best they can and have the benefit of good work and a good product.
During Greer’s nomination hearing before the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Welch demanded answers on the impact of the trade war on American businesses and consumers and outlined the cost of Trump’s new tariffs for Vermont industries.
Senator Welch has been outspoken in opposing President Trump’s destructive trade war. On Tuesday, Senator Welch joined bipartisan colleagues in releasing a resolution to repeal Donald Trump’s chaotic global tariffs. The Senators’ resolution would terminate the emergency that Trump declared in order to slap tariffs of up to 49% on products Americans buy from other countries. Senator Welch has also supported legislation pushing back against Trump’s tariffs, including:
The Trade Review Act, bipartisan legislation to reaffirm Congress’ key role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy and reestablish limits on the President’s ability to impose unilateral tariffs without the approval of Congress.
The Tariff Transparency Act of 2025, legislation to require the United States International Trade Commission to conduct an investigation and submit a report on the impact on businesses in the United States of duties, and the threat of duties, on imports from Mexico and Canada.
A Joint Resolution of Disapproval terminating national emergency related to Canadian energy tariffs, passed by the Senate last week on a bipartisan basis.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former Teacher Sentenced for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

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

HOUSTON – A 31-year-old former College Station resident has been ordered to federal prison after he shared multiple images on various online platforms containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Daniel Byrd pleaded guilty Nov. 25, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt has now sentenced Byrd to a total of 60 months in prison. In handing down the sentence, the court stated that the defendant may never have control of his addictive conduct, but the responsibility lies with Byrd himself. He was further ordered to serve 10 years on supervised release following the completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Byrd will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

The investigation began after authorities discovered Byrd shared multiple CSAM images on various online platforms. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Byrd’s residence and seized his electronic devices.

Some images depicted sexual contact between prepubescent males, while others showed adult males having sex with prepubescent males.

Byrd admitted to using online platforms Telegram and Kik to view and download CSAM utilizing his smart phone. He also stated he created a Mega account, a cloud-based storage and file hosting service, to save the child pornography. He would then distribute it to others by sending them links.

At the time of his arrest, Byrd was a teacher in the Navasota area.

Previously released on bond, Byrd was taken into custody following the sentencing today where he will remain pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance from College Station Police Department and the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Leo and Jay Hileman prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.

MIL Security OSI –

April 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Groton Man Admits Producing and Possessing Child Sex Abuse Videos

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Mark H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MICHAEL W. LANDON, 38, of Groton, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to child exploitation offenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 4, 2023, law enforcement seized Landon’s iPhone. Forensic analysis of the phone revealed a video of Landon engaging in sexually explicit conduct with a minor under the age of 12, and other videos depicting child sexual abuse.

Landon pleaded guilty to production of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and possessing and accessing with intent to view child pornography, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for July 2.

Landon has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on June 28, 2023.

This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Town of Groton Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean P. Mahard and Nancy V. Gifford through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Acting U.S. Attorney Silverman thanked the New London State Attorney’s Office for its cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

MIL Security OSI –

April 9, 2025

*Investor Inquiries:*	*Media Inquiries:*
Phone: 1-800-387-3598 in Canada and U.S.	Phone: 1-855-255-9184
Email: investor_relations@transalta.com	Email: ta_media_relations@transalta.com

Category: Finance

Multi-billion-pound investment secured as Universal theme park and resort set to be built in Bedford, bringing thousands of jobs

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast Corporation, said:

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said:

Additional details on the project:

Share this page

Updates to this page