NewzIntel.com

Category: Finance

  • MIL-OSI China: ‘Creation of the Gods II’ brings Chinese mythology to global audiences

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    The creators of the epic fantasy sequel “Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force” said the new film will showcase the beauty and wonders of Chinese culture and mythology to audiences worldwide.

    The cast and crew of “Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force” pose for a photo at the premiere in Beijing, Jan. 29, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Beijing Culture]

    Pop icon and actor Kris Phillips reprises his role as the main villain, King Zhou, in the second installment of Wuershan’s ambitious trilogy. However, he also took on another crucial role in this film: translation.

    “I have seen the film six or seven times already on various occasions because I was working on the English subtitles for its international release,” Phillips said. During the Spring Festival, “Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force” debuted in Chinese theaters and was simultaneously screened in nearly 20 countries and regions, including North America, Australia and the United Kingdom, starting Jan. 29, the first day of Chinese New Year.

    Phillips emphasized the importance of accurate translation: “I particularly cared about the English translation because it was essential for global audiences to understand ‘Creation of the Gods,’ a complex story filled with numerous characters. There were many Chinese terms, such as ‘Kunlun’ and the distinction between immortals and gods, that foreign viewers might not understand. Therefore, I had to find ways within the subtitle lines to include explanatory information.”

    A still from “Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force” shows King Zhou, portrayed by Kris Phillips. [Photo courtesy of Beijing Culture]

    As a Chinese American who has immersed himself in both cultures for decades, Phillips was well-suited for the role. Once his English subtitles were completed, translations into other languages, such as French and German, followed based on his work.

    In the wake of the first film’s success, overseas audiences actively pushed for a simultaneous release of the sequel. “Now we have done it, fulfilling our promise,” director Wuershan said. “We will let audiences around the world experience the charm of Chinese culture.”

    After dedicating more than a decade to creating and crafting the trilogy, Wuershan saw “Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms” earn 2.64 billion yuan ($363 million) at the box office in 2023. The film became a cultural phenomenon, launching and revitalizing the careers of both young and veteran actors like Yu Shi and Kris Phillips.

    The second film, “Demon Force,” also based on the Ming dynasty novel “The Investiture of the Gods,” follows Ji Fa, the future founding king of the Zhou dynasty, and strategist Jiang Ziya as they defend their homeland, Xiqi. With the support of Kunlun immortals Yang Jian and Ne Zha, the heroes face off against the formidable demonic army of King Zhou’s Shang dynasty, commanded by the cunning Grand Preceptor Wen Zhong and the fierce female general Deng Chanyu.

    A still from “Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force” depicts an epic battle scene infused with magic. [Photo courtesy of Beijing Culture]

    Before the film’s premiere in Beijing on Jan. 29, the cast and crew toured eight cities to promote it, starting in Zhengzhou, Henan province. Wuershan noted that they had visited Zhengzhou many times to explore museums and draw inspiration from local culture during the creative process, as this area was the heart of the Shang dynasty and its capital. The crew also visited other historic sites and museums across China, including locations in Shaanxi province, where the Zhou dynasty originated, to gather ideas for props and costumes.

    “Integrating traditional culture into the ‘Creation of the Gods’ trilogy is something I am passionate about,” Wuershan said. “Traditional culture needs to come alive, blend with our lives, and become a source of strength. In areas such as costumes, character designs, weapons, and sets, we invited many inheritors of intangible cultural heritage to collaborate on the designs. We hope to demonstrate that Chinese traditional culture is still powerful and encourage more inheritors of intangible cultural heritage to join us in building this mythological epic.”

    Even the two new significant characters are deeply rooted in Chinese culture. Deng Chanyu is a Mulan-style warrior, inspired in part by Lady Fu Hao, the first Chinese female general and royal consort during the Shang dynasty. The crew visited Fu Hao’s tomb and memorial site for research, and actor Nashi dedicated 506 days to training and filming. “History gives me strength, inspiration, and motivation, driving me to bring the brilliance of the character Deng Chanyu to the big screen,” she said.

    Still photos from “Creation of the Gods II” showcase Deng Chanyu and Wen Zhong, two major new characters in the film. [Photo courtesy of Beijing Culture]

    For the role of Grand Preceptor Wen Zhong, actor Wu Hsing-kuo — also a theater actor and Peking Opera performer — deliberately integrated movements and techniques from traditional opera into the character’s gestures and fighting styles. His approach aimed to ensure that Wen not only maintained a dignified posture but also embodied the essence of Chinese aesthetics.

    The furious charge of iron-shod hooves, dazzling displays of magic, and the presence of mythical beasts come together to create striking visual moments, reflecting the crew’s dedication to their craft. Since work began in June 2014, the “Creation of the Gods” trilogy has involved extensive preparation, filming and post-production, now in its eleventh year. The “Demon Force” production team included 14 creative departments and over 11,000 staff members from 21 countries and regions. This vast team managed all aspects of the film, including acting, stunts, filming, props and special effects. Every detail was meticulously crafted, contributing to a vivid and engaging Chinese mythological epic.

    The film benefited from the support of an Oscar-winning team. Barrie M. Osborne, known for his work on “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, served as a production consultant. James Schamus, who contributed to the Oscar-winning “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” consulted on the script. Tim Yip, who won the Oscar for best art direction for “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” in 2001, took on the role of art and costume design consultant. Douglas Hans Smith, recognized for his work on “Independence Day,” which won the Oscar for best visual effects in 1997, served as the film’s senior visual effects supervisor. This collaboration of artistic vision and rich traditional Chinese culture results in a stunning array of visuals.

    A poster for “Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force.” [Photo courtesy of Beijing Culture]

    “After the first movie laid the foundation and introduced the characters, the second installment broadens the narrative to feature epic battles between gods and demons. It is truly a brilliant and amazing film!” Phillips told China.org.cn.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CEO of Financial Firm Pleads Guilty to Running a Multimillion Dollar Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Carlos Manuel da Silva Santos, the founder and chief executive officer of San Diego-based Ethos Asset Management, Inc., which offered financing to domestic and international businesses, pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft today in federal court.

    Santos, a Portuguese national, has been in custody since his arrest on November 13, 2023, in Newark, New Jersey, after arriving in the United States from abroad.

    According to his plea agreement, Santos admitted he and co-conspirators held Ethos out to the public as a “full-service project financing” company that offered loans to prospective borrowers in exchange for an upfront fee as collateral for Ethos to use. However, on many occasions when a borrower gave Ethos the upfront fee as collateral, Ethos’ funding never materialized.

    To induce prospective borrowers to send Ethos an upfront fee as collateral and enter into loan agreements, Santos and his co-conspirators lied about Ethos’ history of funding projects, the source of Ethos’ money, the amount of capital available to disburse loans, and how Ethos used the collateral upfront fees. For instance, Santos admitted that  he used money from the upfront collateral fees to release collateral deposited by other borrowers and to disburse loans to other borrowers.

    Santos also admitted that he and others altered otherwise legitimate financial account statements to inflate the amount of money Ethos appeared to have at its disposal to finance projects for the purpose of luring prospective borrowers to provide collateral and financial institutions to lend money. For example, in August 2021, Santos successfully induced a borrower to wire money as a collateral upfront fee by sending a bank statement that falsely represented Ethos having $100,304,447.46 when, in fact, it did not.

    In February and May 2023, Santos again induced borrowers to provide collateral upfront fees by emailing a copy of Ethos’ annual financial statements reflecting falsely that Ethos had over $2.2 billion in total assets and that an accounting firm had audited the statements. Indeed, Santos admitted that he knowingly forged the signature of an employee at a bookkeeping firm on Ethos’s 2022 annual financial statement to falsely indicate that the firm had audited the statement. In each noted example, Ethos fraudulently obtained upfront fees and failed to disburse loan payments as promised.

    Santos further admitted Ethos’ project financing scheme was international in nature, with a presence in the United States, Brazil, Turkey, and elsewhere. Santos admitted his scheme resulted in $17,125,000 in losses to certain U.S. based victims. The plea agreement also explains that the parties will request a restitution hearing allowing the United States to offer evidence that Santos owes significantly more money to various other victims.

    According to the plea agreement, Santos also forged the signature of an employee at an accounting firm to make it appear that the firm had audited Ethos’ annual financial reports.

    “Untold numbers of people fall victim to fraud schemes every year,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath.  “Whether it’s a simple email scam or an elaborate investment scheme, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will relentlessly pursue accountability for the defendants and restitution for the victims.”

    “Today’s guilty plea underscores Homeland Security Investigation’s (HSI) unwavering commitment to combating financial crimes,” said Shawn Gibson, Special Agent in Charge for HSI San Diego. “This successful outcome is the result of an extensive, long-term investigation where our dedicated agents and partners assigned to the Costa Pacifico Financial Task Force worked tirelessly and diligently to gather all the evidence and bring this individual to justice. Their unwavering commitment and thorough efforts have been instrumental in protecting our community and upholding the law.

    Sentencing is scheduled for April 18, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Robert S. Huie.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys E. Christopher Beeler, Carl F. Brooker IV, and Amy B. Wang.

    If you believe you are a victim of Carlos Santos and his company Ethos Asset Management, Inc., contact Homeland Security Investigations at ethos-victim@hsi.dhs.gov.

    DEFENDANT

    Carlos Manuel da Silva Santos                  Age: 30                                  Portugal

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Wire Fraud Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1349

    Maximum penalty: Thirty years in prison and $250,000 fine

    Aggravated Identity Theft – Title 18, U.S.C. Section 1028A

    Maximum penalty: Mandatory two years in prison consecutive to the term for the underlying felony

    INVESTIGATING AGENCY

    Homeland Security Investigations

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Response to Graham, Kash Patel Confirms Politicization of FBI Will End

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today questioned Kash Patel, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), at his Senate Judiciary Committee nomination hearing.
    On the politicization of the FBI:
    GRAHAM: “The reason you’re here is because most of the public, almost every Republican, believes that the FBI has been used continuously in a political fashion, ignoring evidence, making up evidence, lying to get Donald Trump. And when it came to the Hunter Biden laptop, [the FBI] told every social media company, ‘oh that’s Russian disinformation.’ That was BS too… do you promise all of us those days are over at the FBI?”
    PATEL: “Yes Senator, they are.”
    GRAHAM: “…Do you think that’s why you’re here today, to make sure that never happens again?”
    GRAHAM: “[Former FBI agent Lisa Page] responds [to former FBI agent Peter Strzok] a couple months later, ‘[Trump] is not ever going to be president, right?’ …Strzok [responded]: ‘No. No he won’t. We’ll stop him.’ Is it fair to say that the people in charge of investigating Crossfire Hurricane hated Trump’s guts?”
    PATEL: “Well you don’t have to take my word for it…”
    GRAHAM: “Are those days over in the FBI, you hope?”
    GRAHAM: “Do you believe that Crossfire Hurricane was one of the most disgusting episodes in FBI history of a corrupt investigation led by corrupt people who wanted to take Donald Trump down?”
    PATEL: “Yes, sir.”
    GRAHAM: “Do you think that’s why you’re here in this chair today? To fix that?”
    PATEL: “I think that’s a big reason.”
    On Democrats’ attacks on Patel’s character:
    GRAHAM: “Have you ever been subject to racism as an individual?”
    PATEL: “Unfortunately, Senator, yes. I don’t want to get into those details with my family here.”
    GRAHAM: “Let’s get into a few of them. Tell me about it.”
    PATEL: “Well, if you look at the record from January 6th, where I testified before that committee, because of my personal information being released by Congress, I was subjected to a direct and significant threat on my life. And I put that information in the record. I had to move. In that threat, I was called a detestable, and I apologize if I don’t get it all right, but it’s in the record, a detestable [expletive] who had no right being in this country. ‘You should go back to where you came from. You belong with your terrorist home friends.’ That’s what was sent to me. That’s just the piece of it, but that’s nothing compared to what the men and women in law enforcement face every day, and that’s why they have my support.” https://youtu.be/KoHclcynkNI?si=RkOg1tDKXzfFDO8_&t=7
    Click here to watch Graham question Kash Patel

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures Conviction of California Man for Wire Fraud and Federal Indian Arts Violations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A federal jury in New Mexico has found Robert Haack guilty of wire fraud, mail fraud, and violating the Indian Arts and Crafts Act for selling counterfeit Charles Loloma jewelry on eBay, following a 4-day trial that concluded after approximately 4 hours of deliberation.

    Charles Loloma is one of the most well-known Native American jewelry-makers of the 20th century.  Today, his work is featured in many galleries and museums across the southwest.  His authentic pieces can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

    Evidence presented at trial revealed that Haack engaged in a sophisticated scheme to defraud buyers by creating counterfeit Loloma jewelry pieces in his California home and selling them for several thousands of dollars per piece on eBay.  As part of the investigation into Haack, undercover federal agents purchased two pieces, pictured below, from him off of eBay in order to have them analyzed for authenticity.

    Loloma’s niece, Verma Nequatewa, a jeweler who studied under her famous uncle, examined the two pieces purchased from Haack by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agents and testified at trial that they were fakes.

    The jury was also presented with evidence seized from Haack‘s home, including raw materials for jewelry-making, unfinished Loloma-style jewelry, engraving tools hidden in a boot, practice Loloma signatures on metal shards, and design sketches.

    It is estimated that Haack sold more than four-hundred thousand dollars’ worth of fake Loloma jewelry before he was charged. The scheme spanned several years, causing significant harm not only to the victims who were defrauded but also to Loloma’s legacy and the broader Native American art community.

    “We will protect the sacred cultural heritage and unique history of authentic Native American artistry as well as consumers from scammers,” said U.S Attorney Uballez.

    “Robert Haack’s counterfeit operation significantly impacted the Native American art and craft marketplace,” said Doug Ault, Assistant Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement. “Native American art fraud is a serious crime that exploits consumers and severely undermines the economic and cultural livelihood of Native American artists and Tribes. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is equipped with a dedicated team of special agents focused on enforcing the Indian Art and Crafts Act on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Indian Arts and Crafts Board. Through these investigations, the Service endeavors to protect and preserve the authenticity of art produced by our Nation’s Native American artisans. We thank our partners at the U.S. Department of Justice and the Indian Arts and Crafts Board for their assistance with this investigation.”

    “Native American art fraud is a serious crime that exploits consumers and severely undermines the economic and cultural livelihood of Native American artists and tribes,” said Doug Ault, Assistant Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement. “We thank our partners at the U.S. Department of Justice and the Indian Arts and Crafts Board for their assistance with this investigation.”

    “Counterfeit Indian art – like Robert Haack’s jewelry that he misrepresented and sold as made by Charles Loloma — the father of contemporary Indian jewelry — tears at the very fabric of Indian culture, livelihoods, and communities,” said Meridith Stanton, Director of the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Indian Arts and Crafts Board (IACB).  “The IACB by statute is responsible for administering the Indian Arts and Crafts Act (IACA), an anti-counterfeiting law that protects Indian artists and consumers.  Mr. Haack’s actions demean and rob authentic Indian artists who rely on the creation and sale of their artwork to put food on the table, make ends meet, and pass along these important cultural traditions and skills from one generation to the next.  His actions undermine consumers’ confidence in the Indian art market in the Southwest and nationwide.  Due to the outstanding work of the Office of the U.S. Attorney-District of New Mexico and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service IACA Investigative Unit, Mr. Haack is being held accountable and the message is clear. For those selling counterfeit Indian art and craftwork it is important to know that wherever you are we will diligently work to find you and prosecute you under the Indian Arts and Crafts Act.”

    Following the verdict, the Court ordered that Haack remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Haack faces up to 20 years in prison.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Amy Lueders, Southwest Region Director for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, made the announcement today.

    The U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife, Office of Law Enforcement investigated this case with assistance from the Indians Arts and Crafts Board. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 01/30/2025 Blackburn Schools Durbin After He Lies About Blocking Her Requests for Epstein Flight Logs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement on X after Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) falsely claimed he did not know about Senator Blackburn’s requests to subpoena the Jeffrey Epstein flight logs when he was Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks during the confirmation hearing of Federal Bureau of Investigation Director nominee Kash Patel.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Indicted for Kidnapping Mother and Child, Transporting Them from Fresno to Mexico Against Their Will

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment today against Rosa Ventura, 34, of Fresno, and Claudia Gonzales, 38, of Fresno, charging them with conspiracy to kidnap, kidnapping, and kidnapping involving a child, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on May 8, 2024, a woman reported her boyfriend after a domestic violence incident, which resulted in his arrest. In retaliation for calling the police, the boyfriend’s sister, Rosa Ventura, took the woman’s 5-month-old daughter away and drove her and her 9-year-old daughter to an unknown field outside Fresno.

    At the field, Ventura’s friend and accomplice, Claudia Gonzales, revealed herself after hiding in the car’s trunk area. Ventura and Gonzales then drove the mother and child straight to Tijuana, Mexico, and stranded them at an unknown bus station in order to dissuade the mother from testifying in the state domestic violence case where she was a victim. The mother and child were held against their will during the drive. At one point, the mother and child attempted to flee at a gas station, but Ventura and Gonzales chased them down and physically forced them back into the car.

    This case is the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Veneman-Hughes and Cody S. Chapple are prosecuting the case.

    The defendants are in custody pending trial. Their next appearance is Feb. 5, 2025, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Erica P. Grosjean for their initial appearance on the indictment.

    If convicted, Ventura and Gonzales face a statutory minimum of 20 years to a maximum of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Luchese Crime Family Solider and Four Associates Plead Guilty to Crimes Including Racketeering, Money Laundering and Illegal Gambling

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Earlier today and throughout the past few weeks, in federal court in Brooklyn, five members and associates of the Luchese organized crime family of La Cosa Nostra pleaded guilty to multiple crimes, including racketeering, money laundering and illegal gambling related to criminal activities throughout New York City. The proceedings were held before United States District Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto.  Today, Luchese crime family soldier Anthony Villani pleaded guilty to racketeering, money laundering and illegal gambling.  As part of Villani’s plea agreement, he will pay $4 million in forfeiture.  His co-defendants have agreed to pay an additional approximately $1 million in forfeiture.  Villani and his co-defendants operated a large-scale, illegal online gambling business (the Gambling Business) that operated under the protection of the Luchese crime family across the New York metropolitan area.  The gambling business, known as “Rhino Sports,” operated since the early 2000s and brought millions in illicit profits annually.   

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the guilty pleas.

    “These guilty pleas represent a victory for the rule of law over the pernicious activities of organized crime that undermine the safety of our communities,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “Illegal gambling businesses require enforcement and protection from mob rivals that carry the persistent threat of violence.  However, the defendants’ luck ran out and, thanks to the hard work of the team of prosecutors and investigators, they will be held accountable for their crimes and pay their debt to society.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy stated: “Our investigations involving members of the Five Families don’t make the same headlines as they have historically. However, the men pleading guilty in this case illustrate how entrenched the traditional mafia are in their noxious and familiar criminality. They are less flashy these days – and a lot of that is due to the incredible cunning and tenacity agents and investigators on our FBI New York Westchester Organized Crime Task Force use to pursue members of these organizations.”

    As detailed in the indictment and court filings, for over 25 years, Villani has been involved in significant gambling operations, principally based in the Bronx and Westchester, New York, that were affiliated with multiple organized crime families.  Villani owned and operated the Gambling Business since at least 2004.  The Gambling Business was hosted using servers in Costa Rica and employed local bookmakers to pay and collect winnings.  Villani’s bookmakers included members and associates of the Luchese crime family and other La Cosa Nostra families.  As part of the scheme, Villani employed trusted individuals, including defendants Louis Tucci, Jr. and Dennis Filizzola, to assist in operating the business and collecting at least $1 million annually.  Records obtained of the Gambling Business’s website indicated that Villani’s illegal gambling operation regularly took bets from between 400 and 1,300 bettors each week, most of whom were based in New York City and the metropolitan area. At Villani’s direction, Filizzola took proceeds from the Gambling Business and used them to purchase U.S. Postal Service money orders in false names, which were then made payable to one of Villani’s property companies to appear as legitimate rental payments.   

    When sentenced, Villani faces up to 20 years in prison.  Louis Tucci, Jr., pleaded guilty on January 27, 2025 to illegal sports betting and faces up to five years in prison.  Filizzola pleaded guilty on January 21, 2025 to illegal sports betting and money laundering and faces up to five years in prison and up to 20 years in prison on those counts respectively.  James Coumoutsos pleaded guilty on January 21, 2025 to illegal sports betting and faces up to five years in prison.  Michael Praino pleaded guilty on January 10, 2025 to illegal sports gambling and faces up to five years in prison.  A sixth defendant remains at large.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section.  Assistant United States Attorney Antoinette N. Rangel is in charge of the prosecution.  Assistant United States Attorney Claire S. Kedeshian of the Office’s Asset Recovery Section is handling forfeiture matters.

    The Defendants:

    ANTHONY VILLANI
    Age:  60
    Elmsford, NY

    JAMES COUMOUTSOS (also known as “Quick”)
    Age:  62
    Bronx, NY

    DENNIS FILIZZOLA
    Age:  61
    Cortlandt Manor, NY

    MICHAEL PRAINO (also known as “Platinum”)
    Age:  47
    Lake Worth, Florida

    LOUIS TUCCI, JR. (also known as “Tooch”)
    Age:  61
    Tuckahoe, NY

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 22-CR-405 (KAM)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Drug offences – Katherine

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force have arrested a man in relation to a drug seizure that occurred in Katherine yesterday.

    On Thursday 30 January, the Northern Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk, with the assistance of the Dog Operations Unit and Katherine Criminal Investigation Branch executed a search warrant at a residence in Katherine South. 

    A 50-year-old man was arrested following the seizure of 1.2kg of cannabis, 19 bottles of rum, 123 cans of beer and a quantity of cash.

    The alleged offender has been charged with the Supply Schedule 2 Dangerous drug – Commercial Quantity, Possess Schedule 2 Dangerous Drug – Commercial Quantity and Unauthorised Sale of Liquor.

    He has been remanded to appear in Katherine Location Court on today.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Byron May said “The seizure of these items will have a significant impact towards the reduction of alcohol-related harm and anti-social behaviour in the community.  Northern Territory Police will continue to target those who seek to profit from exploiting the vulnerable people in our community.”

    Anyone with information on the supply of alcohol or drugs to our communities can call police on 131 444 or make an anonymous report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: CalAmp Launches Okta Single Sign-On Integration to Strengthen Security and Streamline User Access Across Applications 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CARLSBAD, Calif., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CalAmp, a leading provider of telematics and connected intelligence solutions, is pleased to announce the integration of Okta Single Sign-On (SSO) across its iOn™ Fleet and Device Management applications. This feature provides customers with a secure, efficient way to manage user access through a single login, enhancing security and simplifying IT management for organizations using Okta as their Identity and Access Management provider. 

    Through Okta SSO, CalAmp delivers: 

    • Simplified, Secure Access: Users can log in once to access all CalAmp applications and their other company apps, reducing password fatigue while enhancing security with a single, trusted login. 
    • Enhanced Security with MFA: Multi-Factor Authentication via Okta adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access. 
    • Centralized IT Management: IT teams can manage and revoke user access from a single platform, improving operational efficiency and control. 
    • Customizable Security Settings: Organizations can tailor security policies, enabling either strict or flexible SSO enforcement to meet their specific needs. 
    • Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Manage user permissions across iOn™ and Device Management with inherited role-based access, ensuring appropriate access to tools and data. 

    “Our priority is always to deliver meaningful improvements that enhance both security and user experience,” said Paul Washicko, Senior Vice President of Product Management at CalAmp. “Partnering with Okta, the most recognized industry leader in identity management, enables us to provide our customers with stronger security and more efficient access management across CalAmp applications.” 

    Customers interested in enabling Okta SSO for their CalAmp applications can contact the CalAmp support team for setup assistance. 

    About CalAmp

    CalAmp provides flexible solutions to help organizations worldwide monitor, track, and protect their vital assets. Our unique device-enabled software and cloud platform enables commercial and government organizations worldwide to improve efficiency, safety, visibility, and compliance while accommodating the unique ways they do business. With over 10 million active edge devices and 220+ approved or pending patents, CalAmp is the telematics leader organizations turn to for innovation and dependability. For more information, visit calamp.com, or LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube or CalAmp Blog.

    CalAmp, LoJack, TRACKER, Here Comes The Bus, Bus Guardian, CalAmp Vision, CrashBoxx and associated logos are among the trademarks of CalAmp and/or its affiliates in the United States, certain other countries and/or the EU. Spireon acquired the LoJack® U.S. Stolen Vehicle Recovery (SVR) business from CalAmp and holds an exclusive license to the LoJack mark in the United States and Canada. Any other trademarks or trade names mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    CalAmp Investor 
    Contact:    		 CalAmp Media Contact:
    Jikun Kim Mark Gaydos
    SVP & CFO Chief Marketing Officer
    ir@calamp.com Mgaydos@calamp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Johnson, Grassley Make Public Whistleblower Records Revealing DOJ and FBI Plot to Pin Trump in Jack Smith Elector Case

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson

    WASHINGTON – Today, Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) are releasing legally protected whistleblower disclosures that prove the genesis of the federal election interference case brought against President Trump began at the hands of a prolific anti-Trump FBI agent who acted outside of established protocol for opening cases. 

    Internal FBI emails and predicating documents provided to Grassley and released jointly by the two senators show Timothy Thibault, a former FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) who was fired from the Bureau after Grassley exposed his public anti-Trump bias, authored the initial language for what ultimately became Jack Smith’s federal case against Trump regarding the 2020 presidential election. Thibault took this action despite being unauthorized to open criminal investigations in his ASAC role. The FBI titled the ensuing investigation “Arctic Frost.” 

    Records further reveal Richard Pilger, an official in the Justice Department (DOJ)’s Public Integrity Section, reviewed and approved the FBI’s Arctic Frost investigation, authorizing DOJ to move forward with a full field criminal and Grand Jury investigation that ultimately transformed into the Trump elector case. Grassley published a 2021 report that raised concerns regarding Pilger’s troubling record at DOJ.

    Grassley in 2022 additionally questioned Thibault’s role at the FBI, writing, “I remain very concerned that political bias by a select group of Justice Department and FBI officials has infected the Justice Department’s and FBI’s usual process and procedure to open and pursue high-profile and politically charged investigations.” In November, Sens. Johnson and Grassley called on Jack Smith to preserve all records related to Trump-targeted investigations.

    The records released by Johnson and Grassley are linked below:

    Grassley provided an overview of the records in his opening statement during the Senate Judiciary Committee’s hearing on Kash Patel’s nomination to be FBI Director. Excerpts from Grassley’s opening statement follow:  

    “In my hand are a series of FBI emails.

    “The first is an email that Thibault sent to a subordinate agent on February 14, 2022.

    “He said, ‘Here is draft opening language we discussed.’  The draft opening was attached, and it included material that would later become part of Jack Smith’s elector case. 

    “The second email is a February 24, 2022, email from Thibault to John Crabb, a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, saying, ‘I had a discussion with the case team and we believe there to be predication to include former President of the United States Donald J. Trump as a predicated subject.’ This FBI case would later be codenamed Arctic Frost. 

    “The third email is a February 24, 2022, email from Thibault to John Crabb noting that Attorney General and FBI Director approval will be sought to open the case. 

    “The fourth email is a February 25, 2022, email from Thibault’s subordinate agents saying they added Trump, and others, as a criminal subject to the case. Thibault responded ‘Perfect.’ 

    “The fifth email is a March 22, 2022, email from Thibault emailing a version of an investigative opening for approval. This didn’t include President Trump as a criminal subject.   

    “The sixth email is an April 11, 2022, email from Thibault approving the opening of Arctic Frost.

    “The seventh email is an April 13, 2022, email from an FBI agent to Thibault stating that the FBI Deputy Director approved its opening. 

    “The eighth email on that same date had Thibault emailing John Crabb that the elector case was approved. Crabb responded, ‘Thanks a lot. Let’s talk next week.’ 

    “Between March 22 and April 13, other versions of the document opening the investigation existed, because a ninth email shows that the FBI General Counsel’s office made edits on March 25. 

    “Was Trump still removed as an investigative subject?  If so, which Justice Department and FBI officials – other than Jack Smith – later added him for prosecution? 

    “I expect the production of all records on this matter to better understand the full fact pattern and whether other records exist.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Questions FBI Director Nominee, Kash Patel, About His Involvement With The “J6 Choir” And His Conspiracy Theory That The FBI Planned The January 6 Attack

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 30, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today again questioned Kash Patel, President Trump’s nominee to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), during his nomination hearing. Durbin first asked Mr. Patel about political violence and his promotion of the “J6 choir.”

    Mr. Patel co-produced, promoted, and sold a record recorded by the so-called “J6 prison choir” – a group of January 6 rioters who were incarcerated in the D.C. jail in February 2023. He has described the choir’s members as, “political prisoners.” Notably, he has declined to identify the members of the choir. According to one analysis of D.C. Corrections records, there were only 20 January 6 offenders in D.C. jail as of March 2023. Of these, 17 were accused of or already convicted of assaulting law enforcement officers. A recent Special Counsel report identified six members of the choir, five of whom had already pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement officers before Patel promoted their recording. 

    “When it comes to violence and politics, I personally believe [violence] has no place in politics. Whether it’s violence against Donald Trump or violence against Nancy Pelosi’s husband in her home, period. Those people, [the] Proud Boys, whatever they call themselves, have no place in this country as far as I’m concerned if they espouse violence in any form, do you agree?” Durbin asked.

    Mr. Patel replied, “yes.”

    “Why are we so concerned about this choir singing a song? The question is who are you going to care about, who are you going to help? Are you going to help the victims of January 6—the police and their families, or are you going to help the people arrested for assaulting [the Capitol Police officers]? I think the J6 choir looks like a tribute to them—characterizing them as ‘political prisoners’ and unlucky and just patriotic people who may have gotten out of hand. Do you see the difference?” Durbin asked.

    Mr. Patel responded that “his track record” shows which side he falls on. Yet despite this statement, he co-produced, promoted, and sold this “J6 choir” record.

    Durbin then asked Mr. Patel about his conspiracy theory that the FBI planned the January 6 attack. The conspiracy theory that January 6 was a false flag operation conducted by the FBI has been repeatedly debunked, including, most recently, in a lengthy report from the Justice Department’s Inspector General.

    “Let me ask you about one of the major conspiracy theories that I’ve heard, and you’re associated with—that the FBI planned January 6. Why did you say that?” Durbin asked.

    Mr. Patel denied stating this conspiracy theory even though on one episode of his podcast he asked, “What was the FBI doing planning January 6th for a year?”

    “Did you really think the FBI was planning January 6 for a year?” Durbin asked again.

    Mr. Patel again repeatedly denied spewing this conspiracy theory despite evidence to the contrary.

    Video of Durbin’s second round of questions in Committee is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s second round of questions in Committee is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s second round of questions in Committee is available here for TV Stations.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force Apprehends 5 Austin Homicide Suspects Sought on Capital Murder

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Austin, TX – Members of the U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (LFTFT) continued their work of making Austin neighborhoods safer by apprehending five capital murder suspects in a 26-hour time span from Jan. 29-30.

    The Austin Police Department (APD) requested assistance from the LSFTF to locate and apprehend five suspects sought on capital murder charges from an incident that occurred Nov. 25, 2024, at an apartment complex located in the 400 block of East Wonsley Drive in Austin, where a victim was pronounced deceased on scene. 

    The APD Homicide Unit investigated the incident and identified six suspects who allegedly conspired and acted with one another to commit the murder.

    On Jan. 28, the Homicide Unit obtained warrants on all six suspects in the City of Austin Municipal Court and immediately requested apprehension assistance from the LSFTF – Austin Division to locate and apprehend five suspects who were believed to be in numerous locations within the city. 

    Members of the LSFTF continued investigative efforts with the Austin Police – Intel Unit that quickly led to the apprehension of five suspects, who were considered armed and dangerous. 

    Camron Josh-Anthony Perkins, 22, of Austin, was arrested on Jan. 29 in the 1500 block of E. Howard Lane in Austin. 

    Lorance Jones, 22, and Rhianna Doreen Farillas, 21, of Austin were arrested on Jan. 29 in the 1100 block of Pearl Retreat Lane in Austin. 

    Jon Charles Williard Jr., 20, of Austin was arrested on Jan. 29 in the 5900 block of E. Stassney Lane in Austin. 

    Judaren Makeel Forbes, 20, of Austin was arrested Jan. 30 at the Travis County Courthouse by the Travis County Sheriff’s Office screening deputies at the direction of the LSFTF, who learned Forbes had a scheduled court hearing on an unrelated matter. 

    All suspects have been transported and booked into the Travis County Jail where they await their judicial proceedings.

    Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force in Austin – 

    Austin Police Department-Tactical Intelligence Unit
    Georgetown, Round Rock, and San Marcos Police Departments
    Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson County Sheriff’s Offices
    Texas Attorney General’s Office
    Texas Department of Criminal Justice OIG
    Texas Department of Public Safety
    U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement
    U.S. DHS/Homeland Security Investigations

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd. Engages Deal Box for Strategic Investment Packaging and Capital Markets Advisory

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tokyo, Japan, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a significant leap forward for clean energy innovation, Deal Box, the venture capital platform tailored to modern investors, is delighted to support Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd. as they scale the global reach of their groundbreaking Oq Solar Cell. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in renewable energy, combining Adachi Electric Industries’ leading-edge solar technology with Deal Box’s expertise in investment packaging, capital markets advisory, and comprehensive business guidance.

    Transforming the Solar Energy Landscape

    Historically, solar power has been touted for its sustainability yet criticized for limitations in efficiency and durability. Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd. is changing that narrative with its Oq Solar Cell—a multi-junction chemical compound panel boasting 32.49% energy efficiency, extended 50-year lifespan and the ability to capture a wide light spectrum (350nm – 2000 nm). Designed to operate in extreme temperatures from -45°C to 85°C, the Oq Solar Cell ensures robust performance across diverse applications, including drones, satellites, electric vehicles, and urban infrastructure.

    Legitimacy through Strategic Collaboration

    Central to the Oq Solar Cell’s global rollout is Adachi Electric Industries’ partnership with Deal Box, which will provide a comprehensive suite of advisory services. Deal Box’s proven track record in merging blockchain-enabled capital markets solutions with institutional-grade due diligence uniquely positions Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd. to navigate the complexities of international market expansion.

    Features of the Oq Solar Cell

    1. Superior Efficiency: Achieves 32.49% energy efficiency, surpassing standard silicon-based panels.
    2. Extended Lifespan: Offers a 50-year operational life, significantly reducing replacement costs.
    3. Wide Light Spectrum: Captures wavelengths from 350nm–2000nm, maximizing power generation.
    4. Temperature Resilience: Maintains peak performance from -45°C to 85°C, ensuring reliability in extreme conditions.
    5. Versatile Applications: Powers everything from drones and satellites to EVs, IoT devices, and city infrastructure.

    Deal Box’s Strategic Role

    Deal Box is instrumental in aligning Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd.’s vision with investors seeking cutting-edge renewable solutions. Through its modular investment platform, Deal Box empowers accredited investors to participate in the clean energy revolution with confidence.

    • Investment Packaging: Creating compelling, compliant offerings that resonate with global investors.
    • Capital Markets Advisory: Guiding Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd. through fundraising and expansion within both traditional and emerging markets.
    • Holistic Support: Providing strategic business guidance to streamline operations, market entry, and technology adoption.

    Implications for Investors

    By marrying disruptive solar technology with Deal Box’s robust investment infrastructure, this partnership sets a new benchmark for clean energy investments:

    • Accessibility: Investors can back a proven solar technology that addresses modern efficiency and reliability challenges.
    • Efficiency: A streamlined, digitized investment process allows for faster transactions and clearer ownership records.
    • Transparency: Regular updates and thorough due diligence ensure clarity throughout the investment lifecycle.

    Executive Insights

    “By merging industry-leading efficiency with unprecedented durability, the Oq Solar Cell is poised to reshape global energy markets,” said Ken Kaneko, CEO of Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd. “Collaborating with Deal Box amplifies our ability to reach a worldwide audience and provide them with reliable, long-term solutions in renewable power.”

    Thomas Carter, CEO of Deal Box, commented, “Our role is to empower innovative technologies with the right financial and advisory framework. Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd. aligns perfectly with our mission to make transformative, sustainable investments readily accessible to accredited investors everywhere.”

    About Deal Box

    Deal Box is venture capital that fits your life. By merging institutional-grade diligence with flexible investment options, Deal Box empowers accredited investors to craft portfolios that align with their financial ambitions. For more information, visit dealbox.vc

    About Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd.

    Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd. is a pioneer in multi-junction chemical compound solar technology. Their flagship product, the Oq Solar Cell, is engineered to deliver unmatched efficiency, durability, and adaptability across a variety of applications—from consumer electronics to aerospace. Guided by a mission to foster a sustainable future, Adachi Electric Industries continues to push the boundaries of renewable energy innovation.

    Contact Information

    Thomas Carter
          CEO, Deal Box, Inc.
      Email: thomas@dealbox.io

    Christopher Craney
          Marketing, Adachi Electric Industries Co., Ltd.
      Email: craney@adachi-electric-industries.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Michigan Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Clark Lake, Michigan, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on January 27, 2025.

    Jamie Lee, age 40, was sentenced to four years and nine months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

    Lee was indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2024. She pleaded guilty on November 13, 2024.

    Beginning around March 2023, Lee began obtaining fentanyl along with her boyfriend, Jacob Denker. They picked up fentanyl in Colorado and then brought it to South Dakota. In Rapid City, Lee and her boyfriend had sub-distributors who further distributed fentanyl throughout the Rapid City area and the Pine Ridge Reservation. This activity continued through September 2023. Overall, Lee and co-conspirators were responsible for bringing over 400 grams of fentanyl to the area. Jacob Denker was previously sentenced to 10 years in federal prison. Co-defendant Eugene Giago is scheduled for trial on March 11, 2025.

    This case was investigated by the FBI, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Badlands Safe Trails Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward C. Tarbay prosecuted the case.

    Lee was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following the sentencing. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alabama woman pleads guilty to conspiring to create and distribute sadistic animal torture videos

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NORFOLK, Va. – An Alabama woman pled guilty today to conspiracy to create and distribute animal crushing videos.

    According to court documents, Stacey Storey, 49, and her co-conspirators administered and were members of private online chat groups on an encrypted messaging platform to fund, view, distribute, and promote videos depicting the torture, murder, and sexually sadistic mutilation of juvenile and adult monkeys.

    Storey and her co-conspirators collectively funded the creation of the videos by co-conspirators outside of the United States who tortured, performed sexually sadistic mutilation of, and murdered the animals. The foreign co-conspirators recorded the brutal acts and transmitted the videos to Storey and co-conspirators in the United States, who would then distribute them to the broader online chat group members, including Storey.

    Between at least Aug. 22, 2021, and July 7, 2022, Storey received hundreds of electronic payments from co-conspirators to fund, among other things, the creation of new animal crush videos by videographers outside the United States. Storey and others had direct communications with a co-conspirator in Indonesia who hired the videographers. Storey and others routinely directed and paid for the creation of the videos, including directing the videographers on how to torture the animals. Storey sent numerous payments for the videos.    

    On or about June 21, 2022, Storey distributed a video to the online chat groups depicting the torture of a juvenile monkey using a jar of ants and sodomy with an object, causing the monkey’s death. Storey stated, “Enjoy this one ladies and gents,” and suggested, “If you guys would like to send in a small donation for this guy a little bonus for a job well done that we’ve always wanted to see would be absolutely amazing.”

    In June 2023, law enforcement seized Storey’s electronic devices. Storey’s electronic media and accounts contained over 675 videos and 11,000 images depicting animal crushing.

    Co-conspirator Michael Macartney, 51, of Chesapeake, pled guilty on April 30, 2024. Macartney was sentenced on Oct. 1, 2024, to three years and six months in prison. Co-conspirator Jeffrey Radtke, 61, of Bloomington, Minnesota, pled guilty on Sept. 24, 2024. Radtke is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 13 and faces up to five years in prison. Co-conspirator Drexel Venero, 30, of Rockville, Maryland, pled guilty on December 12, 2024. Venero is schedule to be sentenced on April 22, 2025.

    Storey is scheduled to be sentenced on June 10 and faces up to five years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Kai Wah Chan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes accepted the plea.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth M. Yusi is prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-103.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemala Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for 10 Years for Attempted Enticement of a Minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SIOUX FALLS – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange has sentenced a Guatemala man who resided in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for Attempted Enticement of a Minor Using the Internet. The sentencing took place on January 27, 2025.

    Jorge Manuel Rodriguez-Marroquin, age 48, was sentenced to the mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and is required to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Rodriguez-Marroquin must register as a sex offender upon release from federal prison.

    Rodriguez-Marroquin was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2024. He pleaded guilty on November 12, 2024.

    The conviction stemmed from an incident on March 9, 2024, when Rodriguez-Marroquin used Facebook to start a conversation with who he believed was a 15-year-old girl. He steered the conversation to sexual matters and enticed her to meet up with him for sexual activity. Unbeknownst to Rodriguez-Marroquin, the 15-year-old was an undercover law enforcement agent. Rodriguez-Marroquin was arrested when he showed up at the meet location.

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

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth A. Ebert-Webb prosecuted the case.

    Rodriguez-Marroquin was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Man Charged With Transportation And Possession Of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Wilmington, North Carolina man was charged with transporting and possessing videos and images of child sexual abuse, Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna announced.

    Barry Grant Bevier, 61, of Wilmington, North Carolina, is charged by complaint with one count of transportation of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.  He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Stacey D. Adams in Newark federal court and was detained.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    On November 26, 2024, Bevier returned from an international trip aboard a flight that landed at Newark Liberty International Airport.  After Bevier arrived in Newark, law enforcement officers searched Bevier’s cellular phone and found approximately forty-five photographs and approximately twenty-one videos depicting child sexual abuse material.  The officers found multiple photographs and videos of child sexual abuse material that Bevier took himself, along with a “selfie” image of himself and one of the victims.

    The charge of transportation of child pornography carries a statutory mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison. The charge of possession of child pornography carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison. Each count also carries a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Khanna credited special agents of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”)—Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked U.S. Customs and Border Protection in New Jersey for its assistance.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trevor A. Chenoweth of the Narcotics/OCDETF Unit in Newark.

    The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

                                                                 ###

    Defense counsel: Paul A. Di Lella, Esq., Parsippany

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Middlefield Announces Approval of Proposed Changes to Reduce ESG Limitations for Two ETFs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Middlefield Limited (the “Manager”), the manager of Middlefield Sustainable Global Dividend ETF (TSX:MDIV) and Middlefield Sustainable Infrastructure Dividend ETF (TSX:MINF) (collectively, the “Funds”), is pleased to announce that at the Special Meetings held on January 30, 2025, unitholders voted unanimously in favour of the proposed changes to the Funds. These changes include revising the names, investment objectives, and strategies of the Funds to de-emphasize the environmental, sustainability, and governance (“ESG”) factors associated with the Funds. While the Funds will continue to consider ESG criteria when selecting issuers for their portfolios, they will no longer prioritize these factors over others such as valuation, growth projections, and the quality and track record of the management team. The Manager believes these changes will broaden the investment universe of the Funds, potentially leading to better returns for investors. The Funds will file a Prospectus by April 10, 2025, at which point each of the Funds will revise their name as shown below. There will be no change to the ticker symbols of the Funds.

    Ticker
    Symbol    		 Current Name Revised Name
    MDIV Middlefield Sustainable Global Dividend ETF Middlefield Global Dividend Growers ETF
    MINF Middlefield Sustainable Infrastructure Dividend ETF Middlefield Global Infrastructure Dividend ETF
         

    The Manager notes that similar efforts to de-emphasize ESG factors have been undertaken by many asset management companies, including BlackRock, State Street, JPMorgan, and Pimco. Recent research from Morningstar has shown that more funds are removing rather than adding ESG mandates from their investment practices. On March 7, 2024, the Canadian Securities Administrators introduced three categories of ESG-Related Funds: ESG Objective Funds, ESG Strategy Funds, and ESG Limited Consideration Funds. Each category has distinct expectations regarding the emphasis on ESG factors in investment decisions. The Manager believes that the proposed changes will result in the Funds moving from the ESG Objective Funds category to the ESG Limited Consideration category.

    About Middlefield
    Founded in 1979, Middlefield is a specialist equity income asset manager with offices in Toronto, Canada and London, England. Our investment team utilizes active management to select high-quality, global companies across a variety of sectors and themes. Our product offerings include proven dividend-focused strategies that span real estate, healthcare, innovation, infrastructure, energy, diversified income and more. We offer these solutions in a variety of product types including ETFs, Mutual Funds, Split-Share Funds, Closed-End Funds and Flow-through LPs.

    For further information, please visit our website at www.middlefield.com or contact Nancy Tham in our Sales and Marketing Department at 1.888.890.1868.

    This press release contains forward-looking information. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, intentions, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects”, “is expected”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “estimates” or “intends” (or negative or grammatical variations thereof), or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Statements which may constitute forward-looking statements relate to: the proposed timing of the name, objectives and strategies changes and completion thereof; the potential benefits of such changes; and the holding of the unitholder meeting. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements including as a result of changes in the general economic and political environment, changes in applicable legislation, and the performance of each fund. Additional risks, uncertainties and other factors that could influence actual results are described under “Risk Factors” in the ETFs’ prospectus and other documents filed by the ETFs with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The forward-looking information contained in this press release constitutes the ETFs’ current estimate, as of the date of this press release, with respect to the matters covered hereby. Investors and others should not assume that any forward-looking statement contained in this press release represents the ETFs’ estimate as of any date other than the date of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement with Cameroon on the Second Review of Resilience and Sustainability Facility and Seventh Reviews of Extended Credit Facility and Extended Fund Facility

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    January 30, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • The IMF and the Cameroonian authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on the seventh reviews of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), as well as the second review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).
    • Economic recovery has continued, but growth remains subdued. Economic growth was
    • 3.2 percent in 2023 and expected to pick up to 3.9 percent in 2024. Twelve-month average inflation was 4.6 percent in November 2024, down from 7.5 percent last year.
    • Program performance was broadly satisfactory. Some reforms have been delayed, and the authorities have worked to complete work on measures related to governance in the extractive industry sector, the business climate, SOE reform, and public financial management.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Ms. Cemile Sancak, Mission Chief for Cameroon, visited Yaoundé from  October 3-16 and held subsequent meetings to discuss progress on reforms and the authorities’ policy priorities in the context of the seventh reviews of their four-year economic program supported by the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangements, and the second review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). The ECF/EFF arrangements were approved by the IMF Executive Board for a total amount of SDR 483 million (US$ 689.5 million) in July 2021 (see press release 21/237). An extension of these arrangements of 12 months was approved in December 2023 to allow more time to implement the policies and reforms, and access was augmented by SDR 110.4 million (US$ 147.6 million) (see press release 23/469). The 18-month RSF was approved by the Executive Board in January 2024 in the amount of SDR 138 million (US$ 183.4 million) (see press release 24/30).

    At the conclusion of the discussions, Ms. Sancak issued the following statement:

    “The IMF and the Cameroonian authorities have reached staff-level agreement on the seventh reviews of the ECF/EFF arrangements, as well as the second review of the RSF arrangement. The agreement is subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board. Completion of the reviews would enable disbursement under the ECF-EFF arrangements of SDR 55.2 million (US$ 73.0 million) and disbursement under the RSF arrangement of SDR 34.5 million (US$ 45.6 million).

    “Cameroon’s recovery is continuing, but growth is subdued. In 2023, the economy grew 3.2 percent and is expected to pick up to 3.9 percent for 2024. Inflation has subsided further; twelve-month average inflation was 4.6 percent in November 2024, down from 7.5 percent last year.

    “The fiscal outlook for 2024 is positive. The target for the non-oil primary deficit remains
    2 percent of GDP, an improvement on 2.5 percent of GDP last year (and 3.9 percent of GDP in 2022). During the first half of 2024, non-oil revenues improved by 5 percent, helped by a solid performance of corporate and indirect taxes. Lower-than-expected expenditure was due to delays in investment projects, a recurrent challenge that weighs on growth prospects.   

    “Prospects are broadly positive provided continued reform implementation and benign external conditions. The growth forecast is unchanged at about 4 percent in 2024, gradually rising to about 4.5 percent over the medium term. Inflation is expected to decline to 4.4 percent by the end of 2024 and gradually reach the CEMAC convergence criterion of 3 percent by 2026.

    “The 2025 budget was adopted by Parliament in December and is consistent with the objectives set out under Cameroon’s IMF-supported program and anchoring fiscal policy over the Presidential elections later in 2025. A key goal remains generating space for productive and social investment and advancing anticorruption reforms.

    “There have been delays in the implementation of the structural reform agenda. To attain the ambitious objectives of the national development strategy (SND30), the authorities are encouraged to complete important measures set out in the program concerning governance in the extractive industry sector, the business climate, SOE reform, and public financial management. Specifically, the mission urged the authorities to advance long-pending work on the SONARA restructuring plan and revise the 2013 law to streamline investment incentives.  

    “Under the RSF, Cameroon has intensified efforts to improve the climate policy framework. Work is progressing on the reform measure to establish guidelines for evaluating investment projects with climate change considerations in mind, to improve disaster preparedness by revising the Civil Protection law and by updating the mandate of the National Risk Observatory. The IMF and other development partners are providing technical assistance for a national climate plan, a national strategy for disaster risk financing, and strengthening governance and sustainability of the forestry sector.

    “The IMF team met with the Prime Minister, Joseph Dion Ngute, the Minister of State, Secretary General of the Presidency, Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, the Minister of Finance, Louis Paul Motaze, the Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development, Mr. Alamine Ousmane Mey, and other senior officials. The mission also met with representatives of development partners, the diplomatic community, the private sector, and civil society. The team wishes to thank the Cameroonian authorities for their excellent cooperation and for the frank and constructive dialogue.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Wafa Amr

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Questions FBI Director Nominee Kash Patel on Restoring Trust in FBI & DOJ

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – Today during the Senate Judiciary Committee’s hearing on the nomination of Kash Patel to be Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) under the Trump administration, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed with him the need to restore trust in the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) after the Biden administration’s politicization of these agencies. Excerpts are below, and video can be found here.

    On Restoring the Rule of Law in America:

    CORNYN: “Do you believe America is an exceptional nation?”

    PATEL: “It’s the greatest nation.”

    CORNYN: “Do you believe a large part of what makes America an exceptional nation is the rule of law?”

    PATEL: “It is one of the fundamental precepts that determines that.”

    CORNYN: “Why is that?”

    PATEL: “Because without a singular application of a rule of law, we go back to the Uganda that my father fled.”

    CORNYN: “I think your biggest task is going to be, along with Pam Bondi at the Office of the Attorney General, is to restore the rule of law to the Department of Justice and the FBI. Are you willing to do that?”

    PATEL: “Absolutely, Senator.”

    CORNYN: “Without regard to partisan affiliation or politics?”

    PATEL: “Absolutely.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement with Cameroon on the Second Review of Resilience and Sustainability Facility and Seventh Reviews of Extended Credit Facility and Extended Fund Facility

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    January 30, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • The IMF and the Cameroonian authorities have reached a staff-level agreement on the seventh reviews of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), as well as the second review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).
    • Economic recovery has continued, but growth remains subdued. Economic growth was
    • 3.2 percent in 2023 and expected to pick up to 3.9 percent in 2024. Twelve-month average inflation was 4.6 percent in November 2024, down from 7.5 percent last year.
    • Program performance was broadly satisfactory. Some reforms have been delayed, and the authorities have worked to complete work on measures related to governance in the extractive industry sector, the business climate, SOE reform, and public financial management.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Ms. Cemile Sancak, Mission Chief for Cameroon, visited Yaoundé from  October 3-16 and held subsequent meetings to discuss progress on reforms and the authorities’ policy priorities in the context of the seventh reviews of their four-year economic program supported by the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangements, and the second review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). The ECF/EFF arrangements were approved by the IMF Executive Board for a total amount of SDR 483 million (US$ 689.5 million) in July 2021 (see press release 21/237). An extension of these arrangements of 12 months was approved in December 2023 to allow more time to implement the policies and reforms, and access was augmented by SDR 110.4 million (US$ 147.6 million) (see press release 23/469). The 18-month RSF was approved by the Executive Board in January 2024 in the amount of SDR 138 million (US$ 183.4 million) (see press release 24/30).

    At the conclusion of the discussions, Ms. Sancak issued the following statement:

    “The IMF and the Cameroonian authorities have reached staff-level agreement on the seventh reviews of the ECF/EFF arrangements, as well as the second review of the RSF arrangement. The agreement is subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board. Completion of the reviews would enable disbursement under the ECF-EFF arrangements of SDR 55.2 million (US$ 73.0 million) and disbursement under the RSF arrangement of SDR 34.5 million (US$ 45.6 million).

    “Cameroon’s recovery is continuing, but growth is subdued. In 2023, the economy grew 3.2 percent and is expected to pick up to 3.9 percent for 2024. Inflation has subsided further; twelve-month average inflation was 4.6 percent in November 2024, down from 7.5 percent last year.

    “The fiscal outlook for 2024 is positive. The target for the non-oil primary deficit remains
    2 percent of GDP, an improvement on 2.5 percent of GDP last year (and 3.9 percent of GDP in 2022). During the first half of 2024, non-oil revenues improved by 5 percent, helped by a solid performance of corporate and indirect taxes. Lower-than-expected expenditure was due to delays in investment projects, a recurrent challenge that weighs on growth prospects.   

    “Prospects are broadly positive provided continued reform implementation and benign external conditions. The growth forecast is unchanged at about 4 percent in 2024, gradually rising to about 4.5 percent over the medium term. Inflation is expected to decline to 4.4 percent by the end of 2024 and gradually reach the CEMAC convergence criterion of 3 percent by 2026.

    “The 2025 budget was adopted by Parliament in December and is consistent with the objectives set out under Cameroon’s IMF-supported program and anchoring fiscal policy over the Presidential elections later in 2025. A key goal remains generating space for productive and social investment and advancing anticorruption reforms.

    “There have been delays in the implementation of the structural reform agenda. To attain the ambitious objectives of the national development strategy (SND30), the authorities are encouraged to complete important measures set out in the program concerning governance in the extractive industry sector, the business climate, SOE reform, and public financial management. Specifically, the mission urged the authorities to advance long-pending work on the SONARA restructuring plan and revise the 2013 law to streamline investment incentives.  

    “Under the RSF, Cameroon has intensified efforts to improve the climate policy framework. Work is progressing on the reform measure to establish guidelines for evaluating investment projects with climate change considerations in mind, to improve disaster preparedness by revising the Civil Protection law and by updating the mandate of the National Risk Observatory. The IMF and other development partners are providing technical assistance for a national climate plan, a national strategy for disaster risk financing, and strengthening governance and sustainability of the forestry sector.

    “The IMF team met with the Prime Minister, Joseph Dion Ngute, the Minister of State, Secretary General of the Presidency, Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, the Minister of Finance, Louis Paul Motaze, the Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development, Mr. Alamine Ousmane Mey, and other senior officials. The mission also met with representatives of development partners, the diplomatic community, the private sector, and civil society. The team wishes to thank the Cameroonian authorities for their excellent cooperation and for the frank and constructive dialogue.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Wafa Amr

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/01/30/pr25022-cameroon-imf-reaches-sla-second-review-rsf-seventh-reviews-ecf-eff

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal crash, Woolnorth

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Fatal crash, Woolnorth

    Friday, 31 January 2025 – 9:55 am.

    Sadly, a man has died after a serious single-vehicle crash at Woolnorth in the state’s North-West.
    Police and emergency services were called to West Montagu Road at Woolnorth just before 4.40am Friday after reports a vehicle had crashed.
    A Circular Head man in his 20s, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, sadly died at the scene.
    The road will remain closed for several hours while the scene is cleared.
    Motorists are asked to avoid the area.
    Investigations into the crash are ongoing and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
    Our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brockton Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Firearms and Fentanyl Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Seven firearms; 26 high-capacity magazines, thousands of rounds of ammunition; drugs found during search of defendant’s home

    BOSTON – A Brockton man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

    Shem Khattiya, 39, was sentenced by Senior District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 10 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. In October 2024, Khattiya pleaded guilty to a two count Superseding Information charging him with possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    In An investigation into Khattiya began in 2023, and in March 2023, a search was conducted at Khattiya’s Brockton apartment where over 800 grams of fentanyl; at least seven different firearms (most of which were loaded, some were ghost guns and some with serial numbers and some assault rifles); 26 high capacity magazines; thousands of rounds of ammunition; a ghost gun creation kit; triggers; a hydraulic kilogram press; and other items used in the manufacturing of drugs and firearms and distribution of drugs were recovered in his bedroom. It has been determined that “triggers” may qualify as machine guns as the purpose was to convert semi-automatic weapons into automatic weapons.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office, the Brockton Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey E. Weinstein of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Defendants Convicted of Killing a Security Guard and Wounding Three Others During the Armed Robbery of a Gambling Location in Brooklyn

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Earlier today, a federal jury in Brooklyn convicted Charles Powell, Brian Castro and Musah Coward on four counts of a superseding indictment charging them with the firearm-related murder of Rodney Maxwell, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, Hobbs Act robbery conspiracy and Hobbs Act robbery. Powell was also convicted of being a felon in possession of ammunition.  The charges stem from an armed robbery carried out by the defendants inside an illegal gambling spot located at 181 Hegeman Avenue in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn.  The verdict followed a three-week trial before U.S. District Judge Eric R. Komitee. When sentenced, the defendants each face a sentence of up to life in prison, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the verdicts.

    “Today’s verdict delivers justice for the victims of this vicious and senseless crime that was driven by greed and carried out with a complete disregard for human life,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “The defendants are responsible for murdering Rodney Maxwell, who was gunned down in cold blood, and the carnage could have been even worse with the wanton shooting of terrified bystanders. I commend the prosecutors in my Office, our law enforcement partners and the jury for holding the defendants accountable for this violent robbery.”

    The evidence at trial proved that the defendants planned and carried out an armed robbery of an illegal gambling spot in Brownsville on October 7, 2020.  The defendants were driven to the Brooklyn location from New Jersey by Coward.  Powell and Castro entered the location while Coward waited outside in the car.  During the robbery, Powell and Castro each shot Maxwell, who had been providing security for location.  Castro shot Maxwell once in the back with a 9-millimeter pistol; and Powell shot him once in the chest with a .380 caliber pistol.  Maxwell later died from his gunshot wounds.  In addition, Powell indiscriminately fired into a crowd of individuals as they desperately attempted to escape the violence, hitting three men, all of whom ultimately survived their wounds. Castro later confessed to the robbery and murder to a friend who, unbeknownst to Castro, was a confidential source for the FBI and recorded the conversation.  In the recording, Castro described how the defendants made off with thousands of dollars and mocked the sound that Maxwell made when he was fatally shot.

    Powell, who has a prior conviction in New Jersey for felony possession of a weapon, was found guilty by the jury of possessing three .380 caliber cartridges on October 7, 2020 corresponding to the shots he fired at the gambling spot.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section.  Assistant United States Attorneys Andy Palacio, Raffaela Belizaire and Megan Larkin are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Theodore Rader.

    The Defendants:

    CHARLES POWELL (also known as “Payback”)
    Age:  26
    Newark, New Jersey

    BRIAN CASTRO (also known as “Morenaje”)
    Age:  24
    Paterson, New Jersey

    MUSAH COWARD (also known as “General Mecka” and “Red” and “General Red”)
    Age:  33 
    Paterson, New Jersey

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 21-CR-572 (EK)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tax Preparer Sentenced to 18 Months to Serve and $1.96 Million in Restitution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Greenville, Mississippi – Slexcia Neal was sentenced on Wednesday to 18 months in prison following her guilty plea for three counts of filing fraudulent tax returns to the Internal Revenue Service. Neal was a tax preparer in Bolivar County, Mississippi.

    According to court documents, Neal owned a tax preparation business in Cleveland and Merigold, Mississippi. Taxpayers sought Neal’s assistance in preparing and filing tax documents to the IRS. When Neal submitted a number of these documents, they contained false information, which lowered the taxpayer’s income and ultimately increased the refund that they received from the IRS. Neal’s conduct resulted in a substantial loss to the United States and to all taxpayers.

    Neal was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Debra Brown to 18 months incarceration, on each count of conviction. Following her sentence, she will be on supervised probation for a year. Neal was ordered to pay more than $1,960,000 in restitution to the IRS for her fraudulent conduct. Neal was also barred from preparing tax documents for others for life.

    Following the sentencing, U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner remarked, “The Criminal Investigative Division of the IRS has a mission to root out tax preparers who commit fraud on the American taxpayer, and that is exactly what they and AUSA John Herzog have done in this case.  The defendant filed false tax returns to defraud the Treasury, and she must now go to prison and will spend the rest of her life attempting to pay back the restitution in this case.”

    “Slexcia Neal’s obligation as a tax preparer was to submit truthful and accurate returns on behalf of her clients, which she failed to do,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Lisa Fontanette, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Her case brings about an opportune time during this current tax season to remind unscrupulous tax preparers that IRS Criminal Investigation special agents are diligently investigating them and forwarding their findings to the United States Attorney’s Office for prosecution.”

    This case was investigated by the Criminal Investigation Division of the IRS. The case was prosecuted by AUSA John Herzog Jr.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: January 30th, 2025 Heinrich, Cassidy, Grassley Introduce Bipartisan Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    Bipartisan legislation would permanently place fentanyl-related substances into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, helping law enforcement combat fentanyl trafficking, while advancing scientific and medical research

    WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) introduced the bipartisan Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances (FRS) as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act. This permanent scheduling will give law enforcement the tools they need to keep extremely lethal and dangerous drugs off our streets and ensure scientists can research and better understand these substances.

    “We’re losing nearly 75,000 Americans each year to illicit fentanyl overdoses. I refuse to accept this reality, and that’s why I’m working to deliver tools law enforcement personnel need to keep deadly fentanyl off our streets and out of our communities,”said Heinrich. “Permanently scheduling fentanyl and its analogues will help federal and local law enforcement crack down on illegal trafficking and allow prosecutors to build stronger, longer-term criminal cases. Our HALT Fentanyl Act will help stop the flow of these deadly drugs into our communities and save lives.”

    Background:

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there were 107,543 overdose deaths in the United States in 2023. Fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances accounted for nearly 75,000 of those deaths. Since 1999, the overdose crisis has increasingly been characterized by deaths involving these illicitly manufactured synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl-related substances (FRS), which are commonly sold through illicit drug markets for their fentanyl-like effect, and are often mixed with heroin or other drugs, such as cocaine, or pressed in to counterfeit prescription pills. During this same period, overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids (excluding methadone) increased 103-fold. By comparison, overdose deaths involving heroin and prescription opioids increased 2.5-fold and 4.1-fold, respectively.

    Traffickers are continually altering the chemical structure of fentanyl to evade regulation and prosecution, sometimes with tragic results. Since 2013, China has been the principal source of fentanyl, fentanyl-related substances, and the precursor chemicals from which they are produced. Chinese product is commonly shipped to Mexico and smuggled into the U.S’s illicit drug market. Traffickers have favored fentanyl-related substances to skirt around committing the crime of trafficking fentanyl and fentanyl analogues. In 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seized nearly 12,000 pounds of illicit fentanyl, including fentanyl powder and more than 78 million pills laced with illicit fentanyl. The 2023 seizures were equivalent to more than 388.8 million lethal doses of fentanyl.

    In 2018, as an initial response to this unprecedented crisis, the DEA issued a temporary scheduling order that placed FRS in Schedule I, under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), after classifying it as an imminent hazard to public safety. Previously, Congress has only closed this loophole temporarily by designating fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs. Congress has extended the FRS temporary scheduling order several times, most recently on December 21, 2024, with a measure that expires on March 31, 2025.

    Heinrich’s HALT Fentanyl Act would finally make permanent the scheduling of illicitly produced fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs and streamline the regulatory process for scientists seeking approval from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to research Schedule I substances.

    Clear and Enforceable Criminal Penalties for Fentanyl Trafficking:

    A permanent scheduling of FRS is necessary to make penalties for criminals clear and enforceable under the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), reducing the supply and availability of illicitly manufactured FRS. The HALT Fentanyl Act places the strongest controls and penalties on FRS, which have no accepted medical use and a high abuse potential.

    Specifically, the HALT Fentanyl Act will permanently impose the following quantity-based federal trafficking penalties on FRS:

    • Mandatory minimum penalties: 5 years for 10 grams or more (10 years for second offense); and 10 years for 100 grams or more (20 years for second offense).
    • Discretionary maximum penalties: 40 years for 10 grams or more (life for second offense); and life for 100 grams or more.

    Expanded Scientific and Medical Research

    More closely aligning the research and registration process for schedule I substances, including FRS, with Schedule II substances will facilitate increased FRS research. By accommodating more medical research into fentanyl-related substances, the bill would establish a new, streamlined registration process for research funded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), or under an Investigative New Drug (IND) exemption from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    Specifically, the HALT Fentanyl Act will enhance our understanding of these illicitly manufactured substances by:

    • Allowing researchers in the same institution to participate in multiple scientific studies.
    • Permitting researchers with ongoing studies to examine newly added schedule I substances.
    • Allowing researchers to manufacture small quantities of FRS without a separate registration.

    Support for the HALT Fentanyl Act

    The HALT Fentanyl Act is led by Heinrich, Cassidy, and Grassley. The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va,), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Angus King (I-Maine), and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.).

    Full text of the HALT Fentanyl Act can be found here.

    A section-by-section summary of the HALT Fentanyl Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Questions FBI Director Nominee, Kash Patel, About Trump Pardoning The Dangerous January 6 Rioters, Connections To Radical Extremist

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    January 30, 2025

    In his remarks, Patel could not remember who Stew Peters, a far-right internet personality, is despite going on his podcast eight times; breaks with President Trump on pardoning those who harm law enforcement

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned Kash Patel, President Trump’s nominee to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), during his nomination hearing. Durbin first asked Mr. Patel about President Trump’s decision to pardon the violent January 6 insurrections—several of whom have already been rearrested or are wanted for vile crimes committed prior to January 6, 2021, including soliciting a sexual relationship with a minor.

    “[Matthew Huddle] is a man found guilty of numerous crimes… he beat his three-year-old child to a point where the poor kid could not sit down for a week. Mr. Huddle was one of the demonstrators who came to the Capitol on January 6. He was incarcerated and charged and pled guilty to crimes that he had committed—violence against police officers. After he was released by President Trump, he returned to Indiana. A few days later, he was stopped on the road, pulled a gun on a policeman, and the policeman and the sheriff’s deputy shot and killed him. This is not the only instance of a person who received President Trump’s clemency committing another crime. Peter Schwartz was mentioned this morning on the radio—38 criminal convictions. He had been sentenced to 14 years in prison. He was released because of the President’s unconditional clemency as well. My question is this: was President Donald Trump wrong to [grant] blanket clemency for January 6 defendants?” Durbin asked.

    In his response, Mr. Patel broke with President Trump and stated, “I do not agree with the commutation of any sentence of any individual who committed violence against law enforcement.”

    “Do you think that America is safer because these [1,500] people have come out of serving their sentences and live in our communities again?” Durbin asked.

    Mr. Patel responded that he has “always advocated for imprisoning those who cause harm to our law enforcement and civilian communities,” again, breaking away from President Trump’s views.

    Durbin continued, “You will not answer the question. I do not think we are safer that Matthew Huddle was sent back to Indiana. I do not think we are safer with Peter Schwartz, and I can go through a long list of individuals.”

    Durbin then asked Mr. Patel about his involvement with the “J6 prison choir.” He co-produced, promoted, and sold a record recorded by the so-called “J6 prison choir”—a group of January 6 insurrectionists who were incarcerated in the D.C. jail in February 2023. Mr. Patel has described the choir’s members as “political prisoners.” Notably, he has declined to identify the members of the choir.

    Durbin said, “My understanding is that the performers of this ‘J6 choir’ were the rioters who were imprisoned.”

    Mr. Patel responded that “he had nothing to do with the recording.”

    Durbin followed up, “You are not aware of who made the recording?”

    To which Mr. Patel responded “no.”

    Durbin then asked about Mr. Patel’s affiliations with problematic individuals. He has frequently associated with—and sometimes praised—extremist figures with well-documented histories of racist, antisemitic, conspiratorial, or violent statements or beliefs.

    “In September of 2023 you appeared with Laura Loomer [at] an event promoting your book, [Government Gangsters]. You shared a photo of yourself where you held her book and she held hers. Just a few months before this event, Ms. Loomer posted on ‘X’ that the September 11 terrorists attacks were ‘an inside job’ and accused Florida’s First Lady, Casey DeSantis, of exaggerating her cancer diagnosis to gain voter sympathy. A number of my Republican colleagues have criticized Ms. Loomer’s extremism. One of my colleagues described her as ‘a crazy conspiracy theorist who regularly utters disgusting garbage.’ Given all of this, why did you associate with Ms. Loomer?” Durbin asked.

    Mr. Patel dismissed the question.

    Durbin then asked about his relationship with Stew Peters—an alt-right internet personality. Between October 2021 and June 2022, Mr. Patel made eight separate appearances on a podcast hosted by Stew Peters. Before and during that stint, Mr. Peters promoted outrageous conspiracy theories and worked with a prominent neo-Nazi. In mid-2021, Mr. Peters promoted a baseless assertion that Chief Justice John Roberts and former Vice President Mike Pence were pedophiles.

    “Are you familiar with Mr. Stew Peters? Does that ring a bell?” Durbin asked.

    “I’m sorry, what?” Patel said. 

    “Are you familiar with Mr. Stew Peters?” Durbin asked.

    “Not off of the top of my head,” said Patel.

    “You made eight separate appearances on his podcast, and he promoted outrageous conspiracy theories and worked with a prominent neo-Nazi. The list goes on. I am just asking when it comes to your association with individuals, why are so many of them in this category?” Durbin asked.

    Mr. Patel responded that he went on these seriously problematic podcasts “to take on” people who are putting out conspiracy theories and “de-vow them of their false impressions and to talk to them about the truth.”

    Video of Durbin’s first round of questions in Committee is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s first round of questions in Committee is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s first round of questions in Committee is available here for TV Stations.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chaska Man Pleads Guilty for His Role in $250 Million Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – A Chaska man pleaded guilty for his role in the $250 million fraud scheme that exploited a federally-funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to court documents, from approximately November 2020 through January 2022, Mohamed Muse Noor a.k.a. “Deeq Darajo,”40, knowingly participated in a scheme to defraud a federal child nutrition program designed to provide free meals to children in need. Rather than feed children, Noor and his co-defendants took advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic—and the resulting program changes—to enrich themselves by fraudulently misappropriating millions of dollars in federal child nutrition program funds.

    According to court documents, Noor was specifically recruited to the Feeding Our Future scheme even though he had no background or experience in buying or providing food. In December 2020, Noor submitted his application to be enrolled in the Federal Child Nutrition Program through Feeding Our Future employee, Abdikerm Eidleh, to Aimee Bock, former Executive Director of the Feeding Our Future non-profit organization. Under Eidleh’s direction, Noor signed forms with fake meal counts and fabricated invoices falsely claiming to be feeding supper and snack to 1,500 children every day within a few weeks of being sponsored by Feeding Our Future. However, Noor did not personally serve any meals to children and never visited the sites registered in his name by Feeding Our Future.

    According to the plea agreement entered today, Noor paid kickbacks to Eidleh in exchange for Feeding Our Future’s sponsorship in the Federal Child Nutrition Program. Food distribution sites associated with Noor fraudulently obtained up to $1.3 million in federal child nutrition program funds by falsely claiming to have served meals to thousands of children per day. Almost all almost of the $1.3 million was either transferred to Eidleh or was intercepted by Eidleh without Noor’s knowledge. As part of their arrangement, Noor retained approximately $52,388 in fraudulent proceeds for himself.

    Noor pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge Joan N. Ericksen to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. His sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.

    The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph H. Thompson, Matthew S. Ebert, and Harry M. Jacobs are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marshall County Woman Sentenced to 52 Months in Prison for COVID IRS Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Oxford, MS – Today U.S. District Court Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Lakisha Pearson, age 48, of Holly Springs, Mississippi, to a 52-month jail sentence for mail fraud in connection with falsely claimed IRS Employee Retention Tax Credit for others. Judge Mills also ordered Pearson to repay $15,942,586.77 in restitution.

    Pearson, who owns Unity Tax Express, pled guilty to using the internet to file false tax credit claims for numerous persons totaling nearly $47 million and taking kickbacks from those persons. The IRS mailed Treasury checks totaling $15,942,586.77 in ERC credits to the claimants who thought they were given a government grant and were not aware that Pearson had filed tax returns on their behalf. 

    The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES” Act), enacted on March 27, 2020, provided for an IRS Employee Retention Credit (“ERC”) designed to encourage businesses to keep employees on their payroll during the pandemic. Subsequent legislation (the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020, the American Rescue Plan Act, and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act) modified and extended the ERC.

    “Employee Retention Credits were tax credits designed to provide critical assistance to business owners struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic, but fraudsters and thieves infuriatingly decided to use the credits to line their own pockets during this emergency,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “This office plans to pursue charges against all of those who decided to steal from American taxpayers, and we thank the IRS for the investigation of this case.”

    “Unscrupulous tax preparers are put on notice that there is a price to pay for using their trusted position to defraud the federal government,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Lisa Fontanette, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “While IRS Criminal Investigation special agents will find and investigate these tax crimes, this case is an important reminder to filers during this tax season to do their research when choosing a tax preparer.”

    The scheme in the instant case was initially uncovered during a separate criminal investigation which resulted in Pearson’s conviction for Payroll Protection loans. Pearson awaits sentencing in that case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Roberts prosecuted the case on behalf of U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi. The case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation Division Special Agent T.J. Mitchell. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Phoenix Woman Sentenced to 87 Months in Prison for Possession of a Machinegun and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering

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

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Cynthia Solano, 40, of Phoenix, was sentenced this week by United States District Judge G. Murray Snow to 87 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release, for her involvement in a transnational firearm smuggling organization. On August 14, 2024, Solano pleaded guilty to Possession of a Machinegun and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.

    Between February 2022 and January 2023, Solano conspired with others to conduct financial transactions which were designed to conceal proceeds generated from the sale of firearms trafficked from the United States into Canada. After the proceeds were received, Solano used the proceeds to purchase additional firearms.

    Beginning in late December 2022, Solano gathered 87 firearms in Phoenix which she intended to deliver to other members of the organization in Michigan.  

    On January 3, 2023, Solano was driving near Springfield, Illinois when she was contacted by the Illinois State Police. The Illinois State Police troopers searched her vehicle and found 87 firearms, individually wrapped in Christmas wrapping paper. One of the firearms was equipped with a machinegun conversion device (also known as a “Switch”) attached. A machinegun conversion device converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm.

    After Solano was arraigned in Arizona, she was placed on pretrial release. She later removed her electronic monitoring device and fled to Mexico. Through the efforts of the United States Marshals’ Office, she was captured by law enforcement in Mexico and removed to the United States to face prosecution.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.

    The OCDETF Arizona Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Postal Service, United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Arizona Army National Guard, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, Pima County Sheriff’s Office, and the Scottsdale Police Department. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-23-00408-PHX-GMS
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-012_Solano

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

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