NewzIntel.com

Category: Gun Control

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Drug and Firearm Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ROBERT BALL (“BALL”), age 45 of New Orleans, was sentenced on February 6, 2025 to a total of 248 months imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, after previously pleading guilty to one (1) count of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute 50 grams or more of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), one (1) count of Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), as well as one (1) count of Possessing Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(a).  BALL was sentenced to 188 months imprisonment on Counts 1 and 2, followed by an additional 60 months on Count 3 to run consecutive.  Judge Morgan also ordered that BALL serve five (5) years of supervised release after imprisonment and pay a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.

    According to the indictment, law enforcement in Ontario, California intercepted a package suspected of containing methamphetamine that was enroute to New Orleans.  Further investigation revealed that Felipe Garcia had mailed two similar packages from the same United Parcel Service store in California to New Orleans.  After determining the intercepted package in California contained methamphetamine, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) intercepted the second package before its delivery to a New Orleans address.  It was later determined that  BALL was the intended recipient of this drug package.  BALL had previously been arrested by the Louisiana State Police after a traffic stop led to the discovery of methamphetamine and firearms  in his possession.

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

    United States Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and the Ontario California Police Department.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Orange County felon sentenced for federal gun violation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas – A Vidor convicted felon has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    Dennis Lee Kelley, 32, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on February 7, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on July 27, 2023, Kelley was arrested near Hwy 105 in Beaumont pursuant to an active warrant for a parole violation.  At the time of his arrest, a pistol was discovered in the vehicle he was driving. As a convicted felon, Kelley was prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

    This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

    This case was investigated by the Beaumont Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell James.

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  • MIL-OSI USA News: Protecting Second Amendment Rights

    Source: The White House

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

         Section 1.  Purpose.  The Second Amendment is an indispensable safeguard of security and liberty.  It has preserved the right of the American people to protect ourselves, our families, and our freedoms since the founding of our great Nation.  Because it is foundational to maintaining all other rights held by Americans, the right to keep and bear arms must not be infringed. 

         Sec. 2.  Plan of Action.  (a)  Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Attorney General shall examine all orders, regulations, guidance, plans, international agreements, and other actions of executive departments and agencies (agencies) to assess any ongoing infringements of the Second Amendment rights of our citizens, and present a proposed plan of action to the President, through the Domestic Policy Advisor, to protect the Second Amendment rights of all Americans.
         (b)  In developing such proposed plan of action, the Attorney General shall review, at a minimum:
              (i)    All Presidential and agencies’ actions from January 2021 through January 2025 that purport to promote safety but may have impinged on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens;
              (ii)   Rules promulgated by the Department of Justice, including by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, from January 2021 through January 2025 pertaining to firearms and/or Federal firearms licensees;
              (iii)  Agencies’ plans, orders, and actions regarding the so-called “enhanced regulatory enforcement policy” pertaining to firearms and/or Federal firearms licensees;
              (iv)   Reports and related documents issued by the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention;
              (v)    The positions taken by the United States in any and all ongoing and potential litigation that affects or could affect the ability of Americans to exercise their Second Amendment rights;
              (vi)   Agencies’ classifications of firearms and ammunition; and
              (vii)  The processing of applications to make, manufacture, transfer, or export firearms.

         Sec. 3.  Implementation.  Upon submission of the proposed plan of action described in section 2 of this order, the Attorney General shall work with the Domestic Policy Advisor to finalize the plan of action and establish a process for implementation.

         Sec. 4.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
              (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof; or
              (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
         (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
         (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, Man Sentenced for Distributing Cocaine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Young Woman Died After Using Cocaine Distributed as Part of Trafficking Conspiracy

    A man who conspired with others to distribute large quantities of cocaine that resulted in the death of a young Dubuque woman was sentenced today to more than 16 years in federal prison.

    Michael Samuel Knight, age 38, from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, received the prison term after a September 10, 2024, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams of more of cocaine within 1000 feet of several parks and schools in Dubuque, Iowa, between 2017 and April of 2021, that resulted in the death of a young Dubuque woman on February 14, 2021.  Knight also pled guilty to personally distributing the cocaine on February 14, 2021, that caused the woman’s death.

    At the plea hearing, Knight admitted he was a member of a conspiracy to distribute cocaine in the Dubuque area near numerous parks and schools.  He admitted getting cocaine from the individual who brought it from Chicago, and then worked with others to distribute the cocaine to customers in Dubuque.  On February 14, 2021, Knight distributed cocaine to a young woman in Dubuque who went home, used the cocaine and died.

    Knight was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Knight was sentenced to 201months’ and 19 days imprisonment and was ordered to make $13,911 in restitution to the victim’s family.  He must also serve a 8-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    Knight is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick J. Reinert and Nicole Nagin and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Iowa Medical Examiner’s Office and the Dubuque Drug Task Force, comprised of Dubuque Police Department, Dubuque Sheriff’s Office.  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. 

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 23-CR-01013.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arkansas man sentenced for possessing machinegun conversion device

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas – A Little Rock, Arkansas, man has been sentenced to federal prison for possessing a machinegun conversion device in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    Jajuan Lee Bonds, 22, pleaded guilty to possession of a machinegun and was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on February 7, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on July 21, 2022, an officer with the Corrigan Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by Bonds. The officer observed what appeared to be marijuana in a clear plastic baggie in the vehicle. During a search of the vehicle, the officer located a firearm outfitted with a machinegun conversion device, commonly referred to as a “Glock Switch”. The modified handgun had been previously reported stolen. Federal law defines a machinegun as a weapon which shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot, automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger.

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

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Corrigan Police Department and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tommy Coleman.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Orlando Convicted Felon Sentenced To Federal Prison For Illegal Possession Of A Firearm And Ammunition

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Ocala, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Elijah Noah Petit-Frere (24, Orlando) to 46 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Petit-Frere pled guilty on November 12, 2024.

    According to court documents, an officer with the Ocala Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Petit-Frere. When Petit-Frere was placed under arrest for a driving offense, officers discovered Petit-Frere had a loaded firearm holstered on his waistband. Petit-Frere had previously been convicted of state felony offenses, including carrying a concealed firearm, fleeing and attempting to elude a police officer, and possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. 

    This case was investigated by the Ocala Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduran National Pleads Guilty To Illegally Possessing A Firearm While Intoxicated During A Domestic Incident

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Walner Josue Alvarado-Sabonje (27, Honduras) today pleaded guilty to being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. Alvarado faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

    According to court records, Alvarado illegally entered the United States near Hidalgo, Texas in April 2019, and is subject to a final order of removal. On June 16, 2024, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to multiple callers who reported hearing gunshots from the back of Alvarado’s home. The deputies received permission to search the backyard and found nine 9mm shell casings in the backyard.

    In the afternoon of September 22, 2024, sheriff’s deputies responded to a call from Alvarado’s wife, who told the dispatcher that Alvarado was intoxicated on the front porch of their home and acting recklessly with a gun. Deputies arrived approximately five minutes later, but Alvarado had left the home. A red Chevrolet Suburban sport utility vehicle registered to Alvarado was no longer parked at the house, so deputies determined that he had driven it elsewhere.

    Minutes later, a deputy located Alvarado alone in the driver’s seat of his SUV parked at a 7-Eleven approximately one mile away from Alvarado’s home.  Alvarado had two open beer cans in the center console and smelled like alcohol.  After arresting Alvarado for driving under the influence of alcohol, the deputies found a loaded Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol in the center console. The pistol and ammunition are traceable to the offense and subject to forfeiture. 

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam W. McCall.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Boozman, Crapo Introduce Hearing Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    February 7, 2025

    Cotton, Boozman, Crapo Introduce Hearing Protection Act 

    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Senator John Boozman (R-Arkansas) joined Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) to introduce the Hearing Protection Act, legislation to help law-abiding gun owners better access suppressors to preserve hearing and safety. The bill would reclassify suppressors and treat them like traditional firearms for the purpose of regulation. 

    The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-Louisiana), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Steve Daines (R-Montana), Roger Wicker (R- Mississippi), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) and Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin).

    “Burdensome regulations on firearm suppressors are doing more harm than good to sportsmen and women. Our legislation will ensure law-abiding gun owners can easily access hearing protection without having to navigate bureaucratic red tape or exorbitant taxes,” said Senator Cotton.

    “Increasing access to hearing protection for sportsmen and hunters is common sense, law-abiding, responsible gun owners should not have to fight burdensome regulations to enjoy their hobbies safely and with the accessories that can protect their hearing. I am proud to join my colleagues to update unreasonable limitations on suppressors and stand with shooting sports enthusiasts,” said Senator Boozman.  

    “Federal red tape continues to follow the false Hollywood narrative that suppressors are silent and ignores the reality that they serve a genuine purpose in protecting the hearing of law-abiding American citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights. It is past time Congress removes the burdensome barriers to accessing this equipment for the safety of Idaho’s hunters and sportsmen,” said Senator Crapo. 

    Text of the bill may be found here.  

    The Hearing Protection Act would:

    • Remove suppressors from regulation under the National Firearms Act (NFA);
    • Replace the burdensome federal transfer process with an instantaneous National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check, making the purchase and transfer process for suppressors equal to the process for a rifle or shotgun; and  
    • Increase funding into state wildlife conservation agencies by taxing suppressors under the Pittman-Robertson Act instead of the NFA.

    On average, suppressors diminish the noise of a gunshot by 20-35 decibels, roughly the same sound reduction provided by earplugs or earmuffs.  The most effective suppressors on the market can only reduce the peak sound level of a gunshot to around 110-120 decibels, which is roughly equivalent to a jackhammer.

    The Hearing Protection Act is endorsed by the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the American Suppressor Association (ASA), Gun Owners of America (GOA) and the National Rifle Association (NRA).

    “The Hearing Protection Act will increase access to important hearing protection for millions of Americans,” said President of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology Amyn Amlani, Ph.D. “While the use of conventional hearing protection tools, such as earplugs and earmuffs are fundamental for preventing noise induced hearing loss in firearm users, conventional hearing protection alone does not always offer adequate protection from noise exposure. Firearm noise suppressors can be an effective supplement to traditional hearing protection.”

    “These safety devices reduce the report of a firearm to a level that won’t cause instant and permanent hearing damage,” said NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence G. Keane. “Despite Hollywood’s depictions, they do not silence the sound of a firearm. The focus should be on removing barriers to safe and responsible use of firearms and dedicating resources to ensuring firearms are safeguarded from those who should never possess them. Strict regulatory control of firearm accessories, and the parts of those accessories that have no bearing on the function of a firearm, is unnecessary and not the wisest use of federal resources.”

    “It’s absurd that our unrestrained federal bureaucracy requires Americans to jump through hoops to buy simple hearing protection devices. Momentum continues to grow for common sense reforms that would end the stranglehold of government on the rights of her people,” said President and Executive Director of the American Suppressor Association Knox Williams.

    “Gun owners around the world are using suppressors to reduce the impact of noise and hearing loss while using their firearms. Even in countries with the strictest firearms laws, suppressors are often unregulated products that anyone can buy over the counter. However, outdated federal law makes it difficult for Americans to access these useful safety devices,” said Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action John Commerford. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Clay County Felon Sentenced To Four Years In Prison For Possessing Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, FL – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger has sentenced Kyle Garrett Prevatt (24, Orange Park) to four years in federal prison for two counts of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Prevatt pled guilty on November 5, 2024.

    According to court documents, over a period of five months, Prevatt sold multiple firearms to a confidential informant. The offense involved nine firearms in total. After the final transaction concluded, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office attempted to perform a traffic stop on Prevatt’s truck and Prevatt fled in his truck until he crashed it into a ditch. He then attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended. A search following Prevatt’s arrest revealed additional firearms, along with other ammunition, in the truck. 

    Prior to the firearms sales, Prevatt had been convicted of two felonies, including armed burglary of a dwelling structure or conveyance, and unarmed burglary of an unoccupied structure in 2020. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law.

    This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kelly S. Milliron and Kevin C. Frein.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Idaho Man Sentenced To 18 Months For Possessing A Firearm In Checked Luggage

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, FL – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger sentenced Dedric Dwayne Rivers (52, Moscow, Idaho) to 18 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition after having been convicted of a felony. Rivers pled guilty on October 22, 2024.

    According to court documents, on April 27, 2024, Rivers arrived at Jacksonville International Airport to board a flight traveling to Idaho. During a routine screening process of checked luggage Transportation Security Administration officers identified an undeclared firearm and ammunition located in a checked suitcase bearing Rivers’ name. Law enforcement cut the cables to the gun case inside the suitcase and found an undeclared FN509 9mm semi-automatic pistol with a magazine containing 10 rounds of live ammunition inserted into the magazine well.  The gun case also contained three extended magazines loaded with 70 rounds of live ammunition distributed among the three magazines.  In a voluntary interview, Rivers said he thought the gun case only contained ammunition.

    However, in a telephone conversation the next day, Rivers admitted to his mother that he had previously travelled with a firearm to Jacksonville, Florida.  Prior to possessing the firearm, Rivers had had been convicted of multiple felonies, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and aggravated assault.  Therefore, he is prohibited by law from possessing firearms and ammunition.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Transportation Security Administration, the Jacksonville Airport Authority, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly S. Milliron.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Guilty of Narcotics and Firearms Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on February 5, 2025, CARLOS JONES (“JONES”), age 32, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sarah Vance to narcotics and weapons offenses.

    According to court documents, JONES and co-defendant, Donte Edwards, were charged in an 11-count indictment with violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act relating to narcotics trafficking and weapons offenses in New Orleans from January through June 2022.  Specifically, between January and June of 2022, JONES agreed and conspired with co-defendant, Dante Edwards (“EDWARDS”), to distribute cocaine base (“crack”) within the 7th Ward neighborhood of New Orleans.  JONES pled guilty to Counts 1, 8, 9, and 11 of an indictment charging him with violating 21 U.S.C. § 846, conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances (crack); 21 U.S.C. §§ 846(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C), possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance; 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i), possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and, 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    As to each narcotics charge, JONES faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least 3 years of supervised release. As to the charge for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, JONES faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to 5 years of supervised release.  Finally, as to the felon in possession charge, he faces up to 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release.  JONES will also pay a $400 mandatory special assessment fee. He is scheduled for sentencing on April 7, 2025.  Co-defendant, EDWARDS, previously pled guilty and was sentenced.

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

    The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Greg Kennedy of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Member Of Darrin Southall Drug Organization Sentenced In Federal Court

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MOBILE, AL –A Mobile man involved in Darrin Southall’s drug trafficking organization was sentenced in federal court this afternoon. Marvin McCaine, 55, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine in April of 2023.
      
    According to court documents, McCaine was one of Southall’s distributors who was listed in Southall’s drug ledgers.  During the investigation, telephone calls between McCaine and Southall were intercepted by federal investigators. McCaine and Southall used coded language to attempt to disguise the criminal nature of their calls and conceal their drug trafficking activities from detection. McCaine received multiple kilograms of cocaine for further distribution in Mobile, which was documented by the phone calls and the information uncovered during an analysis of the cell phones seized following the arrests in the case. Federal and state investigators arrested Southall and numerous members of his organization during 2021 and 2022. Approximately 30 members of Southall’s organization have been prosecuted in federal court to date.

    United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moorer imposed a sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment in McCaine’s case. Because McCaine was under federal supervised release from a previous federal drug conviction, Judge Moorer revoked his supervised release term and ordered that McCaine serve an additional 37 months’ imprisonment, which will run consecutively to the sentenced imposed for the conspiracy count. The judge further ordered that McCaine would also serve an additional 10 years on supervised release following his release from imprisonment. As conditions of his supervised release, McCaine will also undergo testing and treatment for drug and/or alcohol abuse, and he will be subject to a search of her person and premises upon reasonable suspicion. The judge also ordered that McCaine pay $100 in special assessments. Any interest McCaine had in a long list of seized property was ordered forfeited to the United States.  

    The case was investigated by the Mobile Police Department, the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the Saraland Police Department, the St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gloria Bedwell prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kalispell man sentenced to prison for possessing stolen firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA — A Kalispell man who admitted to possessing a stolen gun was sentenced today to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Joseph Christopher Steele, 24, pleaded guilty in October 2024 to possession of a stolen firearm.

    U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.

    In court documents, the government alleged that in December 2022, a man, identified as John Doe, filed a report with the Kalispell Police Department that his firearm safe containing a .45-caliber pistol and two magazines, along with the title to his pickup truck, had been stolen from his vehicle. Five days later, while investigating an unrelated incident, police officers found Doe’s stolen pickup title in a Subaru that also had been reported stolen. While being interviewed about the Subaru, Steele admitted he had been driving the vehicle but denied knowing it was stolen. Doe’s pickup title was not discussed. In January 2024, Whitefish Police Department officers executed a search warrant on Steele’s residence to locate evidence related to a stolen cell phone. Steele was on state probation at the time. During the search, officers located a pistol in a gun case with two magazines. Based on the gun’s serial number, officers determined the pistol was the firearm Doe had reported stolen.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Kalispell and Whitefish police departments and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation.

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

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Revision of divisional jurisdiction under the proposed South Coast Railway zone at Vishakhapatnam by retention of truncated Waltair division

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 8:46PM by PIB Delhi

    The Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today gave its ex-post facto approval to the following:

      i.   Partial modification of the earlier decision of the Cabinet dated 28.02.2019 to retain Waltair division in truncated form and rename it as Vishakhapatnam division.

     ii. Thus, one part of Waltair division, comprising approximately of the sections between stations Palasa-Vishakhapatnam- Duvvada, Kuneru – Vizianagaram, Naupada Jn – Paralakhemundi, Bobbili Jn. – Salur, Simhachalam North – Duvvada bypass, Vadalapudi – Duvvada and Vishakhapatnam Steel Plant – Jaggayapalem (around 410 Km), will be retained as Waltair division under new South Coast Railway. It would be renamed as Vishakhapatnam division because Waltair name is a colonial legacy that needs to be changed.

     iii.    The other part of the Waltair division, comprising approximately of the sections between stations Kottavalasa – Bacheli, Kuneru – Theruvali Jn., Singapur Rd. – Koraput Jn. and Paralakhemundi – Gunpur (around 680 Km), will be converted into a new division with head-quarter at Rayagada under East Coast Railway.

    Retention of Waltair division even in its truncated form, will meet the demand and aspirations of the people of the area.

     *****

    MJPS/BM

    (Release ID: 2100853) Visitor Counter : 72

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Embark on a transformative story-telling journey with the Animation Filmmakers Competition – “WAVES ORIGINALS: A platform where creativity meets opportunity

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Embark on a transformative story-telling journey with the Animation Filmmakers Competition – “WAVES ORIGINALS: A platform where creativity meets opportunity

    From Vision to Reality: Students, amateurs and professionals to get a chance to showcase their projects to film and TV producers, investors, and industry leaders

    Overwhelming response received with over 1,200 registrations & 400 creative submissions from more than 15 countries; Winning projects to get cash prizes of up to 5 lakhs

    Advancing Talent: Over 75 storytellers shortlisted for Round 2 of AFC, set to Join WAVES 2025 with Masterclasses from Global Cinema Icons

    Promoting Women in Animation: WAVES featuring talented women participants whose creative works are reshaping storytelling norms

    WAVES – International Animation Filmmakers Competition (AFC) sets new benchmark in Global Animation Community Engagement

    Posted On: 07 FEB 2025 7:06PM by PIB Delhi

    The inaugural edition of the WAVES – International Animation Filmmakers Competition (AFC) has emerged as a groundbreaking initiative, offering a global platform for creators across animation, VFX, AR-VR, and virtual production.

    Animation Filmmakers Competition – “WAVES ORIGINALS”

    Launched on September 8, 2024, as part of the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES), the competition has captivated participants and industry leaders alike, solidifying its reputation as a leading destination for creative storytelling and technological innovation.

    The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B) has partnered with Dancing Atoms for Animation Filmmakers Competition, the flagship event of the upcoming World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES). This marks a historic collaboration, paving the way for a new era in India’s creative industry and heralding the beginning of Create in India Season 1.

    Overwhelming participation

    Since its launch, AFC has received overwhelming participation, with over 1,200 registrations and over 400 creative submissions from more than 15 countries.

    Crafting Pathways for Creative Excellence and Opportunity

    The true essence of this initiative is to empower participants by giving them exposure and the wings to bring their stories to life. AFC has created an ecosystem where creativity meets opportunity, enabling storytellers to craft compelling narratives and transform their visions into reality.

    This is achieved through:

    1. Online Masterclasses: Led by renowned industry experts like Pilar Alessandra, Sergio Pablos, and Saraswathi Buyyala.
    2. In-Person and Hybrid Workshops: Conducted at premier institutions across India, covering essential skills such as creative pitching, personal development, effective networking, and understanding the evolving creative economy. In recent months, Saraswathi Buyyala, Writer, Creative Director, and Founder of Dancing Atoms, conducted storytelling sessions for students and professionals at premier institutions like IIT Hyderabad, JNAFAU Hyderabad, IIT Mumbai, IIMC Delhi, Jamia Millia Islamia Delhi, and NFDC Mumbai. These sessions covered essential skills such as creative pitching, personal development, effective networking, and understanding the evolving creative economy.

     

     

    Hybrid events featured interactive workshops where participants learned how to navigate the global animation landscape, pitch their ideas confidently and explore transmedia storytelling — transforming stories into toys, games, comic books, and more. These initiatives underscore AFC’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded creators who can thrive across multiple entertainment formats.

     

    1. Global Presence and Unparalleled Networking Opportunities: AFC’s active participation in prestigious events, both domestically and internationally, has further amplified its mission and provided invaluable networking opportunities for participants. . In India, AFC made its presence felt at Mela Mela in Delhi, Comic Con Hyderabad, the VFX Summit, IGDC, Cinematica, AGIF in Mumbai, and IFFI Goa.

    On the global stage, AFC showcased its vision at the Writers Retreat and Producers Workshop in Spain, Lightbox Expo in Pasadena, Animation World Summit in Los Angeles, Unreal Fest 2024 in Seattle, Siggraph 2024 in Denver, the Ottawa International Film Festival 2024 in Canada, and MIPCOM & MIP.JR 2024 in Cannes. These events and roadshows led by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) in Los Angeles and San Francisco have positioned AFC as a pivotal initiative within the global media ecosystem.

     

    Selection of Top Creators for WAVES Summit 2025

    As the competition advances to Round 2, AFC proudly announces the selection of over 75 shortlisted candidates. These top storytellers will be further shortlisted and invited by the MIB to attend the physical WAVES Summit 2025.

    All selected creators will gain access to an exclusive series of masterclasses featuring some of the world’s most renowned industry figures, including:

    • Peter Ramsey, Oscar-winning director
    • Guneet Monga, Oscar-winning producer
    • Shobu Yarlagadda, visionary producer of the Baahubali movies
    • Arnau Olle Lopez, Director of Character Animation from Skydance Animation Studios
    • Kris Pearn, director of acclaimed animated films
    • Anu Singh Chaudhary, celebrated writer and many more.

    This phase aims to equip participants with invaluable insights and tools to refine and pitch their projects at the highly anticipated WAVES Summit 2025.

    From IDEA to IMPACT – Bridging the Gap

    Winners of the competition will present their creative concepts to top producers and leading OTT platforms in India and internationally. With the MIB team aggressively bridging the gap from IDEA to IMPACT and IDEA to INVESTMENT, AFC is creating unparalleled opportunities for creators to collaborate with global entertainment giants.

    Empowering Women and Promoting Diversity

    Dancing Atoms, led by Saraswathi Buyyala, has been at the forefront of promoting diversity and empowering women in the animation and AVGC sectors. Through targeted initiatives, the studio has supported women creators, providing them with platforms to showcase their talents and contribute meaningfully to the industry. The WAVES AFC competition proudly features numerous talented women participants whose creative works are reshaping storytelling norms.

    *****

    Dharmendra Tewari/Kshitij Singha

    (Release ID: 2100796) Visitor Counter : 74

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ecuadorian Man Charged with Being in the United States Illegally After Having Been Previously Removed by Immigration Officials

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that during an arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on February 5, 2025, Alex Patin-Patin, 28, of Ecuador, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with being unlawfully present in the United States after having been previously removed by immigration officials. At a detention hearing held on February 6, 2025, Judge Doyle ordered that Patin-Patin be detained during the pendency of this matter.

    According to court records, Patin-Patin unlawfully entered the United States in or around February 2022, and was then removed from the United States by federal authorities in or around July 2022. It is unknown where or when Patin-Patin re-entered the United States, but in April 2024 Patin-Patin was arrested in South Burlington, Vermont, and charged by the Chittenden County State’s Attorney’s Office with, among other charges, aggravated domestic assault. Because Patin-Patin had not obtained permission to re-enter the United States, his presence in the country was in violation of U.S. law.

    The federal grand jury returned the indictment charging Patin-Patin with this offense in October 2024 and at that time a federal warrant for his arrest was issued. Court records indicate that Patin-Patin’s arrest earlier this week followed surveillance indicating he had been living at an address other than that required by conditions imposed on him by the Vermont Superior Court in connection with his state domestic assault prosecution.

    The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Patin-Patin is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Patin-Patin faces up to two years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

    Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement/ Enforcement and Removal Operations, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Marshals Service.

    The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Lasher and Michelle Arra. Patin-Patin is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Cotton, Crapo Introduce Hearing Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) joined Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) to introduce the Hearing Protection Act, legislation to help law-abiding gun owners better access suppressors to preserve hearing and safety. The bill would reclassify suppressors and treat them like traditional firearms for the purpose of regulation. 

    “Increasing access to hearing protection for sportsmen and hunters is common sense,” said Boozman. “Law-abiding, responsible gun owners should not have to fight burdensome regulations to enjoy their hobbies safely and with the accessories that can protect their hearing. I am proud to join my colleagues to update unreasonable limitations on suppressors and stand with shooting sports enthusiasts.”

    “Burdensome regulations on firearm suppressors are doing more harm than good to sportsmen and women,” said Cotton. “Our legislation will ensure law-abiding gun owners can easily access hearing protection without having to navigate bureaucratic red tape or exorbitant taxes.” 

    “Federal red tape continues to follow the false Hollywood narrative that suppressors are silent, and ignores the reality that they serve a genuine purpose in protecting the hearing of law-abiding American citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights,” said Crapo. “It is past time Congress removes the burdensome barriers to accessing this equipment for the safety of Idaho’s hunters and sportsmen.” 

    Specifically, the Hearing Protection Act would:

    • Remove suppressors from regulation under the National Firearms Act (NFA);
    • Replace the burdensome federal transfer process with an instantaneous National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check, making the purchase and transfer process for suppressors equal to the process for a rifle or shotgun; and 
    • Increase funding into state wildlife conservation agencies by taxing suppressors under the Pittman-Robertson Act instead of the NFA.

    On average, suppressors diminish the noise of a gunshot by 20-35 decibels, roughly the same sound reduction provided by earplugs or earmuffs.  The most effective suppressors on the market can only reduce the peak sound level of a gunshot to around 110-120 decibels, which is roughly equivalent to a jackhammer. 

    The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Rick Scott (R-FL), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Jim Justice (R-WV), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), John Kennedy (R-LA), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Steve Daines (R-MT), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Ted Budd (R-NC), John Hoeven (R-ND), Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Ron Johnson (R-WI).

    The Hearing Protection Act is endorsed by the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the American Suppressor Association (ASA), Gun Owners of America (GOA) and the National Rifle Association (NRA).

    “The Hearing Protection Act will increase access to important hearing protection for millions of Americans,” said President of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology Amyn Amlani, Ph.D. “While the use of conventional hearing protection tools, such as earplugs and earmuffs are fundamental for preventing noise induced hearing loss in firearm users, conventional hearing protection alone does not always offer adequate protection from noise exposure. Firearm noise suppressors can be an effective supplement to traditional hearing protection.”

    “These safety devices reduce the report of a firearm to a level that won’t cause instant and permanent hearing damage,” said NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence G. Keane. “Despite Hollywood’s depictions, they do not silence the sound of a firearm. The focus should be on removing barriers to safe and responsible use of firearms and dedicating resources to ensuring firearms are safeguarded from those who should never possess them. Strict regulatory control of firearm accessories, and the parts of those accessories that have no bearing on the function of a firearm, is unnecessary and not the wisest use of federal resources.”

    “It’s absurd that our unrestrained federal bureaucracy requires Americans to jump through hoops to buy simple hearing protection devices. Momentum continues to grow for common sense reforms that would end the stranglehold of government on the rights of her people,” said President and Executive Director of the American Suppressor Association Knox Williams.

    “Gun owners around the world are using suppressors to reduce the impact of noise and hearing loss while using their firearms. Even in countries with the strictest firearms laws, suppressors are often unregulated products that anyone can buy over the counter. However, outdated federal law makes it difficult for Americans to access these useful safety devices,” said Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action John Commerford.  

    Click here for full text of the legislation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Kennedy Fight to Protect Veterans’ Second Amendment Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Judiciary Committee member John Kennedy (R-La.) and 15 Republican colleagues in introducing the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. This bill would permanently end onerous reporting requirements that cause veterans who receive help managing their Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits to be stripped of their Second Amendment rights without due process. Rep. Mike Bost (R-Ill.), Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, leads companion legislation in the House of Representatives. 

    “I take the constitutional right to bear arms very seriously. Our bill would preserve due process for veterans and put a stop to unelected bureaucrats unjustifiably stripping away the Second Amendment rights of those who’ve served,” Grassley said. 

    “Our veterans should not receive less due process rights than other Americans just because they served our country and asked the federal government for a helping hand. Under the VA’s interpretation of the law, however, unelected bureaucrats punish Louisiana and America’s veterans by forcing them to choose between their Second Amendment rights and getting the help they need as they manage their financial affairs. I’m proud to introduce the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act to stand up for veterans’ constitutional rights by ending this unfair practice,” Kennedy said. 

    The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act is endorsed by the National Rifle Association, the Gun Owners of America, AMAC Action, Vietnam Veterans of America, the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, the Black Veterans Empowerment Council, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Turning Point Action, the Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, the National Disability Rights Network and the National Association for Gun Rights. 

    Find bill text HERE. 

    Background: 

    Under current law, any veteran who appoints a fiduciary to help manage their VA benefits is immediately reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), restricting their Second Amendment right to legally purchase and own a firearm. The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act would end this practice by prohibiting the VA from transmitting veterans’ personal information to NICS unless there is a judicial determination that the individual is a danger to themselves or others. 

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man sentenced over stabbing captured on CCTV

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been sentenced for manslaughter by diminished responsibility – after investigators managed to recover footage of the killing itself.

    Caudel Haughton, 21 (12.11.2003), of Conisborough Crescent, SE6, was sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 7 February. He was sentenced to an indefinite term in a secure hospital over the fatal stabbing 20-year-old Filipe Oliveira on his doorstep on 15 April, 2023.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command – who led the investigation – said:

    “My thoughts today are with Filipe’s family and friends, who have had to wait almost two years for justice. This was an unprovoked attack, which saw Filipe fatally stabbed outside his own home.

    “Our investigation utilised extensive CCTV evidence and witness testimonies. Haughton will be detained indefinitely in hospital – and may spend the rest of his life there, meaning he will no longer be a risk to the public.”

    On the day of the killing, Filipe Oliveira was standing outside his home in Norwood Road, SE27, when he was approached by Haughton. The defendant was caught on CCTV approaching Filipe, armed with a flick knife. He stabbed him five times, before fleeing the scene.

    Officers arrived in Norwood Road around 18:00hrs. They administered CPR, but Filipe tragically died later that evening. Eyewitnesses to the stabbing came forward, and detectives received vital anonymous tipoffs via Crimestoppers. Haughton had bragged about killing Oliveira after the incident.

    Comprehensive CCTV enquiries were able to map Haughton’s entire route from his home address in Catford across several train journeys to Filipe’s home. This journey saw him travel by foot, bus and two trains over an hour-and-a-half.

    Firearms officers from British Transport Police arrested Haughton at Waterloo Station five days later, on Tuesday, 21 April. This came off the back of a joint manhunt operation involving the Met Police, Dorset Police and British Transport Police.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oak Park Gang Members and Drug Suppliers Charged with Drug and Firearm Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a 15-count indictment Thursday against Sacramento residents Kevin Antonio Parker, 38; John Kevin Parker, 45; Veronica Brooks, 42; Xavier Surita, 36; Raymundo Escobar, 27; Marcelino Escobar, 23; and Devon Nelson, 33, charging them with various drug trafficking and firearms offenses, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    A second related indictment Thursday charged Sacramento resident Maurice Collins, 34, with being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents, in November 2023, law enforcement began investigating two high-ranking Oak Park Bloods gang members. Over the course of the investigation, Kevin Parker and his associates sold fentanyl powder, fentanyl pills, more than 15 pounds of methamphetamine, and 12 firearms, including privately manufactured firearms and a firearm equipped with a machine gun conversion device. Kevin Parker was charged with multiple drug offenses involving methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin, as well as being a felon in possession of a firearm, unlawful dealing in firearms, and the possession and transfer of a machine gun. John Parker, Brooks, Raymundo Escobar, Marcelino Escobar, and Nelson were charged with various drug conspiracy and distribution offenses, and Raymundo Escobar was additionally charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    During the investigation, law enforcement officers made multiple purchases of methamphetamine and guns at Sacramento stash houses. On Jan. 28, 2025, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at one such stash house and found Collins residing there and in possession of a firearm. Collins is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of his prior felony convictions.

    These cases are the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Special Services Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily G. Sauvageau and Nicole Vanek are prosecuting the cases.

    If convicted, the defendants in the first indictment each face a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum penalty of life in prison, and a fine of up to $10 million. Collins faces a maximum penalty of 15 years 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: U.S. Attorney’s Office Charges Over 500 Individuals for Immigration-Related Criminal Conduct in Arizona

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – During two weeks of enforcement operations from January 21, 2025, through February 3, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona has brought immigration-related criminal charges against over 500 defendants. Specifically, the Office charged 565 defendants with immigration-related crimes. These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

    Apart from interdiction efforts at the border, Federal law enforcement has been prioritizing immigration enforcement operations and prosecutions of aliens unlawfully in the interior of the country who have connections to criminal activity in the United States, including those who commit drug and firearms crimes, who have serious criminal records, who have active warrants for their arrest, or who have outstanding final orders of removal from the United States issued by an immigration judge. Federal authorities have also been prioritizing investigations and prosecutions against drug, firearms, and alien smugglers and those who endanger and threaten the safety of  our communities and the law enforcement officers who protect us all.

    Recent matters of interest include:

    United States v. Edwin Santiago Marquez Flores: On January 27, 2025, Edwin Santiago Marquez Flores was under surveillance by HSI special agents on suspicion of engaging in human smuggling activity via social media. During a traffic stop, Marquez was found to be illegally in possession of two Century Arms AK47-style rifles, along with over $1,400 in U.S. currency. He was charged by criminal complaint with being an Alien in Possession of a Firearm in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(5). Marquez admitted to being in the United States without legal status and admitted that he picked up the rifles with the intention that they be smuggled into Mexico. Marquez further admitted that he had sold approximately 50 firearms, including 40 to one specific individual who smuggles them to Mexico. He also admitted to transporting and selling cocaine in the United States and to coordinating approximately 300 drivers to smuggle approximately 800-1,000 illegal aliens within the United States. In total, Marquez said he was paid over $1.2 million for his smuggling activities. Case No. 25-3007 MJ.

    United States v. Jason Kyle Dunn: On January 31, 2025, Jason Kyle Dunn, a U.S. Citizen, was charged with smuggling aliens in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1324. Dunn was encountered at a U.S. Border Patrol immigration checkpoint on Interstate 19, driving a Ford F-550. After a human-detecting canine alerted to the vehicle, aliens were found concealed inside toolboxes in the bed of the truck. Specifically, Border Patrol found one subject locked in the driver’s side toolbox, two locked in the passenger side toolbox, and three locked in the main toolbox. The smuggled aliens reported they had no way of opening the toolboxes from the inside and that they had been locked inside the toolboxes for up to two hours before being rescued by Border Patrol. Case No. 25-8428 MJ.

    United States v. Alfonso Garcia Vega: On February 2, 2025, ICE ERO Phoenix arrested Alfonso Garcia Vega, a Mexican citizen and criminal alien, who had previously been removed after a federal felony conviction and had unlawfully returned to the United States. Vega was charged by criminal complaint for illegal reentry after deportation in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a), as enhanced by 8 U.S.C. § 1326(b) because of his prior felony convictions in the United States. Court papers in that prior case reflect that Garcia Vega’s criminal history includes DUIs, assault, illegal reentry, a drug trafficking offense, and misconduct involving weapons. See United States v. Alfonso Garcia-Vega, No. CR-19-00198-PHX-DLR. ICE ERO began its investigation in this matter based on a referral from ATF that Garcia Vega had previously attempted to illegally buy a firearm in the United States, and which purchase had been denied. Garcia Vega had been deported from the United States in 2020 pursuant to a final order of removal issued by an immigration judge after his 2019 federal felony conviction, for which he was sentenced to two years in custody. ICE officers attempted to consensually encounter and arrest Garcia Vega while he was on the sidewalk in front of his residence, but he fled into his residence in an attempt to avoid arrest. ICE ERO then obtained an arrest warrant to enter the residence. Case No. 25-3078 MJ.

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

    CASE NUMBER:            25-3007 MJ       
                                          25-8428 MJ  
                                          25-3078 MJ                                       
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-014_Immmigration Enforcement

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Crack Cocaine and Violating Supervised Release

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on February 6, 2025, to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Daniel Culmer, 57, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan to Count One of the Superseding Indictment and to violating conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around April 2021 to July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Culmer conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack. Culmer was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drug that he distributed to others. At the time of the offense, Culmer was on supervised release from a prior federal conviction in 2018 in the Western District of Pennsylvania for distributing heroin.

    Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for May 29, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $2 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Culmer. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Roanoke, Alabama Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Prison Following Federal Drug Conviction

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               Montgomery, Ala. – On February 6. 2025, a federal judge ordered 41-year-old Clifford Lane Brown, from Roanoke, Alabama, to serve 228 months in prison for possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute the illegal drug, announced Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson. The judge also ordered that Brown remain on supervised release for five years following his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.

               According to Brown’s plea agreement and other court records, on June 3, 2021, deputies with the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office went to a home in Roanoke to make contact with an individual residing there concerning an investigation unrelated to Brown. When deputies arrived, they observed a vehicle parked near the home’s front porch. There were two occupants inside the vehicle — one was a female, the other was Brown. As officers approached the vehicle, deputies saw that Brown was holding a handgun. Deputies ordered Brown to put the firearm down, and Brown complied. Investigators searched the vehicle and found a backpack containing six plastic bags of methamphetamine, a small glass jar of marijuana, a hypodermic needle, and multiple rounds of ammunition. Brown has previous felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.

               The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) analyzed and weighed the methamphetamine. The DEA lab determined that there was a total of 76 grams of methamphetamine seized with a purity level of 98 percent. On October 28, 2024, Brown pleaded guilty to possessing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute the illegal drug.

               The Randolph County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated this case, with assistance from DEA. Assistant United States Attorney Justin L. Jones prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Parrish Man Indicted For Possessing Multiple Firearms As A Convicted Felon

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the  return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Jason Peterson (29, Parrish) with two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Peterson faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison on each count. The indictment also notifies Peterson that the United States intends to forfeit a Smith & Wesson firearm, a Bauer firearm, and a Rossi firearm, used in the commission of the offense.

    According to the indictment, between on or about July 1, 2024, and on or about November 16, 2024, Peterson knowingly possessed a Smith & Wesson firearm and a Bauer firearm. Additionally, on or about October 24, 2024, Peterson knowingly possessed a Rossi firearm. Prior to his possession of each firearm, Peterson knew he had been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including resisting an officer with violence, delivery of a controlled substance, felony littering, and two separate convictions of battery on a law enforcement officer. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tampa Man Indicted For Possessing Firearms As A Convicted Felon

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the  return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Denzel Ingram (27, Tampa) with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Ingram faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Ingram that the United States intends to forfeit a Shadow Systems firearm and a Smith & Wesson firearm, which were used in the commission of the offense.

    According to the indictment, on or about June 23, 2024, Ingram knowingly possessed a Shadow Systems firearm and a Smith & Wesson firearm. Prior to his possession, Ingram knew that he had been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, throwing a deadly missile, and fleeing and attempting to elude a police officer. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. 

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Tampa Police Department.  It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI can boost economic growth, but it needs to be managed incredibly carefully

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Professor Ashley Braganza, Professor of Business Transformation, Brunel University of London

    Erman Gunes / Shutterstock

    The UK government’s efforts to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into public services and stimulate economic growth represents a pivotal step in the roll out of the technology in this country.

    AI offers the promise of improving public services by enabling faster, more efficient processes, personalising provision of those services for the public and optimising decision-making. However, the adoption of this technology in public systems brings inherent risks, particularly in an environment characterised by rapid technological developments.

    A primary concern and challenge lies in ensuring that AI adoption builds trust in public services. Mismanagement of AI can worsen inequality, lead to job losses, and erode public confidence in government and the further rollout of AI-based technologies.

    Balancing these opportunities and risks requires understanding the trade offs involved, notably the tension between job creation and displacement, unconstrained benefits from the misuse of AI, and the need for fairness, transparency, equity and a capacity to be able to explain the design of algorithms.

    AI has the potential to generate employment in fields such as data science, algorithm design and system maintenance. However, automating routine administrative tasks such as form processing and record management threatens to make many public sector roles redundant.

    The challenge lies in maintaining efficiency and accountability while addressing inevitable job gigification. This transition will not be uniform. Workers in roles vulnerable to automation will experience immediate consequences.

    The government has rightly identified the need to invest in reskilling initiatives that prepare workers for an AI-driven future. Reskilling is necessary but insufficient to fuel economic growth.

    As tasks are gigified by AI technologies, traditional full-time jobs become increasingly scarce, leading to more “white collar” workers experiencing income volatility, periods of un- or underemployment and precarious living. Yet, extant financial systems are based upon patterns of monthly income and expenditure on mortgages and rent or utilities.

    Financial systems need to become significantly more flexible to enable workers to align uncertain income streams with unavoidable regular expenditure on necessities such as food and internet connectivity.

    Oversight is key

    The risks of AI algorithm failures are particularly apparent when systems deployed in the public sector cause harm. A glaring example is the UK Post Office scandal, where inaccurate data from the Horizon IT system led to wrongful prosecutions.

    This case highlights the importance of oversight in AI deployment. Without a mix of regulations, guidelines and guardrails, errors in AI systems can lead to serious consequences, particularly in sectors related to justice, welfare and resource allocation.

    Government must ensure that AI-driven systems are not only efficient and accurate but also auditable. Independent bodies should oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of AI systems to reduce risks of failure.

    AI can enhance public services, but it is important to acknowledge that algorithms reflect biases inherent in their design and training data. In the public sector, these biases can have unintended and unforeseen consequences that are invidious, as they are hidden in the depths of complex computer code.

    For instance, AI systems used in housing allocation can exacerbate existing inequalities if trained on biased historical data. Fairness and trust should therefore be core principles in AI development. Developers must use diverse, representative datasets and conduct bias audits throughout the process.

    Citizen engagement is essential, as affected communities can provide valuable input to identify flaws and contribute to solutions that promote equity.
    A key challenge for policymakers is whether AI can deliver on its promise without deepening social divisions or reinforcing discriminatory practices. Transparency in AI decision making is essential for maintaining public trust.

    Citizens are more likely to trust systems when they understand how decisions are made. Governments should commit to clear, accessible communication about AI systems, allowing individuals to challenge and appeal automated decisions. While AI adoption will likely cause disruption in the early stages, these challenges can diminish over time, leading to faster, more personalised services and more meaningful work opportunities for government employees.

    AI systems are dynamic, continuously evolving with the data they process and the contexts in which they operate. Governments must prioritise ongoing review and auditing of AI systems to ensure they meet public needs and ethical standards. Engaging relevant stakeholders – citizens, public sector employees and private sector partners – is essential to this process.

    Transparent communication about the goals, benefits, and limitations of AI helps build public trust and ensures that AI systems remain responsive to societal needs. Independent audits conducted by multidisciplinary teams can identify flaws early and prevent harm. To fully realise AI’s potential and ensure its benefits are distributed equitably, policymakers must carefully balance efficiency, fairness, innovation, and accountability.

    A strategic focus on education, ethical algorithm design and transparent governance is necessary. By investing in education, AI ethics and strong regulatory frameworks, governments can ensure that AI becomes a tool for societal progress while minimising unintended adverse consequences.

    S. Asieh Hosseini Tabaghdehi works for Brunel University of London. She received funding from UKRI (ESRC) to investigate the ethical implication of digital footprint data in SMEs value creation.

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

    – ref. AI can boost economic growth, but it needs to be managed incredibly carefully – https://theconversation.com/ai-can-boost-economic-growth-but-it-needs-to-be-managed-incredibly-carefully-248578

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom signs executive order to further prepare for future urban firestorms, stepping up already nation-leading strategies

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 6, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom signed an executive order to launch key initiatives to continue adapting to future extreme firestorm events in urban communities and leading the way to build a more resilient state.

    Sacramento, California – Adding to California’s nation-leading fire safety  standards, Governor Gavin Newsom today signed an executive order to further improve community hardening and wildfire mitigation strategies to neighborhood resilience statewide. A copy of the executive order is available here.

    We are living in a new reality of extremes. Believe the science – and your own damn eyes: Mother Nature is changing the way we live and we must continue adapting to those changes. California’s resilience means we will keep updating our standards in the most fire-prone areas.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The executive order issued by Governor Newsom does the following:

    • Directs the State Board of Forestry to accelerate its work to adopt regulations known as “Zone 0,” which will require an ember-resistant zone within 5 feet of structures located in the highest fire severity zones in the state.
    • Tasks the Office of the State Fire Marshal with releasing updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps for areas under local government responsibility, adding 1.4 million new acres of land into the two higher tiers of fire severity, which will update building and local planning requirements for these communities statewide.
    • Requires the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) and the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) to work with local, federal and tribal partners on improvements to the Federal resource ordering system for wildfire response. 

    Protecting homes 

    Science has shown that combustible material within the immediate five feet of a structure contributes the greatest risk of embers directly or indirectly igniting the home. “Zone 0” regulations under development for new and existing construction would require an ember-resistant zone within the immediate 5-feet of structures in local area Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Local Responsibility Areas, and Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsibility Areas.

    Zone 0 regulations would move forward this year in tandem with financial assistance and relief for homeowners, proposed in the Governor’s January Budget, and to be augmented by the California Conservation Corps supporting work in vulnerable communities and in coordination with local Fire Safe Councils. While it is anticipated that the regulations would apply to new construction upon taking effect, requirements for existing homes would likely be phased in over three years to allow homeowners to prepare and prioritize mitigations and secure financial assistance.

    Research suggests that the cost of building a home with Zone 0 mitigations already incorporated adds little to no cost to building a comparable home without those features. 

    Updating fire hazard severity areas

    To ensure future resiliency against urban firestorms, local government planners and developers will have to factor in wildfire-hardening requirements in building planning, design, and construction within nearly 2.3 million acres of land in areas where local governments are responsible for wildfire prevention and response, known as local responsibility areas.

    The release of updated Fire Hazard Severity Zones for Local Responsibility Area maps would identify new areas where new development is required to adhere to the highest standards of wildfire resilient building codes and land-use planning. These new zones and maps would add approximately 1.4 million new acres of land into the two higher tiers of fire hazard severity. Specifically, they would expand current wildfire building resiliency requirements in the High-Fire Hazard Severity Zone to approximately 1.16 million new acres, and they would expand both current wildfire building and local planning resiliency requirements in the Very High- Fire Hazard Severity Zone to approximately 247,000 new acres. 

    The release of these updated zones and maps, which are expected to be released one region at a time beginning in Northern California, would begin a 120-day clock for local government jurisdictions to adopt local ordinances incorporating the State Fire Marshal’s recommendations.

    The release of these Local Responsibility Area maps would follow last year’s release of equivalent updated zones and maps in the State Responsibility Area, and follow months of planning discussions, including consultation with insurance providers who have developed their own models to determine risk, premiums and coverage that are independent of the state’s Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps.

    Investing in wildfire prevention

    Overall, the state has more than doubled investments in wildfire prevention and landscape resilience efforts, providing more than $2.5 billion in wildfire resilience since 2020, with an additional $1.5 billion from the 2024 Climate Bond to be committed beginning this year for proactive projects that protect communities from wildfire and promote healthy natural landscapes. Of note, since 2021, the State has made strategic investments in at least 61 fuels reduction projects near the Palisades and Eaton fire perimeters through projects treated over 14,500 acres.

    The Newsom Administration has invested $2 billion to support CAL FIRE operations, a 47% increase since 2018, which has helped build CAL FIRE from 5,829 positions to 10,741 in that same period, and the Administration is now implementing shorter workweeks for state firefighters to prioritize firefighter well-being while adding 2,400 additional state firefighters to CAL FIRE’s ranks over the next five years. 

    Augmenting technological advancements and pre-deployment opportunities 

    The Newsom Administration has also overseen the expansion of California’s aerial firefighting fleet, including the addition of more than 16 helicopters with several equipped for night operations, expanded five helitack bases, and assumed ownership of seven C-130 air tankers, making it the largest fleet of its kind globally. 

    California is also leveraging AI-powered tools to spot fires quicker, has deployed the Fire Integrated Real-Time Intelligence System (FIRIS) to provide real-time mapping of wildfires, and has partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense to use satellites for wildfire detection and invested in LiDAR technology to create detailed 3D maps of high-risk areas, helping firefighters better understand and navigate complex terrains. 

    In anticipation of severe fire weather conditions in early January 2025, Cal OES approved the prepositioning of 65 fire engines, as well as more than 120 additional firefighting resources and personnel in Los Angeles, Orange, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties, and CAL FIRE moved firefighting resources to Southern California including 45 additional engines and six hand crews to the region. 

    During the wildfires, California was able to mobilize more than 16,000 personnel including firefighters, National Guard servicemembers, California Highway Patrol officers and transportation teams to support the response to the Los Angeles firestorms, and more than 2,000 firefighting apparatus composed of engines, aircraft, dozers and water tenders to aid in putting out the fires. 

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    What they’re saying: 

    • Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg, original author of the Mental Health Services Act: “Twenty years ago, I never could have dreamed that we would have the strong leadership we have today, committing billions and making courageous policy changes that question the conventional wisdom on mental health. Now, with the passage of Proposition 1. California is delivering on decades old promises to help people living with brain-based illnesses, to live better lives, to live independently and to live with dignity in our communities. This is a historic moment and the hard work is ahead of us.“
    • Senator Susan Eggman (D-Stockton), author of Senate Bill 326: “Today marks a day of hope for thousands of Californians who are struggling with mental illness – many of whom are living unhoused. I am tremendously grateful to my fellow Californian’s for passing this important measure.  And I am very appreciative of this Governor’s leadership to transform our behavioral health care system!”
    • Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks), author of Assembly Bill 531: “This started as an audacious proposal to address the root cause of homelessness and today, Californians can be proud to know that they did the right thing by passing Proposition 1. Now, it’s time for all of us to get to work, and make sure these reforms are implemented and that we see results.”

    Bigger picture: Transforming the Mental Health Services Act into the Behavioral Health Services Act and building more community mental health treatment sites and supportive housing is the last main pillar of Governor Newsom’s Mental Health Movement – pulling together significant recent reforms like 988 crisis line, CalHOPE, CARE Court, conservatorship reform, CalAIM behavioral health expansion (including mobile crisis care and telehealth), Medi-Cal expansion to all low-income Californians, Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (including expanding services in schools and on-line), Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative, Veterans Mental Health Initiative, Behavioral Health Community Infrastructure Program, Behavioral Health Bridge Housing, Health Care Workforce for All and more.

    More details on next step here

    Recent news

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Building on yesterday’s positive meetings on Capitol Hill and with President Trump, Governor Newsom continued his bipartisan outreach in meetings with House and Senate leadership that focused on securing critical disaster aid for the…

    Feb 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom today announced he will issue an executive order to harden communities from wind-propelled wildfires that turn into urban firestorms.  Washington, D.C. — After meeting with key state and federal leaders on recovery…

    Feb 5, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom traveled to Washington, DC to meet with President Trump and members of Congress — focusing on securing critical disaster aid for the survivors of the Los Angeles fires and ensuring impacted families who lost their…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Two men charged after drugs and firearms seizure

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Two men charged after drugs and firearms seizure

    Friday, 7 February 2025 – 5:14 pm.

    Two men have been charged with drug and firearm offences following a search at their property in Southern Tasmania today.During the search at an address in Kellevie, officers from Southern Drugs & Firearms, Southern Traffic, Southeast CIB, Sorell, Nubeena and Dunalley Police seized two pistols, one being a replica and over 190 cannabis plants.The cannabis plants had a potential street value of $200,000.A 53 year old man was charged and will appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court at a later day, while a 31 year old man was charged and detained to appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court tomorrow morning. He will also be issued with a police family violence order,Detective Acting Inspector Richard Penney stated, “This is another example of police proactively seeking out those in our community who continue to flout our laws. Tasmania Police remains committed to ensuring those who deal in illicit drugs and firearms are brought to justice.”Anyone with information about illegal drug and firearm activity is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Two charged after police seize homemade firearms, drugs

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Two charged after police seize homemade firearms, drugs

    Friday, 7 February 2025 – 1:31 pm.

    Two people have been charged after police seized two homemade firearms, drugs, and stolen property during a targeted search at Kings Meadows.
    Members of Northern Drugs and Firearms Unit executed a search warrant at the residential address on Thursday 6 February, following reports of an aggravated assault the night prior.
    A man was reportedly inside a vehicle when a person known to him approached the vehicle while in possession of a firearm.
    Nobody was physically injured and the firearm was not discharged.
    As part of their investigations, police searched the Kings Meadows residence and located and seized a loaded homemade .22 pistol fitted with a silencer, a loaded homemade .22 pen gun, ammunition, quantities of methylamphetamine, MDMA, cocaine and prescription medication as well as a motorcycle and box trailer believed to have been stolen.
    A 39 year old Youngtown man was arrested and charged with multiple firearms offences, aggravated assault, unlawful possession of property, motor vehicle stealing and minor drug offences.
    He was detained to appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court today.
    A 24 year old Ravenswood woman was also arrested and charged with firearms offences, aggravated assault and minor drug offences.
    She will appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court in April.
    Detective Acting Inspector Jason Jones said homemade firearms were not only illegal, but dangerous and Tasmania Police remained committed to removing them from the community.
    “We encourage anyone in possession of illegal or homemade firearms to hand them over to police. Tasmania has a permanent firearms amnesty – this allows people with unregistered, unwanted firearms to hand them in without fear of prosecution. There are no penalties associated with surrendering firearms during an amnesty regardless of how they may have come into people’s possession,” he said.
    Anyone with information about illegal or homemade firearms should  contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1800 333 000 or online via crimestopperstas.com.au.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Moran champion bill to protect veterans’ Second Amendment rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, today led 14 colleagues in introducing the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. The bill would prevent veterans from losing their Second Amendment right to purchase or own firearms when they receive help managing their Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits.

    “Our veterans should not receive less due process rights than other Americans just because they served our country and asked the federal government for a helping hand. Under the VA’s interpretation of the law, however, unelected bureaucrats punish Louisiana and America’s veterans by forcing them to choose between their Second Amendment rights and getting the help they need as they manage their financial affairs. I’m proud to introduce the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act to stand up for veterans’ constitutional rights by ending this unfair practice,” said Kennedy.

    “Veterans should never be forced to choose between receiving assistance from VA to manage their benefits and their fundamental Second Amendment rights. Our nation should be encouraging veterans to utilize VA services, not discouraging them by denying them due process. The Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act makes certain that the rights of those who have served are protected, and that veterans are not penalized for receiving support that they have earned and deserve. I thank Sen. Kennedy for his partnership in this effort,” said Moran. 

    Rep. Mike Bost (R-Ill.), Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, introduced the bill in the House of Representatives.

    “It should go without saying that veterans should not be treated like second-class citizens simply because they need help managing their books—but under current law they are. Without a permanent fix in place, VA bureaucrats can continue to strip veterans with fiduciaries of their Second Amendment right with no court ruling in place that they are a danger to themselves or others. It’s as simple as that. I have heard from too many veterans that VA’s current NICS reporting measures prevent them from seeking mental health care at VA—we must change that. I want to thank Chairman Moran, Senator Kennedy, and my House colleagues for working with me last Congress to pass a temporary solution, but veterans need a permanent fix. House and Senate Republicans will fulfill the American people’s mandate to get this bill to President Trump’s desk to protect veterans’ due process and constitutional rights for good,” said Bost. 

    Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (S.D.), Kevin Cramer (N.D.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) cosponsored the legislation.

    “I take the constitutional right to bear arms very seriously. Our bill would preserve due process for veterans and put a stop to unelected bureaucrats unjustifiably stripping away the Second Amendment rights of those who’ve served,” said Grassley.

    “Veterans must not be required to forfeit the Second Amendment without a careful, constitutional process. Attempting to deprive former servicemembers of firearms for protection or recreation simply because they require assistance managing the benefits they have earned is bureaucracy at its worst. Our legislation would correct this injustice and preserve these law-abiding patriots’ rights,” said Boozman.

    “The veterans who served our country shouldn’t lose their 2nd Amendment rights just because they need financial help,” said Cassidy.

    “Veterans who have served our country deserve the same Second Amendment rights and protections as every other American. This commonsense legislation ensures that veterans aren’t punished simply because they need assistance managing their benefits and guarantees they are not denied their constitutional rights without due process,” said Tillis. 

    “Our veterans have sacrificed so much to defend this great country, and it is critical their God-given right to protect themselves and their families doesn’t rest on judgement of unelected bureaucrats. It takes a lot of courage and humility for our brave veterans to admit that they need help managing their financial benefits. But it shouldn’t place their constitutional freedoms in jeopardy. This bill ends the ability of government workers to take away the Second Amendment freedoms of our veterans when they ask for help with their money unless a judge finds them to be a danger to himself or others. I stand with our veterans and will continue to fight to preserve the freedoms they fought for on the battlefield,” said Tuberville.

    “I’m proud to stand with our veterans to ensure equal protection of their rights with the Second Amendment Protection Act. Our veterans have fought to protect our nation and defend our rights, and they deserve to be treated fairly with the same due process under the law,” said Scott.

    Because of the VA’s interpretation of current law, the VA sends a beneficiary’s name to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) whenever a fiduciary is appointed to help a beneficiary manage his or her VA benefit payments.

    Ultimately, VA employees decide whether veterans receive help from a fiduciary.

    The bill would prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from transmitting a veteran’s personal information to NICS unless a relevant judicial authority rules that the beneficiary is a danger to himself or others.

    Vietnam Veterans of America, National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, Black Veterans Empowerment Council, Military Order of the Purple Heart, National Shooting Sports Foundation, National Rifle Association, Gun Owners of America, AMAC Action, Turning Point Action, Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, National Disability Rights Network and the National Association for Gun Rights support the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act.

    Background:

    • In the 116th Congress, Kennedy introduced the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. 
    • In the 118th Congress, Kennedy and Moran re-introduced the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act with six co-sponsors. 
    • In Oct. 2023, the Senate passed Kennedy and Moran’s amendment to the Consolidated Appropriations Act based on the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. The same language passed into law as part of an appropriations package in March 2024.
    • The language included in the appropriations package only provided a temporary solution tied to appropriations. The Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act would make the fix permanent and prevent future VA administrations from undoing the work to restore veterans’ due process and Second Amendment rights. 

    The bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –