NewzIntel.com

Category: Gun Control

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbus man sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for drug & gun crimes

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

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Columbus man known as “Philly” was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 130 months in prison for narcotics and firearms crimes.

    Bernard Clark McMillon, 32, conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute controlled substances, including 40 grams or more of fentanyl and five grams or more of methamphetamine. McMillon also possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    According to court documents, from fall of 2022 through February 2023, McMillon and a co-defendant used a series of different houses in central Ohio to traffic fentanyl, crack cocaine and methamphetamine. Their stash houses included residences on South Terrace, Doren, Columbian, Floral and Springmont avenues and McCarley Drive West.

    McMillon and the co-defendant took advantage of people with addictions who were using the defendants’ residences to make drug sales on their behalf.

    Law enforcement seized two pistols and a 12-gauge shotgun as part of this investigation.

    A federal grand jury indicted McMillon in February 2023 and he pleaded guilty in June 2024.

    Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Daryl McCormick, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); and Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant announced the sentence imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Micheal H. Watson. Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin W. Kelley and Tyler Aagard are representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal possession of firearm sends Belgrade man to prison for almost three years

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

    MISSOULA — A federal judge today sentenced a Belgrade man to two years and nine months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking investigation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Isaac James Cardona, 45, pleaded guilty in June to prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

    U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.

    In court documents, the government alleged that in November 2023, agents with the Missouri River Drug Task Force were conducting surveillance in Belgrade in an area known for drug trafficking. Law enforcement stopped Cardona, who had an outstanding state warrant. Cardona was found to be in possession of a loaded gun, two loaded magazines with extra ammunition for the gun, methamphetamine, a digital scale and 49 fentanyl pills. Cardona previously was convicted of a federal methamphetamine distribution crime and prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Missouri River Drug Task Force, and Belgrade Police Department 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 Security: Previously Convicted Felon Is Sentenced To Prison For Possession Of Ammunition

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

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. – David Matthew Lowe, 33, of Shelby, N.C., was sentenced today to 57 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

    Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Gerald Childress of the Kings Mountain Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

    According to court documents and court proceedings, on August 12, 2023, at approximately 1:45 a.m., officers with the Kings Mountain Police Department were dispatched to a Comfort Inn in the area for a service call for an assault. Upon entering the hotel lobby, an officer encountered a female, identified in court documents as L.T., and the defendant. L.T. told the officers that Lowe had hit her, and she could not see out of her eye. At that point, Lowe fled toward the back of the hotel. Officers chased after Lowe and ultimately Lowe was taken into custody.

    As part of the investigation, law enforcement obtained CCTV footage from the hotel that depicted Lowe possessing a firearm during his assault of L.T. Specifically, the footage depicted L.T. and Lowe having an altercation, L.T. running away from the hotel room, and Lowe following her. Lowe then removed a firearm from his pants and struck L.T. in the side of her head. This caused the firearm’s magazine to break and ammunition along with several firearm parts fell to the floor. The defendant then struck L.T. several more times with a closed fist, causing L.T. to fall to the ground. Lowe then left the scene. Law enforcement recovered the firearms parts from the scene and 15 rounds of mixed ammunition. Court records indicate that Lowe has prior criminal convictions, including a federal conviction in the Western District of North Carolina for conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity – RICO conspiracy. Because of the criminal convictions, Lowe is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

    Lowe is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

    The investigation was conducted by the ATF and the Kings Mountain Police Department.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Frick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

    * * *

    According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 19% of domestic violence involves a weapon. The presence of a gun in a domestic situation increases the risk of homicide by 500%.

    To understand more about domestic violence, visit: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-violence#dv. If you require immediate help, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) or Strong Hearts Native Helpline at 1-844-762-8483.

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ awarded to 463 personnel of various States/UTs/CAPFs/CPOs for the year- 2024

    Source: Government of India

    ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ awarded to 463 personnel of various States/UTs/CAPFs/CPOs for the year- 2024

    ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ recognizes excellent work, promote high professional standards and boost the morale of the officials/officers in the fields of Special Operation, Investigation, Intelligence and Forensic Science

    Initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah, ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ will boost the morale of all police personnel

    ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ was instituted by Ministry of Home Affairs in February, 2024

    Medal will be announced on 31st October every year, i.e., on the occasion of Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

    Posted On: 31 OCT 2024 10:17AM by PIB Delhi

    The ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ has been awarded to 463 personnel of various States/Union Territories (UTs)/Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)/Central Police Organisations (CPOs) for the year 2024.

    The medal is given to recognize excellent work, promote high professional standards and boost the morale of the concerned official/officer in the following four fields:

     

    (i) Special Operation.

    (ii) Investigation.

    (iii) Intelligence.

    (iv) Forensic Science.

    Initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah, ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ will boost the morale of all police personnel

    The ‘Kendriya Grihmantri Dakshata Padak’ has been instituted vide Ministry of Home Affairs’ Notification dated 1st February, 2024. It is to be conferred on members of the Police Forces, Security Organization, Intelligence Wing/Branch/Special Branch of State/UTs/CPOs/CAPFs/National Security Guard (NSG)/Assam Rifles; and Forensic Science (Central/State/Union Territories) in consideration for excellence in Operations, outstanding service in Investigation, exceptional performance indomitable & daring intelligence service, meritorious work done by Serving Government Scientists in the field of  Forensic Science.

    The medal will be announced on 31st of October every year, i.e., on the occasion of Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

    The list of awardees is available on MHA website – https://www.mha.gov.in

    Click here to see the list of awardees:

    *****

    RK/VV/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2069778) Visitor Counter : 104

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Change to the Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    To Nasdaq OMX Copenhagen
    30 October 2024
    Company Announcement No 14/2024

    Change to the Board of Directors

    Today, Ellen Dalsgaard Zdravkovic, member of the Board of Directors in the Bank of Greenland has informed us, that she steps down from the Board of Directors as of today. The change happens because she takes on a new position in another financial institution.

    Ellen Dalsgaard Zdravkovic has been a member of the Board of Directors in the Bank of Greenland since March 2021. Following the resignation, Chairman Gunnar í Liða states that: ”Ellen Dalsgaard Zdravkovic has been a well-liked member of the Board of Directors and has made a great effort for the Bank of Greenland. I thank Ellen for her contribution and wish her the best of luck going forward”.

    26 March 2025, on the Annual General Meeting, a new candidate to the Board of Directors will be recommended instead of Ellen Dalsgaard Zdravkovic. Until then, the Board of Directors in the Bank of Greenland will consist of 8 board members.

    Please direct any questions to:

    The Bank of Greenland
    Martin Kviesgaard
    Managing Director

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: East Helena man sentenced to more than 11 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREAT FALLS — An East Helena man who trafficked thousands of fentanyl pills and pounds of methamphetamine while also possessing firearms was sentenced on Oct. 29 to 11 years and four months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.

    The defendant, Thomas Anthony Conley, 37, pleaded guilty in June to possession with intent to distribute meth and fentanyl.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.

    “Thousands of fentanyl pills, pounds and pounds of meth, and multiple guns. A majority of the cases we prosecute include those elements, and I’m pleased to say virtually all of our cases result in federal prison sentences. This case is no different, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute dangerous drug traffickers with the goal that they have the same fate as Conley,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.

    In court documents, the government alleged that Conley possessed multiple firearms and was responsible for importing more than 20,000 fentanyl pills and dozens of pounds of meth into the state. In March and April 2023, law enforcement learned from sources that Conley was supplying meth and fentanyl in the Helena area. The investigation led to search warrants for Conley’s home and vehicles. Officers located several firearms and ammunition in one of his vehicles along with more than 17,000 fentanyl pills. Conley admitted he had worked with others to traffic large quantities of fentanyl pills and several dozen pounds of meth into Montana in the preceding months.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Missouri River Drug Task Force, Southwest Drug Task Force, Montana Highway Patrol 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 Security: Hartford Man Sentenced to More Than 5 Years in Federal Prison for Gun Possession Offense

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

    Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced ANTHONY SANTOS, also known as “A-1,” 36, of Hartford, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 63 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release for illegally possessing firearms.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 17, 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and Hartford Police Department conducted a court-authorized search of Santos’ apartment on Park Street in Hartford.  When investigators entered the apartment, Santos ran to the window and threw a loaded Draco 7.62x39mm assault-style firearm with a high-capacity magazine containing 30 rounds of ammunition.  The firearm landed on a rooftop below and was recovered.  Inside the apartment, investigators seized, three firearm magazines, ammunition, a small amount of fentanyl, large bags containing bulk quantities of marijuana, thousands of bags of marijuana in pre-packaged sleeves, drug processing and packaging materials, jewelry, and approximately $4,070 in cash.

    A search of two vehicles associated with Santos that were parked near the apartment revealed a loaded Smith &Wesson .357 revolver and a loaded Glock .40 caliber pistol, both of which had been reported as stolen.  The Glock was fitted with an illegal “switch” that converted the pistol to a fully automatic weapon.  One of the vehicles contained a backpack with numerous bags of marijuana and approximately $3,290 in cash.

    Santos’ criminal history includes state convictions for narcotics distribution offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

    Santos has been detained since October 17, 2023.  On August 6, 2024, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of firearms by a felon.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments.  The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has assisted the investigation.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Reed Durham and Geoffrey Stone.

    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 gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  In May 2021, the Justice 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 www.justice.gov/psn.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon in Possession Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison Following Shooting at the Palm Beach Gardens Mall

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

    MIAMI – A felon in possession of a firearm was sentenced to 144 months in prison, following a shooting at the Palm Beach Gardens Mall (The Gardens Mall) on Valentine’s Day.

    Yesterday, U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon imposed an upward variance in sentencing Devon Jamal Graham, 29, to 144 months in prison. Graham previously pled guilty to possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance containing fentanyl and cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    Kamarcio Mitchell, 29, a second man who was arrested following the shooting at The Gardens Mall, is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 21 at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Cannon in Fort Pierce, Fla. Mitchell previously pled guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

    On Feb. 14, both Mitchell and Graham were at The Gardens Mall, both separately in possession of a firearm. Mitchell was on the second level of The Gardens Mall near a retail store. Mitchell followed Graham onto the escalator and was manipulating an object under his shirt. Mitchell was then fired upon by Graham and shot. Mitchell fled the mall to the parking lot, leaving a trail of blood. A loaded firearm that had been disassembled was found in the parking lot by police, near the blood trail. Mitchell was later treated for his injury at a local hospital. Upon his later arrest on a federal warrant, authorities discovered Mitchell in possession of a distribution quantity of fentanyl after he unsuccessfully tried to toss the drugs.

    Two firearms were recovered from the vehicle Graham used to travel to the mall, along with a bag containing 35 capsules with a mixture containing fentanyl and a pill bottle with approximately 16 grams of cocaine.

    The recovered firearms had previously travelled in interstate commerce.

    U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Division, U.S. Marshal Gadyaces S. Serralta of the U.S. Marshals Service, Chief Dominick Pape of the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department, and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office announced the sentencing.

    The Office of State Attorney Dave Aronberg for the 15th Judicial Circuit – Palm Beach County provided invaluable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John McMillan and Shannon O’Shea Darsch are prosecuting the case.

    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 gun violence and other violent crime, 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.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 24-cr-80022.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Inmate Admits to Escape, Firearms Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Edgardo Quinones-Hiraldo, age 35, of Ponce, Puerto Rico, pled guilty today to escape and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    According to court documents, Quinones-Hiraldo served 51 months at a federal corrections facility in Florida for a firearms trafficking conviction in Puerto Rico. He was released to Dismas Charities Residential Reentry Center in Clarksburg, West Virginia. Quinones-Hiraldo failed to report to the facility and was arrested in Clarksburg. He had a revolver and a pistol with him at the time of his arrest.

    Quinones-Hirado faces up to five years in prison for the escape charge and faces up to 15 years for the firearms charge. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Marshals Service investigated.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oklahoma City Man to Serve 24 Months in Federal Prison for Firearms Trafficking and Unlawful Possession of a Machinegun

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

    Defendant Forfeits 194 Firearms, More Than Three Tons of Ammunition,

    Nearly $470,000 in Cash, and a Machinegun Conversion Device

    OKLAHOMA CITY – PHILLIP NILES MARTIN, 69, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 24 months in federal prison for firearms trafficking and unlawful possession of a machinegun, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    According to public record, Martin was the subject of two previous Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigations for similar conduct. In 2013, Martin received a verbal warning for dealing firearms without a license and was advised that even with a license he could not deal firearms at an Oklahoma City swap meet.  In 2020, he acknowledged receipt of an ATF cease-and-desist letter after a firearm that he had purchased was recovered at a crime scene in Mexico.

    Public record further reflects that in June 2022, ATF received multiple tips that Martin was illegally dealing in firearms at an Oklahoma City swap meet. An investigation revealed that Martin was still dealing firearms without a license and sold firearms at significantly inflated rates – approximately double retail price – without completing the background checks required by law.

    Pursuant to a search warrant executed at Martin’s residence, agents seized 194 firearms, approximately 6,100 pounds of ammunition, approximately $469,520 in cash, and a machinegun conversion device, commonly known as a “switch,” which when installed, converts a semi-automatic weapon into a fully automatic machinegun. Possession of these devices violates federal law.

    On February 16, 2024, Martin was charged by Information with a conspiracy to illegally traffic firearms and with unlawful possession of a machinegun.

    Martin pleaded guilty to the Information on March 11, 2024, and admitted he knowingly conspired with others to traffic firearms and that he illegally possessed a machinegun conversion device. Martin also agreed to forfeit all 194 firearms, the ammunition, approximately $469,520 in cash, and the machinegun conversion device.

    At the sentencing hearing on October 23, 2024, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Martin to serve 24 months in federal prison, followed by three years in supervised release. In announcing the sentence, Judge Dishman noted the seriousness of the offenses and the fact that Martin had not been deterred from such conduct by prior warnings from law enforcement.

    This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Connolly prosecuted the case.

    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. This case is also part of “Project Switch Off,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s local implementation of PSN. “Project Switch Off” targets illegal machinegun conversion devices to address the significant danger these illegal devices present and to remove them from our streets. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.

    Reference is made to public filings for more information.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Magaziner, HealthSource RI Kick Off 2025 Open Enrollment for Rhode Island’s State-Based Health Insurance Marketplace

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    November 1 is the first date to enroll.

    CRANSTON, R.I. — U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02) joined HealthSource RI (HSRI) Director Lindsay Lang today at Comprehensive Community Action Program (CCAP)’s Family Health Services of Cranston to kick off the annual Open Enrollment period for the state’s health exchange, beginning Friday, November 1 and running through January 31. New customers can purchase plans, and existing customers can change their plan selections during this time without needing a qualifying life event.

    HSRI has served nearly 161,000 Rhode Islanders since its inception in 2013, roughly mirroring the proportion of 1 in 7 Americans, or about 50 million individuals, served by state and federal exchanges nationwide. HSRI’s role in connecting Rhode Islanders to coverage has been booming in recent months, with enrollment swelling to an all-time high of more than 46,000 in its individual and family plan offerings, and an additional 8,200 lives covered through its small employers arm serving local businesses and nonprofits with access to small group plans. Recent findings of its Health Information Survey put Rhode Island’s uninsured rate at a remarkably low 2.2%, among the best in the nation.

    “Every Rhode Islander deserves access to affordable, high-quality healthcare,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner. “The Affordable Care Act has expanded health coverage for tens of thousands of people in our state, and I will continue fighting to protect this lifesaving law from those who seek to repeal it.”

    As the only place Rhode Islanders can receive financial help to pay for their health coverage, HSRI plays a vital role in connecting customers to quality coverage. Currently, 6 out of 7 HSRI customers receive financial assistance, and nearly a third of customers pay less than $10 per month for their health coverage. For 2025, customers can choose from an array of 20 health plans and seven dental plans, all provided by well-known insurance carriers, when shopping through the marketplace. Cost-comparison tools on the HealthSource RI website and an abundance of phone, web-based and in-person support options make it convenient to get help when reviewing plans.

    “HealthSource RI is proud to serve an important role in connecting so many Rhode Islanders to quality coverage,” said HSRI Director Lindsay Lang. “Having the coverage you need for preventive care, or treatment when you or your loved one are sick, is a vital stabilizing tool for families and individuals, across all walks of life. With more than a decade of experience as a trusted guide, HSRI is here to help ensure our fellow Rhode Islanders have that peace of mind.”

    Along with Magaziner and Lang, Joanne McGunagle, President & CEO of CCAP, whose trained navigators assist community members at numerous locations statewide in the application process for coverage through both HealthSource RI and Medicaid, spoke to the importance of high-quality health coverage for patients in order to seek preventative health care and maintain healthier communities.

    “As the major provider of health care in the City of Cranston, we know how vitally important it is for our patients to have access to affordable health insurance. CCAP is proud to have our Navigators working directly with patients to assist with enrollment in health insurance, in collaboration with RIHCA and HealthsourceRI. HealthSource RI provides expert staff to assist them in selecting a plan that makes sense for them and their families. With diminishing availability of medical providers, having health insurance gives them a step up and more options to receive care.  We are grateful to Congressman Magaziner for championing this most valued service for the most vulnerable,” said Joanne McGunagle, President & CEO of CCAP.

    Individuals and families can learn about various types of assistance, compare costs, and enroll in, change or renew their health and dental coverage at HealthSourceRI.com/OE, or call 1-855-840-HSRI (4774).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marion Man Sentenced to 262 Months in Prison

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

    FORT WAYNE–James Darquan McCreary, 45 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

    McCreary was sentenced to 262 months in prison followed by 8 years of supervised release. 

    According to documents in the case, in March 2020, McCreary possessed more than 500 grams of cocaine that was intended for distribution and illegally possessed firearms as a convicted felon.  McCreary was determined to be a career offender based on his prior felony battery and robbery convictions from Grant County, Indiana.  

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the J.E.A.N. (Joint Effort Against Narcotics) Team Drug Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Marion Police Department, the Grant County Sheriff’s Department, the Grant County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Cass County Sheriff’s Department, and the Wabash County Sheriff’s Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Florida Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death of Baby and Possession of Firearms as a Convicted Felon

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

    MIAMI – Yesterday afternoon, Darnell Mendez, 36, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, by U. S. District Judge Robin L. Rosenberg. Mendez and his girlfriend, Samantha Yi, previously pled guilty to federal offenses resulting from a long-term joint investigation by the Boynton Beach Police Department (BBPD), the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) following the death of a 10-month-old infant in Boynton Beach, Fla. who had ingested fentanyl. Yi is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 9, 2025, and faces a minimum mandatory sentence of at least twenty years in prison.

    On March 31, 2022, PBSO responded to a 911 call of an infant in distress. The infant was transported to Bethesda Hospital East in Boynton Beach with her mother. On April 1, 2022, the baby was transferred to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital in Hollywood, Fla. On April 5, 2022, the baby died. An autopsy conducted by the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner determined that the baby’s death was caused by fentanyl intoxication and that her manner of death was a homicide.

    The BBPD conducted a homicide investigation during which law enforcement recovered fentanyl at the baby’s home. The investigation determined that the baby’s mother and father were addicts and had been abusing fentanyl regularly in the kitchen of their apartment. The investigation also determined that the baby was teething and ingested fentanyl on March 31, 2022, while in the care of her mother, and while her father was at work. The mother was arrested by the BBPD and charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child by culpable negligence.

    DEA joined the investigation to identify the drug dealers that were responsible for the distribution of the fentanyl that killed the baby. Through data and information retrieved from the mother’s cellphone, law enforcement was able to identify Yi as the drug dealer. The investigation uncovered months of electronic communications exchanged between Yi and the mother involving drug transactions in which the mother was the customer. The investigation further determined that Yi’s boyfriend, Mendez was also involved in the distribution of fentanyl. Investigators were able to determine that on March 30, 2022, the mother met with Yi in Boynton Beach to purchase fentanyl, and that fentanyl was ingested by the baby resulting in her death.

    As part of the joint investigation, DEA, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), BBPD, and PBSO conducted an operation involving two undercover officers who purchased fentanyl from Yi and Mendez. The undercover operation culminated in the arrests of Yi and Mendez on March 6, at their residence in Lake Worth, where law enforcement discovered 14 firearms. As part of their pleas, Yi and Mendez admitted being felons unlawfully in possession of firearms.

    U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the DEA, Miami Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the ATF, Miami Field Division, Chief Joe DeGiulio of BBPD, and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of PBSO announced the sentencing.

    The Office of State Attorney Dave Aronberg for the 15th Judicial Circuit – Palm Beach County provided invaluable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam McMichael and Shannon O’Shea Darsch are prosecuting the case.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 24-cr-80041.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Murderer Found Guilty of Illegally Possessing Multiple Firearms Following Federal Jury Trial

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

    INDIANAPOLIS— A federal jury has convicted Salam Abdul Ali, 57, of Indianapolis, of illegally possessing firearms as a previously convicted felon, following a one-day trial.

    According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on January 28, 2024, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers were dispatched to a home for a domestic disturbance call. Upon arrival, a woman who lived at the home with her children reported that her ex-boyfriend, Salam Abdul Ali, owned guns and made threats to kill her, her children, and her brother following an argument the previous night.

    On February 14, 2024, IMPD investigators conducted a court-authorized search at Ali’s residence. During the search, investigators located five firearms in his bedroom, along with ammunition and firearm accessories. Ali was present and admitted to law enforcement officers, “I got guns, I sure do,” which was captured on body worn camera.

    During the investigation, officers learned that Ali’s former name was Christopher Butler. Ali changed his name from Butler after he was convicted of murder in Marion County and sentenced to sentenced to 60 years in prison. He was released from state prison in approximately 2013. In 2019, Ali was convicted in federal court for his involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy and sentenced to time served in federal prison. Ali was still on federal supervised release at the time of his most recent arrest. Ali is permanently prohibited from ever again legally possessing a firearm as a result of his felony convictions.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman presided over the trial and will sentence the defendant at a future hearing. Ali faces up to 15 years in federal prison.

    U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Pam Domash and Zachary Szilagyi, who prosecuted this case.

    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: Gore Resident Sentenced For Federal Firearm Charge

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

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Kelly Don Girty, Jr., age 30, of Gore, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 46 months for illegally possessing a firearm. The Court ordered the federal sentence to run consecutive to state sentences Girty received in the District Court of Sequoyah County.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    On May 2, 2024, Girty pleaded guilty to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm.  According to investigators, on January 7, 2024, a Sequoyah County Sheriff’s deputy conducting a routine traffic stop discovered Girty in possession of a .22 caliber bolt action rifle.  At the time of the stop, Girty had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and was prohibited from possessing firearms.

    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 Honorable John C. Coughenour, Senior U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma.  Girty will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterville Woman Pleads Guilty to Directing Another to Illegally Purchase a Firearm for Her

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Nikeshia Knight paid for the purchase made and provided the straw purchaser with fentanyl after the sale

    BANGOR, Maine: A Waterville woman pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to aiding and abetting another individual in making false statements during the purchase of a firearm.

    According to court records, after a Glock pistol was recovered following a July 2022 arrest in Salem, Massachusetts, an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) revealed the firearm had been purchased at a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL) in Fairfield, Maine the prior month. ATF contacted the dealer who provided a copy of the ATF Form 4473 associated with the purchase. The FFL also provided ATF with a 4473 associated with another firearm purchase on June 16, 2022. Further investigation revealed that a second individual, Nikeshia Knight, 25, was involved in this purchase. When interviewed, Knight admitted that she had used a straw purchaser to acquire the firearm because she would not pass a background check, providing the individual with money for the purchase and with fentanyl after it was successfully made. Text messages between Knight and the proxy purchaser confirmed that Knight directed the purchase. 

    Knight faces a maximum of five years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine to be followed by up to three years of supervised release. She will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The ATF investigated the case.

    STRAW PURCHASING: A straw purchase is an illegal firearm purchase where the actual buyer of the gun, being unable to pass the required federal background check or desiring to not have his or her name associated with the transaction, uses a proxy buyer who can pass the required background check to purchase the firearm for him/her.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defendant pleads guilty to throwing incendiary device, causing fire in local grocery store

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CINCINNATI – A local man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court here today to damaging a Spring Grove Village grocery store with an incendiary device in the style of a Molotov cocktail.

    Donald Donatelli, 28, currently of Batavia, admitted to causing malicious damage and destruction of a building in interstate commerce. The plea agreement includes a recommended sentence of 66 months in prison.

    According to court documents, at approximately 10pm on Nov. 26, 2023, Donatelli threw the incendiary device into the store while the store’s owner and his wife were inside. The store was open at the time of the fire.

    Donatelli had traveled to the grocery store on Gwinnet Drive with a co-defendant. Donatelli approached the front glass doors of the grocery store and had a bottle of gasoline with a rag inside. He lit the rag and threw the bottle inside the front doors while the co-defendant filmed a Snapchat video of the crime.

    A federal grand jury indicted Donatelli and the co-defendant in April 2024. Charges remain pending against Angela Schweitzer, 35.

    Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), announced the guilty plea entered today before U.S. District Judge Matthew W. McFarland. U.S. Attorney Parker and Special Agent in Charge McCormick acknowledged the assistance of the Cincinnati Fire Department, Cincinnati Police Department, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and Union Township Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Megan Gaffney Painter is representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four members of Tidewater drug trafficking conspiracy and two who supplied firearms sentenced to prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NORFOLK, Va. – Four people have been sentenced to prison for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine and other drugs in the Tidewater area.  Two others have been sentenced to prison for providing firearms to one of the members of the drug trafficking conspiracy.

    By the fall of 2021, Leonard Tromell Brooks, 41, of Virginia Beach, a previously convicted drug trafficker, was conspiring with Kyle Derek Dean, 33, and Katie Loren Harbor, 29, both of Norfolk, to traffic significant quantities of methamphetamine in the Tidewater area. By January 2022, Colin Thomas Costello, 35, of Virginia Beach, had joined the conspiracy.

    On March 15, 2022, Dean transported Harbor so she could sell 3.41 grams of meth to an individual in Virginia Beach. On April 20, 2022, Dean sold 2.78 grams of meth to another individual in Norfolk.

    On April 6, 2022, Costello sold 26.05 grams of meth, and on April 12, 2022, Costello sold 67.50 grams of meth. On April 22, 2022, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on Costello in Virginia Beach. Prior to coming to a stop, Costello tossed 58.83 grams of meth from the vehicle’s window.

    On April 20, 2022, and again on April 21, 2022, Brooks sold cocaine from a residence in Virginia Beach. Law enforcement learned that Brooks was expecting a shipment of meth from his Florida-based supplier to arrive in Virginia via train on April 22, 2022. They intercepted the courier and recovered five kilograms of 100% pure meth, commonly known as “ice” or “crystal” meth. On at least two previous occasions, Brooks ordered similar quantities of crystal meth for further distribution by Dean, Harbor, and Costello.

    On April 22, 2022, law enforcement executed search warrants at residences affiliated with all four conspirators. From Brooks’ residence, investigators recovered 219 grams of cocaine, 7.9 ounces of marijuana, $26,388 in drug-trafficking proceeds, a .45 caliber handgun, and ammunition. From Dean and Harbor’s residence investigators recovered 3.07 grams of meth, a ledger showing amounts of money owed to Dean and Harbor, digital scales, and packaging materials, as well as another 4.12 grams of meth found on Dean’s person. From Costello’s residence investigators recovered 405 grams of meth, quantities of fentanyl and cocaine, packaging materials, scales, and 14 firearms.

    As a previously convicted felon, Costello could not legally possess firearms. Jonathan Morrell Scott, 37, of Virginia Beach, straw purchased four firearms for Costello prior to April 22, 2022. On July 26, 2023, Scott pled guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. On Dec. 12, 2023, Scott was sentenced to four months in prison.

    Costello’s girlfriend, Amber Dawn Hendricks, 40, of Virginia Beach, purchased four firearms in the two months preceding the search, including two purchased just two days before the search, despite being a user of and addicted to meth. She kept those firearms in the residence she shared with Costello. Despite being prohibited from possessing firearms, she and Costello kept a total of 11 firearms in their bedroom at the residence. On May 7, 2024, Hendricks was charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. On Oct. 2, 2024, Hendricks was sentenced to two years and six months in prison.

    On Jan. 26, 2023, Costello pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; manufacture, distribution, and possession with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance; and possessing, using, and carrying firearms in furtherance of and during and in relation to a drug-trafficking crime. Costello was sentenced today to 20 years in prison.

    On Jan. 24, 2023, Dean pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine. On June 15, 2023, Dean was sentenced to 18 years in prison.

    On Jan. 12, 2023, Harbor pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine. On June 1, 2023, Harbor was sentenced to nine years in prison.

    On Jan. 10, 2023, Brooks pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; manufacture, distribution, and possession with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance; and possessing, using, and carrying firearms in furtherance of and during and in relation to a drug-trafficking crime. On May 12, 2023, Brooks was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

    Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division; James VanVliet, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; Derek W. Gordon, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C.; Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Mark Talbot, Chief of Norfolk Police; Paul Neudigate, Chief of Virginia Beach Police; and Ramin Fatehi, Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin G. Bird and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham M. Stolle, an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney with the Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Office, prosecuted the case.

    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.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:22-cr-126 (Brooks, Dean, Harbor, and Costello), 2:23-cr-48 (Hendricks), and 2:23-cr-51 (Scott).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eleven Minneapolis Gang Members Charged with RICO Conspiracy, Murder in Aid of Racketeering, and Drug Trafficking Offenses

    Source: United States Attorneys General 4

    A federal grand jury in Minneapolis returned an 18-count indictment yesterday against 11 alleged members of the Lows — a violent Minneapolis street gang — for crimes including Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy involving murder, attempted murder, gun trafficking, and drug trafficking.

    “According to the indictment, these defendants are leaders, organizers, and members of the Lows street gang, a violent gang that allegedly committed multiple murders and attempted murders and trafficked in guns and drugs, including fentanyl,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Violent gangs that engage in bloody street wars and peddle deadly drugs endanger our communities. The Criminal Division, along with our local, state, and federal partners, is committed to holding violent criminals accountable, including by bringing racketeering charges.”

    “The Lows are an exceptionally violent criminal street gang that has terrorized north Minneapolis for nearly 20 years. Through threats and violence — shootings and murders — the Lows have long sought to establish dominion over large swaths of our city,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger for the District of Minnesota. “My office will continue to respond to gang violence by treating it as the organized criminal activity it is. This indictment is an important step in dismantling a violent street gang that has devastated families and communities in north Minneapolis.”

    “More than 100 people lose their lives to gun violence every day in the United States,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) St. Paul Field Division. “There will never be a time where this will be considered acceptable. Our ATF agents put forth solid investigative work in this case utilizing crime gun intelligence that without a doubt aided the case announced today. ATF is happy to work alongside each of our partners in this investigation, and we are grateful to the Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Luger, and the entire team for taking up this challenging RICO case.”

    “The charges in this indictment reflect our unwavering commitment to bringing violent criminals to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of the FBI Minneapolis Field Office. “For too long, the Lows have inflicted pain and spread fear in north Minneapolis. Together with our law enforcement partners, we are determined to remove this threat from our communities and help restore a sense of security to all who call this city home.”

    “Today’s indictment provides a stark reminder that violence and drug trafficking go hand-in-hand,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven T. Bell of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division. “These were not victimless crimes. Communities were hurt. The DEA will continue its unwavering focus to remove threats of violence and hold accountable the individuals responsible for inflicting fear on the streets of Minneapolis.”

    “The individuals named in this indictment allegedly engaged in homicide, and illegal drug and firearms trafficking, which created an atmosphere of terror and disrupted countless lives in this community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ramsey E. Covington of the IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) Chicago Field Office. “These charges represent a pivotal milestone in our commitment to restore safety and uphold justice in the communities we serve. Working with their federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, IRS-CI special agents will continue to follow every financial trail to dismantle the networks fueling these criminal enterprises. We stand united against the violence and fear that street gangs have inflicted upon our communities in Minneapolis and elsewhere.”

    “The Lows, and criminal organizations like them, wreak havoc on our communities, threatening the safety of our communities on a daily basis through their many acts of violence, murder, and narcotics and firearms trafficking,” said Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) St. Paul. “HSI St. Paul will continue to foster a strong collaboration with our law enforcement partners to bring an end to the chaos these criminal organizations inflict on our local communities.”

    “This multi-count indictment against ranking members of the Lows gang is an excellent example of multiple law enforcement agencies combining their expertise and resources to conduct investigations with the common goal of taking down violent leaders perpetuating street violence involving guns and narcotics,” said Inspector in Charge Bryan Musgrove of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Denver Division. “These RICO charges aim to remove these allegedly violent offenders from our community. U.S. Postal Inspectors are committed to continuing our work to dismantle drug trafficking operations to keep USPS customers and employees safe from greedy drug traffickers who favor profit over human lives.”

    As alleged in this indictment, the defendants were members of the Lows criminal street gang, which has been in existence in Minneapolis since approximately 2004. The Lows are primarily active in the northside of Minneapolis. They allegedly traffic in firearms and narcotics, including fentanyl, and use threats, intimidation, and violence to protect their territory, reputation, illicit proceeds, and power.

    The indictment charges that the defendants engaged in a pattern of racketeering — that is, unlawful acts of violence, gun trafficking, and narcotics trafficking — for the benefit of the Lows enterprise. These acts include seven alleged murders or attempted murders involving a total of ten victims.

    The 11 defendants, all from Minneapolis, have been indicted for the following crimes:

    Ashimiyu Alowonle II, 38, also known as Cash, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Timothy Callender III, 26, also known as Lil’ Tim, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Glenn Carter III, 23, also known as G5 and Bossman Carter, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Carter is charged with committing a murder on May 14, 2022, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Victor Collins, 22, also known as Vic, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; and possessing a firearm a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Collins is charged with committing a murder and an attempted murder on Feb. 27 as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Damari Douglas, 20, also known as Mari, is charged with RICO conspiracy, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a machine gun. Douglas is charged with committing a murder on Dec. 3, 2023, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Deontae Jackson, 35, also known as Leef, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Shannon Jackson, 32, also known as Shakedown, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jackson is charged with committing a murder on April 27, 2023, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Robert Knights Jr., 19, also known as CMB Rob and Lil’ Rob, is charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    Albert Lucas V, 20, also known as Abk Sav, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Lucas is charged with committing multiple murders and an attempted murder on Feb. 27 and May 6, 2021, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Kaprice Richards, 23, also known as Kap, is charged with RICO conspiracy and using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death. Richards is charged with committing an attempted murder on May 29, 2022, and a murder on April 27, 2023, as racketeering acts in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Cartrelle Smith, 27, also known as Poo Moe, is charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    If convicted, the defendants face a range of penalties, including up to life in prison for racketeering conspiracy involving acts of murder, using a firearm to commit murder, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after the consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    ATF, FBI, DEA, IRS-CI, HSI, USPIS, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and Minnesota Department of Corrections are investigating the case, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.

    Trial Attorney Jared Engelking of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett S. Fields and David M. Classen for the District of Minnesota are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon Who Arranged Gun Sales from Jail Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison

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

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey on Wednesday sentenced a St. Louis County man who was caught arranging for his illegally-possessed guns to be sold to 63 months in prison.

    The sentence for James C. Street, 47, will run consecutive to pending probation violation cases in St. Louis and Jefferson counties.

    Street pleaded guilty in July to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He admitted that while a convicted felon and barred from possessing firearms, he possessed three pistols and an AR-style rifle.

    The investigation began after the St. Louis County Police Department learned that Street, who was in jail at the time, was discussing the sale of his firearms. Police then contacted the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Street sold a .357 magnum revolver through an intermediary, which was later recovered by law enforcement. Investigators learned Street was planning more sales. A court-approved search of the intermediary’s home recovered the remaining guns, as well as ammunition and large capacity magazines.

    At the time, Street was on probation for multiple felony domestic offenses.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Goeke prosecuted the case.

    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: West Lafayette Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison

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

    HAMMOND- Markith Williams, age 39, of West Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

    Williams was sentenced to 27 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

     According to documents in the case, on January 13, 2022, a traffic stop of Williams’ vehicle in Jasper County, Indiana, led to the recovery of a loaded semi-automatic pistol. Williams’ criminal history revealed that he had 3 prior Illinois felony convictions which included being a felon in possession of a firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, and delivery of cocaine, any one of which prohibited him from possessing the firearm in this case. 

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Hammond Police Department, and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department.  The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay and Assistant United States Attorney Kristian R. Mukoski.

    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: Eleven Minneapolis Gang Members Charged with RICO Conspiracy, Murder in Aid of Racketeering, and Drug Trafficking Offenses

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A federal grand jury in Minneapolis returned an 18-count indictment yesterday against 11 alleged members of the Lows — a violent Minneapolis street gang — for crimes including Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy involving murder, attempted murder, gun trafficking, and drug trafficking.

    “According to the indictment, these defendants are leaders, organizers, and members of the Lows street gang, a violent gang that allegedly committed multiple murders and attempted murders and trafficked in guns and drugs, including fentanyl,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Violent gangs that engage in bloody street wars and peddle deadly drugs endanger our communities. The Criminal Division, along with our local, state, and federal partners, is committed to holding violent criminals accountable, including by bringing racketeering charges.”

    “The Lows are an exceptionally violent criminal street gang that has terrorized north Minneapolis for nearly 20 years. Through threats and violence — shootings and murders — the Lows have long sought to establish dominion over large swaths of our city,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger for the District of Minnesota. “My office will continue to respond to gang violence by treating it as the organized criminal activity it is. This indictment is an important step in dismantling a violent street gang that has devastated families and communities in north Minneapolis.”

    “More than 100 people lose their lives to gun violence every day in the United States,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) St. Paul Field Division. “There will never be a time where this will be considered acceptable. Our ATF agents put forth solid investigative work in this case utilizing crime gun intelligence that without a doubt aided the case announced today. ATF is happy to work alongside each of our partners in this investigation, and we are grateful to the Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Luger, and the entire team for taking up this challenging RICO case.”

    “The charges in this indictment reflect our unwavering commitment to bringing violent criminals to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of the FBI Minneapolis Field Office. “For too long, the Lows have inflicted pain and spread fear in north Minneapolis. Together with our law enforcement partners, we are determined to remove this threat from our communities and help restore a sense of security to all who call this city home.”

    “Today’s indictment provides a stark reminder that violence and drug trafficking go hand-in-hand,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven T. Bell of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division. “These were not victimless crimes. Communities were hurt. The DEA will continue its unwavering focus to remove threats of violence and hold accountable the individuals responsible for inflicting fear on the streets of Minneapolis.”

    “The individuals named in this indictment allegedly engaged in homicide, and illegal drug and firearms trafficking, which created an atmosphere of terror and disrupted countless lives in this community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ramsey E. Covington of the IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) Chicago Field Office. “These charges represent a pivotal milestone in our commitment to restore safety and uphold justice in the communities we serve. Working with their federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, IRS-CI special agents will continue to follow every financial trail to dismantle the networks fueling these criminal enterprises. We stand united against the violence and fear that street gangs have inflicted upon our communities in Minneapolis and elsewhere.”

    “The Lows, and criminal organizations like them, wreak havoc on our communities, threatening the safety of our communities on a daily basis through their many acts of violence, murder, and narcotics and firearms trafficking,” said Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) St. Paul. “HSI St. Paul will continue to foster a strong collaboration with our law enforcement partners to bring an end to the chaos these criminal organizations inflict on our local communities.”

    “This multi-count indictment against ranking members of the Lows gang is an excellent example of multiple law enforcement agencies combining their expertise and resources to conduct investigations with the common goal of taking down violent leaders perpetuating street violence involving guns and narcotics,” said Inspector in Charge Bryan Musgrove of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Denver Division. “These RICO charges aim to remove these allegedly violent offenders from our community. U.S. Postal Inspectors are committed to continuing our work to dismantle drug trafficking operations to keep USPS customers and employees safe from greedy drug traffickers who favor profit over human lives.”

    As alleged in this indictment, the defendants were members of the Lows criminal street gang, which has been in existence in Minneapolis since approximately 2004. The Lows are primarily active in the northside of Minneapolis. They allegedly traffic in firearms and narcotics, including fentanyl, and use threats, intimidation, and violence to protect their territory, reputation, illicit proceeds, and power.

    The indictment charges that the defendants engaged in a pattern of racketeering — that is, unlawful acts of violence, gun trafficking, and narcotics trafficking — for the benefit of the Lows enterprise. These acts include seven alleged murders or attempted murders involving a total of ten victims.

    The 11 defendants, all from Minneapolis, have been indicted for the following crimes:

    Ashimiyu Alowonle II, 38, also known as Cash, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Timothy Callender III, 26, also known as Lil’ Tim, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Glenn Carter III, 23, also known as G5 and Bossman Carter, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Carter is charged with committing a murder on May 14, 2022, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Victor Collins, 22, also known as Vic, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; and possessing a firearm a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Collins is charged with committing a murder and an attempted murder on Feb. 27 as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Damari Douglas, 20, also known as Mari, is charged with RICO conspiracy, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a machine gun. Douglas is charged with committing a murder on Dec. 3, 2023, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Deontae Jackson, 35, also known as Leef, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Shannon Jackson, 32, also known as Shakedown, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jackson is charged with committing a murder on April 27, 2023, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Robert Knights Jr., 19, also known as CMB Rob and Lil’ Rob, is charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    Albert Lucas V, 20, also known as Abk Sav, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Lucas is charged with committing multiple murders and an attempted murder on Feb. 27 and May 6, 2021, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Kaprice Richards, 23, also known as Kap, is charged with RICO conspiracy and using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death. Richards is charged with committing an attempted murder on May 29, 2022, and a murder on April 27, 2023, as racketeering acts in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Cartrelle Smith, 27, also known as Poo Moe, is charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    If convicted, the defendants face a range of penalties, including up to life in prison for racketeering conspiracy involving acts of murder, using a firearm to commit murder, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after the consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    ATF, FBI, DEA, IRS-CI, HSI, USPIS, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and Minnesota Department of Corrections are investigating the case, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.

    Trial Attorney Jared Engelking of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett S. Fields and David M. Classen for the District of Minnesota are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCST begins visit to Cascais (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SCST begins visit to Cascais (with photos)
    SCST begins visit to Cascais (with photos)
    ******************************************

         The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, arrived in Cascais, Portugal, on the evening of October 28 (Cascais time) and began his itinerary yesterday (October 29, Cascais time). In the morning, together with the President of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC), Mr Timothy Fok, Mr Yeung exchanged views with various members of the Executive Council of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), including the ANOC President, Dr Robin Mitchell; the Secretary General, Mrs Gunilla Lindberg; the Vice-President for Africa, Mr Mustapha Berraf; the Vice-President for Europe, Mr Spyros Capralos; and Member for Asia Mrs Li Lingwei.           Attending the Executive Council Meeting alongside a delegation from the SF&OC in the afternoon, Mr Yeung made a presentation on the bid to host the 2026 ANOC General Assembly in Hong Kong. He illustrated that Hong Kong is the ideal place for hosting international events. Mr Yeung said that Hong Kong has a fair and mature legal system thanks to the successful implementation of the “one country, two systems” principle since the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, enabling the city to maintain its social stability. Hong Kong is also an Events Capital of Asia and the World’s Meeting Place. As an international city, Hong Kong is widely connected with the rest of the world, which underlines another strength of Hong Kong.            Mr Yeung added that Hong Kong has been actively advancing the development of sports in the community, supporting elite sports, promoting Hong Kong as a centre for major international sports events, enhancing sports professionalism and developing sports as an industry. In recent years, Hong Kong athletes have achieved impressive results in major international games. Mr Yeung also shared with the meeting the imminent commissioning of the Kai Tak Sports Park in the first quarter of 2025, making it the largest sports infrastructure project in Hong Kong’s history.            Mr Yeung attended a reception hosted by the City of Cascais, during which he exchanged views with City Councillor (Sports and International Affairs) Mr Francisco Kreye and other leading figures in the world of sports, including the International Olympic Council President, Mr Thomas Bach.            Mr Yeung will continue his visit to Cascais, Portugal, today (October 30, Cascais time).

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 30, 2024Issued at HKT 16:35

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Foresight Ventures Announces Strategic Partnership with Deep Blue and Arta TechFin to Enhance Stablecoin and RWA Business Initiatives

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Foresight Ventures, the leading investment firm specializing in Web3 projects, today announced a strategic partnership with Deep Blue, a newly launched Jersey-based stablecoin issuer and Arta TechFin Corporation Limited (Arta TechFin, HKSE: 0279), a Hong Kong listed company via its subsidiaries operating regulated financial institutions and leading blockchain developments. The alliance aims to drive innovation and growth of the Stablecoin and Real-World Asset (RWA) ecosystem.

    Deep Blue is an issuance platform for Stablecoins bringing best-in-class practices and best partners in both digital assets and traditional finance, enabling users to operate across multiple use cases.

    Arta TechFin will bring in its capabilities as a regulated blockchain financial services provider, collaborating with Foresight Ventures and Deep Blue on Stablecoin and RWA businesses including but not limited to origination, tokenization, market making, and providing liquidity. 

    Julien Bahurel, co-founder of Deep Blue, commented on the partnership: “We are excited to join forces with Foresight Ventures to accelerate our efforts in the Stablecoin and RWA sectors. This partnership represents a significant step forward in our mission to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the emerging blockchain economy; leveraging on key crypto partners, large Asia-based conglomerates and financial institutions.”

    Foresight Ventures, known for its commitment to fostering Web3 projects that promote decentralization and mainstream adoption of cryptocurrency, will provide Deep Blue with strategic collaborations that include media and network resources. This partnership is expected to elevate Deep Blue’s initiatives, bringing them to a wider audience and enhancing their impact on the global financial landscape. Both parties look to leverage off each other’s access to the blockchain and traditional finance ecosystems. 

    Forest Bai, Representative at Foresight Ventures, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Deep Blue and ArtaTechFin, companies that share our vision of a decentralized future where blockchain and traditional finance coexist seamlessly. Our strategic resources and industry expertise will help Deep Blue scale its ecosystem and make a lasting impact in the stablecoin and RWA domains.”

    This strategic partnership marks a new chapter for all companies as they work together to pioneer cutting-edge financial solutions that will shape the future of the global economy.

    For more information, please visit Deep Blue Limited or ArtaTechFin

    About Foresight Ventures

    Foresight Ventures is the leading global crypto venture capital firm, managing over $400 million in assets across 100+ investments. With a research-driven approach, Foresight Ventures bridges Eastern and Western markets, focusing on early-stage opportunities in Web3. Its diverse portfolio spans blockchain infrastructure, AI and consumer applications with investments in top companies like Bitget, Aptos Labs, and TON. Through its premier owned media network, including The Block, Coinness and BlockTempo, the firm provides exposure to transformative technologies that shape the future of financial ecosystems.

    Foresight Ventures backs the boldest upcoming innovations, encouraging concepts that challenge conventional platforms with real-life use cases built on emerging technologies. Dedicated to accelerating crypto adoption for billions of people worldwide, Foresight Ventures breaks down barriers empowering global financial freedom and inclusion to all.

    For general enquiries, please email: fv@foresightventures.com

    Contact

    Media Team

    Foresight Ventures

    fv@foresightventures.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: McAlester Resident Pleads Guilty To Federal Firearm Crime

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

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Leslie Ray Upchurch, age 35, of McAlester, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea one count of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.

    The Indictment alleged that on April 28, 2023, Upchurch, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and knowing of such conviction, knowingly possessed one Ruger 9mm Luger caliber semi-automatic pistol and several rounds of assorted 9mm Luger caliber ammunition.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the McAlester Police Department, the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.  Upchurch was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob R. Parker represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA investigation leads to arrest of Toronto man for firearms-related offences

    Source: Government of Canada News

    October 30, 2024               Mississauga, ON            Canada Border Services Agency

    The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) works hard to stop prohibited firearms from entering Canada and to protect our communities.

    Today, the CBSA announced that an arrest was made for multiple firearms-related offences as part of an investigation by the CBSA Ontario Firearms Smuggling Enforcement Team (OFSET). The OFSET is a group of CBSA criminal investigators, intelligence analysts, and intelligence officers dedicated to investigating firearms smuggling throughout the province.

    In August 2024, Border Services Officers working at the International Mail Processing Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, intercepted a parcel that was addressed to a Toronto residence. Officers seized the contents of the parcel, including three prohibited semi-automatic handguns, five cartridge magazines and twelve rounds of ammunition.

    In late August, CBSA investigators, assisted by the Toronto Police Emergency Task Force, executed a search warrant at a residence in Toronto.

    Nicholas Douglas (34 years old) of Toronto was arrested and charged with:

    • 3 counts of Smuggling Prohibited Device under Section 159(1) of the Customs Act pursuant to Section 160;
    • 3 counts of knowingly importing prohibited goods contrary to section 103(1)(a) of the Criminal Code;
    • 1 count of conspiring with a person or persons unknown to commit an indictable offence of importing a prohibited or restricted firearm contrary to section 465(1)(c) of the Criminal Code; and
    • 1 count of knowingly transferring a prohibited firearm contrary to section 99 of the Criminal Code.

    If you have information about suspicious cross-border activity, including firearms smuggling, please contact the CBSA Border Watch Line toll-free at 1-888-502-9060, or visit us online. 

    “The CBSA Ontario Firearms Smuggling Enforcement Team is committed to detecting, investigating and disrupting organized crime. This investigation, arrest, and charges demonstrate our role and strong partnerships to find and seize prohibited firearms.”

    – Abeid Morgan, A/Director, Intelligence and Enforcement Operations Division, Southern Ontario Region, Canada Border Services Agency 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Infinidat Recognized as CRN 2024 Product of the Year Finalist

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WALTHAM, Mass., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Infinidat, a leading provider of enterprise storage solutions, today announced that CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has recognized the Infinidat’s SSA Express Software as a finalist in the 2024 Product of the Year Awards in the “Storage – Enterprise” category.

    Hailed by enterprise customers and channel partners as one of the biggest innovations in enterprise storage over the past year, SSA Express Software for the InfiniBox® hybrid enterprise storage solution provides a fast, all-flash engine integrated into the hybrid array. SSA Express Software eliminates the need for enterprises to purchase separate siloed flash arrays to support smaller applications and workloads that require high performance at low latency.

    “With our new SSA Express Software, enterprise customers can consolidate an increased number of workloads to the InfiniBox hybrid’s flash layer than ever before, taking advantage of an even greater level of application workload alignment and performance within our unique software-defined storage architecture,” said Eric Herzog, CMO at Infinidat. “We’re thrilled that our SSA Express has been named a Finalist in CRN’s Product of the Year Awards competition.”

    SSA Express Software, which is part of Infinidat’s InfuzeOS™ operating system, was designed for enterprise customers who require fast, low-latency application response rates for a number of workloads and applications. It ensures that the application and workloads access the flash layer in the InfiniBox hybrid platform. The new software enables administrators to select specific datasets, applications, and workloads to reside in the SSD layer of the InfiniBox hybrid with near 100% read cache hit rate. They get the higher performance they need when they need it.

    Enabling consolidation of additional workloads and providing full-flash performance on the hybrid array with SSA Express Software reduce costs, simplify storage management, lower IT operational requirements, and deliver ease of management – all without needing to buy small, all-flash arrays to augment the hybrid system.

    Infinidat’s SSA Express Software as a Partner-Friendly Solution

    The CRN Products of the Year Awards recognize the leading partner-friendly products in the IT channel today that either launched or were significantly updated over the last year. These innovative product offerings stand out for their responsiveness to the fast-changing needs of IT solution providers and their customers.

    “Finalists for the 2024 CRN Products of the Year Awards have proven their dedication to developing leading-edge technology that benefits solution provider partners and their customers,” said Jennifer Follett, VP, U.S. Content and Executive Editor, CRN, The Channel Company. “We are pleased to showcase the outstanding products and services of the finalists and look forward to seeing the winners selected by solution providers later this year.”

    The 2024 finalists were chosen by the CRN editorial team in 30 different technology categories. The winners will be selected through a survey of solution providers who will rate the finalists across three criteria (technology, revenue and profit, and customer need) based on their real-world experience with the products.

    Finalists were announced online at www.crn.com on October 30, 2024.

    Winners of the 2024 Products of the Year Awards will be announced in the December issue of CRN Magazine and online at CRN.com/PotY on December 2nd.

    Supporting Quote

    Channel Partner

    • “Enterprise customers wanted to get more from their InfiniBox hybrid platform. Infinidat knows this from their tight relationship with their partner community. They listened and have delivered this exciting new innovation. The SSA Express Software makes it easier for channel partners, like us, to sell the InfiniBox in the enterprise market,” said Ted Carlson, President, and founder of Marcum Technology. “It’s a very strong selling point that enterprises can confidently consolidate more workloads on InfiniBox, reducing CAPEX, OPEX, complexities, and IT operational requirements. In addition, having access to the larger capacity version and partially populated versions of the InfiniBox SSA II adds powerful tools in our toolbox as an IT solutions provider to customize storage to the needs of each enterprise. In addition, their cyber resiliency story makes sense, especially with the latest ransomware threats.”

    About The Channel Company
    The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end users. Backed by more than 40 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. thechannelcompany.com

    About Infinidat
    Infinidat provides enterprises and service providers with a platform-native primary and secondary storage architecture that delivers comprehensive data services based on InfiniVerse®. This unique platform delivers outstanding IT operating benefits, support for modern workloads across on-premises and hybrid multi-cloud environments. Infinidat’s cyber resilient-by-design infrastructure, consumption-based performance, 100% availability, and cyber security guaranteed SLAs align with enterprise IT and business priorities. Infinidat’s award-winning platform-native data services and acclaimed white glove service are continuously recommended by customers, as recognized by Gartner® Peer Insights reviews. For more information, visit www.infinidat.com.

    Connect with Infinidat
    About Infinidat
    Read our blog
    Follow us on X
    Join us on LinkedIn
    Visit us on Facebook
    See us on YouTube
    Be our partner

    Media Contact
    Infinidat
    Sapna Capoor
    Director of Global Communications
    scapoor@infinidat.com I Mobile: +44 (0) 7789684159

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India’s open house discussion on ‘Sports and Human Rights: Safeguarding the Rights and Well-being of Sportspersons’ in India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    NHRC, India’s open house discussion on ‘Sports and Human Rights: Safeguarding the Rights and Well-being of Sportspersons’ in India

    Chairing the discussion, Acting Chairperson Smt Vijaya Bharathi Sayani says respecting human rights of the sportspersons and ensuring protection thereof through an institutionalized mechanism is necessary for better performance of the country’s talent in sports

    Intersectionality between athlete rights and the role of institutions in safeguarding them highlighted

    Among various suggestions, strengthening institutional mechanism within various sport bodies to develop social equitability among the sportspersons emphasized

    Ensuring action on complaints of sexual harassment through functional institutional mechanisms in all sports bodies underscored

    Posted On: 29 OCT 2024 7:51PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, organized an open house discussion in hybrid mode on ‘Sports and Human Rights: Safeguarding the Rights and Well-being of Sportspersons’ at its premises in New Delhi today. Chairing the discussion, Acting Chairperson, Smt. Vijaya Bharathi Sayani said that maintaining human values is the hallmark of a sportsperson’s spirit. Therefore, respecting the human rights of the sportspersons and ensuring protection thereof through an institutionalized mechanism is necessary for better performance of the country’s talent in sports.

    She highlighted the importance of understanding the intersectionality between athlete rights and the role of institutions in safeguarding them. The concept of intersectionality can help policy makers and sport programmers understand how different types of discrimination – like racism, homophobia, and ableism – combine to prevent athletes particularly women from participating in sport.

    The Acting Chairperson also stressed strengthening the judicial mechanisms in addressing any violations of athlete rights besides the rehabilitation of sportspersons in case of abuse and addressing their mental health concerns.

    NHRC, India Director General (Investigation), Shri Ajay Bhatnagar emphasized zero tolerance for sexual abuse of sportspersons. He highlighted how institutions, especially those in authority, are more accountable for safeguarding athletes.

    Earlier, the NHRC, India Joint Secretary, Shri Devendra Kumar Nim gave an overview of the three technical sessions of the open house which included ‘Rehabilitation of Sportspersons after Incidents of Abuse,’ ‘Mental Health of Sportspersons in India’ and ‘Institutional Frameworks Required to Safeguard Interests of Sportspersons.’

    Some of the suggestions that emerged from the discussion were as follows:

    • It is necessary to have coaches having training in clinical psychology to prepare the athletes better;

    • Streamline insurance benefits to athletes suffering sports injuries;

    • Bring awareness among athletes to report sexual abuse;

    • Ensure action on complaints of sexual harassment through functional institutional mechanisms in all sports bodies;

    • Strengthen institutional mechanisms to support para-athletes;

    • Strengthen institutional mechanisms within various sports bodies to develop social equitability among sportspersons from diverse backgrounds and marginalized communities;

    The meeting was attended by the representatives of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Netaji Subhas Sports Authority of India at Patiala, National Centre for Sports Science and Research, National Sports University, Imphal, Wrestling Federation of India, National Rifle Association of India, All India Kabaddi Federation, Sports and Rights Alliance, Switzerland, WAKO India Kickboxing Federation, Humans for Sports, UK, GoSports Foundation based in Bangalore, India and Sports Injury Centre at the Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi.

    ***

     

    NSK

    (Release ID: 2069346) Visitor Counter : 63

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Second ‘Moving Beyond Implications’ Conference Aims to Advance Evidence-Based Policy

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    For the second year in a row, an innovative conference that seeks to bridge the gap between research and policymaking in order to advance evidence-based policy solutions is coming to Hartford.

    The “Moving Beyond Implications: Research into Policy” (Moving Beyond) conference will be held on Thursday, Dec. 12, at 12 p.m. at the Legislative Office Building in in the capital city.

    Connecticut researchers will be able to connect with legislators and other policymakers to discuss pressing issues affecting the state ahead of the General Assembly’s 2025 legislative session.

    Kerri Raissian, Scholars Strategy Network Connecticut Chapter (CT SSN) Co-Leader and Director of the UConn Center for Advancing Research, Methods, and Scholarship in Gun Injury Prevention (ARMS), State Rep. Jaime Foster (Ellington, East Windsor, Vernon), and State Rep. Dominique Johnson (Norwalk, Westport) will host this year’s conference.

    Kerri Raissian. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)

    CT SSN and UConn’s Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP) are co-sponsoring the event.

    “We need more opportunities like this one, that pools Connecticut’s collective expertise and connects its researchers, legislators, and policymakers who care deeply about enacting evidence-based policy that improves the lives of Connecticut residents,” says Raissian, who spearheaded the conference with Rep. Foster.

    Researchers can participate in “Moving Beyond” by presenting their policy-relevant research, submitting policy briefs, and attending the conference. Researchers interested in presenting their policy-relevant work to lawmakers, can submit an abstract to CT SSN by Friday, November 1, 2024 at 12PM. Abstracts should be emailed to ctscholarsnetwork@gmail.com and have “Moving Beyond Abstract Submission” as the subject line.

    Presenters can focus on findings from a grant project, paper, or another focused initiative. They may also summarize key or novel findings from their research and the work of other researchers.

    Presentations should be relevant to Connecticut policymakers and identify a link between research and recent legislation, important needs that policy has not addressed, or ways national trends impact the state.

    More information about Moving Beyond, including the program schedule and detailed information for submitting abstracts, is available here.

    Meaningful outcomes have emerged just several months after the first Moving Beyond conference.

    During the State Bond Commission’s latest meeting on October 22, members approved an $11.5 million grant-in-aid to the UConn Indoor Air Quality Initiative to deploy do-it-yourself air purifiers to every public school classroom across the state.

    This was one of the initiatives presented during the first Moving Beyond Conference in January 2024.

    “CT Scholars Strategy Network is delighted to see this outcome,” says Raissian. “It represents the positive outcomes that can emerge when researchers and policymakers have conversations about policy problems and evidence-based solutions. We are excited to once again partner with Rep. Foster, Rep. Johnson, and UConn’s InCHIP to both spark new and facilitate ongoing relationships.”

    The air purifiers, also called Corsi Rosenthal-Boxes and CR-boxes, cost about $4 per student per academic year and can be construct using supplies available at most hardware stores. Students can make the CR-boxes as an accessible STEM project that also significantly improves classroom air quality. The CR-boxes have been found to remove particles that are similar in size to those that carry respiratory viruses like influenza, RSV, and COVID-19.

    More information about the state bonding funds is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal jury convicts Belgrade man of unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA — A federal jury on Monday convicted a Belgrade man of a firearms crime after he was accused of illegally possessing two handguns and ammunition while he was the subject of a court restraining order, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    After a one-day trial that began on Oct. 28, the jury found the defendant, Jordan Charles Kirsch, 34, guilty of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Kirsch faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

    U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for March 12, 2025. Kirsch was detained pending further proceedings.

    “Firearms involved in domestic disputes often lead to tragic results. Here, Kirsch was under a court order of protection restraining him from any violence against the petitioner, and yet he illegally possessed two guns in violation of federal law. I am pleased the jury agreed with us and convicted him, and I am grateful to our prosecution team and law enforcement partners for their work to protect the safety of our fellow Montanans,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.

    In court documents and at trial, the government alleged that on Dec. 19, 2023, a state district court judge in Gallatin County conducted a hearing and issued a final Order of Protection for 10 years against Kirsch. The court’s order found that the petitioner was in danger of harm, restrained Kirsch from committing or threatening to commit any acts of violence to the petitioner and ordered Kirsch not to threaten, harass, abuse, follow, stalk, annoy or disturb the petitioner.

    In April 2024, a court order was issued for Kirsch to be removed from a Belgrade residence and for possession of the residence to be delivered to the petitioner. A sheriff’s office detective conducting surveillance observed Kirsch exit the residence with a black semi-automatic handgun and fire it 10 to 20 times toward a berm near the property. On May 2, 2024, Kirsch was arrested and evicted from the property. A search warrant was executed on the property, and law enforcement found two firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition in various calibers.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI, Missouri River Drug Task Force and Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office 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 –