NewzIntel.com

Category: Gun Control

  • MIL-OSI Security: Major Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Supplier Sentenced to 145 Months

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

    Andora Smith Conspired with Others to Traffic Drugs From Kentucky into Southwest Virginia

    ABINGDON, Va. – A major supplier of methamphetamine and fentanyl, who conspired with others to traffic over 20 kilograms of methamphetamine and fentanyl into Southwest Virginia, was sentenced yesterday to 145 months in federal prison.

    Andora Lee Smith, 62, of Whitesburg, Kentucky, previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. 

    Smith conspired with others, including Eric Coffey, Daniel Hafemeister, Michael Hicks, Cody Rose, and Ashley Beverly Jr., to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl in Southwest Virginia.

    Most of Smith’s distributions took place at her Kentucky residence, where she kept multiple pounds of methamphetamine and fentanyl and distributed ounce-plus quantities at a time to her customers.  Smith also delivered drugs to Virginia and routinely traveled to Louisville, Kentucky, to obtain quantities of xylazine and fentanyl (“black”) for distribution.

    Smith worked as a teacher at Norton Elementary School and John I. Burton High School in Norton, Virginia, for 15 years prior to committing her crimes.

    C. Todd Gilbert, United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Southwest Drug Task Force, Kentucky State Police, and Wise County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lena Busscher prosecuted the case for the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mobile Man Sentenced to 156 Months in Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

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

    MOBILE, AL – Joseph Ambrose Wilburn, Jr., of Mobile, Alabama, was sentenced to 156 months in prison for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. 

    According to court documents, on April 11, 2024, the Mobile Police Department received information about an active arrest warrant for Wilburn in connection to him using a firearm to kidnap and sexually assault a woman.  Later that day, Wilburn was stopped pursuant to a traffic stop where he was found to be in possession of two additional firearms.  Wilburn has multiple prior felony convictions including multiple convictions of Domestic Violence – Assault, and convictions of Criminal Trespass, Possession/Receipt of a Controlled Substance, and Reckless Endangerment, among others. As a convicted felon, Wilburn is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

    Wilburn was indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm and pleaded guilty to the charge.  United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moore sentenced Wilburn to 156 months in prison followed by a 3-year term of supervised release for illegally possessing the firearm.

    U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mobile Police Department investigated the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.  Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Terrill and Jimmy L. Thomas prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harrold Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person

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

    PIERRE – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Shulte has sentenced a man from Harrold, South Dakota, who was convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on July 21, 2025.

    Jerrod Fallis, age 47, was sentenced to six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Forfeiture of the firearm and silencer was also ordered.

    Fallis was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2024. He pleaded guilty on April 17, 2025.

    On December 8, 2023, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle driven by Fallis. During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered a Rock River Arms AR15 rifle, silencer, and methamphetamine paraphernalia. Fallis is prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior state felony drug convictions.

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

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Hyde County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

    Fallis was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Joins Malaysia Blockchain Week as Web3 Gains Ground in the Multicultural Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, joined founders, builders, and investors at Malaysia Blockchain Week to explore the country’s growing role in shaping Southeast Asia’s Web3 future. With over 3,300 participants from 20 countries gathering in Kuala Lumpur, the event marked a high point in Malaysia’s ongoing effort to position itself as a nexus of blockchain innovation and financial inclusion.

    Bitget Wallet’s Head of Growth, Will Wu, spoke at two panels during the week, including a main stage discussion on community-building and the Web3 Infra Day, where he was joined by representatives from Aptos, Polkadot, and Manta Network. The conversation focused on simplifying fragmented blockchain experiences, improving interoperability, and designing tools that lower barriers to entry for everyday users. “In Malaysia, you see communities where crypto is not just investment — it’s part of how people save, send, and increasingly, spend,” Wu said. “The momentum here is being driven not just by capital, but by local builders creating products that reflect how people actually live and transact.”

    While Singapore often dominates the regional narrative, Malaysia is quietly building a complementary path — one rooted in grassroots adoption, multicultural participation, and a younger, mobile-first demographic. The country’s multi-ethnic population, spanning Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities, offers a uniquely diverse testing ground for Web3 use cases that range from retail payments to creative economy tools.

    Bitget Wallet also joined Blockchain & AI Summit hosted by Pushpendra Singh as a supporting partner during the week. The summit drew over 300 builders for focused discussions on real-world adoption, decentralized identity, and the convergence of AI and Web3. Bitget Wallet’s involvement reflected its ongoing engagement with Southeast Asia’s grassroots developer and creator communities. In a setting that prioritized pragmatic use cases, the event reinforced a key theme of the week: Malaysia’s strength lies in its culturally rooted, multilingual builder ecosystem — one ready to localize blockchain for everyday use.

    Bitget Wallet’s participation underscored this shift from speculation to infrastructure. The wallet has leaned into utility-focused tools — from stablecoin payments to token discovery — that resonate with local behaviors. As Malaysia continues to carve out its place on the global Web3 map, its value may lie less in being the next crypto capital, and more in showing how diverse communities can make decentralized technology part of ordinary life.

    For more information, visit the Bitget Wallet official channels.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets. Its vision is Crypto for Everyone — to make crypto simpler, safer, and part of everyday life for a billion people.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7bbbc4fe-79ed-4819-bedd-8919feaff3df

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Joins Malaysia Blockchain Week as Web3 Gains Ground in the Multicultural Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, joined founders, builders, and investors at Malaysia Blockchain Week to explore the country’s growing role in shaping Southeast Asia’s Web3 future. With over 3,300 participants from 20 countries gathering in Kuala Lumpur, the event marked a high point in Malaysia’s ongoing effort to position itself as a nexus of blockchain innovation and financial inclusion.

    Bitget Wallet’s Head of Growth, Will Wu, spoke at two panels during the week, including a main stage discussion on community-building and the Web3 Infra Day, where he was joined by representatives from Aptos, Polkadot, and Manta Network. The conversation focused on simplifying fragmented blockchain experiences, improving interoperability, and designing tools that lower barriers to entry for everyday users. “In Malaysia, you see communities where crypto is not just investment — it’s part of how people save, send, and increasingly, spend,” Wu said. “The momentum here is being driven not just by capital, but by local builders creating products that reflect how people actually live and transact.”

    While Singapore often dominates the regional narrative, Malaysia is quietly building a complementary path — one rooted in grassroots adoption, multicultural participation, and a younger, mobile-first demographic. The country’s multi-ethnic population, spanning Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities, offers a uniquely diverse testing ground for Web3 use cases that range from retail payments to creative economy tools.

    Bitget Wallet also joined Blockchain & AI Summit hosted by Pushpendra Singh as a supporting partner during the week. The summit drew over 300 builders for focused discussions on real-world adoption, decentralized identity, and the convergence of AI and Web3. Bitget Wallet’s involvement reflected its ongoing engagement with Southeast Asia’s grassroots developer and creator communities. In a setting that prioritized pragmatic use cases, the event reinforced a key theme of the week: Malaysia’s strength lies in its culturally rooted, multilingual builder ecosystem — one ready to localize blockchain for everyday use.

    Bitget Wallet’s participation underscored this shift from speculation to infrastructure. The wallet has leaned into utility-focused tools — from stablecoin payments to token discovery — that resonate with local behaviors. As Malaysia continues to carve out its place on the global Web3 map, its value may lie less in being the next crypto capital, and more in showing how diverse communities can make decentralized technology part of ordinary life.

    For more information, visit the Bitget Wallet official channels.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets. Its vision is Crypto for Everyone — to make crypto simpler, safer, and part of everyday life for a billion people.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7bbbc4fe-79ed-4819-bedd-8919feaff3df

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FLORIDA MAN CHARGED WITH ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF MACHINE GUNS AND ASSAULTING LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

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

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – John Caleb Allen, 26, of Bristol, Florida, has been charged by federal criminal complaint for assault of a federal law enforcement officer with a deadly weapon, discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, and illegal possession of a machine gun. The charges were announced today by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    Court documents allege that, on July 24, 2025, agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives with the assistance of the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, were executing a federal search warrant at the subject’s residence when Allen opened fire on law enforcement. After firing multiple rounds at the agents, Allen was arrested without the agents discharging their weapons. Agents suffered minor, non-critical injuries as a result of the assault.

    Allen is scheduled for arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick today, at 3:00 pm at the Federal Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida.

    If convicted, Allen faces up to twenty years’ imprisonment on the assault of a federal law enforcement officer with a deadly weapon count, a minimum of ten years up to life imprisonment on the discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence count, and up to ten years’ imprisonment on the illegal possession of a machinegun count.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement are investigating the case. Assistant United States Attorney James McCain is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation by a sworn affiant that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to due process, to include a fair trial, during which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of Violent Gang Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking

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

    BOSTON – A Boston-area man has been sentenced in federal court in Boston for his role in Cameron Street, a violent Boston gang.

    Wilter Rodrigues, 39, was sentenced on July 22, 2025 by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 60 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. In July 2024, Rodrigues pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base.

    According to court documents, Rodrigues was identified as member of Cameron Street, a violent gang based largely in the Dorchester section of Boston that uses violence and threats of violence to preserve, protect and expand its territory, promote a climate of fear and enhance its reputation.

    Rodrigues worked with two co-defendants to allegedly distribute cocaine and cocaine base from an apartment in Somerville. Rodrigues has a lengthy criminal record, including a previous federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and two state court convictions for drug-distribution offenses.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Bryan DiGirolamo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Pohl and Charles Dell’Anno of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

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

    The remaining defendants named in the indictment are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Alien Charged With Unlawful Possession Of A Firearm And Illegal Reentry

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

    Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the  return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Aristeo Ceron-Morales (48, Sarasota) with unlawful possession of a firearm and illegal reentry. If convicted on all counts, Ceron-Morales faces a maximum penalty of 17 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Ceron-Morales that the United States intends to forfeit a Sig Sauer P226 firearm, a Savage 410 shotgun, Hornady 9 mm ammunition, and Remington .38 ammunition, which are alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.

    According to the indictment, Aristeo Ceron-Morales is a convicted felon and illegal alien. In 2002, he was convicted of “Sex Offense Against Child Fondling – Conduct by Person 18 Years of Age or Older.” Ceron-Morales possessed firearms and ammunition despite not being able to legally do so based on his status as a convicted felon and illegal alien. Additionally, Ceron-Morales was previously removed from the United States in 2003 and had returned to the United States illegally. 

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

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security – Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Bradenton Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abigail K. King.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms, Including Sawed-Off Shotgun, Lands Mustang Felon in Federal Prison for More Than Seven Years

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

    OKLAHOMA CITY – MICHAEL LOWELL BONJOUR, 39, of Mustang, has been sentenced to serve 87 months in federal prison for illegal possession of firearms after previous felony conviction, possession of stolen firearms, and possession of an unregistered firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    According to public record, Bonjour was arrested on state charges by officers with the El Reno Police Department in March 2024 when he was discovered to be in possession of a stolen firearm. Six months later, in September 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department arrested him after he was stopped driving a stolen vehicle and found to be in possession of three stolen firearms – including a sawed-off shotgun. 

    Prior to these arrests, Bonjour had been convicted of multiple felonies, including convictions in Canadian County District Court for bringing contraband into a jail/penal institution in case number CF-2023-232; possession of a stolen vehicle in case number CF-2023-298; and stalking in case number CF-2023-325, as well as a total of four misdemeanor convictions for violations of a protective order.

    On November 6, 2024, a federal grand jury charged Bonjour with being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of stolen firearms, and possession of an unregistered firearm.  On February 28, 2025, Bonjour pleaded guilty and admitted he knowingly possessed stolen firearms despite his previous felony convictions, and further admitted that one of the firearms was not properly registered to him despite its modified barrel.

    At a sentencing hearing on July 18, 2025, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Bonjour to serve 87 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the need to deter additional criminal conduct and to protect the public.

    This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Edmond Police Department, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the El Reno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Connolly prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program to reduce violent crime. This case is also part of “Operation 922,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s implementation of PSN, which prioritizes prosecution of federal crimes connected to domestic violence. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Bend Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Prison

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

    SOUTH BEND – Terrence Dockery, 33 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.

    Dockery was sentenced to 100 months in prison followed by 1 year of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, police conducted a traffic stop as Dockery was riding his moped on a late summer night in South Bend. Police found Dockery in possession of two guns and about 30 grams of methamphetamine. Dockery has multiple prior felony convictions, including convictions for dealing methamphetamine and arson, and as such, he is prohibited from possessing the firearm in this case.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse.

    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 Europe: EU Court Rules in Trademark Dispute Over ‘Iceland’

    Source: Government of Iceland

    The General Court of the European Union has confirmed the decision of the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) to invalidate Iceland Foods Ltd. exclusive right to the word mark and figurative mark ICELAND. The General Court dismissed claims of annulment brought by the supermarket chain and agreed that the term “Iceland” is descriptive of the geographical origin of goods and services and cannot function as an exclusive trademark.

    The ruling confirms that Iceland Foods Ltd. can no longer prevent Icelandic companies from identifying themselves by their country of origin when marketing their goods and services within the European Union. The case is therefore of fundamental importance to Icelandic companies engaged in international trade.

    „We welcome this clear outcome in our favor in a case that is of fundamental importance to Iceland,“ says Minister for Foreign Affairs, Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir. „For our companies it is of considerable value to be able to clearly refer to their Icelandic origin, with all the underlying thoughts of clean air and pristine nature that it carries internationally when you identify yourself as Icelandic. It carries great value for all of us, and we tend to say it with pride. We therefore put much effort into protecting our interests in this respect.“

    Iceland Foods Ltd. may still appeal the ruling on points of law within two months.

    The ruling regarding the word mark.

    The ruling regarding the figurative mark.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Responding to Notice of intents

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    When members submit a valid Notice of Intent (NOI) to claim or vary a tax deduction for their personal super contributions, you must provide them with an acknowledgment of the NOI.

    You must also report the NOI to claim a deduction to us in line with the Member Account Transaction Service (MATS) Business Implementation GuideExternal Link.

    For information regarding NOI including accepting notices, variations, timeframes and acknowledging notices, see Notice of intent to claim a deduction.

    If you identify any reporting issues, you should follow the Amendments protocol.

    We can only answer fund enquiries regarding your contributions reporting and are unable to discuss taxation matters regarding your members for privacy reasons.

    Looking for the latest news for Super funds? You can stay up to date by visiting our Super funds newsroom and subscribingExternal Link to our monthly Super funds newsletter and CRT alerts.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Tax Time 2025 update – 22 July

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Welcome and governance

    The ATO Co-chair welcomed members and ATO attendees to the Tax Practitioner Stewardship Group (TPSG) Tax Time 2025 meeting.

    ATO Updates

    Frontline Services

    We confirmed 2.8 million individual lodgments have been received. This is a 4% decrease from the same time last year. Lodgment numbers for self-preparers have decreased 4% and agent lodged returns are down 7% compared to this time last year. We reminded members these numbers are expected to level out as tax time progresses.

    We’ve received on average 22,000 calls from agents each week, totalling 66,000 this tax time. This is 11% down from this time last year.

    There were 15,000 returns for accounts with compromised indicators that were tax agent lodged without needing to call the ATO as part of the new process.

    In response to a member query from the TPSG Tax Time 15 July meeting around the frequency of PAYGI correspondence to tax agents (which was a courtesy notification of what was sent to the client), we confirmed that notifications default to the existing preference of their client. If a tax agent would like to change the notifications for their client new to PAYGI, they can update the Communication preferences via Online Services for Agents at the client level.

    IT system updates & maintenance

    All Tax Time systems are currently operating well and reporting green across the board.

    We recently experienced two issues causing a slight degradation to services.

    One issue was reported on the evening of Sunday 20 July between 6 pm and 7 pm AEST impacting all online services. Users may have experienced slowness or possible error pages. This issue was resolved shortly after it was reported.

    The second issue was reported on Monday 21 July. It related to our internal case management system, where the ability to provide advice over the phone may have been limited due to availability of internal systems used by call centre staff. This issue has also since been resolved and all systems are operating as intended.

    ATO Digital services

    We noted that this week there is nothing to report.

    In response to a member query from the TPSG Tax Time 15 July meeting around reports of tax agents receiving correspondence for incorrect clients through Practice Mail in OSfA, we provided the following information:

    Tax agents have been receiving emails which are part of a Tax Time campaign reminding people to use their myID if they log into ATO Online services. This is part of an online access strength fraud prevention initiative where individuals who create a digital identity and use it to log into ATO Online Services ‘lock in’ the strength of their digital identity so that a fraudster can’t then go in and create a lower-level credential with stolen identity information and access their ATO account.

    Under the Digital Identity legislation, digital identity providers like myID are only able to disclose information about the user of a digital identity to government services under specific circumstances. Tax Time messaging doesn’t fall under those circumstances, so we are unable to access the email address the myID owner used when they signed up for their myID. We must rely on the information that it has on the client register for mail campaigns, and in some cases, client’s contact information, including their nominated email address, will be that of their agent.

    This feedback has been passed onto the relevant area responsible for the campaign. They have been asked to include the intended recipient’s surname wherever possible.

    ATO Communications

    A key focus for ATO communications is the ATO app with a media release to be issued on Thursday 17 July. It will remind taxpayers to download the ATO app to protect against scammers and fraudsters. The ATO highlighted that the block functionality of the app is having significant outcomes preventing fraud attempts.

    As most pre-filled data is now available, our upcoming media release and messaging is focused around ‘the go-ahead’ campaign for taxpayers and tax agents to start lodging their tax returns.

    We continue to talk about the importance of getting work-related expenses right.

    We are also continuing to develop content for diverse and First Nations communities, which outlines the support options available for these taxpayers, including Tax Help and Tax Clinic services.

    Member comments

    A member queried whether ATO communications relating to pre-fill includes references to engaging with a registered tax agent. We confirmed that the planned media release does refer to the use of a registered tax agent.

    Member Insights and Experience

    Member comments

    Members are interested in receiving insights into employer obligations Single Touch Payroll (STP) finalisations and Taxable Payments Annual Reporting (TPAR), as well as any notable trends in common errors. We confirmed that they intend to share these insights at future meetings.

    A member raised a query around whether it is possible for the ATO to include the number of days a taxpayer has had hospital cover in prefill to help taxpayers understand their liability to Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS). We confirmed they will investigate the feasibility for next year’s Tax Time.

    Useful links

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Issa, Stefanik Introduce the Modern Firearm Safety Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21) reintroduced legislation to eliminate unconstitutional handgun rosters that prevent law-abiding citizens in California and New York from freely purchasing modern handgun models.   

    “For decades, the clear Constitutional rights of law-abiding gun owners have been targeted for elimination, and handgun rosters are only one of the cynical schemes used to undermine the Second Amendment through the pretense of firearm safety,” said Rep. Issa. “These rosters impose excessive and unnecessary requirements that actually restrict access to firearms equipped with the most up-to-date safety features, and that’s why I’m proud to partner with my friend Rep. Stefanik to defend sacred rights and end these unjust restrictions.”

    The Modern Firearm Safety Act prohibits all states from requiring gun manufacturers to adopt costly and unnecessary features – including loaded chamber indicators, magazine disconnect mechanisms, and microstamping – to sell firearms nationwide.  

    “I am proud to re-introduce the Modern Firearm Safety Act to end the unconstitutional gun-grabbing agenda thrust on law-abiding New York residents by Far-Left Democrats like Kathy Hochul. This legislation would ban Albany Democrats from imposing illegal handgun roster requirements meant to deter gun ownership. I will always protect American citizens’ Second Amendment rights and provide a critical check to any entity attempting to encroach on their liberties,” said Chairwoman Stefanik. 

    “Liberal states use handgun rosters to violate the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens. The Modern Firearm Safety Act will put a stop to these unconstitutional rosters and uphold Americans’ right to bear arms,” said Rep. Gooden. 

    “Gun control governors are far too ready and willing to sign into law antigun policies sent to their desks by legislatures that do not respect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Americans. That includes policies passed under the guise of ‘gun safety,’ that penalize responsible and lawful gun owners while doing nothing to improve community safety or hold criminals accountable,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President for Government and Public Affairs. “The Modern Firearm Safety Act, sponsored by Congressman Darrell Issa (R-CA) and House Republican Leadership Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), would ban states from enacting laws mandating unproven and unconstitutional infringements and would instead protect the Constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens and the highly regulated, lawful businesses that provide the means necessary for citizens to exercise their right to keep and bear arms. NSSF thanks Congressman Issa and Chairwoman Stefanik for their leadership on this effort.”

    “By eliminating outdated, burdensome, and unnecessary restrictions, the Modern Firearm Safety Act ensures access to safer, more advanced firearms for law-abiding citizens,” said Brian R. Marvel, President of the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC). “We appreciate Representative Issa’s leadership on this critical legislation that upholds constitutional rights while ensuring peace officers and responsible citizens have access to modern, safe firearms essential for their duties and personal safety.”

    For too long, states like California and New York have attempted to end-run the rights of law-abiding Americans by requiring them to select from a limited, pre-approved “handgun roster,” solely designed to restrict the sale of new semi-automatic handguns. These rosters mandate unwanted and unnecessary features that go beyond the industry standard, driving up costs while limiting the ability to purchase a safe and reliable firearm best suited for that individual’s situation,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of NRA-ILA. “The NRA thanks Representatives Darrell Issa and Elise Stefanik for their leadership on this issue and applauds the introduction of this vital legislation that would ensure the ability of NRA members and lawful firearm owners everywhere to exercise their Second Amendment rights as they see fit.”

    Cosponsors include: Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Congressman Mike Collins (GA-10), Congressman Lance Gooden (TX-05), Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05), Congressman Pat Fallon (TX-04), Congressman Cory Mills (FL-07), and Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03). 

    The bill text can be found here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Top guns return, nationals on target in Taber

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Men Charged with Immigration-Related Crimes Following Search Warrants in Navarre

    Source: US FBI

    PENSACOLA, FLORIDA –Crescencio Diaz-Diaz, 36, and Marcelo Perez-Santiz, 33, both of the country of Mexico, have been charged in federal court with illegal reentry of a removed alien. Diaz-Diaz has additionally been charged with possession and use of fraudulent employment authorization documents.  The charges were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    Court documents allege that Crescencio Diaz-Diaz reentered the United States illegally after being previously deported in 2020.  He was encountered by federal agents during the execution of federal criminal search warrants at a Navarre business, Emerald Coast Lawns, and an adjacent residence yesterday.  During the search, agents seized a fraudulent permanent resident card (sometimes referred to as a “green card”) and social security card bearing Diaz-Diaz’s name and/or photograph but another person’s identifying information, which Diaz-Diaz allegedly admitted he presented to Emerald Coast Lawns in order to gain employment.

    Separate court documents allege that Marcelo Perez-Santiz reentered the United States illegally after being previously deported on three separate occasions in 2012 and had been found at the business address for Emerald Coast Lawns back in February.  Perez-Santiz was arrested yesterday on a criminal complaint and had an initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho.

    The penalty for illegally reentering the United States after deportation is a maximum of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    The cases are being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Florida Highway Patrol, United States Marshals Service and the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office.  The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation by a sworn affiant that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to due process, to include a fair trial, during which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Springfield Man Sentenced to Eight Years for Illegally Possessing Firearm

    Source: US FBI

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm.

    Joseph Archer III, 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 96 months in federal prison without parole.

    On Oct. 29, 2024, Archer pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    On June 29, 2023, officers with the Springfield Police Department attempted to stop a Toyota Camry that was being driven by Archer. Archer fled from officers, leading them on a vehicle pursuit. During the pursuit Archer crashed into an officer’s vehicle, disabling the police vehicle, and causing the officer to suffer minor injuries. As a result of that crash, Archer briefly lost control of his car before continuing to flee. The pursuit ended when Archer crashed the Camry into an outbuilding. Archer fled the scene of the crash on foot before the officers arrived. When officers searched the Camry, they located a stolen Taurus PT handgun. They also located a box of ammunition, fentanyl, methamphetamine, mail addressed to Archer, and his Missouri Department of Corrections ID in the glove box.

    Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who is convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Archer has prior felony convictions for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    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 Australia: Interdependent relationship checklist

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Things to consider when applying

    This checklist will assist you to collect the required documents to support your compassionate release of super application, which may reduce delays, or your application not being approved.

    Accessing super early can have significant financial impacts and should be a last resort. You need to read the information on our website before using this checklist as it contains more detailed information about:

    Important to note

    If you borrowed money to pay for your or your dependant’s expenses, you may still be eligible. You will need to provide additional documents regarding the borrowed amount as part of your application.

    Evidence required to support your application

    The following items can be supplied as evidence:

    1. utility bill in both your and the other person’s names (or other documents, for example, bank statements) to confirm you live together at the same address
    2. bank statements (or other documents for example, receipts) from either you or the other person, showing the financial support provided
    3. statutory declaration from yourself that includes information supporting you have a close personal relationship with the other person and that includes examples of the domestic support and personal care one or each of you provide the other.

    Note: All documents need to show who they were issued to. Where you are providing bank statements, you need to ensure that the account holder’s name and statement period are visible.

    See Statutory declarations for information on how to access and complete the declaration.

    Information to consider

    Evidence of financial support can include payments between you and the other person or the payment of expenses on their behalf, such as utility bills, rent, groceries.

    Information that can support you have a close personal relationship includes:

    • nature of the relationship
    • duration of the relationship
    • details of assets that are jointly owned
    • any information that suggests the relationship is permanent
    • public aspects of the relationship.

    Information that demonstrates that you support the other person, and provided domestic support and personal care includes:

    • domestic support and personal care provided
    • care and support of children
    • details of the emotional support you provide each other.

    If you would like to print this checklist, select ‘Print or Download’ and ‘Print page’ from the dropdown list.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interdependent relationship checklist

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Things to consider when applying

    This checklist will assist you to collect the required documents to support your compassionate release of super application, which may reduce delays, or your application not being approved.

    Accessing super early can have significant financial impacts and should be a last resort. You need to read the information on our website before using this checklist as it contains more detailed information about:

    Important to note

    If you borrowed money to pay for your or your dependant’s expenses, you may still be eligible. You will need to provide additional documents regarding the borrowed amount as part of your application.

    Evidence required to support your application

    The following items can be supplied as evidence:

    1. utility bill in both your and the other person’s names (or other documents, for example, bank statements) to confirm you live together at the same address
    2. bank statements (or other documents for example, receipts) from either you or the other person, showing the financial support provided
    3. statutory declaration from yourself that includes information supporting you have a close personal relationship with the other person and that includes examples of the domestic support and personal care one or each of you provide the other.

    Note: All documents need to show who they were issued to. Where you are providing bank statements, you need to ensure that the account holder’s name and statement period are visible.

    See Statutory declarations for information on how to access and complete the declaration.

    Information to consider

    Evidence of financial support can include payments between you and the other person or the payment of expenses on their behalf, such as utility bills, rent, groceries.

    Information that can support you have a close personal relationship includes:

    • nature of the relationship
    • duration of the relationship
    • details of assets that are jointly owned
    • any information that suggests the relationship is permanent
    • public aspects of the relationship.

    Information that demonstrates that you support the other person, and provided domestic support and personal care includes:

    • domestic support and personal care provided
    • care and support of children
    • details of the emotional support you provide each other.

    If you would like to print this checklist, select ‘Print or Download’ and ‘Print page’ from the dropdown list.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ATO warns businesses against falsifying their GST claims

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is sending a clear message to businesses considering committing GST fraud, making dishonest claims and falsifying invoices.

    Assistant Commissioner Adam O’Grady said the fraud is currently predominantly within the property and construction industry. We’ve also identified early signs of it proliferating in other industries, particularly by privately owned and wealthy groups.

    ‘Despite warnings from the Serious Financial Crime Taskforce late last year, recent observations show dishonest claims involving false invoicing are growing.’

    This is not related to a GST fraud scheme that was promoted through social media where individuals created fake businesses and lodged BAS statements to obtain GST refunds. These are real businesses creating disingenuous invoices to gain overinflated GST refunds.

    ‘While the numbers of businesses involved are relatively small, some are attempting to claim tens of millions of dollars in GST refunds they’re not entitled to,’ Mr O’Grady said.

    We’ve released Taxpayer Alert TA 2025/2: Arrangements designed to improperly obtain GST refunds to put businesses engaging in these concerning arrangements on notice and to warn businesses not to engage in these types of arrangements.

    ‘Most businesses do the right thing. What these others are doing is simply not fair. We’re dealing with dishonest and deliberate attempts to cheat the tax system.’

    ‘We will not tolerate this fraudulent behaviour deliberately undermining the system or providing an unfair advantage over honest businesses.’

    ‘Those involved will face consequences, including interest charges, penalties, fines, and where appropriate, prosecution, or referral to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecution,’ Mr O’Grady said.

    We see arrangements where a business colludes with another related business to create a false invoice, in an attempt to justify an overly inflated GST refund. These may be:

    • entities claiming GST credits for the development and construction costs of industrial buildings that never occurred
    • entities claiming GST credits for intangible services such as ‘management fees’ that were never provided
    • entities claiming GST credits for property acquisitions before they occurred
    • multiple entities claiming GST credits for the same invoice
    • in the worst cases, invoices that are completely fictitious.

    ‘Often these schemes are dressed up and sold as clever schemes with a figleaf of technical analysis – but any scheme which generates GST refunds through paper shuffling is likely to be ineffective at best, and civilly and criminally actionable fraud at worst. If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.’

    ‘We’re encouraging employees, businesses, industry groups and the community to demonstrate their lack of tolerance for those doing the wrong thing, by helping us stamp out this behaviour.’

    ‘GST revenue is vital to Australia’s economy, funding essential services delivered by states and territories.’

    ‘Those involved are abusing the system, tarnishing the reputation of the property and construction industry and making it harder for compliant businesses to operate.’

    If you suspect another business of being involved in these arrangements, you can confidentially report to us by making a tip-off online or by calling 1800 060 062. 

    If you’re involved, you should come forward and make a voluntary disclosure rather than wait for the ATO to contact you. Early cooperation and making a voluntary disclosure may reduce the penalties imposed.  

    Notes to journalists

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New taxpayer alert warns about GST refund fraud

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    We’ve now published a new taxpayer alert – TA 2025/2: Arrangements designed to improperly obtain goods and services tax refunds. This alert strongly warns businesses against using arrangements where a business colludes with another related business to create fraudulent invoices, so they can attempt to claim large GST refunds. In many cases the invoice will overclaim GST credits on real goods or services that were provided. In the worst cases, invoices are completely fictitious.

    Deliberately exploiting the GST system to obtain a refund you’re not entitled to, or to avoid payment, is a criminal offence.

    We’re still seeing these arrangements occurring, despite warnings from the Serious Financial Crime Taskforce over the last 18 months about fraudulent GST refunds and false invoicing.

    Our data shows that the fraud is currently predominantly within the property and construction industry. We’ve also identified early signs of it proliferating in other industries, particularly by privately owned and wealthy groups.

    It’s a small number of businesses that are attempting to do this. However, they’re trying to fraudulently claim tens of millions of dollars – money that should instead be supporting vital services the Australian community relies on. Their behaviour:

    • disadvantages the vast majority of Australian businesses that are doing the right thing
    • tarnishes the reputation of the industries where those businesses operate
    • undermines the tax system.

    This is not related to the GST fraud scheme that was promoted through social media where individuals created fake businesses and lodged BAS statements to obtain GST refunds. These are real businesses creating fraudulent invoices to try to gain overinflated GST refunds.

    We’re equipped with resources, sophisticated data matching and analytics capabilities, and intelligence-sharing relationships to uncover even the most elaborate financial crime. Any businesses caught in these arrangements will face the full force of the law. Further:

    • If you’re a company director, you’re responsible for ensuring the company pays its GST in full and by the due date. If these obligations are not met, you can become personally liable for director penalties.
    • Promoter penalty laws may apply to any registered agent and adviser who promotes these arrangements. In some instances, cases will be pursued as criminal matters. The worst cases may result in imprisonment.

    What you can do

    We’re encouraging honest businesses, industry groups and the community to help us stamp out this behaviour. If you suspect another business of being involved in these arrangements, you can confidentially report to us by making a tip-off or by calling 1800 060 062.

    If you’re involved in a fraudulent arrangement, we strongly encourage you to come forward and make a voluntary disclosure rather than wait for us to contact you. If you cooperate early and make a voluntary disclosure, we may reduce the penalties imposed.

    Keep up to date

    We have tailored communication channels for medium, large and multinational businesses, to keep you up to date with updates and changes you need to know.

    Read more articles in our online Business bulletins newsroom.

    Subscribe to our free:

    • fortnightly Business bulletins email newsletterExternal Link
    • email notifications about new and updated information on our website – you can choose to receive updates relevant to your situation. Choose the ‘Business and organisations’ category to ensure your subscription includes notifications for more Business bulletins newsroom articles like this one.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Smuggler of Firearms from Key West to Haiti Sentenced in D.C. to 30 Months in Prison

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

                WASHINGTON – Jean Wiltene Eugene, 57, of Key West, Florida, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 30 months in prison and a $20,000 fine for his role in a gunrunning operation that illegally exported firearms to Haiti, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                Eugene pleaded guilty on April 11, 2025, to one count of smuggling. In addition to the prison term, Judge Carl J. Nichols ordered Eugene to serve 24 months of supervised release.

                Joining in the announcement of the sentence were Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Justin Fleck of the Miami Field Office.

                According to court documents, Eugene is a U.S. citizen who was born in Haiti and resides in Key West. On Sept. 23, 2021, Eugene knowingly exported more than two firearms from the United States to Haiti contrary to U.S. laws and regulations, including the prohibitions in the Export Administration Regulations and the Export Control Reform Act of 2018, knowing the firearms were intended for exportation contrary to such laws and regulations. In particular, Eugene exported the firearms without having first obtained the required license from the Bureau of Industry and Security, located in the District of Columbia. Anyone who violates the smuggling statute may be fined up to $250,000 and imprisoned for up to 10 years.

                Eugene arranged to ship vehicles to Haiti through a Florida-based export company. Eugene signed the company’s terms and conditions of shipments, which required the shipper to affirm that the vehicles did not contain any firearms or ammunition. In a subsequent interview with law enforcement, Eugene admitted that, in 2020 and 2021, he shipped two vehicles to Haiti with firearms hidden inside. Eugene stated that he placed food and other items around the bins holding the firearms so border authorities would not find the weapons.

                In a later interview with federal agents, Eugene stated that nine firearms he purchased in Key West under his name were currently located at his gas station in Haiti and that none of those firearms remained in the United States. He admitted that he knew it was illegal to ship weapons to Haiti when confronted by the federal agents.

                Eugene was arrested May 4, 2024, in Key West.

                This case was investigated by the FBI Miami Field Office with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Paschall and Trial Attorney Beau Barnes of the National Security Division, as well as former Assistant U.S. Attorney Pravallika Palacharla. Substantial assistance was provided by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida.

    25cr78

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of Frankford-Based Drug Gang Sentenced to 75 Years in Prison for Killing Philadelphia Police Sergeant James O’Connor, Kaseem Rogers, Tyrone Tyree, and Dontae Walker, and Additional Drug, Gun, and Violent Crimes

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

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Hassan Elliott, aka “Haz,” 26, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Juan R. Sánchez to 900 months in prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $2,500 for the fatal shootings of Philadelphia Police Sergeant James O’Connor, Kaseem Rogers, Tyrone Tyree, and Dontae Walker, and numerous other crimes arising from the defendant’s membership in a violent drug trafficking organization known by several names, including “SG1700” and “L-Block,” which operated in the Frankford section of Northeast Philadelphia.

    Elliott, along with Khalif Sears, aka “Leaf” and “Lil Leaf,” 23, Kelvin Jimenez, aka “Nip,” 34, and Dominique Parker, aka “Dom,” 34, all of Philadelphia, were charged in March 2023 by superseding indictment with conspiracy to engage in a racketeer influenced corrupt organization (RICO), violent crimes in aid of racketeering, to include murder, stemming from the killings of victims Rogers, Walker, Tyree, and Sergeant O’Connor, and numerous related offenses.

    Elliott and Sears pleaded guilty this January to RICO conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, causing the death of Sergeant O’Connor by firearm, and multiple drug, gun, and violent offenses.

    Jimenez and Parker were convicted at trial in March of all charges against them, including racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, maintaining a drug-involved premises, assaults in aid of racketeering, firearms offenses, and related crimes. Jimenez was also convicted of the murder of Kaseem Rogers, and Parker of the murder of Dontae Walker.

    On March 13, 2020, Elliott, Sears, and others previously indicted were inside a stash house on the 1600 block of Bridge Street, when Sergeant O’Connor and other members of the Philadelphia Police Department SWAT team arrived with an arrest warrant for Elliott for the March 2019 murder of Tyrone Tyree. As Sergeant O’Connor and his fellow officers ascended the staircase to the second floor of the residence and repeatedly announced their presence, Elliott fired a semiautomatic assault rifle 16 times, striking and killing Sergeant O’Connor.

    Sears, Parker, and Jimenez will be sentenced at a later date.

    “Hassan Elliott murdered a police officer who was protecting and serving his community,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “Unfortunately, Philadelphia Police Department Sergeant James O’Connor is only one of many victims of SG1700’s rampage of violence. The punishment Mr. Elliott received today is justice for these outrageous crimes, and our efforts — past, present, and future — to prosecute anyone who harms law enforcement will forever honor the sacrifice of Sergeant O’Connor.”

    “Hassan Elliott is now facing justice for the murder of Sergeant O’Connor and his other victims,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Philadelphia Field Division. “Criminal gang members can’t hide from the mayhem they inflict, especially when their violence turns against the law enforcement officers who protect our communities. Thanks to the diligent and meticulous work in partnership with the Philadelphia Police Department and U.S. Attorney’s Office, Elliott and those who enabled him are being held accountable for these heinous crimes.”

    The case was investigated by the ATF and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ashley Martin, Christopher Diviny, and Lauren Stram.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CONVICTED FELON CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF A FIREARM

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

    PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Jason Wayne Coleman, 41, of Pensacola, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges.

    Coleman appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida on July 22, 2025.

    Coleman faces a maximum of 15 years’ imprisonment for each count.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton is prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New SMSF? Here’s what you need to do by 31 October

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    If you have a new self-managed super fund (SMSF) you must lodge your SMSF annual return (SAR) by 31 October 2025.

    Contact a registered tax agent as soon as possible if you need help preparing your SMSF annual return. This allows time for them to include you in their lodgment program, giving you until 28 February 2026 to lodge your first return.

    However, some funds may still need to lodge by 31 October 2025, even with a tax agent so check your registration letter for details.

    If your new fund had no assets in the first year it was registered you must either lodge a return not necessary form or cancel your SMSF registration if you no longer intend to operate the fund.

    Remember each year, you must:

    For new SMSFs, the supervisory levy is $518, covering both the setup year and the following financial year.

    Stay compliant—act early and seek professional support if needed.

    Learn more by visiting Your obligations as an SMSF trustee or Help and support for SMSFs.

    You can also try our online education modulesExternal Link, which are interactive and enable you to build your knowledge.

    Looking for the latest news for SMSFs? – You can stay up to date by visiting our SMSF newsroom and subscribingExternal Link to our monthly SMSF newsletter.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Secures $49 Million for Louisiana in FY 2026 Appropriations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced that he successfully secured $49,102,00.00 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) in the first Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Appropriations bills advanced by the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee. These projects will support critical Louisiana priorities, from military construction and public safety to university research.
    “Whether it’s almost $1.4 million for Jefferson Parish to support criminal investigations, $500 thousand to the Northshore to address substance abuse and mental health issues, or multiple grants across the state to support first responders, this money works for the safety, security, and economic growth of Louisiana,” said Dr. Cassidy. Since taking office, Cassidy has emerged as one of the most effective U.S. Senators at directing federal dollars home to Louisiana, despite not serving on the Appropriations Committee. In FY2024, Roll Call reported that Cassidy was one of the top 20 senators in total funding secured for his state, and one of only five in that group who does not sit on the Appropriations Committee. That year, he secured a record $1.3 billion for Louisiana—the highest of any member of the state’s congressional delegation.
    See below for a list of the funding secured by Senator Cassidy.

    Funding Amount
    Recipient
    Project Description

    $30,000,000.00
    Fort Polk
    This funding will support construction of the Rotational Unit Billeting Area, Phase 1.

    $5,000,000.00
    University of Louisiana at Lafayette
    This funding will support purchase of equipment for the Silicon Bayou Semiconductor Technology Center.

    $4,000,000.00
    St. Bernard Parish
    This funding will support construction of a new fire station.

    $2,500,000.00
    Louisiana State University
    This funding will support LSU’s Electronic Microscopy Sight Initiative.

    $1,500,000.00
    City of Ruston Police Department
    This funding will support development of a Real Time Intelligence Crime Center.

    $1,395,000.00
    Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office
    This funding will support purchase of advanced forensic equipment.

    $1,350,000.00
    University of New Orleans
    This funding will support instrumentation upgrades in computing and chemical sciences.

    $1,250,000.00
    East Baton Rouge DA’s Office
    This funding will support the Gun Intelligence Center Program.

    $794,000.00
    West Monroe Police Department
    This funding will support purchase of safety equipment for officers.

    $500,000.00
    22nd Judicial District Court
    This funding will support specialty courts for mental health and substance abuse treatment.

    $300,000.00
    Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office
    This funding will support upgrades to local law enforcement services.

    $263,000.00
    Town of Farmerville
    This funding will support renovations to the fire department.

    $250,000.00
    Tensas Parish Police Jury
    This funding will support security equipment upgrades.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Muscatine Men Sentenced to Federal Prison Related to Events Surrounding Officer Involved Shooting

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

    DAVENPORT, Iowa – Two Muscatine men were sentenced on July 22, 2025, to federal prison for drug and gun crimes, related to an officer involved shooting in Muscatine on May 29, 2024.

    According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, on May 29, 2024, Juan Aldo Beltran Delgado, 34, and Isidro Barajas, Jr., 30, drove to a residence in Muscatine, Iowa, to await the delivery of a package they expected to contain more than 4.5 pounds of methamphetamine. Law enforcement observed Beltran Delgado and Barajas pick up the package from the residence and attempted to stop their vehicle. Beltran Delgado was driving the vehicle and drove over 100 miles per hour through Muscatine, drove through multiple red lights, attempting to evade law enforcement. Ultimately, Beltran Delgado crashed into two other vehicles near Highway 61 and Cedar Street. After crashing, both Beltran Delgado and Barajas fled from the car on foot carrying firearms. Officers arrived in the area and Beltran Delgado shot at officers. Officers were able to take both Beltran and Delgado and Barajas into custody.

    Beltran Delgado was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release, following his plea to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and carrying and discharging a firearm during an in relation to his drug trafficking. Barajas was sentenced to 32 years in federal prison, followed by a ten-year term of supervised release, following his plea to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, carrying and displaying a firearm during an in relation to his drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. There is no parole in the federal system.

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Department of Public Safety, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Muscatine Police Department, Cedar County Sheriff’s Office, Muscatine County Drug Task Force, Johnson County Drug Taskforce, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: TALLAHASSEE MAN RECEIVES 42 MONTHS FOR POSSESSION OF A MACHINEGUN

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

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Artaviyon Cornel Williams, 24, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced in federal court for illegal possession of a machinegun. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our brave law enforcement officers are increasingly encountering violent criminals and seizing firearms that have been illegally modified to fire as fully automatic machineguns. My office is committed to staunchly supporting law enforcement efforts to keep our communities safe from violent criminals.”

    Court documents reflect that law enforcement obtained an arrest warrant for Williams for an aggravated assault that had occurred on June 28, 2024, outside the Table Lounge in Tallahassee. Witnesses advised Williams broke up a fight involving his girlfriend by brandishing a firearm, firing a round into the air, and pointing the firearm at one woman and telling her “I’ll kill you.” Officers located Williams on July 6, 2024, outside the Table Lounge and arrested him on the outstanding warrant. When arrested, Williams had a stolen Glock pistol in his waistband which had been illegally modified to fire as a machinegun. Williams had a second, loaded, extended-round magazine in a pocket.

    Williams received a sentence of 42 months in prison, which will be followed by three years of supervised release.

    “The Tallahassee Police Department remains committed to removing illegal firearms from our streets,” said Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell. “Modifying a weapon to function as a machine gun is not only illegal, but also reckless and puts innocent lives at risk. We’re proud to work alongside our federal partners to ensure those who engage in this kind of violent behavior are held accountable.”

    The case involved an investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors.

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: When you’re no longer hiring workers

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    If you stop hiring workers, you’ll need to finalise all of your employer tax and super obligations.

    Your obligations may vary when workers leave your business. This depends on whether the worker is an employee or an independent contractor. Director penalties can apply for unpaid super guarantee and PAYG withholding liabilities your business has incurred.

    You’ll need to work out your worker’s final payment and pay within 7 days of the employment ending. These may include entitlement payments, employment termination payments and employee tax payments.

    Once you’ve finalised your worker’s entitlements, you should:

    There are no special requirements for your super guarantee obligations.

    You’ll also have other responsibilities to your employees, including providing notice and finalising payments. A range of information to help you manage employees when you sell or close your business is available at business.gov.auExternal Link.

    There are other obligations you may need to consider when Changing, selling or closing your business.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sioux City Man Sentenced to More than Five Years for Illegal Possession of Firearms

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

    Pierre-Louis had recently been discharged from prison for carjacking.

    Romario Pierre-Louis, age 30, from Sioux City, was sentenced July 18, 2025, to more than 5 years in federal prison, after a March 6, 2025, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.

    Evidence in the case revealed just after midnight on October 15, 2024, law enforcement was called to a domestic assault disturbance.  Law enforcement was informed that Pierre-Louis was armed and was pointing a gun at people in the area.  When officers arrived on scene, a witness stated that after the dispute Pierre-Louis was seen carrying a rifle wrapped in a blanket along with a couple of pistols to a nearby residence.  The weapons were recovered from the neighbor’s house, where Pierre-Louis tried to hide them. Pierre-Louis admitted to law enforcement he knew he was not able to have firearms due to being a felon.  Pierre-Louis was convicted in 2019 of armed carjacking in Cook County, Illinois for which he served six years in state prison. He had recently been released from that sentence. 

    Pierre-Louis was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand to 63 months’ imprisonment.  He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

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

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

    The case was investigated by Sioux City Police department and the United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol Tabaco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild

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

    The case file number is 24-4085.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

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