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Category: Gun Control

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Economic and Social Council Fills Vacancies in 15 Subsidiary Bodies

    Source: United Nations 4

    The Economic and Social Council convened today to conduct elections, nominations, confirmations, and appointments to fill vacancies in 15 of its subsidiary bodies. 

    The Council, which plays a vital role in advancing the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development, oversees a complex ecosystem of subsidiary entities, comprising regional and functional commissions, standing committees, and expert and ad hoc bodies. 

    For instance, its Statistical Commission, established in 1946, is responsible for the development of international statistics concepts and methods, including their implementation at the national and international level.  The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, formed in 2000, advises the Council on Indigenous peoples’ rights and provides recommendations to Member States on issues affecting indigenous communities. And the Commission on Narcotic Drugs formulates international drug policies and oversees the implementation of global drug control treaties. 

    Statistical Commission

    The Council by secret ballot today elected Romania to the Statistical Commission for a four-year term beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2029.  In a second round of balloting, the Russian Federation was elected for the same four-year term. 

    Since the number of candidates from the African States, the Asia-Pacific States, the Latin American and Caribbean States and the Western European and other States was equal to the number of vacancies, the Council also elected Austria, Benin, Brazil, Burundi, China, Cuba, Eritrea, Finland, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru and Uzbekistan by acclamation for the same four-year term. 

    Commission on Population and Development

    To the Commission on Population and Development, the Council elected Bolivia, Cameroon, China, Cuba, Ireland, Ghana, Malaysia, Mongolia, Norway, Russian Federation, Senegal, United Kingdom and the United Republic of Tanzania by acclamation for a four-year term of office beginning at the first meeting of the Commission’s sixtieth session in 2026 and expiring at the close of its sixty-third session in 2030. 

    The Council also elected Albania, by acclamation, to the Commission for a term of office beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring at the close of the Commission’s fifty-ninth session in 2026.  Japan and the Philippines were elected, by acclamation, for a four-year term beginning at the first meeting of the fifty-ninth session and expiring at the close of the sixty-second session in 2029.

    Commission on the Status of Women

    To the Commission on the Status of Women, the Council elected Cabo Verde, China, Gabon, Japan, Maldives, Mongolia, Morocco, Qatar, United Republic of Tanzania and Zimbabwe, by acclamation, for a four-year term of office beginning at the first meeting of the Commission’s seventy-first session in 2026 and expiring at the close of its seventy-fourth session in 2030.

    Commission on Narcotic Drugs

    To the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, the Council elected from the Asia-Pacific States — by secret ballot — Pakistan, Kazakhstan, United Arab Emirates and Kyrgyzstan for a four-year term beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2029.  From the Eastern European States, it elected Slovenia, Lithuania and Ukraine, and from the Western European and Other States, it elected Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Australia and, in a second round of balloting, France, for the same four-year term beginning on 1 January 2026. 

    Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice

    From the African States and the Latin American and Caribbean States, the Council elected Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Honduras, Mauritania and Trinidad and Tobago, by acclamation, to the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice for a four-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

    Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

    To the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the Council elected by secret ballot from the Eastern European States Valts Ernštreits of Latvia and Suleiman Mamutov of Ukraine for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

    Since the number of candidates from the African States, the Asia-Pacific States, the Latin American and Caribbean States and the Western European and other States was equal to or less than the number of vacancies, the Council elected Brenda Gunn of Canada, Nan Li of China, Rodrigo Paillalef Monnard of Chile, Diego A. Tituaña Matango of Ecuador and Anne-Chantal Nama of Cameroon, by acclamation, for the same three-year term of office. 

    Executive Board of the United Nations Children’s Fund

    Since the number of candidates from the Asia-Pacific States, the Eastern European States, the Latin American and Caribbean States and the Western European and other States was equal to or less than the number of vacancies, the Council elected Antigua and Barbuda, China, Georgia, Guatemala, Iceland, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Norway, Ukraine and the United Kingdom, by acclamation, to the Executive Board of the United Nations Children’s Fund for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

    The Council also elected by acclamation Canada, Türkiye and Liechtenstein to complete the unexpired term of office of Australia, France and Portugal, respectively, beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2027.  Australia, France and Portugal resigned from their seats on the Executive Board effective 31 December 2025.  

    Executive Board of the United Nations Development Programme/United Nations Population Fund/United Nations Office for Project Services

    Next, the Council elected Armenia, Bolivia, China, Cuba, Estonia, Finland, Japan, Nepal, Norway, Rwanda and the United States, by acclamation, to the Executive Board of the United Nations Development Programme/United Nations Population Fund/United Nations Office for Project Services for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

    The Council also elected by acclamation Monaco, New Zealand and Türkiye to complete the unexpired term of office of Austria, Luxembourg and Ireland, respectively, beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2026.  Switzerland was elected to complete the unexpired term of office of Belgium, beginning on 1 January 2026 and expiring on 31 December 2027.  Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg and Ireland resigned from their seats on 31 December 2025.

    Executive Board of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women

    The Council next elected Burkina Faso, China, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Japan, the Philippines, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Rwanda and Senegal by acclamation to the Executive Board of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026. 

    Executive Board of the World Food Programme

    The Council also elected Cuba, Gabon and Kenya by acclamation to the Executive Board of the World Food Programme for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.

    Programme Coordinating Board of the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)

    The Council by secret ballot elected Ukraine to the Programme Coordinating Board of the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) for a three-year term of office beginning on 1 January 2026.  Further, it elected Kenya, by acclamation, to the Programme Coordinating Board for the same term.

    The Council then elected by acclamation the Philippines to complete the unexpired term of office of Japan, beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring on 31 December 2027.

    Committee for Programme and Coordination

    The Council next nominated China, Cuba, Egypt, Nigeria, Republic of Korea and Senegal, for election by the General Assembly to the Committee for Programme and Coordination for a three-year term beginning on 1 January 2026. 

    Commission for Social Development 

    To the Commission for Social Development, the Council elected Switzerland, by acclamation, for a term beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring at the close of the Commission’s sixty-seventh session in 2029. 

    Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting

    Next, the Council elected Belarus, Colombia, India and Kyrgyzstan, by acclamation, to the Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting, each for a term of office beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring on 31 December 2027.  Greece was elected, by acclamation, to the same body for a term of office beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring on 31 December 2026.

    Committee for the United Nations Population Award

    Finally, the Council elected Cyprus, by acclamation, to the Committee for the United Nations Population Award for a term of office beginning on 4 April 2025 and expiring on 31 December 2027.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 16 charged in sweeping Houston-based multimillion-dollar illegal gambling, money laundering conspiracy

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    HOUSTON – Several Houston-area residents were taken into custody April 2 on various charges including conspiracy, operating illegal game rooms, bribery, and money laundering following one of the largest law enforcement operations in East Texas history.

    The operation was led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement with assistance from IRS Criminal Investigation; the Houston Police Department; FBI; High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program; Harris County Constable’s Office – Precinct One; Harris County District Attorney’s Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Drug Enforcement Administration.

    In addition to those indicted in the scheme, authorities also arrested 31 illegal aliens on various immigration and firearms charges. One of those included an illegal alien who allegedly assaulted a law enforcement officer.

    The indictment, returned March 26 and unsealed upon the arrests, alleges Nizar Ali, 61, of Richmond, and others allegedly conspired to own, operate or assist in the operation of illegal game rooms. All also conspired to conduct financial transactions to conceal and disguise the nature and source of the proceeds of the illegal gambling business, which totaled more than $22 million, according to the charges.

    More than 700 law enforcement officers from 18 agencies served a total of 45 search and 40 seizure warrants at locations throughout Houston and the surrounding area. The locations included 30 illegal game rooms with names such as El Portal and Yellow Building.

    During the operation, authorities recovered more than $11 million in seized cash and bank accounts, as well as $5 million in property and vehicles, 2,000 slot machines, 100 Rolex watches and eight firearms. Law enforcement also seized approximately $6.5 million from bank accounts and other financial institutions pursuant to the court-issued warrants.

    In addition to Ali, others taken into custody include Naeem Ali, 33, and Amer Khan, 68, both of Richmond; Ishan Dhuka, 33, and Sahil Karovalia, 32, both of Rosenberg; Sarfarez Maredia, 38, and Shoaib Maredia, 40, both of Sugar Land; Yolanda Figueroa, 40, of Pasadena; Viviana Alvarado, 45, of LaPorte; and Anabel Eloisa Guevarra, 46, Precela Solis, 27, Maria Delarosa, 53, Claudia Calderon, 37, and Lucia Hernandez, 34, all of Houston.

    Two others – Sayed Ali, 59, of Richmond, and Stephanie Huerta, 35, of Houston – are considered fugitives and warrants remain outstanding for their arrests.

    All are charged with conspiracy, operating an illegal gambling business and interstate travel in aid of racketeering which each carry possible prison terms of five years as well as conspiracy to commit money laundering which has a maximum 20-year possible prison term. Ali is also charged with 32 counts of federal program bribery for allegedly paying more than $500,000 to an undercover officer in an attempt to protect the illicit game rooms from law enforcement intervention. If convicted, he faces up to 10 more years in prison on each count. With the exception of the money laundering charge, which has the possibility of a $500,000 maximum fine or twice the value of the property involved, the remaining counts carry a maximum $250,000 potential fine.

    Other agencies who provided support to the operation included U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Harris and Montgomery Counties’ sheriff offices, the Houston Fire Department, Texas Attorney General’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety and Baytown and Pasadena police departments.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Mark McIntyre, John Marck and Carolyn Ferko are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon Fyffe and Tyler Foster are handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Laredo man convicted after purchasing firearms with stolen bank heist funds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – A federal judge has found a 42-year-old resident of Laredo guilty of bank robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana determined Arturo Limon II was guilty on all four counts as charged following a one-day bench trial. She convicted him of two counts of bank robbery, one count of bank theft and one count of false statements during purchase of a firearm.

    On April 27, 2024, Limon entered Falcon International Bank located at 10511 McPherson Road. He approached the bank tellers, handed them an empty camouflage backpack and demanded they put money in it. During the robbery he said, “yes this is happening.”  

    Limon stole a large amount of cash from the teller’s drawer, exited through the main lobby entrance and drove away in blue Ford Mustang.

    Authorities responded, reviewed bank surveillance footage and issued a “be on the lookout” for an individual matching Limon’s description.

    Later that day, he entered Arena Gun Club shortly after the robbery with the same green camouflage backpack and attempted to purchase a firearm with a large amount of cash. He left the club while employees conducted the mandatory background checks. They alerted law enforcement due to his suspicious behavior.

    The court heard that he had lied about his residential address on the required form when he attempted to purchase five pistols and one rifle from the Arena Gun Club.

    Authorities arrested Limon at his residence as he arrived driving a blue Mustang. At that time, they found marked currency in his vehicle and a green camouflage backpack.

    Judge Saldana will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time, Limon faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He will remain in custody pending that hearing.

    The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leslie Cortez and Mike Makens are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: On 30th anniversary, officials highlight importance of WTO work on rules of origin

    Source: WTO

    Headline: On 30th anniversary, officials highlight importance of WTO work on rules of origin

    In her opening remarks to the anniversary event, Deputy Director-General Angela Ellard noted that the CRO, which first met exactly 30 years ago, was founded upon a clear vision: fostering international cooperation and facilitating trade through predictable, clear and harmonized rules of origin.
    DDG Ellard noted that the Committee’s initial work was focused on negotiating harmonized rules of origin for all non-preferential purposes, i.e., for rules applicable to trade outside of regional and preferential trade agreements.  While completion of the ambitious harmonization objective has proven unattainable, “the objectives of the Agreement retain all their significance for members and business in today’s world,” she said.
    “Businesses navigating global trade need predictability and welcome greater simplicity and transparency,” DDG Ellard told the audience.  “Transparency should, therefore, remain a central objective of this Committee, and I am glad to see recent work in this area, as well as the voluntary use of a new notification template.”
    “New technologies, digital trade procedures, blockchain technologies, and artificial intelligence open many new opportunities and challenges that could guide the work of this Committee,” she continued. “In fact, in the past few years, we have seen an expansion of the Committee’s work, particularly on preferential rules of origin for least developed countries. There is great scope for members to learn from each other and to improve their practices with a view to facilitating trade.”
    “As members implement more detailed and complex rules of origin and control mechanisms, they must also strive for rules that facilitate trade,” she added.  “In this context, multilateral discussions within this Committee are increasingly relevant.
    Rules of origin are the criteria used to define where a product is made for customs purposes.  They are also important for implementing other trade policy measures, including trade preferences, quotas, marking, anti-dumping measures and countervailing duties.
    Non-preferential rules of origin are those which apply when trade is conducted on a most-favoured nation (MFN) basis. Preferential rules of origin are those which apply in reciprocal trade preferences (i.e. regional trade agreements or customs unions) or in non-reciprocal preferences (i.e. preferences in favour of developing countries or LDCs). 
    The Chair of the CRO, Mr. Guna Seelan Balakrishnan of Malaysia, said predictable and clear rules of origin are important for global trade.
    “The necessity of our work is shown in the simplicity of our purpose to determine where a good is made,” the Chair said. “So simple, but as the past 30 years have shown, so complex at the same time.”
    Mr Balakrishnan welcomed in particular the CRO’s recent work on preferential rules of origin for least developed country members, a period of “some of the most extensive activity” from the Committee.  “The responses and interactions I have been part of during the consultations with the LDC Group and the preference granting members has reflected this adaptability to work through an important part of the Committee’s mandate,” he said.
    While outlining the history of the negotiations that led to the conclusion of the Agreement and the subsequent work of the CRO, Darlan F. Martí from the WTO Secretariat also paid tribute to trade negotiators, customs officials, international organizations and former Chairs who dedicated many hours of work to the CRO.
    He also emphasized that the current work of the Committee could be useful for all members: “The lessons learned from this work extend beyond the LDCs – for instance, our conversations about utilization rates or trade facilitating practices that are conducive to the utilization of preferences,” he said. “This is something that is not only useful in the context of non-reciprocal trade preferences for the LDCs, but it’s something that, if members want, could go beyond this and also be discussed in the context of preferential rules of origin used in (free trade agreements) as well.”
    To conclude the event, the International Trade Centre gave an overview of statistics on the use of the WTO, WCO, ITC “Origin Facilitator”, a publicly-available global database on rules of origin.
    Several members and observers took the floor to thank the speakers for their presentations, to comment on the work of the Committee and to identify priorities for future work. They also extended their appreciation to the Chair of the Committee, Mr. Balakrishnan.
    DDG Ellard’s statement and the presentations made, including a video recording of the session, will be made available in the events section of the Rules of Origin portal of the WTO website.
    CRO meeting
    At its meeting on 3 April, the CRO continued to review developments related to preferential rules of origin for LDCs.  Japan provided additional information on its consignment obligations. The EU presented the functioning of its self-certification scheme as well as the operation of the “non-manipulation” principle. China updated the Committee on the introduction of electronic certification for LDCs. The United Kingdom reported on the rates utilization of its Developing Countries Trading Scheme.
    Cambodia presented a new paper regarding differentiating utilization rates of preferential trade arrangements for LDCs while the LDC Group presented ongoing research concerning the identification of specific cases of firms using cumulation in Africa. Cumulation refers to provisions allowing producers in one country to source parts and inputs from other countries without losing the originating status of that input.
    The Secretariat provided an overview of notifications received on non-preferential rules of origin requirements. Switzerland and Viet Nam were the first members to update their notifications using the new template proposed by the Chair in November 2024. The Secretariat noted that 57 members apply non-preferential origin requirements, 61 members do not, and 21 members have not submitted any information yet.
    Next meeting
    The next formal CRO meeting will take place on 5-6 November.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: DDG Ellard calls for further acceptances of Fisheries Subsidies Agreement

    Source: WTO

    Headline: DDG Ellard calls for further acceptances of Fisheries Subsidies Agreement

    Citing alarming data from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) showing that 38% of global fish stocks are overexploited, DDG Ellard stressed that rebuilding stocks to sustainable levels could yield 16.5 million more tonnes of fish annually and generate USD 32 billion in economic gains. “Sustainable fisheries are not only critical for biodiversity and food security but also for the economic viability of communities that depend on them,” she said.
    Highlighting recent progress, DDG Ellard welcomed the decline in the provision of high-risk subsidies such as fuel support, as reflected in the OECD’s 2025 Review of Fisheries. However, she warned that 65% of global fisheries support risks encouraging unsustainable practices. “Imagine,” she emphasized, “what a positive difference we could make in improving fish stocks if we redeployed the USD 22 billion spent annually in harmful fisheries subsidies and instead dedicated these funds to fisheries management and improvement of fish stocks.”
    Adopted in 2022, the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies targets the worst forms of subsidies — those linked to illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, overfished stocks, and unregulated high seas fishing — while preserving policy space for responsible support, particularly for small-scale and artisanal fishers.
    To date, 95 WTO members have deposited their instruments of acceptance — 16 short of the two-thirds threshold required for entry into force. “We are so close. I urge the remaining members to ratify swiftly so we can celebrate this milestone together at the United Nations Ocean Conference in June,” said DDG Ellard.
    DDG Ellard also highlighted the WTO Fish Fund, which will provide support for developing and least developed country (LDC) members to implement the Agreement and undertake fisheries management if they have formally accepted the Agreement.
    DDG Ellard further noted that WTO members are also working toward concluding a second wave of negotiations to develop additional rules addressing subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing.
    “We nearly reached consensus on a new text last December. A handful of members were not yet ready. But this remains within reach if members come together,” she said.
    The Chair of the negotiations, Ambassador Einar Gunnarsson of Iceland, is consulting with members to bridge gaps and advance the process before the summer.
    DDG Ellard reiterated that multilateral cooperation — with organizations like the OECD, FAO and World Bank — is critical to success. “The future of our ocean and the resilience of coastal communities depend on what we do next,” she concluded.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Washington, Pa., Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Unlawful Possession of Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 120 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Derik Carothers, 29, on April 3, 2025.

    According to information presented to the Court, on or about October 20, 2019, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Carothers possessed numerous firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. Carothers was previously convicted on November 7, 2013, in the Cambria County Court of Common Pleas of burglary and carrying a firearm without a license, and, on March 20, 2017, of carrying a firearm without a license. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

    On October 20, 2019, Carothers led the Pennsylvania State Police on a high-speed chase on State Route 28, resulting in a violent roll-over crash. Investigators recovered crack-cocaine, a digital scale, and $290 from Carothers’ person. Additionally, four loaded firearms including a Colt Model Official Police .38 caliber revolver; Ruger Model AR-556 rifle; Glock Model 23, .40 caliber handgun; and a Glock Model 22, .40 caliber handgun, as well as extended magazines and a bulletproof vest, were recovered from in or near the vehicle. Two of the recovered firearms had been reported stolen, one of which had an obliterated serial number.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Maureen Sheehan-Balchon and Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Pennsylvania State Police, and Johnstown Police Department for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Carothers.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fifteen Defendants Charged with Federal Immigration Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A federal grand jury in the Northern District of Alabama has charged 15 individuals with immigration crimes, announced U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona.

    The following defendants were indicted for illegally reentering the United States after having previously been deported:

    • Salvador Rodriguez-Villa, of Mexico;
    • Noel Paz-Diaz, 34, of Guatemala;
    • Christian Mendoza-Salas, 29, of Mexico;
    • Isidro Gutierrez Gabriel, 35, of Guatemala;
    • Mateo Pascual-Francisco, 40, of Guatemala;
    • Tomas Naz-Gonzalez, 27, of Guatemala;
    • Marco Julio Agustin-Miranda, 27, of Guatemala;
    • Rafael Juan-Francisco, 35, of Guatemala;
    • Jose Rigoberto Acosta-Calles, 36, of El Salvador;
    • Elmer Geovany Sarmiento-Sifrian, 32, of Honduras;

    The following defendants were charged with being an alien in possession of a firearm:

    • Elmer David Hernandez-Garcia, 39, of Honduras;
    • Christian Ivan Sanchez, 36, of Mexico;
    • Jhoan Jesus Rodriguez-Perez, 21, of Mexico;
    • Orli Umberto Marquez-Cordon, 24, of Mexico;

    Maria Monserrat de Jesus Bautista-Hernandez, 41, of Mexico, has been charged with illegal re-entry after a prior removal and for being an alien in possession of a firearm.

    These cases are 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). Operation Take Back America partners, Homeland Security Investigations – Atlanta, U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Houston Division, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Nashville Field Division, investigated these cases. 

    An indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, federal partners arrest 133 alien offenders during enhanced operation in New York

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and federal law enforcement partners apprehended 133 illegal aliens during an enhanced targeted enforcement operation focusing on criminal illegal alien offenders and other immigration violators in western, central, and northern New York to bolster public safety, national security and border security March 24-28.

    “By leveraging our federal partnerships and intelligence-driven investigations, ICE continues to carry out its mission in a way that best serves national security, public safety and border security,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Buffalo acting Deputy Field Office Director Philip Rhoney. “I am grateful for the professionalism, dedication and support from all of our partners during this week-long operation to remove dangerous alien offenders from our New York communities.”

    ICE and federal partners concentrated their efforts in and around the Buffalo area, but operations extended throughout western and upstate New York. Operations led to arrests of 84 illegal aliens from the Buffalo and Rochester areas, and 49 illegal aliens from Syracuse, Albany, Rouses Point, and Massena.

    “The success of this enhanced enforcement operation underscores the importance of utilizing a whole-of-government approach when protecting the public from criminal aliens and dangerous individuals living in our western, central, and northern New York communities,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan. “Standing side-by-side with our partners, ICE HSI will utilize every tool at our disposal to ensure the safety and security of New Yorkers. I commend our partners from the FBI, CBP, USBP, ATF, DEA, DSS, and USMS for their unwavering collaboration in support of this vital mission.”

    Of those arrested, 20 had criminal convictions or charges including three who were convicted of homicide. Nine of the arrests were of aliens who have been previously removed from the United States.

    Four criminal search warrants were executed during the operation. They were executed during the worksite enforcement component of the operation for federal violations of bringing in and harboring certain aliens and resulted in multiple bookings and records seizures as well as 18 administrative arrests for violations of immigration law.

    Among those arrested during the enhanced targeted operation include:

    • A 49-year-old illegal alien from Trinidad and Tobago convicted of murder.
    • A 66-year-old illegal alien from the Dominican Republic convicted of course of sexual conduct with a child.
    • A 32-year-old illegal alien from El Salvador convicted of murder and gang assault.
    • A 70-year-old illegal alien from the Dominican Republic convicted of manslaughter and criminal sale of controlled substance.
    • A 50-year-old illegal alien from China convicted of assault.
    • A 42-year-old illegal alien from Mexico convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
    • A 24-year-old illegal alien from Ecuador with several convictions for DWI.
    • A 43-year-old H-2A visa holder from South Africa charged with distribution and possession of child pornography.

    Partner law enforcement agencies participating in the operation were FBI Buffalo; FBI Albany; Drug Enforcement Administration New York; U.S. Customs and Border Protection Buffalo; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives New York; U.S. Marshals Service Buffalo; USCIS Fraud Detection and National Security; Department of State Diplomatic Security Service; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Western and Northern Districts of New York.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-347-2423 or completing ICE’s online tip form.

    Learn more about ERO Buffalo’s mission to preserve public safety on X, @EROBuffalo.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Men Guilty of Multiple Drug and Gun Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that HENRY MITCHELL (“MITCHELL”), age 25, and JAYLAN WASHINGTON (“WASHINGTON”), age 29, former residents of New Orleans, pled guilty on April 1, 2025, before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to drug and gun charges contained in an indictment previously returned against them.  Listed below are the charges to which MITCHELL and WASHINGTON pled guilty and the possible sentence that can be imposed:

    CHARGE DEFENDANT PENALTY
    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute marihuana, Fentanyl, tapentadol and tramadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846

    MITCHELL

    WASHINGTON

    		 Up to 20 Years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release
    Possession With Intent to Distribute marihuana, Fentanyl, tapentadol and tramadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) MITCHELL Up to  20 Years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release
    Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) MITCHELL Up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000,   and up to 3 years of supervised release
    Possession of a Machine Gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o) MITCHELL Up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, not more than and up to 3 years of supervised release
    Possession of a Machine Gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o) MITCHELL Up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000,  and up to 3 years of supervised release
    Possession with Intent to Distribute marihuana, and tapentadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) WASHINGTON Up to 20 Years imprisonment , a fine of up to $1,000,000,  and at least 3 years of supervised release
    Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) WASHINGTON Not more than up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release
    Possession of a Machine Gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o) WASHINGTON Not more than up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release

    Each offense also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

    Sentencing will occur on July 8, 2025, at 10:00 am.  Both will remain detained without bond.

    Documents filed in court reflect that MITCHELL and WASHINGTON were openly selling various controlled substances in the Seventh Police District of New Orleans.  FBI Violent Task Officers observed this activity after receiving multiple citizen complaints and summoned New Orleans Police Department officers who surrounded the area and arrested MITCHELL and WASHINGTON.  A search of their vehicles revealed both controlled substances and firearms.  Officers also recovered “Glock switches”, devices that make semiautomatic weapons fully automatic.  These devices are considered machineguns under federal law.  Additionally, documents reveal that both MITCHELL and WASHINGTON have several prior felony 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.

    The case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Task Force, and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Narcotics Unit is assigned the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detroit Man Sentenced to 40 months in Prison for Drug Trafficking Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DETROIT – A 52-year-old Detroit man, Israel Crumpton, was sentenced to 40 months in prison yesterday for trafficking heroin laced with fentanyl and cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck announced.

    Beck was joined in the announcement by James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    For over a six-month period in 2018 and 2019, Crumpton and several lesser co-conspirators distributed substantial quantities of heroin laced with fentanyl and crack cocaine in the 7700 block of East Palmer Street in Detroit. Crumpton led and organized the drug distribution business. As the leader, he secured bulk narcotics from his suppliers and sold or directed others to sell those drugs to resellers or users, generating significant cash proceeds.

    In November 2018, the County of Macomb Enforcement Team (COMET) became aware of Crumpton’s drug distribution business. COMET members subsequently surveilled Crumpton’s “trap house” and “stash house” in the 7700 block of East Palmer Street, observing numerous apparent illicit drug transactions occurring there. Based on its surveillance and other investigative activities, COMET secured search warrants for the two E. Palmer Street locations and another location on the westside of Detroit. Upon executing the search warrants, COMET members found and seized large quantities of distributable narcotics, drug paraphernalia, numerous firearms and ammunition, and over $40,000 in cash proceeds. Crumpton and a co-conspirator were charged with multiple counts of drug trafficking and one count of firearm possession. The co-conspirator pled guilty to drug trafficking. And, in May 2024, a jury convicted Crumpton of the drug trafficking charges.

    Yesterday, the Honorable Denise Page Hood sentenced Crumpton to 40 months in prison.
     

    “Our office aggressively pursues drug traffickers who push substantial quantities of dangerous drugs like heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine into our neighborhoods for personal gain and with indifference to the tragedy they inflict. Thanks to the outstanding teamwork among the Michigan State Police’s County of Macomb Enforcement Team, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and U.S. Attorney’s Office, a dangerous drug trafficker has been removed from our streets,” stated Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck.

    “Isreal Crumpton sold a poison in our community out of pure greed, all while armed with illegal firearms. ATF and the Michigan State Police are united in their partnership to identify and target for federal prosecution armed drug traffickers of fentanyl in our community. Mr. Crumpton’s plight should serve as a reminder that accountability is inevitable across Michigan for people who illegally possess firearms in furtherance of peddling poison in our community. The message should be very clear: If you deal deadly drugs while armed with an illegal firearm, you’re not just on our radar – you’re on the fast track to prison; so, pack a bag, we’re coming for you,” said James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Detroit Division.
     

    This case was investigated by the Michigan State Police’s County of Macomb Enforcement Team, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by AUSAs Pat Martin and Sarah Alsaden and investigated by AUSA Paul Kuebler.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Man Sentenced to Serve Seven Years in Federal Prison after Police Find Meth and Cocaine Worth More Than $350,000 Disguised as “Christmas Presents” in Vehicle

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OKLAHOMA CITY – JOHN CALVIN MOORE, 58, of North Carolina, has been sentenced to serve 84 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    According to public record, on December 22, 2023, Moore was pulled over by an officer with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) for speeding while driving eastbound on I-40. During the stop, the officer noticed what appeared to be several gift-wrapped Christmas presents in the trunk of the vehicle. Moore told the officer he was traveling to North Carolina from California. During the stop, OCPD learned Moore’s vehicle was a rental, and was due to be returned to Ontario, California, on December 23, 2023, the day following the stop. OCPD called in a K-9 unit, which alerted to the presence of drugs in the vehicle. OCPD officers then searched the vehicle and found more than 42 pounds of methamphetamine and more than 38 pounds of cocaine inside heat-sealed bags, hidden within the Christmas presents in the trunk. Law enforcement estimates the street value of the drugs to be more than $350,000.

    Moore was charged by Superseding Information on August 30, 2024, with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He pled guilty to the Superseding Information on September 26, 2024, and admitted he possessed meth, which he intended to distribute, and that he possessed a firearm despite his previous felony conviction. Public record reflects that Moore has a previous felony conviction in New Jersey for possessing weapons for an unlawful purpose.

    At the sentencing hearing on March 28, 2025, U.S. District Judge Charles Goodwin sentenced Moore to serve 84 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the seriousness of the crime—that Moore acted as a courier to transport controlled substances across the country—and Moore’s criminal history.

    This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Criminal Interdiction Team of Central Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew E. Davis prosecuted the case.

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced to Over Four Years in Prison for Possessing Firearm and Ammunition

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant was on federal supervised release when he attempted to enter casino with a firearm

    BOSTON – A previously convicted felon was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possessing a firearm and ammunition.

    Tarik Muhammad, 30, of Boston, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 51 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In October 2024, Muhammad pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

    On the evening of Feb. 4, 2023, Muhammad was denied entry to the Encore Casino in Everett when security detected that he was carrying a firearm. Casino security alerted law enforcement, but Muhammad left before they arrived. Security cameras at the casino show Muhammad leaving in a blue Toyota Rav 4. The following day, a notice was dispatched to law enforcement about the incident and with photos of Muhammad, the vehicle and license plate.

    On Feb. 6, 2023, Muhammad was spotted driving the Rav 4 in Roxbury. When law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop, Muhammad fled, leading to a high-speed chase that ended when Muhammad crashed into a parked vehicle. Muhammad tried to flee on foot but was apprehended. A loaded semi-automatic pistol was found in Muhammad’s waistband.

    Muhammad is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to several felony convictions including a June 2022 conviction in U.S. District Court in Boston of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base. Muhammad was on federal supervised release at the time of the offenses.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox; and Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Tolkoff of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit 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 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 https://www.justice.gov/PSN.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Decision by the Commission to authorize Ontario Power Generation Inc. to construct 1 BWRX-300 reactor at the Darlington New Nuclear Project site

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect health, safety, security and the environment; to implement Canada’s international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy; and to disseminate objective scientific, technical and regulatory information to the public. 

    The Commission is a quasi-judicial administrative tribunal set up at arm’s length from government, independent from any political, government or private sector influence. It makes decisions with respect to regulating nuclear safety, including licensing decisions, and is also independent of CNSC staff.

    1.1 The licensee: Ontario Power Generation

    Ontario Power Generation Inc. (OPG) is an Ontario government business enterprise that operates the Darlington Nuclear site. The site includes the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station, the Darlington Waste Management Facility, the Darlington New Nuclear Project (DNNP) site, support facilities and offices. 

    The site is located in the Municipality of Clarington, Ontario, within the traditional lands and waters of the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg, the Gunshot Treaty (1877–88), the Williams Treaties (1923), and the Williams Treaties First Nations Settlement Agreement (2018).

    1.2 The Darlington New Nuclear Project

    The DNNP, a proposed project from OPG, represents the site preparation, construction, operation, decommissioning and abandonment of up to 4 new nuclear reactors at the existing Darlington Nuclear site. The DNNP site is located on the eastern third of the Darlington Nuclear site. The goal of this project is to generate up to 4,800 megawatts of electricity for the Ontario grid. The DNNP would be a Class IA nuclear facility, per section 1 of the Class I Nuclear Facilities Regulations. OPG currently holds a CNSC power reactor site preparation licence for the DNNP.

    The DNNP was subject to an environmental assessment (EA) conducted by a joint review panel (JRP) under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. The EA was completed in 2012, and the Government of Canada determined that the DNNP was not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

    In December 2021, OPG announced that it had selected the General Electric Hitachi BWRX-300 reactor for deployment at the DNNP site. In October 2022, OPG applied to the CNSC for a licence to construct 1 BWRX-300 reactor for this project. In April 2024, the Commission determined that the EA for the DNNP remained applicable to the selected reactor technology.   

    1.3 Matters for decision 

    The Commission considered a licensing decision under paragraphs 24(4)(a) and (b) of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act (NSCA) whether to authorize OPG to construct, and if so, with what terms and conditions.

    This decision engaged the CNSC, as an agent of the Crown contemplating decisions with the potential to impact asserted or established Aboriginal rights, to discharge the duty to consult and, where appropriate, to accommodate Aboriginal rights under section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. Prior to making its decision, the Commission had to determine if this duty had been met.

    1.4 Duty to consult

    As described in detail in its decision, the Commission was satisfied that the honour of the Crown had been upheld and that the legal obligation to consult and, where appropriate, accommodate Indigenous interests had been satisfied relative to the Commission’s licensing decision. The Commission’s decision directs OPG and CNSC staff to implement accommodation measures to further enable the incorporation of Indigenous knowledge and practices into both the conduct of licensed activities and CNSC oversight.

    1.5 Licence to construct

    The Commission decided to issue nuclear power reactor construction licence PRCL 32.00/2035 to OPG for the construction of 1 BWRX-300 reactor at the DNNP site. In making its decision, the Commission concluded that OPG is qualified to carry out the activities authorized under the licence to construct; that OPG has adequate programs in place to ensure that the health and safety of workers, the public and the environment will be protected under the licence to construct; and that OPG will make adequate provision for the maintenance of national security and to implement international obligations to which Canada has agreed. 

    The licence is valid until March 31, 2035, and includes 4 site-specific licence conditions that require OPG to:

    • implement the mitigation measures proposed and commitments made during the Darlington JRP process, including the applicable recommendations of the Darlington JRP Report, in accordance with the Government of Canada response
    • implement and maintain an environmental assessment follow-up program
    • obtain the approval of the Commission, or consent of a person authorized by the Commission, prior to the removal of established regulatory hold points
    • conduct Indigenous engagement activities, specific to the DNNP, throughout the licence period

    As part of its decision, the Commission also accepted OPG’s proposed financial guarantee in the form of a letter of credit in the amount of $167,180,000.

    The decision by the Commission does not authorize the operation of a BWRX-300 reactor at the DNNP site. Authorization to operate the reactor would be subject to a future Commission licensing hearing and decision, should OPG come forward with a licence application to do so.

    1.6 Regulatory hold points

    Under the licence, OPG is required to provide additional information to the CNSC prior to undertaking specific construction activities. Commitments that are essential to verify compliance with regulatory requirements related to the safety analysis and design of structures, systems, and components that are important to safety are tied to 3 regulatory hold points (RHP):

    • RHP-1: Installation of the Reactor Building Foundation 
    • RHP-2: Installation of the Reactor Pressure Vessel 
    • RHP-3: Fuel-Out Commissioning

    As part of its decision, the Commission authorized the CNSC Executive Vice-President and Chief Regulatory Operations Officer, Regulatory Operations Branch to administer licence condition 15.3 with respect to the removal of regulatory hold points.

    1.7 Building trust and advancing reconciliation

    As Canada’s nuclear regulator, the CNSC is committed to building trust and advancing reconciliation. 

    As a lifecycle regulator, the CNSC focuses on continuous engagement and consultation with Indigenous Nations and communities before, during and after Commission proceedings for CNSC activities. This includes, for example, sharing project information, encouraging participation in public proceedings, and providing participant funding.

    Going forward, the CNSC will continue its work to develop and nurture long-term relationships with the Indigenous Nations and communities that have been, and will continue to be, involved in the regulatory process for the DNNP. 

    Additional information on the CNSC’s consultations in the context of the DNNP can be found in CNSC staff’s review of the proposed DNNP.

    Timeline

    • In September 2006, OPG applied for a licence to prepare a site for the DNNP.
    • In May 2007, the CNSC began the EA for the DNNP.
    • In March 2008, the federal Minister of the Environment referred the EA to a JRP.
    • On August 25, 2011, the JRP submitted its EA report to the Minister of the Environment, concluding that, “the Project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects, provided the mitigation measures proposed and commitments made by OPG during the review, and the Panel’s recommendations are implemented.”
    • On May 2, 2012, the Government of Canada responded to the EA report, accepting or “accepting the intent” of all of the JRP’s recommendations.
    • On August 17, 2012, the JRP, as a panel of the Commission, issued OPG a 10-year site preparation licence for the DNNP.
    • On October 12, 2021, the Commission renewed OPG’s licence to prepare site
    • In December 2021, OPG announced its selection of the General Electric Hitachi BWRX-300 small modular reactor technology for deployment at the DNNP site 
    • In October 2022, OPG applied for a licence to construct 1 BWRX-300 reactor
    • On April 19, 2024, the Commission determined that the BWRX-300 reactor is not fundamentally different from the technologies assessed in the EA and that a new EA was not required
    • On June 27, 2024, the Commission announced that it would hold a 2-part public hearing to consider and decide on OPG’s application for a licence to construct 1 BWRX-300 reactor at its DNNP site
    • On October 2, 2024 and January 8 to 10, 13 and 14, 2025, the Commission held a 2-part public hearing on OPG’s licence to construct application

    Related links

    Contact

    Media Relations 
    Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission 
    Tel: 613-996-6860

    Email: media@cnsc-ccsn.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indictment Returned for February 2024 Shooting of Metropolitan Police Department Officers

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Accused of Daylight Shooting of Police Officers Executing Arrest Warrant for Animal Cruelty Offense

                WASHINGTON – Stephen Rattigan, also known as Julius James, 49, of Washington, D.C., was indicted April 2, 2025, on assault with intent to kill while armed and other charges stemming from the February 14, 2024, shooting of Metropolitan Police Department Officers, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (“MPD”). 

               Rattigan was indicted by a grand jury in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia of six counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, six counts of assault on a police officer while armed, three counts of assault with significant bodily injury while armed, fifteen counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of endangerment with a firearm, five counts of unlawful possession of a firearm, four counts of possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device, and one count of cruelty to animals. 

               Rattigan is scheduled to be arraigned on April 4, 2025, at a hearing before the Honorable Michael Ryan.  Rattigan faces a mandatory minimum of five years of incarceration for each count of assault with intent to kill while armed, each count of assault on a police officer while armed, and each count of assault with significant bodily injury while armed. Rattigan faces a mandatory minimum of one year for each firearm in his possession.  

               According to the government’s evidence, at about 7:30 a.m., on February 14, 2024, members of MPD went to 5032 Hanna Place SE in Washington, D.C. to arrest Rattigan, then known as Julius James. MPD officers, in full uniform, repeatedly announced that they were with MPD and that they were at the residence to arrest Rattigan. After several minutes of no response, MPD officers observed Rattigan inside the house, and he began speaking to the officers. Despite attempting to have Rattigan open the door, MPD officers were forced to use tools to force open the front door. While six members of MPD were outside the front door, Rattigan fired several shots through the front door, striking three of the officers. An hours-long standoff then ensued, with Rattigan communicating with MPD negotiators for several hours. At one point during the standoff, Rattigan, upset that he wasn’t getting cigarettes quickly enough, fired three additional rounds through the front door.

                After several hours, Rattigan surrendered to MPD officers, and he was arrested. After Rattigan was arrested, MPD executed a court-authorized search warrant inside the home. Inside, Rattigan had thirty-one dogs, three handguns, two AR-style rifles, two full drum magazines, and additional large-capacity magazines. 

               This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Goldstein of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Individuals Face Federal Charges Following Multi-Agency Immigration Enforcement Operations

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

    ATLANTA – Five individuals have been charged in the Northern District of Georgia with firearms-related offenses during a multi-agency immigration enforcement operation in metro-Atlanta during the past week. The operations involved coordinated investigations led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable support from several local law enforcement partners. In addition to the individuals charged federally, law enforcement seized more than a dozen firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition in connection with the operations.

    “Our office is proud to support our law enforcement partners in this effort and other enforcement initiatives to protect our communities and safeguard our national security,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. “This initiative sends a strong message to those engaged in criminal activity, whether regarding immigration-related or firearms offenses, that the ongoing and determined coordinated efforts of our federal and local law enforcement partners will achieve measurable results in making our communities safer.”

    “The successful enforcement actions taken during this multi-agency operation underscore HSI’s unwavering commitment to upholding immigration laws and targeting illegal aliens allegedly possessing and trafficking in firearms,” said Steven N. Schrank, special agent in charge of HSI Atlanta, which covers Georgia and Alabama. “By leveraging our partnerships and resources, we are identifying and apprehending those who exploit our immigration system to engage in criminal activities that threaten public safety and national security.”

    “ATF along with our federal law enforcement partners will utilize all resources to investigate firearms trafficking by transnational criminal organizations and cartels,” said Special Agent in Charge Benjamin Gibbons. “The success of these investigative efforts could not be accomplished without cohesive partnerships, which keep our communities safe.”

    “The DEA, along with our law enforcement partners, are sending a clear message to the Mexican drug cartels and their criminal associates, that keeping our communities safe is our highest priority,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. 

    “FBI Atlanta is dedicated to supporting our federal partners in achieving our mutual objective of ensuring the safety of our communities,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “This case clearly illustrates the success that can be achieved when federal agencies unite their resources and expertise to combat violent criminals.”

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the charges, and other information presented in court: From March 24 to April 2, 2025, federal law enforcement agencies conducted a series of enforcement operations targeting individuals allegedly committing firearms and other violations, including those illegally present in the United States.  During the operation, law enforcement seized 13 firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.  Significantly, resulting investigations revealed that many of the firearms were bound for Mexico.

    The following defendants have been charged in connection with the operations:

    Hernandez Mora made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda T. Walker on April 1, 2025.  Gonzales-Hoppo made her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge John K. Larkins, III on March 28, 2025.  Vick, Macias Montes and Sambrano also made their initial appearances before Judge Larkins on March 27, 2025. 

    Members of the public are reminded that the Criminal Complaints and Indictment only contain charges.  The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    These cases are being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, and Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable assistance provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Secret Service, Georgia State Patrol, Sandy Springs Police Department, Doraville Police Department, Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Clayton County Police Department, South Fulton Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Gwinnett County Police Department, Clarkston Police Department and East Point Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys with the Northern District of Georgia, including those assigned to the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN), provided valuable support for these operations.

    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).

    The specific mission of the David G. Wilhelm Atlanta OCDETF Strike Force (Atlanta Strike Force) is to eliminate transnational organized crime syndicates and major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the Northern District of Georgia. To accomplish this mission, the Atlanta Strike Force will target these organizations’ leaders, focusing on targets designated as Consolidated Priority Organization Targets, Regional Priority Organization Targets, and their associates.  The Atlanta Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from ATF, DEA, FBI, HSI, USMS, USPIS, and IRS, as well as numerous state and local agencies; and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280.  The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 16 charged in sweeping Houston-based multimillion-dollar illegal gambling and money laundering conspiracy

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

    “Operation Double Down” leads to seizure of over $16 million in currency, accounts, and assets, as well as arrest of illegal aliens

    HOUSTON – Several Houston-area residents are now in custody on various charges including conspiracy, operating illegal game rooms, bribery and money laundering in one of the largest ever law enforcement operations in the Southern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    They are expected to make their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina Bryan at 2 p.m.

    In addition to those indicted in the scheme, authorities also arrested 31 illegal aliens on various immigration and firearms charges during the operation April 2. One of those included an illegal alien who allegedly assaulted a law enforcement officer.

    The indictment, returned March 26 and unsealed upon the arrests, alleges Nizar Ali, 61, Richmond, and others allegedly conspired to own, operate or assist in the operation of illegal game rooms. All also conspired to conduct financial transactions to conceal and disguise the nature and source of the proceeds of the illegal gambling business, which totaled more than $22 million, according to the charges.

    More than 700 law enforcement officers from 18 agencies served a total of 45 search and 40 seizure warrants at locations throughout Houston and the surrounding area. The locations included 30 illegal game rooms with names such as El Portal and Yellow Building.

    During the operation, authorities recovered more than $4.5 million in cash as well as $5 million in property and vehicles, 2000 slot machines, 100 Rolex watches and eight firearms. Law enforcement also seized approximately $6.5 million from bank accounts and other financial institutions pursuant to the court-issued warrants.

    In addition to Ali, others taken into custody include Naeem Ali, 33, and Amer Khan, 68, both of Richmond; Ishan Dhuka, 33, and Sahil Karovalia, 32, both of Rosenberg; Sarfarez Maredia, 38, and Shoaib Maredia, 40, both of Sugar Land; Yolanda Figueroa, 40, Pasadena; Viviana Alvarado, 45, LaPorte; and Anabel Eloisa Guevarra, 46, Precela Solis, 27, Maria Delarosa, 53, Claudia Calderon, 37, and Lucia Hernandez, 34, all of Houston.

    Two others – Sayed Ali, 59, Richmond, and Stephanie Huerta, 35, Houston – are considered fugitives and warrants remain outstanding for their arrests.

    All are charged with conspiracy, operating an illegal gambling business and interstate travel in aid of racketeering which each carry possible prison terms of five years as well as conspiracy to commit money laundering which has a maximum 20-year possible prison term.

    Ali is also charged with 32 counts of federal program bribery for allegedly paying more than $500,000 to an undercover officer in an attempt to protect the illicit game rooms from law enforcement intervention. If convicted, he faces up to 10 more years in prison on each count.

    With the exception of the money laundering charge which has the possibility of a $500,000 maximum fine or twice the value of the property involved, the remaining counts carry a maximum $250,000 potential fine.

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) led the investigation along with IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) and the assistance of Houston Police Department (HPD); FBI; High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program; Harris County Constable’s Office – Precinct One; Harris County District Attorney’s Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Drug Enforcement Administration. Other agencies providing support include ICE – Enforcement and Removal Operations, Customs and Border Protection, sheriff’s offices in Harris and Montgomery Counties, Houston Fire Department, Texas Attorney General’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety and police departments in Baytown and Pasadena.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Mark McIntyre, John Marck and Carolyn Ferko are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon Fyffe and Tyler Foster are handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Upcoming super guarantee (SG) due date

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    You need to pay SG contributions for your eligible workers by 28 April.

    Make sure you pay in full, on time and to the right fund to avoid penalties and interest. Ensure you allow extra time for the payments to reach your employees’ super funds if you’re using a clearing house. Payments are only considered ‘paid’ when they reach your employees’ super fund account.

    Remember, the SG rate will increase from 11.5% to 12% on 1 July 2025. The rate of 12% will need to be applied for all salary and wages paid on and after 1 July 2025, even if some or all of the pay period it relates to is before 1 July 2025.

    For more information on SG due dates, visit ato.gov.au/superpaymentduedates

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Are you planning to engage a new registered agent?

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    If you’re planning to engage a new registered agent, or change the authorisations you’ve given your existing agent, you’ll need to nominate them in Online services for business before they can access your information and act on your behalf.

    The agent nomination process applies to all types of entities with an ABN, excluding sole traders.

    If you haven’t accessed online services for business before, there’s no need to wait until you engage your new agent. You can get started by:

    By doing these steps now, you’ll be prepared to complete the agent nomination process when required.

    For more information, see agent nomination.

    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 Australia: Logging in to our services is now a little different

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    We now use the Australian Government Digital ID System to verify your ID when you use your Digital ID to access:

    • Online services for business
    • Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM)
    • Access Manager
    • Australian Business Register (ABR).

    You may use these services when updating your NFP’s details, lodging your NFP self-review return or lodging your NFP’s activity statement.

    What to expect

    The next time you log in, you’ll be prompted with 2 new screens.

    The first screen allows you to select a Digital ID provider, such as myID, while the second screen requests your consent for your information to be shared with the online service.  

    To make it faster to login, you can select ‘Remember my choice’ and ‘Yes, remember my consent’. However, this is not recommended if you use a shared device.  

    These screens may look familiar if you’ve used your Digital ID to access other government services.

    For secure access, always:

    • log in directly through the ATO, RAM and ABR websites
    • log out after your session and close the browser to keep your information secure from unauthorised access.

    To find out more about Australia’s Digital ID System, visit digitalidsystem.gov.auExternal Link. 

    For assistance accessing our services, visit Accessing online services with Digital ID and RAM.

    Read more articles in the Not-for-profit newsroom and, if you haven’t already, subscribeExternal Link to our free monthly newsletter Not-for-profit news to be alerted when we publish new articles.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Where does your small business stand with our benchmarks?

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    We’ve updated our Small business benchmarks with 2022–23 financial year data.

    Released annually, if you’re one of the small businesses included in the 100 industries covered, you can use the benchmarks to compare your performance, including turnover and expenses against others in your industry. This can help you make improvements to your business.

    Take Anna for example. Anna is a sole trader and runs a pizza shop. She is curious about how her business is tracking against others in her industry.

    By using the benchmarks, Anna can see that:

    • her pizza shop’s cost of sales to turnover ratio is 44%, which is within the benchmark range for her business and turnover
    • the cost of sales benchmark starts at 37%, showing that some competitors have lower costs.

    Anna looked at other suppliers in the market and got a better deal to reduce her business expenses and improve her profits.

    The benchmarks also help small businesses to get it right and meet their tax obligations. Businesses with turnover or expenses outside the industry benchmark could be due to mistakes or errors. For example, income not being reported properly, or expenses might be overclaimed.

    You can access the benchmarks on our website and via the ATO app’s business performance check tool.

    We don’t collect personal information entered by businesses when using our tool. We make the benchmarks available (at no cost) to software providers for inclusion in their small business products.

    Your registered tax professional can also help you navigate and gain insight from our benchmarks.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Career Criminal Sentenced To 21+ Years For Methamphetamine Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Dequan Tyrie Paton, 33, of Asheville, was sentenced to 262 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release today for methamphetamine trafficking, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

    Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which oversees the Charlotte District Office, and Chief Michael Lamb of the Asheville Police Department, join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.

    According to filed court documents and today’s sentencing hearing, between September and November 2023, Payton distributed approximately 156 grams of methamphetamine and 3.5 grams of fentanyl in the Asheville area. During the investigation, Payton sold over 50 grams of methamphetamine at least three times to a confidential informant working with the ATF and almost 4 grams of fentanyl to that same informant. On April 9, 2024, Asheville Police Department located and attempted to arrest Payton on federal charges. Payton took off running. While running from the officers, Payton tossed a bag from his pocket containing approximately 11 grams of cocaine.

    On August 19, 2024, Payton pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine. Court records indicate Payton has multiple state convictions in North Carolina for drug distribution. Because of these prior criminal convictions, Payton qualified for an increased sentence as a career offender.

    In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson commended the ATF, the DEA, and the Asheville Police Department for their investigation of the case.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Annabelle M. Chambers with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case. Ms. Chambers is a state prosecutor with the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and was assigned by District Attorney Ashley Welch to serve as SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville.  Ms. Chambers is sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and the United States Attorney’s Office. The SAUSA position helps ensure the effective and vigorous prosecution of federal court cases that impact the counties within the 43rd Prosecutorial District.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Hyannis Man Sentenced to Over Eight Years in Prison for Gun and Drug Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Hyannis man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.  

    Timothy Lee Galvin, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley to 97 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In December 2024, Galvin pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Galvin was indicted in August 2023.

    On or about June 2, 2023 in Barnstable, Galvin was arrested for possession of approximately six grams of fentanyl and three rounds of 9mm ammunition in his pocket. In addition, a privately made.45 caliber pistol, 11 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition and 47 rounds of 9mm ammunition were found in a backpack.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Cape & Islands District Attorney Robert Galibois made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Tolkoff of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit 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 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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Previously Deported Six Times Convicted of Illegal Possession of a Firearm After Confrontation in Downtown Shreveport

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

    Shreveport, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a federal jury in Shreveport returned a guilty verdict yesterday against Jose Ismael Ramirez-Gonzalez, 37, of Mexico for possession of a firearm by an illegal alien and illegal re-entry into the United States after being removed. United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote presided over the trial. It took less than an hour for the jury to find Ramirez-Gonzalez guilty of the crimes.

    According to evidence presented at trial, on August 4, 2024, Shreveport police officers responded to a 911 call in the 400 block of Commerce Street in downtown Shreveport regarding an armed, Hispanic male. The Hispanic male was determined to be Ramirez-Gonzalez, who was intoxicated and earlier had pointed a loaded Ruger pistol at a woman over an apparent confrontation about parking. Officers arrested Ramirez-Gonzalez for driving under the influence of alcohol and having no driver’s license.

    Evidence at trial also established that Ramirez-Gonzalez is a citizen of Mexico and was illegally present in the United States after being deported on six prior occasions between 2008 and 2018.

    “The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to make our communities safe for all of our citizens.” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “This conviction should send a clear message that anyone in the United States illegally who chooses to violate our laws will be prosecuted to the maximum extent.”

    Ramirez-Gonzalez faces a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms conviction. He also faces up to two years in prison for illegally re-entering the United States.

    “Getting guns out of the hands of criminals is an essential element of the fight against violent crime and securing our neighborhoods,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today sends a message to the community that illegal aliens possessing firearms will be held accountable as we work to keep our neighborhoods safe as a top priority to ensure public safety for ATF.”

    The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Enforcement & Removal Operations), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Shreveport Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Cheyenne Y. Wilson and Allison L. Duncan.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Tulsan Sentenced for Possessing 100s of Images and Videos Containing the Sexual Abuse of Children

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TULSA, Okla. – A Tulsa man was sentenced today for Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

    U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Joseph Gunther Sampson, 31, to 121 months followed by 15 years of supervised release. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. Upon release, Sampson will be required to register as a sex offender. Restitution will be heard at a later date.

    In a separate child pornography investigation, the FBI discovered messages between another individual and Sampson discussing minor children for sexual purposes. When the FBI interviewed Sampson in August 2024, he allowed law enforcement to search his phone. Even though he stated his phone was new, the FBI discovered multiple images that contained Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). When confronted about the CSAM, Sampson admitted to having viewed child pornography for the past five years. He further admitted to receiving and sharing CSAM through an application on his phone.

    When the FBI searched Sampson’s home, they found three more electronic devices. The forensic analysis revealed that between December 2023 and August 2024, Sampson possessed 100s of images and videos containing CSAM. Multiple videos depict minors under the age of 12.

    The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s (NCMEC) CyberTipline is the nation’s centralized reporting system for the online exploitation of children. Since its inception in 1998, the NCMEC’s CyberTipline has received more than 195 million reports. The Child Victim Identification Program began in 2002 and has reviewed more than 425 million CSAM images or videos and helped identify more than 30,000 victims.

    NCMEC assisted in this case by analyzing the images found by investigators to identify known and unknown child sexual assault victims. The FBI investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Ihler prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fayette County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun Crime

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BECKLEY, W.Va. – Bryson J. England, 43, of Oak Hill, was sentenced today to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 2, 2024, England was a passenger in a vehicle pulled over by law enforcement officers in the Beckley area of Raleigh County. During the vehicle stop, officers conducted a pat-down search of England and found a loaded Armscor of the Philippines model M1911-AU FS .45-caliber pistol on his person. Officers also searched the vehicle and found an AR-15 semiautomatic rifle on the passenger side.

    Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. England knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony conviction for unlawful wounding in Kanawha County Circuit Court on January 6, 2003.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the West Virginia State Police.

    Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Brian D. Parsons 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 Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-cr-138.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Multiple Defendants Indicted On Federal Drug And Gun Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ASHEVILLE, N.C. – A federal grand jury in Asheville has returned multiple indictments, charging several individuals with criminal charges that include unlawful firearm possession, straw purchasing of firearms, and trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

    “Protecting our communities from drugs and guns is one of the Justice Department’s core missions,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “Through Operation Take Back America we are stepping up our efforts to remove illegal firearms from our communities, eliminate drugs in our neighborhoods, and make sure our streets are safer for everyone.”

    Bryan Austin Herron, 23, of Marshall, N.C., was indicted for the unlawful possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that, on August 5, 2024, Herron unlawfully possessed a RugerEC9S 9mm handgun knowing he had prior felony convictions, including attempt to traffic methamphetamine.

    John Quentin London, 39, of Hendersonville, N.C., is charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and unlawful possession of two firearms: a Smith and Wesson, model 649, .38 caliber revolver, and a Smith and Wesson, model SD9, 9mm pistol.

    Jason Mills, 46, of Hendersonville, is charged with multiple counts of distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine. The indictment alleges that Mills trafficked fentanyl and methamphetamine in Henderson and Buncombe Counties between January and February 2024.

    Christopher O’Brien Moore, 30, of Shelby, North Carolina, is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The indictment alleges that, on June 6, 2024, Moore, knowing that he had previously been convicted of a federal racketeering conspiracy and multiple state felonies, unlawfully possessed a Glock, model 22, .40 caliber pistol and ammunition.

    Dontavis Raheem Pressley, 36, of Shelby, N.C., is charged with the unlawful possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that, on August 13, 2024, Pressley possessed a Glock model 43, 9mm caliber pistol, knowing he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.

    Tia Marche Ray, 33, of Asheville, is charged with five counts of straw purchasing firearms. The indictment alleges that between July 12, 2020, and August 3, 2022, Ray acquired six firearms from multiple dealers in Buncombe County, by making false statements in connection with the acquisition of the firearms, falsely representing that she was the actual buyer of the firearms.

    The charges in the indictments are allegations and the defendants are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office; the Burke County Sheriff’s Office; the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office; the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office; and the Asheville Police Department for their respective investigations that led to the charges.

    The cases are being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville.

    The indictments are 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 (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Fresno County Resident Charged with Federal Gun and Drug Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment today against David Joseph Yama, 41, of Reedley, adding charges of possession of alprazolam (commonly known as Xanax) with intent to distribute, three counts of being a felon in possession of ammunition, and one count of carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking offense, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    Yama continues to be charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl as charged in the original indictment.

    According to court documents, on Sept. 1, 2020, police officers went to a gas station in Clovis after a report of suspicious activity and contacted Yama and two associates. A search of the car that Yama had been driving uncovered a large amount of cash, ammunition, plastic baggies, vials containing fentanyl, more than 200 fentanyl pills, and more than 100 alprazolam pills. A search of Yama’s residence on the same day revealed additional controlled substances and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. Several months later, in January 2021, Yama was stopped driving the same car. A search of the car resulted in the seizure of more alprazolam pills, ammunition, and a ghost gun. Prior to September 2020, Yama had been convicted of five felony drug trafficking and firearms offenses, and he is prohibited from possessing firearms.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Fentanyl Overdose Resolution Team, a multi-agency team composed of the DEA and the Homeland Security Investigations, the California Department of Justice, and the Clovis, Reedley and Fresno Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Karen A. Escobar are prosecuting the case.

    If convicted on the drug-trafficking counts, Yama faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million for each count. For the count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug offense, he faces a mandatory, consecutive five-year penalty and a maximum of up to life in prison. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.) a program designed to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas as well as identifying wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers. In July 2018, the Justice Department announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the Eastern District of California and nine other federal districts.

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

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Strengthening New York’s Gun Safety Laws

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today signed three new laws to strengthen New York’s gun violence prevention efforts and keep New Yorkers safe. The Governor also unveiled new data showing a 53 percent decline in gun violence year-to-date, when compared to pandemic-era highs. As part of this year’s Budget, Governor Hochul is proposing a significant $370 million investment to fight gun violence and keep driving down crime.

    “We’re taking action to drive down gun violence in the State of New York — protecting our communities and making our streets safer,” Governor Hochul said. “Public safety is my number one priority, and by giving law enforcement additional tools to stop gun violence in its tracks, we’re building on our promise to put the safety of New Yorkers first.”

    In 2025, shootings have declined 53 percent year-to-date when compared to pandemic-era highs three years ago: from 497 shootings statewide from January to March of 2022 to 236 shootings statewide from January to March of this year. Earlier this year, Governor Hochul announced that gun violence declined to the lowest levels on record in the 28 communities participating in the State’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative — including Rochester, Syracuse and Yonkers — and the NYPD announced declines in shootings in New York City as well.

    Legislation S.744/A.436 will ensure there are penalties for using “pistol converters,” which are rapid-fire modification devices that can be easily attached to semi-automatic pistols to make them even deadlier by allowing rapid fire with one pull of the trigger.

    State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “Rapid-fire modification devices are capable of transforming firearms into fully automatic machine guns and are not permitted in New York State. These rapid-fire modification devices include a wide range of gun modification devices including bump stocks, trigger cranks, and burst trigger systems. The legislation Governor Hochul is signing today makes it explicitly clear that pistol converters, also known as auto-sears, which can be used to make traditional pistols fire as many as 15 rounds in under two seconds, are a subset of rapid-fire modification devices and should be treated as such under New York State Law. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul, Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and my colleagues throughout the Legislature who once again are standing up to the gun lobby to make New York a safer place.”

    Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon said, “New Yorkers are sick of weapons manufacturers ignoring their role in the gun violence epidemic. For decades, Glock has known that its pistols can be easily and cheaply converted into illegal fully-automatic machine guns. It’s time to put people over profit. My first-in-the-nation bill has been signed into law, holding Glock and Glock-like gun manufacturers accountable for failing to prevent this easy conversion to illegal machine guns. Thank you to Governor Hochul for signing my bill, my partner Senator Hoylman-Sigal, and the advocates for working to prevent gun violence.”

    Legislation S.745/A.439 will strengthen the law that the Governor signed last year that requires credit and debit card issuers to use the merchant category code (MCC) for firearms and ammunition retailers by ensuring that it captures retailers whose bulk sales come from firearms, ammunition and firearms accessories.

    State Senator Zellnor Myrie said, “Since 2019, New York has been a national leader in taking on gun violence- and the laws Governor Hochul is signing today continues that progress. While the federal government turns a blind eye to the gun crime plaguing our communities, New York can show the way forward by passing new laws to stop the sale of weapons that can be converted into machine guns, centralize our gun violence prevention efforts, and standardize our response to mass shooting incidents wherever they occur.”

    Assemblymember Michaelle Solages said, “With today’s signing, Governor Hochul is taking a bold step to protect New Yorkers from gun violence. By requiring the use of merchant category codes for firearm and ammunition purchases, we are equipping financial institutions with a critical tool to help detect suspicious activity before it becomes a tragedy. This is a smart, data-driven approach to public safety, and I’m proud to lead the way with Senator Myrie and dedicated advocates.”

    Legislation S.743/A.437 strengthens the law the Governor signed last year that requires firearms dealers and gunsmiths to post and distribute at the time of sale information about the availability of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and warnings about the dangers of gun ownership, including increased risk of suicide, death during domestic disputes and unintentional death of children, household members and others. By providing consumers with this Surgeon General style warning, the law aims to promote the health and safety of the general public by educating and informing gun owners and potential buyers of the risks the weapons pose.

    State Senator Michael Gianaris said, “Education and information are key to responsible gun ownership, which will prevent injury and improve public safety. I am proud to have shepherded this proposal through the Senate and to now see it enacted into law.”

    Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz said, “It is without question that there are enormous risks associated with gun ownership. By requiring firearm dealers and licensing officers to provide clear and accessible warnings about the heightened risks of suicide, domestic violence, and unintentional deaths, we are aiding people in becoming fully informed about the dangers of gun ownership while at the same time taking measures to help safeguard our communities. The inclusion of a prominently displayed 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will make it easier for those in distress to access avenues of assistance when they are at their most vulnerable. I want to thank Governor Hochul for signing this entire package of bills into law and my colleague, Senator Mike Gianaris, for partnering with me on this legislation which demonstrates New York’s commitment to promoting responsible firearm ownership while protecting public health and safety.”

    Assemblymember Harvey Epstein said, “It is critical that we address the gun violence epidemic in our state and nation. So many lives have been lost as a result of our failure to pass common-sense gun regulations. Today I am happy to join Governor Hochul as we pass this package of legislation that will make our state safer.”

    Assemblymember Tony Simone said, “We are in the midst of a mental health crisis and a gun violence epidemic, and we must do everything in our power as lawmakers to combat it. We can begin by passing common-sense anti gun-violence measures, which a vast majority of gun owners support and want, which is what these three bills signed today are. I am proud to stand with Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the legislature in our resoluteness to solve these epidemics playing out in our communities.”

    The $370 million investment to reduce and prevent gun violence and strengthen communities disproportionately impacted by crime includes, but is not limited to, the following programs and initiatives administered by DCJS:

    • $50 million through the Law Enforcement Technology grant program, which provides funding so police departments and sheriffs’ offices can purchase new equipment and technology to modernize their operations and more effectively solve and prevent crime.
    • $36 million for GIVE, which funds the 28 police departments and district attorneys’ offices, probation departments and sheriffs’ offices in 21 counties outside of New York City.
    • $21 million for the SNUG Street Outreach Program, which operates in 14 communities across the state: Albany, the Bronx, Buffalo, Hempstead, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Niagara Falls, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Syracuse, Troy, Utica, Wyandanch and Yonkers. The program uses a public health approach to address gun violence by identifying the source, interrupting transmission, and treating individuals, families and communities affected by the violence.
    • $18 million in continued support for the State’s unique, nationally recognized Crime Analysis Center Network, and $13 million in new funding to establish the New York State Crime Analysis and Joint Special Operations Command Headquarters, a strategic information, technical assistance and training hub for 11 Centers in the State’s network and enhance existing partnerships and expand information sharing with the New York State Intelligence Center operated by the State Police, the locally run Nassau County Lead Development Center and the State’s Joint Security Operations Center, which focuses on protecting the State from cyber threats.
    • $20 million for Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain, Empower) in 10 communities to support mentoring, mental health services, restorative practices, trust building, employment and education support and youth development activities, among other programs and services that address trauma resulting from long-term exposure to violence, build resilience and strengthen youth, families and neighborhoods.

    The New York State Police, the State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and the State Office of Victim Services also will receive funding through that $370 million allocation.

    Other public safety initiatives outlined in Governor Hochul’s FY26 Executive Budget include $35 million for the next round of the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grants to increase safety and security of organizations at risk of hate crimes or attacks because of their ideology, beliefs or mission; or investments that expand support for victims and survivors of crime, including doubling funding for rape crisis centers to $12.8 million.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jacksonville Felon Indicted For Drug Trafficking And Possessing Firearms On Multiple Occasions

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

    Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of a superseding indictment charging James Edward Bullard (27, Jacksonville) with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted on all counts, Bullard faces a minimum penalty of 30 years, up to two life terms, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Bullard that the United States intends to forfeit five firearms and their ammunition, which were used in and facilitated the offenses.

    According to the indictment, on September 17, 2024, Bullard was in possession of more than 50 grams of actual methamphetamine that he intended to distribute. He also possessed firearms in furtherance of this drug trafficking activity. At the time, Bullard had eight prior felony convictions, including selling cocaine and robbery. As a convicted felon, Bullard is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. On November 4, 2024, Bullard again unlawfully possessed a firearm.

    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 Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Florida Highway Patrol, and the Baker County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor.

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Harrisburg Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted Felon

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ajear Anthony Miller-Carter, age 24, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 46 months in prison by United States District Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for unlawful possession of a firearm.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Miller-Carter pleaded guilty on September 24, 2024, to one count of possessing a firearm by a prohibited person.  On August 30, 2021, in Union County, police officers initiated a traffic stop of a car in which Miller-Carter was a passenger.  During the stop, officers searched the car and found marijuana, a digital scale, drug paraphernalia, and a loaded Taurus PT111G2 9MM pistol with an extended magazine.  Officers discovered Miller-Carter, a previously convicted felon, had an active warrant for his arrest and took him into custody wherein he admitted the 9MM pistol was his.  Police subsequently learned that the firearm was stolen. 

    The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Harrisburg Police Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Haugsby prosecuted the case.

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

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