NewzIntel.com

Category: Gun Control

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Act now to ensure your governing documents are accurate

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    A not-for-profit (NFP) is required to maintain governing documents that demonstrate they operate on a NFP basis, including organisations that self-assess their income tax exemption. These governing documents must include clauses that prevent the NFP from distributing income or assets to members, both while it operates and when it winds up.

    NFP self-review return requirement

    Non-charitable NFPs with an active Australian business number (ABN) must lodge an annual NFP self-review return to notify us of their eligibility to self-assess as income tax exempt. When completing the return, NFPs must confirm they follow clauses in their governing documents that prohibit distribution of income or assets to members.

    What if your NFP doesn’t have these governing document clauses?

    • As a transitional arrangement NFPs can self-assess as income tax exempt in their first self-review return for the 2023–24 income year, provided they’ve not distributed any assets or income to its members.
    • NFPs must update their governing documents by 30 June 2025 to continue self-assessing as income tax exempt for the 2024–25 income year.
    • If your NFP doesn’t have clauses that prohibit distributions to members in its governing documents by 30 June 2025, it cannot self-assess as income tax exempt for the 2024–25 income year onwards. This may result in your NFP needing to lodge an income tax return.
    • Updates to governing documents cannot be backdated. It can take time to update your governing documents, as you may need to hold an annual general meeting (AGM) to note any amendments. So be sure get started as soon as possible so you don’t run out of time.

    What are governing documents?

    Governing documents outline your organisation’s purpose, NFP character, and operational guidelines. They may be called by names such as your NFP’s rules or articles of association, constitution, rule book, or deed of trust.

    They should include:

    • the NFP’s purpose: the mission and objectives of the organisation
    • not-for-profit clauses: statements that ensure the organisation’s income and assets are used solely for its purpose and not distributed to members or other private persons
    • dissolution clauses: guidelines on what happens to the organisation’s assets if it winds up.

    We recommend you conduct a review of your NFP’s governing documents annually in preparation for the annual self-review return, and whenever there is a major change to the structure or activities of the organisation. This will ensure your governing documents remain in order.

    If you need more help with getting ready to lodge your NFP self-review return, including how to prepare your governing documents, you can visit our website for information on how to lodge the NFP self-review return.

    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: If your NFP is taxable, you must lodge your return soon

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Taxable not-for-profits (NFPs) need to lodge an income tax return or non-lodgment advice by 15 May.

    Who needs to lodge?

    Taxable NFPs include organisations that do not meet the criteria for income tax exemption. These organisations must lodge an income tax return to report their taxable income and pay any tax due. The types of NFPs that may need to lodge an income tax return include:

    • NFP companies
    • Other taxable companies
    • Taxable trusts or partnerships

    Lodgment due date

    Organisations with an income year ending 30 June, have until 15 May 2025 to lodge the 2023–24 income tax return If you have an ATO approved SAP your due date to lodge the 2023-24 income tax return is determined by your approved balance date. It’s important for NFPs to meet this deadline to avoid any penalties or interest charges.

    Preparing for lodgment

    To prepare for lodgment, taxable NFPs should:

    Review financial records: Ensure all financial records are accurate and up to date.

    Determine taxable income: Calculate the organization’s taxable income for the financial year.

    Complete the tax return: Use the appropriate tax return form for your NFP’s structure (e.g., company tax return, trust tax return).

    How to lodge

    There are several ways to lodge the income tax return:

    Online: The quickest and easiest method is through Online services for business.

    Registered tax agent: A registered tax agent can lodge the return on your NFP’s behalf.

    Paper lodgment: If online lodgment is not possible, you can lodge a paper return by mail.

    Support and resources

    Here are some various resources to assist NFPs with their tax return lodgment:

    NFP Guide to the Company Tax Return: This guide provides detailed instructions on how to complete the company tax return for NFPs.

    Online services: Access to online lodgment and support tools.

    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: ATO welcomes review on the management of financial abuse within the tax system

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) welcomes the release of the Inspector-General of Taxation and Taxation Ombudsman’s report into the ATO’s identification and management of financial abuse within the tax system.

    Financial abuse is a serious issue which can have significant impacts for victims. 

    The ATO has an important role in supporting taxpayers impacted by financial abuse, whilst ensuring the continued integrity of the tax system.

    We agree with all recommendations provided in the Tax Ombudsman’s report, and value the perspectives of those who contributed to the report, including the lived experience of victim survivors.

    The Tax Ombudsman’s findings help us to increase our understanding of community expectations and real-life experiences, so we can better support taxpayers impacted by financial abuse.

    Several of the report’s recommendations build on work already underway in the ATO to support vulnerable clients.

    The ATO’s Vulnerability Capability is strengthening and coordinating the way we support people experiencing vulnerability. This includes the development of a framework and specific actions and to support people experiencing vulnerability, including financial abuse.

    The ATO welcomes insights on how to further strengthen and coordinate support for taxpayers that have experienced financial abuse, including considering improvements to our existing procedures in place to support these taxpayers.

    We recognise the Tax Ombudsman’s findings in relation to the ATO’s role ensuring the integrity of the tax system and in holding perpetrators of financial abuse to account within our existing powers.

    We commit to further engagement and consultation with other government agencies and community groups and leveraging existing support and programs to address financial abuse within the tax system.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Straw purchaser sentenced for supplying firearms smuggled across the border

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

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 38-year-old McAllen resident has been ordered to prison for her role in firearms trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Jazmin Gutierrez and her co-defendant, Isai Alpides-Navarrete, each pleaded guilty July 25, 2024.  

    U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Gutierrez to serve 121 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by two years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence about the number of firearms the pair purchased and their frequent trips around the state to collect them before transferring them to another individual who would smuggle them across the border. In handing down the sentence, Judge Ramos commented that this wasn’t an isolated incident, but multiple trips and that the firearms were going to individuals who commit serious crimes.

    Judge Ramos previously sentenced Alpides-Navarrete, a citizen of Mexico illegally residing in the United States, to a total of 121 months for straw purchasing firearms and being an alien in possession of ammunition.

    As part of an investigation involving the unlawful purchase, transfer and exportation of firearms, authorities arrested Gutierrez March 21, 2024. At that time, they found her in possession of five handguns, a 7.62x39mm assault rifle, high-capacity magazines and ammunition.

    Law enforcement also conducted a search warrant at a residence in McAllen and took Alpides-Navarrete into custody. Inside the residence, they seized approximately 275 rounds of ammunition and high capacity magazines as well as 21 empty pistol boxes.  

    At the time of her arrest, Gutierrez admitted to finding firearms online from private sellers and purchasing over 50 of them which other individuals later smuggled into Mexico.  

    Gutierrez was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    This case is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and IRS Criminal Investigation are conducting the OCDETF operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lance Watt is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: High Ranking MS-13 Leader and Fugitive Wanted for Multiple Murders Found and Arrested in Long Island

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    Last night, a high-ranking leader of La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13, was arrested in New York for his alleged role in a conspiracy responsible for 11 murders.

    Joel Vargas-Escobar, also known as Momia, was indicted the District of Nevada and charged with racketeering conspiracy that involved 11 murders. Vargas-Escobar is also charged with two counts of murder-in-aid of racketeering and associated firearms charges. Vargas-Escobar – who previously had been deported to El Salvador and illegally re-entered the United States – had been a fugitive from justice for nearly four years.

    “The American people are safer following the arrest of yet another MS-13 leader thanks to the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division and Joint Task Force Vulcan,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This terrorist entered our country illegally and is accused of orchestrating 11 murders — under President Trump’s leadership, we will not rest until this terrorist organization is completely dismantled and its members are behind bars.”

    “The arrest of yet another violent and dangerous MS-13 leader is a major win for our FBI agents, law enforcement partners, and safer American streets,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Our agents and analysts are continuously coordinating across multiple field offices and investigating with our valued partners to keep this work going — and we will not stop until that work is done.”

    According to court documents, MS-13 is a national and transnational gang composed largely of individuals of Salvadoran or other Central American descent. MS-13 has more than 10,000 members regularly conducting gang activities in at least 10 states and Washington, D.C., with thousands more conducting gang activities in Central America and Mexico. MS-13 operates through the use of intimidation and violence, including murder, and enriching members and associates through criminal activities, including breaking into houses and stealing firearms, jewelry, cash, and other items of value, and selling narcotics. MS-13 is organized by subsets known as “cliques,” and each clique typically has one or more leaders, commonly referred to as “shot callers.”

    Vargas-Escobar and his co-defendants are allegedly part of MS-13’s command and control structure in Las Vegas and California and exercised significant leadership roles in the organization’s operations. The indictment charges members of the “Parkview” clique of MS-13 with committing 11 murders over about a year in Nevada and California. According to the indictment, many of the victims were allegedly kidnapped by MS-13 members and taken to remote locations in the mountains and desert where they were tortured and killed.

    Vargas-Escobar was the alleged leader of the Parkview clique of MS-13 in Las Vegas and personally ordered two of the charged murders. He was deported to El Salvador in 2018 but illegally re-entered the country.

    The arrest operation was coordinated by the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division in Washington, D.C., with support from the FBI’s Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and New York field offices, the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada, and Joint Task Force Vulcan (JTFV).

    JTFV, which was created in 2019 to destroy MS-13 and now expanded to target Tren de Aragua, is comprised of U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country, including the Southern District of New York; the Eastern District of New York; the District of New Jersey; the Northern District of Ohio; the District of Utah; the District of Massachusetts; the Eastern District of Texas; the Southern District of Florida; the Eastern District of Virginia; the Southern District of California; the District of Nevada; the District of Alaska; the Southern District of Texas; and the District of Columbia, as well as the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Criminal Division. Additionally, the FBI; DEA; HSI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; and the Federal Bureau of Prisons have been essential law enforcement partners with JTFV.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America and an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. Operation Take Back America is 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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    Vargas-Escobar appeared this morning for his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge James M. Wicks of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York – Central Islip. He was ordered detained and will be transferred to the District of Nevada for trial. If convicted, Vargas-Escobar faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Christopher Taylor and Justin Bish from the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melanee Smith and Steven Rose for the District of Nevada, with substantial assistance from Joint Task Force Vulcan Deputy Director Jeremy Franker, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: High Ranking MS-13 Leader and Fugitive Wanted for Multiple Murders Found and Arrested in Long Island

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Last night, a high-ranking leader of La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13, was arrested in New York for his alleged role in a conspiracy responsible for 11 murders.

    Joel Vargas-Escobar, also known as Momia, was indicted the District of Nevada and charged with racketeering conspiracy that involved 11 murders. Vargas-Escobar is also charged with two counts of murder-in-aid of racketeering and associated firearms charges. Vargas-Escobar – who previously had been deported to El Salvador and illegally re-entered the United States – had been a fugitive from justice for nearly four years.

    “The American people are safer following the arrest of yet another MS-13 leader thanks to the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division and Joint Task Force Vulcan,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This terrorist entered our country illegally and is accused of orchestrating 11 murders — under President Trump’s leadership, we will not rest until this terrorist organization is completely dismantled and its members are behind bars.”

    “The arrest of yet another violent and dangerous MS-13 leader is a major win for our FBI agents, law enforcement partners, and safer American streets,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Our agents and analysts are continuously coordinating across multiple field offices and investigating with our valued partners to keep this work going — and we will not stop until that work is done.”

    According to court documents, MS-13 is a national and transnational gang composed largely of individuals of Salvadoran or other Central American descent. MS-13 has more than 10,000 members regularly conducting gang activities in at least 10 states and Washington, D.C., with thousands more conducting gang activities in Central America and Mexico. MS-13 operates through the use of intimidation and violence, including murder, and enriching members and associates through criminal activities, including breaking into houses and stealing firearms, jewelry, cash, and other items of value, and selling narcotics. MS-13 is organized by subsets known as “cliques,” and each clique typically has one or more leaders, commonly referred to as “shot callers.”

    Vargas-Escobar and his co-defendants are allegedly part of MS-13’s command and control structure in Las Vegas and California and exercised significant leadership roles in the organization’s operations. The indictment charges members of the “Parkview” clique of MS-13 with committing 11 murders over about a year in Nevada and California. According to the indictment, many of the victims were allegedly kidnapped by MS-13 members and taken to remote locations in the mountains and desert where they were tortured and killed.

    Vargas-Escobar was the alleged leader of the Parkview clique of MS-13 in Las Vegas and personally ordered two of the charged murders. He was deported to El Salvador in 2018 but illegally re-entered the country.

    The arrest operation was coordinated by the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division in Washington, D.C., with support from the FBI’s Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and New York field offices, the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada, and Joint Task Force Vulcan (JTFV).

    JTFV, which was created in 2019 to destroy MS-13 and now expanded to target Tren de Aragua, is comprised of U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country, including the Southern District of New York; the Eastern District of New York; the District of New Jersey; the Northern District of Ohio; the District of Utah; the District of Massachusetts; the Eastern District of Texas; the Southern District of Florida; the Eastern District of Virginia; the Southern District of California; the District of Nevada; the District of Alaska; the Southern District of Texas; and the District of Columbia, as well as the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Criminal Division. Additionally, the FBI; DEA; HSI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; and the Federal Bureau of Prisons have been essential law enforcement partners with JTFV.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America and an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. Operation Take Back America is 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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    Vargas-Escobar appeared this morning for his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge James M. Wicks of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York – Central Islip. He was ordered detained and will be transferred to the District of Nevada for trial. If convicted, Vargas-Escobar faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Christopher Taylor and Justin Bish from the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melanee Smith and Steven Rose for the District of Nevada, with substantial assistance from Joint Task Force Vulcan Deputy Director Jeremy Franker, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Men Sentenced for Violent Attempted Theft of Drugs from Rangeley Home

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Andre Muller, Robert Holland and others conspired to steal drugs from a Rangeley residence in 2016

    BANGOR, Maine: Two New York man were sentenced today for conspiring to interfere with commerce by robbery in connection with a violent home invasion in Rangeley in 2016.

    U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen sentenced Andre Muller, 54, to 200 months in prison, and Robert Holland, 45, to 188 months in prison. Both men were also sentenced to three years of supervised release following their terms of imprisonment. Muller and Holland were found guilty on November 23, 2023, after a three-day jury trial in the U.S. District Court in Bangor.

    According to evidence presented during the trial, in July 2016, Muller, Holland and four coconspirators developed a plan to steal controlled substances from a Rangeley residence. On July 26, 2016, Muller traveled from New York City with Hector Munoz, 57, of Florida and one other coconspirator, meeting up with Holland and a fifth man at a location just outside Rangeley. On July 28, 2016, two of the coconspirators, including Munoz, entered the Rangeley residence armed with knives with the intent to take the controlled substances. During the commission of the robbery, the robbery’s intended target shot and killed the second coconspirator. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is not identifying that conspirator because they were not charged.

    Muller and Holland were initially convicted following a five-day jury trial that concluded August 10, 2022. Judge Torresen granted a motion for a new trial, however, based on evidence of juror prejudgment, and the second trial was held in November 2023.

    Hector Munoz pleaded guilty to conspiring to interfere with commerce by robbery on January 15, 2020, and was sentenced to time served on January 12, 2024.

    The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Maine State Police; the Rangeley Police Department; the U.S. Border Patrol; and the Carrabassett Valley Police Department investigated the case, with assistance provided by the Maine Office of the Attorney General.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: SideChannel, Inc. to Present at the AI & Technology Virtual Investor Conference April 3rd

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WORCESTER, Mass., April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SideChannel, Inc. (OTCQB:SDCH) (“SideChannel”), a leading provider of cybersecurity services and technology to emerging and middle market companies, today announced that Brian Haugli, Chief Executive Officer, will present live at the AI & Technology Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on April 3rd, 2025.

    DATE: April 3rd
    TIME: 2:30 PM ET
    LINK: REGISTER HERE

    This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

    It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.  

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    Company Highlights & Financial Overview

    • Recently placed proprietary software with DoD agencies
    • Expanding sales and marketing team to land more clients and expand with existing clients
    • Fiscal Year 2024 revenue of $7.4 million
    • Fiscal Year 2024 cashflow of $244 thousand
    • Zero debt

    About SideChannel
    SideChannel helps emerging and mid-market companies protect their assets. Founded in 2019, we deliver comprehensive cybersecurity plans through a series of actions branded SideChannel Complete.

    SideChannel deploys a combination of skilled and experienced talent and technology tools to offer layered defense strategies supported by battle-tested processes. SideChannel also offers Enclave, a network infrastructure platform that accelerates the journey from zero to zero-trust. Learn more at sidechannel.com/enclave.

    Investors and shareholders are encouraged to receive press releases and industry updates by subscribing to the investor email newsletter and following SideChannel on X and LinkedIn.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®
    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access.  Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    CONTACTS:

    SideChannel, Inc.
    Ryan Polk
    Chief Financial Officer
    ir@sidechannel.com 

    Virtual Investor Conferences
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com 

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including information about management’s view of SideChannel’s future expectations, plans and prospects. In particular, when used in the preceding discussion, the words “believes”, “hopes”, “expects”, “intends”, “plans”, “anticipates”, ”potential”, “could”, “should” or “may”, and similar conditional expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements relating to future sales, earnings, cash flows, results of operations, uses of cash and other measures of financial performance.

    Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause SideChannel’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risk factors include, but are not limited to: that we have incurred net losses since inception, our need for additional funding, the substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern, and the terms of any future funding we raise; our dependence on current management and our ability to attract and retain qualified employees; competition for our products; our ability to develop and successfully introduce new products, improve current products and innovate; unpredictability in our operating results; our ability to retain existing licensees and add new licensees; our ability to manage our growth; our ability to protect our intellectual property (IP), enforce our IP rights and defend against claims that we infringed on the IP of others; the risk associated with the concentration of our cash in one financial institution at levels above the amount protected by FDIC insurance; and other risk factors included from time to time in documents we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. These reports are available at www.sec.gov.

    Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or represented in the forward-looking statements. Further, factors that we do not presently deem material as of the date of this release may become material in the future. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. SideChannel cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Finally, SideChannel undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements after the date of this release, except as required by law, nor any obligation to update or correct information prepared by third parties.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal Join Letter To Attorney General Bondi On Appointment Of Kash Patel As ATF Acting Director

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 14 of their Senate Democratic colleagues in a letter to U.S. Attorney General (AG) Pam Bondi inquiring into what policies and procedures she will commit to implementing in her capacity as AG to ensure that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) will continue to meaningfully function in its intended capacity under Kash Patel’s stewardship.

    In February, President Trump announced that Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel would also serve as Acting Director of ATF, the primary federal law enforcement agency responsible for addressing gun-related crime and violence in America. However, the Senators’ letter to AG Bondi argues that Mr. Patel threatens to undo the significant gains made in recent years to ensure Americans’ safety as he lacks the relevant experience to lead ATF and has ties to the gun industry.

    “As the primary federal law enforcement agency dedicated to curbing illegal firearm use and enforcing federal firearms laws and regulations, it is critical that ATF be led by an experienced Director who has been confirmed by the Senate for this role and is dedicated to upholding the agency’s mission. For the reasons outlined below, Mr. Patel is not that person,” the senators wrote. “We therefore write to inquire into what policies and procedures you will implement to ensure that ATF will continue to meaningfully function in its intended capacity.”

    Gun violence in the United States is a public health crisis. In 2024, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory listing firearm violence—including homicide, suicide, nonfatal injuries, and unintentional injuries and deaths—as a “significant public health challenge[] that require[s] the nation’s immediate awareness and action.” Though under the Trump Administration, the Surgeon General has since removed the advisory, the report analyzed data from 2002 to 2022, finding that since 2020 the leading cause of death for children and adolescents in America has been gun violence, with rates higher than car crashes, poisoning, and cancer. In 2022 alone, 48,204 people died in the United States of gun-related injuries.

    That said, following passage of the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and coordinated, nationwide efforts to curb gun violence during the Biden Administration, the United States is starting to see positive results. In 2023, provisional data indicates gun-related deaths totaled 46,728—representing a decline from 2022 by three percent or 1,476 fewer deaths. Violent crime has also declined significantly, due in part to ATF’s data collection, investigation, and enforcement efforts.

    “While the decrease in violent crime and gun-related deaths is encouraging, 2023 still had ‘the third-highest number of gun-related deaths ever recorded in the United States,’ evidencing that significant challenges to America’s gun violence crisis remain,” the senators wrote. “The Department of Justice must do everything within its power to sustain this downward trend, including ensuring ATF is empowered to carry out its mandate and keep firearms from falling into the hands of those who should not have them. Now is not the time to pull back on ATF leadership and practices that helped bring about this progress.”

    The senators’ letter went on to explain why Mr. Patel is not the right person to lead ATF.

    “As an Acting Director, Patel’s appointment has not been subject to Senate confirmation, a crucial process for vetting those nominated by the President for significant leadership roles in the Executive, including ATF Director. Disturbingly, Mr. Patel would not affirm that firearm background checks—a well-established procedure for keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals—are constitutional during his confirmation hearing for FBI Director. Notably, Mr. Patel’s appointment has been applauded by extreme gun advocacy groups seeking to rollback commonsense gun regulations,” they continued. “Mr. Patel’s appointment threatens to undo the lifesaving progress ATF has made to reduce gun violence in America.”

    The senators concluded: “Attorney General Bondi, you have served as a prosecutor for much of your career. During your Senate confirmation hearing, you testified about the importance of keeping Americans safe, prosecuting criminals and gunrunners, reducing recidivism, and enforcing existing gun laws. During one exchange, you assured the Committee: ‘I will do everything in my power to prevent illegal gunrunners in our country.’ In discussing your time as Florida Attorney General and mass shooting responses, you reiterated: ‘I am an advocate for the Second Amendment, but I will enforce the laws of the land.’”

    To better understand how AG Bondi intends to accomplish these goals, the senators asked that she promptly respond to a series of questions.

    U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) also signed the letter.

    Full text of letter is available HERE and below:

    Dear Attorney General Bondi:

    We write with great concern regarding President Trump’s appointment of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel as Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  As the primary federal law enforcement agency dedicated to curbing illegal firearm use and enforcing federal firearms laws and regulations, it is critical that ATF be led by an experienced Director who has been confirmed by the Senate for this role and is dedicated to upholding the agency’s mission. For the reasons outlined below, Mr. Patel is not that person. We therefore write to inquire into what policies and procedures you will implement to ensure that ATF will continue to meaningfully function in its intended capacity.

    Gun violence in the United States is a public health crisis. In 2024, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory listing firearm violence—including homicide, suicide, nonfatal injuries, and unintentional injuries and deaths—as a “significant public health challenge[] that require[s] the nation’s immediate awareness and action.”  Analyzing data from 2002 to 2022, the Surgeon General reported that since 2020 the leading cause of death for children and adolescents in America has been gun violence, with rates higher than car crashes, poisoning, and cancer.  In 2022 alone, 48,204 people died in the United States of gun-related injuries.

    That said, following passage of the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and coordinated, nationwide efforts to curb gun violence during the Biden Administration, we were starting to see positive results. In 2023, provisional data indicates gun-related deaths totaled 46,728—representing a decline from 2022 by three percent or 1,476 fewer deaths.  Violent crime has also declined significantly, due in part to ATF’s data collection, investigation, and enforcement efforts.

    For example, ATF’s crime gun intelligence tools eTrace, which “is used to trace the purchase and/or use history of firearms used in violent crimes,” and the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, which “is the only interstate automated ballistic imaging network in operation in the United States,” together “have transformed crime-solving by generating over 1.1 million investigative leads from ballistic evidence and linking suspects to major crimes within hours.”  ATF has also worked to increase DNA matches from cartridge casings and has expanded Crime Gun Intelligence Centers, which use “data-driven strategies” to foster “cross-agency collaboration.”

    ATF has also focused on eliminating firearms trafficking networks that unlawfully smuggle guns from the United States to Mexico, arming dangerous cartels which, in turn, send illicit drugs such as fentanyl into the United States.  And ATF created an Emerging Threats Center, which among other things, has focused on the proliferation of privately-made firearms, or ghost guns, and machine-gun conversion devices, or Glock switches.  These represent only some examples of ATF’s nationwide initiatives to reduce gun violence and keep Americans safe.

    While the decrease in violent crime and gun-related deaths is encouraging, 2023 still had “the third-highest number of gun-related deaths ever recorded in the United States,” evidencing that significant challenges to America’s gun violence crisis remain.  The Department of Justice must do everything within its power to sustain this downward trend, including ensuring ATF is empowered to carry out its mandate and keep firearms from falling into the hands of those who should not have them. Now is not the time to pull back on ATF leadership and practices that helped bring about this progress.

    Mr. Patel is, quite simply, not the right person to lead the ATF. As an Acting Director, Patel’s appointment has not been subject to Senate confirmation, a crucial process for vetting those nominated by the President for significant leadership roles in the Executive, including ATF Director. Disturbingly, Mr. Patel would not affirm that firearm background checks—a well-established procedure for keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals—are constitutional during his confirmation hearing for FBI Director.  Notably, Mr. Patel’s appointment has been applauded by extreme gun advocacy groups seeking to rollback commonsense gun regulations.  Last year, Mr. Patel spoke at the inaugural summit for group Gun Owners of America, a “no-compromise gun lobby” that has announced it “look[s] forward to dismantling gun control with Kash.”  Mr. Patel’s appointment threatens to undo the lifesaving progress ATF has made to reduce gun violence in America.

    Attorney General Bondi, you have served as a prosecutor for much of your career. During your Senate confirmation hearing, you testified about the importance of keeping Americans safe, prosecuting criminals and gunrunners, reducing recidivism, and enforcing existing gun laws.  During one exchange, you assured the Committee: “I will do everything in my power to prevent illegal gunrunners in our country.”  In discussing your time as Florida Attorney General and mass shooting responses, you reiterated: “I am an advocate for the Second Amendment, but I will enforce the laws of the land.”  To better understand how you intend to accomplish these goals, please promptly respond to the following questions:

    1. Recently, we have seen notable success in curtailing gun violence. While the United States experienced a spike in gun-related crimes and deaths during the pandemic, through bipartisan congressional action and the previous Administration’s efforts, that trend has begun to reverse. Given ATF’s central role in curbing violent crime, it is of paramount importance that the agency be staffed by experienced leaders, agents, and others who support ATF’s core mission, without the appearance of or actual conflict, in order to continue this downward trend. By contrast, firearm-industry personnel advocate for gun companies’ bottom lines by pushing for the repeal of commonsense gun regulations in order to sell more weapons and weapons accessories. Hiring such individuals for critical public-safety positions at ATF would endanger the agency’s core mission and Americans’ safety while prioritizing increases in private company profits.

    Will you place constraints on the hiring of firearm-industry personnel for ATF positions? If not, why?

    1. ATF must comply with all existing legal obligations. This includes exercising statutorily-required regulatory authority over the firearms industry, fully implementing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, and complying with the Administrative Procedures Act if changing existing ATF regulations. However, Acting Director Patel lacks experience with ATF’s core responsibilities, including ATF’s regulatory oversight of the gun industry. Moreover, Acting Director Patel was only temporarily appointed under the Vacancies Reform Act and has not been subject to the Senate’s advice and consent process for this role. It is therefore particularly important that you exercise your authority as Attorney General to give final approval of all actions ATF takes under Acting Director Patel’s stewardship, including all policy changes.

    Will you commit to personally reviewing for approval all new or revised ATF policies and actions? If not, why?

    Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Cotton Work to Repeal Tax on Certain Firearm Purchases

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced the Repealing Illegal Freedom and Liberty Excises (RIFLE) Act, legislation that would remove a burdensome tax imposed on firearms regulated under the National Firearms Act.

    “Arkansas’s hunters and shooting sportsmen and women who exercise their Second Amendment rights responsibly deserve access to firearms and accessories without jumping through bureaucratic hoops. I am proud to join Sen. Cotton and our colleagues to take this outdated and burdensome hurdle off the books for the benefit of law-abiding citizens across our country,” Boozman said. 

    “Law-abiding Americans who exercise their Second Amendment rights should not be subject to unnecessary taxes and restrictions preventing them from doing so. Passed into law in 1934, the National Firearms Act needs to be amended. Our legislation will remove the red tape that places an undue financial burden on would-be gun owners,” said Cotton.

    Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Deb Fischer (R-NE), John Hoeven (R-ND), Jim Justice (R-WV), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Rick Scott (R-FL) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) also cosponsored the legislation.

    Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02).

    Background:

    • The 1934 National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates short-barreled shotguns and rifles, automatic firearms and suppressors. In addition to background checks and registration, NFA-regulated items have a $200 tax.
    • The $200 tax, unchanged since 1934, is equivalent to $4,741 in today’s dollars. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has acknowledged the tax was intended “to curtail, if not prohibit, transactions” of firearms.
    • From 2018 to 2023, ownership of NFA regulated items has grown by more than 230 percent as more sportsmen, shooters and firearm enthusiasts exercise their Second Amendment right.
    • The RIFLE Act does not modify the current checks and registration; it solely removes the federally mandated financial burden on law-abiding gun owners.

    The legislation is endorsed by the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch, Crapo, Marshall Introduce SHORT Act to Roll Back Biden-Era Anti Gun Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), and Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) introduced the Stop Harassing Owners of Rifles Today (SHORT) Act.
    The SHORT Act ends the unconstitutional taxation, registration, and regulation of weapons under the National Firearms Act (NFA), including short-barreled rifles and shotguns.
    The Biden administration used the NFA to target American gun owners by claiming that pistols with stabilizing braces were illegal short-barreled rifles. Biden’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) used this argument to ban these firearms and force gun owners to participate in an unconstitutional firearm registry. The SHORT Act will prevent the ATF from enacting future versions of this ban and require the ATF to destroy all records relating to the registration, transfer, or manufacture of NFA weapons.
    “Democrats’ attempts to undermine the Second Amendment are unconstitutional and must be stopped,” said Risch. “The SHORT Act protects law-abiding Idaho gun owners from unlawful registry, taxation, and regulation of commonly owned firearms.”
    “Those seeking to strip away Second Amendment rights have sought every creative way possible to advance their agenda through legislation, regulation and litigation,” said Crapo. “Burdening law-abiding Americans with additional firearm restrictions is not the answer to safeguarding the public.”
    “‘Shall not be infringed’ is crystal clear – and the Biden-era abuses of the Constitutionally protected rights of gun owners across the country need to be undone,” said Marshall. “The SHORT Act takes a step toward rolling back nonsensical regulations that the National Firearms Act has placed upon gun owners. I challenge my colleagues in both chambers to pass this legislation and join me in fully restoring and protecting our God-given Second Amendment rights.”
    Risch, Crapo, and Marshall are joined by U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) in introducing the bill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Man Sentenced for Role in “Boot” Distribution Operation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Charles Edward Scott, 31, of Damascus, Maryland, was sentenced to 156 months in prison for his leadership of a drug conspiracy that sold the drug “boot” in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Scott, also known as “Whop Whop,” led a group of people selling Eutylone, also known as “boot,” in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties. Scott was storing large quantities of the drug and firearms in an apartment in Maryland, and with other known defendants, traveled to West Virginia to distribute. Scott has prior drug, firearms, and theft convictions.

    Scott will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. 

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Martinsburg Police Department; the Montgomery County, Maryland Police Department; the Virginia State Police, Montgomery County; and Maryland State Attorney’s Office investigated.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

    U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

    Find the related cases here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/16-indicted-conspiracy-charges-boot-distribution-operation

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chesapeake man sentenced to over six years in prison after opening fire near a high school

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NORFOLK, Va. – A Chesapeake man was sentenced yesterday to six years and eight months in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

    According to court documents, on May 28, 2024, Portsmouth Police Chief Stephen Jenkins was conducting community relations near Norcom High School when he heard multiple gunshots and observed Cedrick William Davis, 39, discharging a firearm into the air. Chief Jenkins ran toward Davis and gave verbal commands. Davis then entered a vehicle and drove it toward Chief Jenkins before turning away and fleeing from the scene.

    Investigators located Davis’ vehicle in a parking lot a few blocks away from the shooting incident. Law enforcement arrested Davis after observing him enter and then exit his apartment. Investigators located a backpack containing approximately a pound of marijuana, over 36 grams of cocaine, $1,090, and two firearms, including the handgun Davis fired earlier in the day.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Chief Jenkins; and Anthony A. Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Jamar K. Walker.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan M. Montoya prosecuted the case.

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

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-105.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Kensington Man Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Cocaine Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 72 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Keith Hurst, 48.

    According to information presented to the Court, from in and around August 2022 to in and around March 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Hurst conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Hurst was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of cocaine that he distributed to others.

    Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hurst. Additional agencies participating in the investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and other local law enforcement agencies.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Kids of all ages will find something they enjoy at the upgraded Burrumarra Avenue playground.

    Gungahlin locals – with two legs and four – will soon have even more places to play.

    Kids are now enjoying the upgraded Burrumarra Avenue playground in Ngunnawal. The CaseyCommunity Recreation Park is well on its way and work will soon begin on the new dog park in Franklin.

    Burrumarra Avenue playground, Ngunnawal

    The suburb’s only fully fenced playground, the upgraded space provides more fun and accessible play opportunities for all ages and abilities.

    These include:

    • nature play with balancing elements
    • new all-abilities equipment with a timber double swing and spinner
    • junior fort with slide and climbing elements catering to ages 0–13
    • toddler (ages 0–4) play opportunities such as a double-rocker, seesaw and platypus sculpture
    • picnic tables, shelter and seating
    • four new trees and landscaping including mulched garden beds
    • Ngunnawal artwork and play elements.

    Find out more at builtforcbr.act.gov.au

    Casey Community Recreation Park

    Work continues on the Casey Community Recreation Park, which is scheduled to open around the middle of this year.

    The park is really taking shape with all play equipment now installed and construction continuing for the installation of the multi-purpose court, accessible toilet facilities and the picnic areas, as well as the carpark upgrades.

    The park will offer  a wide range of new recreation facilities, including:

    • shade structures, BBQ and picnic areas
    • play equipment for all abilities
    • design emphasising nature play
    • accessible toilet facilities
    • a multi-purpose court for different sports
    • a cricket net
    • a flying fox
    • 12 new parking spaces, including one accessible space, plus surface upgrades and new lighting
    • grassed areas including an amphitheatre and open play spaces.

    Find out more at builtforcbr.act.gov.au

    Franklin dog park

    Construction will soon begin on the new Franklin dog park.

    This is expected to take about nine months to complete.

    Conveniently located near the new community recreation park on the corner of Oodgeroo and Nullarbor avenues, it will feature:

    • an agility area with play elements
    • an irrigated grass area for ball and frisbee play
    • deciduous trees for canopy cover.

    Find out more on the City Services website.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Blood pressure patterns in early pregnancy tied to hypertension risk up to 14 years later

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    Media Advisory
    Wednesday, April 2, 2025

    NIH-supported study reveals new risk group for future high blood pressure, heart disease.
    What
    Blood pressure patterns observed in the first half of pregnancy, even among women without hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), can identify women at greater risk of developing hypertension up to 14 years after giving birth. The new findings are from a large observational study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
    High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death. This study identified a new, previously undefined risk group of postpartum women who are not currently recognized as being at high risk for future hypertension and cardiovascular disease because they did not develop HDP during pregnancy. HDP includes serious complications such as preeclampsia and gestational hypertension during pregnancy and are known to increase the risk of heart disease later in life. When the history of HDP was combined with women’s early pregnancy blood pressure patterns, these data together provide a new and improved tool for risk assessment.  
    The study followed 174,774 women who received prenatal care at Kaiser Permanente Northern California between 2009 and 2019. None of these women had hypertension, kidney, liver, or heart disease, or a history of preeclampsia before pregnancy. Researchers tracked their health records up to 14 years after delivery to identify new cases of hypertension.
    The research found that women who showed certain blood pressure patterns during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy were more likely to develop hypertension later in life. Six distinct risk groups of blood pressure trajectory were identified, ranging from ultra-low to elevated-stable patterns. Women with elevated-stable blood pressure patterns were at the highest risk.
    This study shows that blood pressure trajectories during early pregnancy can stratify this risk, even for women without HDP. By identifying women at higher risk, healthcare providers can offer targeted surveillance and early interventions, potentially preventing future heart problems.
    Detailed Results:

    The study showed that these blood pressure patterns could differentiate risk levels among women with and without HDP.
    Among groups of women who did not develop HDP, those with higher risk blood pressure patterns — including elevated-stable patterns — during early pregnancy were still 11 times more likely to develop hypertension years later than those women with less risky blood pressure patterns.   

    Researchers suggest that this previously unrecognized risk group may warrant closer monitoring after pregnancy. Additionally, they suggest that early pregnancy blood pressure trajectories may improve predictions of cardiovascular disease risk in women. The findings appeared in the journal Hypertension.
    The study was supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the NIH, through R01 HL145808 and R01 HL145808-02S1.
    Who
    Health experts from NIH’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute are available to discuss these findings.  
    About the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): NHLBI is the global leader in conducting and supporting research in heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders that advances scientific knowledge, improves public health, and saves lives. For more information, visit www.nhlbi.nih.gov.
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

    Study
    Gunderson, EP, et al., Early Pregnancy Blood Pressure Trajectories and Hypertension Years After Pregnancy. Hypertension. 2025; DOI:  10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.125.24649

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: José Adolfo “Fito” Macías Villamar, Leader of Los Choneros Transnational Criminal Organization, Indicted in Brooklyn Federal Court on International Drug and Gun Charges

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

    A seven-count indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn charging José Adolfo Macías Villamar, also known as “Fito,” with international cocaine distribution conspiracy; international cocaine distribution; using firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking; smuggling firearms from the United States; and straw purchasing of firearms conspiracy.  Since at least 2020, he has been the leader of Los Choneros, one of Ecuador’s most violent drug trafficking and transnational criminal organizations.  The defendant is not in U.S. custody.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Derek Maltz, Acting Administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); L.C. Cheeks, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Newark Field Division, Atlantic City Satellite Office (ATF); and Jonathan Carson, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office (OEE), announced the charges.

    “As alleged, the defendant was a ruthless leader and prolific drug trafficker for a violent transnational criminal organization.  By leading the Los Choneros’ network of assassins and drug and weapon traffickers and importing potentially lethal quantities of cocaine into the United States, the defendant has caused great harm to his own country and the United States, which was the destination for the vast majority of Los Choneros’ cocaine shipments,” stated United States Attorney Durham.

    Mr. Durham praised the outstanding investigative work of the DEA’s Andean Region – Quito, Country Office, Special Operations Division-Bilateral Investigations Unit and Latin America/Caribbean Section, Joint Interagency Task Force South; U.S. Southern Command; the Government of Ecuador; the New Jersey State Police Casino Gaming Bureau; and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations Atlantic City.  The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided significant assistance in this matter.

    “The indictment of José Adolfo Macías Villamar marks a significant strike against the violent networks that flood our communities with dangerous drugs like cocaine — a clear message that no one fueling this deadly trade is beyond the reach of justice. This case highlights the tireless efforts of DEA, alongside our partners in the United States and Ecuador,” stated DEA Administrator Maltz.  “We will continue to work across borders to dismantle the supply chain of violent, criminal networks, which underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking and cartel violence.”

    “This investigation and charges are a testament to the combined efforts of law enforcement and underscores the resolve of ATF and our federal, state, and local partners. Drug trafficking and the heinous crimes associated with violent criminal organizations have an insidious impact on the public and tear apart the fabric of our communities. We will continue to use all the tools at our disposal, across the U.S. and around the globe, to combat violence, drug distribution, and the illegal sale and possession of firearms to safeguard the safety and well-being of all,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Cheeks.

    “This indictment alleges the defendant and Los Choneros illegally smuggled firearms from the United States in furtherance of their violent drug trafficking operations,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Carson of the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office.  “The Office of Export Enforcement will continue its efforts alongside its law enforcement partners to pursue those who violate export laws, wherever they may be, worldwide.”

    As alleged in the indictment, from at least 2020 to 2025, Macías Villamar was the principal leader of Los Choneros, one of the most violent and powerful transnational criminal organizations in Ecuador.  Los Choneros, in partnership with the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico, controlled key cocaine trafficking routes through Ecuador and operated a large-scale network responsible for the shipment and distribution of multi-ton quantities of cocaine from South America through Central America and Mexico to the United States and elsewhere.  The vast majority of drugs trafficked by Los Choneros were imported into the United States.

    As the principal leader of Los Choneros, Macías Villamar employed members of the organization to carry out serious acts of violence on the organization’s behalf.  At Macías Villamar’s direction, Los Choneros committed violent acts towards law enforcement, Ecuadorian politicians, attorneys, prosecutors and civilians. Los Choneros obtained many of their firearms and weapons by illegally trafficking and exporting them from the United States.  As alleged, the defendant specifically employed individuals who purchased firearms, firearms components and ammunitions on Los Choneros’ behalf in the United States and then illegally smuggled them to Ecuador.

    Moreover, in furtherance of their drug trafficking operation, Los Choneros relied on “sicarios,” or hitmen, as well as corruption and bribe payments, to ensure protection and loyalty to Los Choneros. These “sicarios” regularly used military-grade weapons, like machine guns, AK-47 assault rifles and grenades to perpetrate violence, including murder, torture and kidnapping.  Macías Villamar and the Los Choneros organization have also been sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

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

    The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to life in prison.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section, and as part of the work of the Office’s Transnational Criminal Organizations Strike Force.  Assistant United States Attorneys Chand Edwards-Balfour and Lorena Michelen are in charge of the prosecution.

    The Defendant:

    JOSÉ ADOLFO MACÍAS VILLAMAR (also known as “Fito”)
    Age: 45
    Ecuador

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No.: 25-CR-114 (FB)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Treasury Bond Auction Announcement – RIKB 27 0415 – RIKB 38 0215

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Series RIKB 27 0415 RIKB 38 0215
    ISIN IS0000036291 IS0000037265
    Maturity Date 04/15/2027 02/15/2038
    Auction Date 04/04/2025 04/04/2025
    Settlement Date 04/09/2025 04/09/2025
    10% addition 04/08/2025 04/08/2025

    On the Auction Date, between 10:30 am and 11:00 am, the Government Debt Management will auction Treasury bonds in the Series, with the ISIN numbers and with the Maturity Dates according to the table above. Payments for the Treasury bonds must be received by the Central Bank before 14:00 on the Settlement Date, and the Bonds will be delivered in electronic form on the same day. Article 6 of the General Terms of Auction for Treasury bonds applies for the right to purchase an additional 10%.

    Further reference is made to the description of the Treasury bond and the General Terms of Auction for Treasury bonds on the Government Debt Management website.

    For additional information please contact Oddgeir Gunnarsson, Government Debt Management, at +354 569 9635.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon Sentenced to Two Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Gun and Oxycodone Possession

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EVANSVILLE— Marquell T. Lockridge, 26, of Evansville, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to illegal possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance.

    According to court documents, on November 1, 2024, at approximately 3:51 a.m., officers with the Evansville Police Department were dispatched to a Circle K gas station on a report of a disturbance in the parking lot. When officers arrived on scene, a woman in the parking lot claimed that Marquell Lockridge had pulled out a gun and pointed it at her. 

    Lockridge saw the officers walk toward him to investigate and jumped into his vehicle to flee the scene. However, he was unable to shift the car into drive. Officers commanded Lockridge to step out of the car. He eventually exited the vehicle, but then began running on foot and was quickly tased and arrested. 

    While officers were applying the handcuffs, Lockridge admitted that he had a loaded gun inside the front of his underwear. During a search of his person, officers located a plastic corner bag containing Oxycodone pills and approximately $20,227 in cash.

    Lockridge has been previously convicted of multiple crimes, including misdemeanor domestic battery in 2019, felony pointing a firearm at another in 2019, and felony theft of a firearm in 2022. These prior felony convictions prohibit him from ever legally possessing a firearm again.

    “Illegally armed felons are a preventable source of the gun violence that threatens our neighborhoods and takes far too many lives,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “A successful return to the community from prison requires compliance with the law, including never again possessing a gun. I commend the ATF and Evansville Police Department for keeping the community safe by getting this felon off the streets.”

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman. 

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Shooting in Africville Added to Rewards Program

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is offering a reward of up to $150,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the people responsible for the shooting last year at the Africville National Historic Site during the annual reunion.

    This is the first time the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program is being used in relation to a major crime that is not a homicide or suspicious missing person case.

    “Gun violence in our communities is unacceptable. Everyone who came together to celebrate the rich culture and resilience of Africville that weekend had the right to feel safe,” said Becky Druhan, Attorney General and Minister of Justice. “This mass shooting event had and continues to have a serious and heartbreaking impact on the community, victims and their families. It also affected us as a province. I ask anyone who knows something to please come forward. You can help make our province safer and bring justice for the victims.”

    On the evening of July 27, 2024, hundreds of people were gathered to celebrate at the 41st annual Africville reunion when gunshots were fired, injuring five young people.

    Anyone with information should call the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program at 1-888-710-9090. People who come forward with information must provide their name and contact information and may be called to testify in court. All calls will be recorded.

    People who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers of Nova Scotia at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

    Quotes:

    “The Africville reunion was meant to be a place where people could come together and celebrate their history, culture and community. For a select few to bring violence into that event, causing serious injury and trauma to those in attendance, is unacceptable. I thank the Department of Justice for recognizing the importance of solving this case and adding it to the rewards program.”
    — Don MacLean, Chief, Halifax Regional Police

    Quick Facts:

    • the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program is an additional tool to help police gather information on unsolved crimes
    • the reward amount will be based on the investigative value of the information provided
    • including this case, there are now 119 active cases in the program
    • employees of law enforcement and correctional agencies are not eligible to collect this reward

    Additional Resources:

    Details about the case are available at: https://novascotia.ca/just/public_safety/rewards/case_detail_africville_shooting.asp

    Other cases under the Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes Program are listed at: https://novascotia.ca/just/Public_Safety/Rewards

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nashville Man Charged with Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm After Allegedly Pointing a Stolen Rifle at Police

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NASHVILLE – Isaiah Taivon Newsom a/k/a Isaiah Taivon Porterfield, 25, of Nashville, has been charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee.

    “Dangerous felons who possess firearms and put police officers at risk will face swift justice,” said Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire. “We will not tolerate potential violence against first responders and will seek full accountability for those putting our first responders in danger.”

    According to court documents, on March 25, 2025, detectives with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department were conducting covert surveillance near an address on Nashboro Boulevard. Detectives were parked in their unmarked police vehicles in several different areas of the apartment complex. One detective observed three people walk out of the breezeway near unit B, with one, later identified as Newsom, carrying what appeared to be a rifle.

    As they walked through the apartment complex, Newsom walked about fifteen feet away from another detective’s unmarked vehicle, stood near a tree, raised the rifle to his shoulder and pointed it at the detective, who was still in his vehicle. As the detective relayed Newsom’s actions to the other detectives in the area and they discussed a plan of action over the radio, Newsom walked past the front of the detective’s vehicle towards the passenger side and again pointed the rifle at the detective.

    As other detectives arrived in the area, Newsom moved towards the front of the detective’s vehicle and pointed the rifle directly at the detective. Although he was in an unmarked car, the detective was wearing a tactical vest with patches indicating he was a law enforcement officer, and he was equipped with a body worn camera. The detective activated his blue lights and a short burst of the siren, as he exited the vehicle and announced himself as a police officer. Newsom and the other two people then ran from the area. Detectives pursued Newsom on foot as he ran across a field and entered the wood line. Detectives set up a perimeter and, with the assistance of a K9 unit and the Metro Nashville Police Department aviation unit, took Newsom into custody.

    Detectives searched Newsom’s flight path and located a Windham Weaponry, WW-15, .223/5.56 caliber rifle which was later found to have been reported stolen from a Williamson County Sheriff’s Office marked patrol vehicle. After being advised of his Miranda rights, Newsom admitted to detectives that he had possessed the rifle.

    Newsom had previously been convicted of two counts of aggravated robbery and two counts of felony theft in Shelby County, Tennessee. Newsom served more than seven years in the Tennessee Department of Correction for his felony convictions.

    If convicted, Newsom faces a maximum of 15 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.

    This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel M. Stephens is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce 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 complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    # # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: José Adolfo “Fito” Macías Villamar, Leader of Los Choneros Transnational Criminal Organization, Indicted in Brooklyn Federal Court on International Drug and Gun Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A seven-count indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn charging José Adolfo Macías Villamar, also known as “Fito,” with international cocaine distribution conspiracy; international cocaine distribution; using firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking; smuggling firearms from the United States; and straw purchasing of firearms conspiracy.  Since at least 2020, he has been the leader of Los Choneros, one of Ecuador’s most violent drug trafficking and transnational criminal organizations.  The defendant is not in U.S. custody.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Derek Maltz, Acting Administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); L.C. Cheeks, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Newark Field Division, Atlantic City Satellite Office (ATF); and Jonathan Carson, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office (OEE), announced the charges.

    “As alleged, the defendant was a ruthless leader and prolific drug trafficker for a violent transnational criminal organization.  By leading the Los Choneros’ network of assassins and drug and weapon traffickers and importing potentially lethal quantities of cocaine into the United States, the defendant has caused great harm to his own country and the United States, which was the destination for the vast majority of Los Choneros’ cocaine shipments,” stated United States Attorney Durham.

    Mr. Durham praised the outstanding investigative work of the DEA’s Andean Region – Quito, Country Office, Special Operations Division-Bilateral Investigations Unit and Latin America/Caribbean Section, Joint Interagency Task Force South; U.S. Southern Command; the Government of Ecuador; the New Jersey State Police Casino Gaming Bureau; and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations Atlantic City.  The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided significant assistance in this matter.

    “The indictment of José Adolfo Macías Villamar marks a significant strike against the violent networks that flood our communities with dangerous drugs like cocaine — a clear message that no one fueling this deadly trade is beyond the reach of justice. This case highlights the tireless efforts of DEA, alongside our partners in the United States and Ecuador,” stated DEA Administrator Maltz.  “We will continue to work across borders to dismantle the supply chain of violent, criminal networks, which underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking and cartel violence.”

    “This investigation and charges are a testament to the combined efforts of law enforcement and underscores the resolve of ATF and our federal, state, and local partners. Drug trafficking and the heinous crimes associated with violent criminal organizations have an insidious impact on the public and tear apart the fabric of our communities. We will continue to use all the tools at our disposal, across the U.S. and around the globe, to combat violence, drug distribution, and the illegal sale and possession of firearms to safeguard the safety and well-being of all,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Cheeks.

    “This indictment alleges the defendant and Los Choneros illegally smuggled firearms from the United States in furtherance of their violent drug trafficking operations,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Carson of the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office.  “The Office of Export Enforcement will continue its efforts alongside its law enforcement partners to pursue those who violate export laws, wherever they may be, worldwide.”

    As alleged in the indictment, from at least 2020 to 2025, Macías Villamar was the principal leader of Los Choneros, one of the most violent and powerful transnational criminal organizations in Ecuador.  Los Choneros, in partnership with the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico, controlled key cocaine trafficking routes through Ecuador and operated a large-scale network responsible for the shipment and distribution of multi-ton quantities of cocaine from South America through Central America and Mexico to the United States and elsewhere.  The vast majority of drugs trafficked by Los Choneros were imported into the United States.

    As the principal leader of Los Choneros, Macías Villamar employed members of the organization to carry out serious acts of violence on the organization’s behalf.  At Macías Villamar’s direction, Los Choneros committed violent acts towards law enforcement, Ecuadorian politicians, attorneys, prosecutors and civilians. Los Choneros obtained many of their firearms and weapons by illegally trafficking and exporting them from the United States.  As alleged, the defendant specifically employed individuals who purchased firearms, firearms components and ammunitions on Los Choneros’ behalf in the United States and then illegally smuggled them to Ecuador.

    Moreover, in furtherance of their drug trafficking operation, Los Choneros relied on “sicarios,” or hitmen, as well as corruption and bribe payments, to ensure protection and loyalty to Los Choneros. These “sicarios” regularly used military-grade weapons, like machine guns, AK-47 assault rifles and grenades to perpetrate violence, including murder, torture and kidnapping.  Macías Villamar and the Los Choneros organization have also been sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

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

    The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to life in prison.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section, and as part of the work of the Office’s Transnational Criminal Organizations Strike Force.  Assistant United States Attorneys Chand Edwards-Balfour and Lorena Michelen are in charge of the prosecution.

    The Defendant:

    JOSÉ ADOLFO MACÍAS VILLAMAR (also known as “Fito”)
    Age: 45
    Ecuador

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No.: 25-CR-114 (FB)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cold Lake — Cold Lake RCMP seize drugs and guns after successful operation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Cold Lake RCMP General Investigations Section (GIS) have concluded a long-term drug trafficking investigation in Cold Lake and surrounding area dubbed Project K-NANOSECOND. With the assistance of the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) in Lloydminster and Edmonton, Cold Lake GIS embarked on an investigation into a group of individuals trafficking cocaine which has resulted in one of the largest drug seizures ever made in Cold Lake and surrounding area.

    On Feb. 25, 2025, with the assistance of Lloydminster ALERT, Edmonton ALERT, the RCMP Eastern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit, the RCMP Community Response Team in Edmonton, Bonnyville GIS, Police Dog Services, and members of the Cold Lake RCMP, Cold Lake GIS executed six separate search warrants in various locations. Three residences, as well as a commercial property in Cold Lake, were searched along with a residence in the hamlet of Ardmore, Alta. and a dwelling unit in the city of Edmonton.

    As a result of this investigation, the following has been seized:

    • Approximately one kilogram of suspected cocaine;
    • Approximately one kilogram of suspected fentanyl;
    • Approximately five kilograms of a suspected cocaine cutting agent, benzocaine;
    • Approximately $68,000.00 in Canadian currency;
    • 23 Firearms, including 4 restricted handguns;
    • A Range Rover SUV and a Ford F350 Super duty Truck.

    As a result of this investigation, three individuals have been charged:

    A 31-year-old individual, a resident of Cold Lake, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking;
    • Possession of Proceeds of Crime;
    • Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose;
    • Possession of a prohibited weapon.

    A 62-year-old individual, a resident of Cold Lake, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking;
    • Possession of Proceeds of Crime;
    • Careless Use of a Firearm;
    • Possession of a Prohibited Device.

    A 33-year-old individual, a resident of Ardmore Alta., has been charged with the following offences with Trafficking in a Controlled Substance.

    All individuals were held for a judicial interim hearing and released with conditions to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Cold Lake on March 19, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbia Man Sentenced to More than 12 Years Federal Prison for Federal Firearm Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBIA, S.C. — Everette Kale Wanamaker, 37, of Orangeburg, has been sentenced to more than 12 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.

    Evidence presented to the court showed that on multiple occasions between November 2022 and February 2023, Wanamaker sold 15 firearms, including firearms with high-capacity magazines and obliterated serial numbers to undercover agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Wanamaker also sold approximately 30 grams of fentanyl and 55 grams of counterfeit heroin to undercover agents. On Feb. 13, 2023, Wanamaker was arrested with three additional firearms, including one that was stolen and 28 grams of fentanyl.

    Wanamaker is a felon and prohibited from possessing firearms. Wanamaker has prior convictions for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, domestic violence 2nd degree, financial identity fraud, possession of heroin and possession of methamphetamine.

    United States District Mary Geiger-Lewis sentenced Wanamaker to 151 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision.  There is no parole in the federal system.

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

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, West Columbia Police Department, Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Man Sentenced for Fabricating Evidence in Federal Investigation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Austin Perkins, III, 45, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for lying to federal agents in the hopes of early parole from a sentence he was serving for another crime.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Perkins was serving time for a parole violation in Maryland when he devised a scheme to obtain early release. He made false claims to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and forged three letters in which he impersonated his former cellmate who had been indicted on firearms charges.  In the letters (and through his statements), the defendant perpetuated a hoax claiming his former cellmate planned to escape from prison and murder an ATF agent. The defendant engaged in this scheme to garner favor with federal agents and possibly obtain early release from prison. Perkins has prior convictions for theft, drug trafficking and battery.

    Perkins will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.   

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the United States Marshals Service investigated.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

    U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nearly 3,000 top-venting blank firers handed during national gun amnesty

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    National gun amnesty took place in February across England and Wales.

    Police forces across England and Wales have seen 2,962 Turkish manufactured guns handed in as part of a national amnesty which took place in February.

    The top-venting blank firing (TVBF) guns have become popular with organised criminals in recent years due to the ease at which they are readily convertible into lethal firearms. Tests by the National Crime Agency and policing, funded by the Home Office, show models produced by four Turkish manufacturers are readily convertible and therefore illegal. TVBFs are legal to buy in the UK without a licence by over 18s unless they are readily convertible.

    Police forces across England and Wales held a four-week Firearms Amnesty for Turkish manufactured TVBFs namely models with the brand names ‘Retay’, ‘Ekol’, ‘Ceonic’ and ‘Blow’, in February.

    Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe, National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for the Criminal Use of Firearms, said: “This is a considerable step in making our streets safer and stopping these weapons from being used by criminals.

    “I would like to thank the public for their support during the amnesty and handing in these weapons which are now illegal to possess.

    “If you have any information about illegal firearms, such as the Turkish manufactured TVBF, I would ask you contact the police or Crimestoppers so that they can be taken off the streets.”

    The amnesty which took place between 3 February and 28 February 2025 saw 2,962 Turkish manufactured top-venting firers and was aimed at anyone in possession of a TVBF to hand their weapon in to avoid prosecution and up to 10 years imprisonment.

    In their original state TVBFs have a fully blocked barrel and are designed to discharge only blank cartridges. When discharged, combustion gases vent from the top of the weapon. TVBFs are sold with at least 50 per cent of their visible surface painted a bright colour however, criminals may paint them black so they look like an original lethal purpose (OLP) weapon as well as convert them to a lethal purpose firearm.

    Since 2021, UK law enforcement has recovered more than 1,000 converted TVBFs in criminal circumstances. Firearms legislation has not changed; the weapons are illegal to own under the Firearms Act 1968 as they can be readily converted using common household tools and without specialist skill on the part of the person carrying out the conversion. Testing completed by the NCA has demonstrated this.

    Charles Yates, National Crime Agency deputy director, said: “The amnesty results are excellent with very large numbers of surrenders of these easily converted firearms.

    “This work is a superb example of the public and the firearms trade coming together to help reduce the risk of the criminal use of these weapons.

    “Though firearms crime in the UK is relatively low compared with elsewhere in Europe and is among the lowest in the world, the NCA, policing and Border Force will continue to do everything possible to suppress the firearms threat and to protect the UK public.”

    Other unwanted, unlicensed firearms and ammunition may be surrendered to police at any time which will avoid the risk of them becoming involved in criminality and means that members of the community can dispose of firearms in a safe place.

    Anyone now found in possession of a Turkish manufactured TVBF will face prosecution for the illegal possession and face up to 10 years imprisonment.

    If you know of people involved in illegal firearms activity should call the Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Every call to Crimestoppers is anonymous and potentially vital to preventing or solving serious crimes; removing an illegally held firearm may just save someone’s life.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Apollo to Announce First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on May 2, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo (NYSE: APO) plans to release financial results for the first quarter 2025 on Friday, May 2, 2025, before the opening of trading on the New York Stock Exchange. Management will review Apollo’s financial results at 8:30 am ET via public webcast available on Apollo’s Investor Relations website at ir.apollo.com. A replay will be available one hour after the event.

    Apollo distributes its earnings releases via its website and email lists. Those interested in receiving firm updates by email can sign up for them here.

    About Apollo

    Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative, and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees, and the communities we impact, to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of December 31, 2024, Apollo had approximately $751 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com.

    Contacts
    Noah Gunn
    Global Head of Investor Relations
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    (212) 822-0540
    IR@apollo.com

    Joanna Rose
    Global Head of Corporate Communications
    Apollo Global Management, Inc.
    (212) 822-0491
    Communications@apollo.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of Rare Earth Metals

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 APR 2025 2:19PM by PIB Delhi

    The details on the quantum of rare earth metals imported and the countries from which it has been imported during the last five years is given at Annexure-I.

    Government is aware of the occurrence of neodymium in the country. The Geological Survey of India (GSI), under the Ministry of Mines, is actively engaged in carrying out mineral exploration across the country following guidelines of United Nations Framework Classification [UNFC stage viz. reconnaissance surveys (G4), preliminary exploration (G3) and general exploration (G2)] and the Minerals (Evidence of Mineral Contents) (MEMC) Rules, 2015 with an aim to augment resource for various mineral commodities including critical minerals specified in Part D of the First Schedule of the Mines & Minerals (Development & Regulation) (MMDR) Amendment Act, 2023. During Field Season (FS) 2021-22 and 2022-23, GSI had taken up three reconnaissance stage projects for Rare Earth Elements including neodymium in Sirohi and Bhilwara districts of Rajasthan as per the approved field season programme. The details are given at Annexure-II.

    The Department of Atomic Energy has explored 1,11,845 tonne in-situ Rare Earth Elements Oxide (REO) in hard rock terrains in parts of Balotra (erstwhile Barmer) district, Rajasthan. As policy framework for utilizing critical minerals, including rare earth metals, the National Critical Mineral Mission has been launched, which is India’s strategic initiative to secure critical mineral supply chain by increasing domestic critical minerals production and foreign supply sources.

    Under the Mission, GSI has prioritized and intensified its exploration activities for critical and strategic minerals across the country including Rajasthan, with an aim to find out potential mineralized locales as well as to establish more resources for these minerals. During the current FS 2024-25, GSI has taken up 195 exploration projects including 35 projects in Rajasthan, to assess the mineral potential of strategic and critical minerals. The detailed list of mineral exploration projects taken up by GSI in Rajasthan exclusively for REE/RM and associated minerals from FS 2021-22 to 2024-25 is given at Annexure-III. Since MMDR Amendment Act, 2015, GSI has established resource of REE in Barmer and Sikar districts of Rajasthan. GSI has handed over one resource bearing geological report (GR) on REE, one Geological Memorandums (GM) on REE and one GM on tungsten for auctioning.

    ANNEXURE-I

    Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (a) of Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 5253 answered on 02.04.2025 regarding ‘Import of Rare Earth Metals’

    Table: Country wise quantum of rare earth metals imported by India during last 5 years

     Quantity in Tonnes

    #

    HS Code- Description

    2019-20

    2020-21

    2021-22

    2022-23

    2023-24

    Country

    Qty

    Country

    Qty

    Country

    Qty

    Country

    Qty

    Country

    Qty

    1.

    28053000– Alkali or alkaline earth metals: Rare-earth metals, scandium and yttrium, whether or not intermixed or inter alloyed

    China

    437

    China

    445

    China

    714.5

    China

    709

    China

    699

    Hong Kong

    34

    Japan

    11

    Japan

    34

    Japan

    42

    Hong Kong

    234

    Japan

    2

    Sweden

    10

    USA

    6.6

    Singapore

    20

    Japan

    192

    USA

    0.57

    USA

    4.69

    Hong Kong

    5

    Hong Kong

    20

    Mongolia

    60

    UK

    0.08

    Hong Kong

    0.05

    Russia

    1

    USA

    1.09

    UK

    0.11

    Others

    0.00

    Others

    0.07

    Others

    0.06

    Others

    0.18

    Others

    0.02

    Total

    473.65

    Total

    470.61

    Total

    761

    Total

    792

    Total

    1,185

    2.

    2846- Compounds, inorganic or organic, of rare earth metals

    Russia

    452

    China

    695

    China

    745

    China

    796

    China

    780

    China

    434

    Russia

    156

    Japan

    196

    Korea

    150

    Japan

    148

    Japan

    255

    Japan

    133

    Korea

    93

    Japan

    148

    Korea

    90

    Germany

    59

    Korea

    91

    Austria

    41

    USA

    20

    USA

    24

    Austria

    31

    Austria

    46

    Russia

    40

    France

    14

    France

    19

    Others

    144

    Others

    129

    Others

    69

    Others

    24

    Others

    24

    Total

    1,375

    Total

    1,250

    Total

    1,183

    Total

    1,153

    Total

    1,086

     

    REE Total

     

    1,848

     

    1,721

     

    1,944

     

    1,945

     

    2,270

    Note:REE has 17 elements. HS codes 280530 and 2846 pertain to REE as a whole and not to a particular element.

     

    ANNEXURE-II

    Annexure-II referred to in reply to part (b) of Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 5253 answered on 02.04.2025 regarding ‘Import of Rare Earth Metals’

    Table: G4 stage projects taken up for Rare Earth Elements including neodymium in Rajasthan during FS 2021-22 and FS 2022-23

    Sl. No

    State

    District

    Name of Mineral Block / Area/ Belt

    UNFC Stage

    Mineral Commodity

    FS: 2021-22

    1

    Rajasthan

    Sirohi

    Jirawal-Sanpur

    G4

    Neodymium and Dysprosium

    2

    Rajasthan

    Bhilwara

    Mahendragarh-Gundli-Bawri

    G4

    Neodymium and associated REE

    FS: 2022-23

    3

    Rajasthan

    Bhilwara

    Kodukota-Raser-Lulas-Kallyakhera

    G4

    REE and associated Neodymium

     

    ANNEXURE-III

     

    Annexure-III referred to in reply to part (c) of Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 5253 answered on 02.04.2025 regarding ‘Import of Rare Earth Metals’

    Table: List of projects taken up by GSI on REE/RM and associated minerals from FS 2021-22 to FS 2024-25

     

    Sl. No.

    State

    District

    Name of Mineral Block / Area / Belt

    UNFC Stage

    Mineral Commodity

    FS: 2021-22

    1

    Rajasthan

    Jaipur

    Asalpur, Boraj, Bichun

    G4

    REE & RM, basemetal

    2

    Rajasthan

    Sikar

    South East of Nanagwas

    G3

    REE & RM, basemetal

    3

    Rajasthan

    Sirohi

    Jirawal-Sanpur

    G4

    Neodymium, Dysprosium (REE)

    4

    Rajasthan

    Bhilwara

    Mahendragarh-Gundli-Bawri

    G4

    Neodymium, REE

    5

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Sainji Ki Beri-Meli

    G4

    REE

    6

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Indrana-Siwana

    G4

    REE

    7

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    WNW of Sukleswar Ka Mandir

    G3

    REE & RM

    8

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Nimale Ki Pahari-Dantala

    G4

    REE & RM

    9

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Kundal-Dhiran

    G4

    REE & RM

    10

    Rajasthan

    Jaisalmer

    Jaisalmer-Pokran

    G4

    REE, RM

    FS: 2022-23

    1

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    SE of Mawri

    G3

    REE

    2

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    north of Kalaur Ka Danta

    G3

    REE, RM

    3

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Kalaur Ka Danta

    G3

    REE, RM

    4

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Kaluri-Tapra-Buriwara

    G4

    REE

    5

    Rajasthan

    Bhilwara

    Kodukota-Raser-Lulas-Kallyakhera

    G4

    Neodymium and associated REE

    6

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Bachharau-Dhorimana

    G4

    REE

    7

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    south of Gura Nal

    G3

    REE

    8

    Rajasthan

    Sikar

    Ladi Ka Was

    G3

    REE, RM, Basemetal

    9

    Rajasthan

    Sikar

    Kalakhera

    G3

    REE, RM, Basemetal

    10

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    SE of Gugrot

    G3

    REE

    11

    Rajasthan

    Jalore

    Ahor-Beria-Ajitpura

    G4

    REE, RM

    12

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    WNW of Sukleswar Ka Mandir

    G3

    REE, RM

    13

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Relon Ki Dhani – Telwara

    G4

    REE

    FS: 2023-24

    1

    Rajasthan

    Alwar

    Dadikar, Harsora and Khairthal

    G4

    REE, RM, Tungsten, Tin, Niobium, Beryllium, Tantalum, Hafnium

    2

    Rajasthan

    Udaipur

    Semari

    G4

    REE, Gold, Basemetal

    3

    Rajasthan

    Udaipur

    Seriya

    G4

    REE, Gold, Basemetal

    4

    Rajasthan

    Sirohi

    Wan-Mochhal-Bhev

    G4

    REE, RM

    5

    Rajasthan

    Udaipur

    Padrara-Sayra

    G4

    REE

    6

    Rajasthan

    Ajmer

    Piloda Nagola

    G4

    REE

    7

    Rajasthan

    Banswara

    Bhongra-Bargun

    G4

    Graphite, RM

    8

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    East of Gugrot

    G3

    REE

    9

    Rajasthan

    Jalore&Sirohi

    Jastwantpura

    G4

    REE

    10

    Rajasthan

    Sirohi

    Punawa-Ranela-Kooma

    G4

    REE

    11

    Rajasthan

    Dungarpur

    Barwasa -Lodowal

    G4

    REE, RM

    12

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Nakoda

    G4

    REE, RM

    FS: 2024-25

    1

    Rajasthan

    Sikar

    Ladi ka Bas

    G2

    REE, RM

    2

    Rajasthan

    Dungarpur

    Gara Sialia

    G4

    REE, RM

    3

    Rajasthan

    Jalore

    Dorda-Ambatri

    G4

    REE, RM

    4

    Rajasthan

    Tonk

    Kalyanpura-Kakor

    G4

    REE

    5

    Rajasthan

    Ajmer and Pali

    Ratangarh-Jetgarh

    G4

    RM

    6

    Rajasthan

    Sirohi

    Malawa-Nagani

    G4

    REE, RM

    7

    Rajasthan

    Pali and Sirohi

    Chhotila-Badla-Raghunathpura

    G4

    REE, RM

    8

    Rajasthan

    Alwar

    Sibagaon North

    G3

    Tin, Lithium, RM

    9

    Rajasthan

    Nagaur and Ajmer

    Chinwali-Bhutas

    G4

    REE, Basemetal

    10

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Jhak and Khimpar

    G4

    REE

    11

    Rajasthan

    Barmer

    Kitpala-Sinli

    G4

    REE

    12

    Rajasthan

    Pali

    Thandi Beri

    G4

    RM

    13

    Rajasthan

    Barmer and Jodhpur

    Patodi-Thob

    G4

    REE

    14

    Rajasthan

    Sirohi

    Rewakakri-Moras-UparlaSavela

    G4

    RM

    15

    Rajasthan

    Sirohi and Pali

    Malnu-Velar-Chotila ki Bhagli

    G4

    RM

    16

    Rajasthan

    Sirohi

    Isra Darbar Khera Chhota-Dhanta

    G4

    RM

     

    This information was given by Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    (Release ID: 2117701) Visitor Counter : 65

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Flower Show photo competition entries to close on April 15

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Flower Show photo competition entries to close on April 15 
         The photo competition is jointly presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB). The competition aims to promote community greening with impressive photographs of flowers and plants on display, interesting or touching scenes captured at the showground, and portraits of TVB artistes and Miss Hong Kong titleholders with beautiful garden displays as a background.
     
         The photo competition is divided into three categories: Category A – Portrait of TVB Artistes and Miss Hong Kong; Category B – Flowers; and Category C – Snapshots.
     
         Entries for Category A, comprising the Open and Student Sections, must be photos of TVB artistes and Miss Hong Kong titleholders taken by entrants to the activity, Portrait Photo Shooting Session, on March 13 at the showground in Victoria Park. Entries for Category B must be photos of flowers including garden displays or floral art exhibits taken at the showground during the show period. Entries for Category C must be photos of interesting features or moments at the flower show taken during the show period.
     
         Results of the competition will be announced in June on the flower show webpage. Winners will be notified in writing for the collection of prizes. All winning entries will be uploaded onto the flower show webpage for public viewing at the same time.
     
         For enquiries, please call 2601 8260 or refer to the flower show webpage www.hkflowershow.hk/en/hkfs/2025/photo_rs.html 
         The HKFS is organised by the LCSD. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust has supported the flower show for the 13th consecutive year and has been its major sponsor since 2014.
    Issued at HKT 11:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Internet connectivity can aid SA’s development 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Internet connectivity has the potential to boost employment while also broadening access to education, healthcare and the speeding up of service delivery, says Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Nomalungelo Gina.

    Internet connectivity also has the potential to broaden modern agricultural practices, mobility, and banking services.

    “Internet connectivity’s potential to boost productivity and employment is well documented,” the Deputy Minister said during a parliamentary session on Tuesday.

    Gina cited a study encompassing 14 countries that found a 10 percentage-point increase in 3G coverage raised the employment rate by 2.1 percentage points, as faster internet connections create better job opportunities.

    The Deputy Minister was addressing a joint session of Parliament’s Portfolio Committees on Communications and Digital Technologies and Science, Technology and Innovation with the Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele. 

    The Departments of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) and Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) are collaborating in the development of a satellite communication strategy for South Africa.

    The strategy is aimed at the establishment of a domestically owned satellite system that provides affordable, reliable, and secure communication infrastructure.

    Over the past three years, the departments and their entities, Sentech and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), have worked to develop the strategy, which is expected to significantly enhance digital inclusion, support economic growth, and bolster essential services such as e-government, telemedicine, and rural telephony.

    “Following extensive consultations and feasibility studies, the strategy has received sign-off from the Presidency on the Social Economic Impact Assessment System process. The next phase involves further government cluster consultations and public engagement before final Cabinet approval.” 

    While commending the progress, committee members stressed the urgency of implementation, the need for gender representativity, and the establishment of required capabilities to complete the project.

    The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation, Tsakani Shiviti, said that both committees were hopeful that quarterly reports on the strategy would encourage the two departments to expedite the process for final Cabinet approval.

    Acting Deputy Director-General at the DCDT, Dr Tinyiko Ngobeni, said the strategy would be submitted to Cabinet to obtain approval to publish it for comment from the public. Additionally, a national workshop will also be convened to explore substantive issues.

    According to the DSTI, South Africa currently spends approximately R100 billion a year on foreign communication service providers. 

    “In contrast, a locally owned satellite system with a lifespan of up to 20 years would require a one-time capital investment of approximately R6 billion. This comparison shows the immense cost-saving potential of a domestic satellite system.” 

    Meanwhile, the department believes that a domestic system would also strengthen South Africa’s sovereign capabilities, as required by the national defence and security clusters. 

    The acquisition and operation of the satellite will be managed by a national satellite organisation through a strategic partnership with an international satellite fleet operator, ensuring sovereignty over critical communication infrastructure.

    “The satellite industry presents vast opportunities for skills development, job creation, industrial growth, and self-reliance in national security matters. 

    “The satellite communication strategy initiative will foster new technical expertise throughout the satellite’s lifecycle – from design and construction to launch, operation, and maintenance – creating sustainable, high-skilled jobs and stimulating the local space industry,” said the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation.

    SANSA, with its extensive expertise in satellite operations, will play a key role in driving the initiative forward.

    The project underscores the government’s commitment to a digitally inclusive society, where all citizens have access to reliable and affordable communication services. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –