Category: Intelligence Agencies

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Naxalmukt Bharat Abhiyan: From Red Zones to Growth Corridors

Source: Government of India

Naxalmukt Bharat Abhiyan: From Red Zones to Growth Corridors

India’s Decisive Battle Against Left Wing Extremism

Posted On: 10 APR 2025 7:49PM by PIB Delhi

“It is true that Maoist violence had stalled the progress of many districts in central and eastern India. That is why in 2015, our government formulated a comprehensive ‘National Policy and Action Plan’ to eradicate Maoist violence. Along with zero tolerance towards violence, we have also focused on a massive push to infrastructure and social empowerment to bring a positive change in the lives of the poor people in these regions.”

– Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Introduction

Left Wing Extremism (LWE), often referred to as Naxalism, is one of India’s most serious internal security challenges. Rooted in socio-economic inequalities and fueled by Maoist ideology, LWE has historically affected some of the most remote, underdeveloped, and tribal-dominated regions of the country. The movement has aimed to undermine the Indian state through armed rebellion and parallel governance structures, particularly targeting security forces, public infrastructure, and democratic institutions. Originating from the Naxalbari movement of 1967 in West Bengal, it spread primarily across the “Red Corridor,” affecting states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra, Kerala, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The Maoist insurgents claim to fight for the rights of the marginalized, particularly tribal communities, but their methods include armed violence, extortion, destruction of infrastructure, and recruitment of children and civilians.

However, in recent years, India’s multidimensional counter-LWE strategy – combining security enforcement, inclusive development, and community engagement – has delivered significant success. The movement has been systematically weakened, violence has drastically declined, and many LWE-affected districts are being reintegrated into the national mainstream. The government of India is committed to completely eliminate Naxalism by 31^st March 2026, since Naxalism is seen as the biggest obstacle in the development of remote areas and tribal villages, as it prevents education, healthcare, connectivity, banking, and postal services from reaching these villages.

The number of LWE affected districts reduced from 126 to 90 in April 2018, 70 in July 2021 and further to 38 in April-2024. Out of total Naxalism-affected districts, number of most affected districts has been reduced from 12 to 6, which include four districts from Chhattisgarh (Bijapur, Kanker, Narayanpur, and Sukma), one from Jharkhand (West Singhbhum), and one from Maharashtra (Gadchiroli). Similarly, out of the total 38 affected districts, the number of Districts of Concern, where additional resources need to be intensively provided beyond the severely affected districts, has reduced from 9 to 6. These 6 districts are: Andhra Pradesh (Alluri Sitarama Raju), Madhya Pradesh (Balaghat), Odisha (Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Malkangiri), and Telangana (Bhadradri-Kothagudem). Due to persistent action against Naxalism, number of Other LWE-affected Districts has also decreased from 17 to 6. These include districts from Chhattisgarh (Dantewada, Gariaband, and Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki), Jharkhand (Latehar), Odisha (Nuapada), and Telangana (Mulugu). In the last 10 years, over 8,000 Naxalites have abandoned the path of violence, and consequently, the number of Naxal-affected districts has reduced to fewer than 20.

The most affected Districts and Districts of Concern are given financial assistance of Rs. 30 crore and Rs. 10 crore, respectively, by the Government of India under a special scheme, Special Central Assistance (SCA), to fill the gaps in public infrastructure. Apart from this, special projects are also provided for these districts as per the need.

Incidents of violence by LWE which reached its highest level of 1936 in 2010 have reduced to 374 in 2024 i.e. a reduction of 81%. The total number of deaths (civilians + security forces) has also reduced by 85% during this period from 1005 deaths in 2010 to 150 in 2024.

State-wise details of LWE perpetrated violence (number of deaths recorded) in the last 3 years are as given under:

State	2022	2023	2024
Andhra Pradesh	3	3	1
Bihar	11	4	2
Chhattisgarh	246	305	267
Jharkhand	96	129	69
Kerala	0	4	0
Madhya Pradesh	16	7	11
Maharashtra	16	19	10
Odisha	16	12	6
Telangana	9	3	8
West Bengal	0	0	0
TOTAL	413	485	374

Government Strategy: National Policy and Action Plan (2015) and other Key Initiatives

The government of India has adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards left-wing extremism and with 100% implementation of government schemes, it seeks to fully develop the LWE-affected areas. The government had laid down two rules of law to fight left wing extremism. First, to establish the rule of law in Naxalism-affected areas and completely stop illegal violent activities. Second, to quickly compensate for the loss in those areas which were deprived of development due to the long Naxalite movement.

To address the LWE menace holistically, a National Policy and Action Plan to address LWE was approved in 2015. It envisages a multi-pronged strategy involving security related measures, development interventions, ensuring rights and entitlements of local communities etc.

The Central Government closely monitors the situation and supplements and coordinates their efforts in several ways. These include providing the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs); sanction of India Reserve (IR) battalions, setting up of Counter Insurgency and Anti-Terrorism (CIAT) schools; modernisation and upgradation of the State Police and their Intelligence apparatus; reimbursement of security related expenditure under the Security-related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme; providing helicopters for anti-LWE operations, assistance in training of State Police through the Ministry of Defence, the Central Police Organisations and the Bureau of Police Research and Development; sharing of Intelligence; facilitating inter-State coordination; assistance in community policing and civic action programmes etc. On development side, apart from flagship schemes, Government of India has taken several specific initiatives in LWE affected States, with special thrust on expansion of road network, improving telecommunication connectivity, skilling and financial inclusion.

Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme: This Scheme is being implemented as a sub-scheme of the umbrella scheme ‘Modernization of Police Forces’. Under the SRE Scheme, the Central Government reimburses security related expenditure for LWE affected districts and districts earmarked for monitoring. The reimbursement includes the expenditure relating to training and operational needs of security forces, ex-gratia payment to the family of civilians/security forces killed/injured in LWE violence, rehabilitation of surrendered LWE cadres, community policing, village defence committees and publicity materials. The SRE Scheme aims at strengthening of the capacity of the LWE affected States to fight the LWE menace effectively. During 2014-15 to 2024-25, Rs. 3260.37 crore has been released under this Scheme.

Special Central Assistance (SCA) for most LWE affected districts: This Scheme was approved in 2017 and is being implemented as a sub-scheme of the umbrella scheme ‘Modernization of Police Forces’. The main objective of the Scheme is to fill the critical gaps in Public Infrastructure and Services in most LWE affected districts, which are of emergent nature. Till now, Rs 3,563 crore have been released since the inception of Scheme in 2017.

Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS): This Scheme is being implemented as a sub-scheme of the umbrella scheme ‘Modernization of Police Forces’. Under Special Infrastructure Scheme, funds are provided for strengthening of State Intelligence Branches (SIBs), Special Forces, District Polices and Fortified Police Stations (FPSs). Under the SIS, Rs. 1741 crore have been sanctioned. 221 Fortified Police Stations have been constructed under the Scheme.

Scheme of Fortified Police stations: Under the scheme 400 Fortified Police Stations have been constructed in 10 LWE affected States. Put together 612 Fortified Police Stations have been constructed in LWE affected areas in the last 10 years. This is in contrast to 2014, when there were only 66 fortified police stations.

Assistance to Central Agencies for LWE management Scheme: This Scheme is being implemented as a sub-scheme of the umbrella scheme ‘Modernization of Police Forces’. Under the Scheme, assistance is provided to Central Agencies (CAPFs/IAF etc.) for strengthening of infrastructure and hiring charges for Helicopters. Rs. 1120.32 crore have been given to Central Agencies during the period 2014-15 to 2024-25.

Civic Action Programme (CAP): This Scheme is being implemented as a sub-scheme of the umbrella scheme ‘Modernization of Police Forces’ to bridge the gaps between Security Forces and local people through personal interaction and bring the human face of SFs before the local population. The Scheme has been very successful in achieving its goal. Under the Scheme, funds are released to the CAPFs, deployed in LWE affected areas, for conducting various civic activities for the welfare of the local people. Rs. 196.23 crore has been released to CAPFs since 2014-15.

Media Plan: The Maoists have been misguiding and luring the innocent tribals/ local population in LWE affected areas by their so-called poor-friendly revolution through petty incentives or by following their coercive strategy. Their false propaganda is targeted against the security forces and the democratic setup. Therefore, the Government is implementing this Scheme in LWE affected areas. Under the scheme activities like Tribal Youth Exchange programmes, radio jingles, documentaries, pamphlets etc. are being conducted. Rs. 52.52 crore have been released under the scheme since 2017-18.

Road Requirement Plan-I (RRP-I) for LWE affected areas and Road Connectivity Project for LWE affected areas (RCPLWE): The RRP-I Scheme is being implemented by Ministry of Road Transport & Highways for improving road connectivity in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh. The RCPLWE scheme was launched in the year 2016 to improve the road connectivity in 44 worst affected LWE districts and some adjoining districts in 9 States, viz. Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh. The scheme has twin objectives of enabling smooth and seamless anti-LWE operations by the security forces and also ensuring socio-economic development of the area. 17,589 km of roads have been sanctioned under these two schemes. Of these, 14,618 km have been constructed.

Telecom Connectivity: 3 telecom projects, namely, Mobile Connectivity Project Phase-I & Phase-II, Provision of 4G mobile services in uncovered villages of Aspirational Districts and Saturation of 4G mobile services, are being implemented in LWE affected areas to improve telecom connectivity. A total of 10,505 mobile towers have been planned, of which 7,768 towers have been commissioned. The entire Naxal-affected region will be equipped with mobile connectivity by December 1, 2025.

Aspirational District: The Ministry of Home Affairs has been tasked with the monitoring of Aspirational districts programme in 35 LWE affected districts.

Financial Inclusion: For financial inclusion of the local populace in these areas, 1,007 bank branches and 937 ATMs in 30 Most LWE affected districts and 5,731 new post offices have been opened in LWE affected districts since April 2015. 37,850 Banking Correspondents (BCs) have been made operational in Most LWE affected districts.

Skill Development and Education: For Skill development 48 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and 61 Skill Development Centres (SDCs) have been made functional in LWE affected districts. For quality education in tribal blocks of LWE affected districts 178 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) have been made functional in LWE affected districts. The Skill Development Scheme reached all 48 districts, and a strong vertical of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) was created. 1,143 tribal youths were recruited into the security forces.

Since 2019, to fill the security vacuum, 280 new camps have been established, 15 new Joint Task Forces have been created, and 6 CRPF battalions have been deployed to assist state police in various states. Along with this, an offensive strategy has been adopted by activating the National Investigation Agency to choke the financing of Naxalites, which has resulted in a shortage of financial resources for them. Multiple long-duration operations were conducted, ensuring that the Naxalites are surrounded, leaving them with no opportunity to escape.

October 2, 2024, PM Narendra Modi launched the ‘Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan’ from Jharkhand. This campaign will be a milestone in providing personal amenities for achieving full saturation in rural areas in over 15,000 villages, benefiting nearly 1.5 crore people in LWE affected areas. The government is strengthening 3-C i.e., Road connectivity, Mobile connectivity and Financial connectivity in the LWE affected areas.

Success Stories

As part of zero-tolerance policy against Naxalism, 90 Naxals have been killed, 104 arrested, and 164 have surrendered in the year, by March 2025. In 2024, 290 Naxalites were neutralized, 1,090 were arrested, and 881 surrendered.

Recently on 30th March 2025, 50 Naxalites in Bijapur (Chhattisgarh) surrendered. On 29^th March 2025, our security agencies neutralised 16 Naxalites and recovered a massive cache of automatic weapons in an operation in Sukma (Chhattisgarh). On 20^th March 2025, in two different operations by our security forces in Bijapur and Kanker, Chhattisgarh, 22 Naxals were killed, achieving another major success in the ‘Naxalmukt Bharat Abhiyan’.

As per the information shared by the honourable Home Minister, for the first time in 30 years, the number of casualties due to LWE was below 100 in 2022, which is a significant achievement. From 2014 to 2024, there has been a substantial decline in Naxal-related incidents. 15 top Naxal leaders have been neutralized, and the government welfare schemes have been better implemented to reach to the last man in the queue. Areas like Buddha Pahad and Chakarbandha have been completely free from the grip of Naxalism. 85% of the LWE cadre strength in Chhattisgarh has been eliminated. Since January 2024, a total of 237 Naxalites have been killed, 812 arrested, and 723 have surrendered in Chhattisgarh. More than 13,000 people from the Northeast, Kashmir, and LWE affected areas have renounced violence and joined the mainstream.

In 2014, there were 330 police stations where Naxal incidents occurred, but now this number has reduced to 104. Earlier Naxal-affected area was spread in more than 18,000 square kilometers, now only span 4,200 square kilometers. Between 2004 and 2014, there were a total of 16,463 incidents of Naxal violence. However, during 2014 to 2024, the number of violent incidents decreased by 53%, dropping to 7,744. Similarly, the number of causalities of security forces decreased by 73%, from 1,851 to 509. By 2014, there were a total of 66 fortified police stations, but over the past 10 years, their number has increased to 612. In the past 5 years, a total of 302 new security camps and 68 night landing helipads have been established.

To financially choke the Naxalites and break their financial backbone, National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Enforcement Directorate were used, seizing several crores of rupees from Naxalites. Under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), cases were filed, and those who funded the Naxalites were sent behind bars. To bring development to Naxal-affected areas, the budget allocation for these regions was increased by 300%.

In December 2023, within a single year, 380 Naxalites were killed, 1,194 were arrested, and 1,045 surrendered.

Conclusion

India’s multi-pronged strategy against Left Wing Extremism has significantly weakened the insurgency, both territorially and operationally. The government’s focus on a blend of security, development, and rights-based empowerment has transformed the landscape in previously affected areas. With sustained political will, administrative commitment, and people’s participation, the vision of a LWE-free India is closer than ever.

References

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2062905

https://www.mha.gov.in/en/divisionofmha/left-wing-extremism-division

https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/2025-01/QuestionFaqEng_16012025.pdf

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2042128

https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/183/AU3524_Vx5iCE.pdf?source=pqals

https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/182/AU2378_awyJFP.pdf?source=pqals

https://www.narendramodi.in/our-prime-role-is-to-ensure-good-governance-harness-aspirations-of-those-who-have-reposed-faith-in-us-pm-540680

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2112250

https://sansad.in/getFile/annex/267/AU2951_bVSJLP.pdf?source=pqars

https://sansad.in/getFile/loksabhaquestions/annex/184/AU3989_Tr9MsC.pdf?source=pqals

https://x.com/amitshah/status/1909881269950853260?s=48&t=TYQpZk9GYbxE_Un686FYnA
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2117140

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2113303

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2113902

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2042680

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILUCYOQpDTc

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2115170

See in PDF

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Santosh Kumar | Sarla Meena | Rishita Aggarwal

(Release ID: 2120771) Visitor Counter : 74

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 11, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Montgomery Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm Recovered at Scene of Shooting Where 4-Year-Old Was Injured

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

? MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced the sentencing of a Montgomery, Alabama man for illegally possessing a firearm recovered at the scene of a shooting. On April 9, 2025, a judge ordered that 27-year-old Grenden James Jordan serve 174 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Following his 14-and-a-half-year prison sentence, Jordan will be on supervised release for three years. There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court records and evidence presented at his January 2025 trial, on March 16, 2024, an officer with the Montgomery Police Department responded to the scene of a shooting on Atlanta Highway near the Eastern Boulevard overpass after hearing gun shots. Upon arrival, the officer saw three men walking away from a blue Dodge Challenger that was stopped in one of the lanes of traffic. One of the men, later identified as Grenden James Jordan, was observed by the officer throwing a firearm towards the side of the road. This was also captured on the officer’s dash cam video. The three men fled the scene.

Witnesses stated that the three men were occupants of the Dodge Challenger and had exchanged gunfire with a red sedan, which left the scene when law enforcement arrived. Numerous bullet holes were found on the Dodge Challenger. There was a third vehicle on the scene that had been caught in the crossfire and had gunshot damage as well. This vehicle was occupied by innocent bystanders including a mother, father, and four-year-old child. The child sustained injuries from broken glass caused by the gunshots and was treated.

Officers recovered an AR-style pistol from the area where the firearm had been thrown by Jordan, along with a high-capacity drum magazine with ammunition. During the trial, the jury saw a photo taken prior to March 16, 2024, showing Jordan posing with an AR-style pistol matching the one found on the scene of the shooting. Law enforcement found two additional firearms when searching Jordan’s residence in April of 2024. Jordan has previous felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. The jury found Jordan guilty earlier this year for illegally possessing the firearm recovered on March 16, 2024.

“This significant sentence not only reflects the need to ensure justice is served, but it also reflects the gravity of the danger posed by Grenden Jordan’s reckless behavior,” said Acting United States Attorney Davidson. “Violent crime has an enormous impact on communities and those that work and live within them, including our children. This case is a stark reminder of the harm that can be inflicted when individuals use guns to settle disputes without regard for the wellbeing of others. Montgomery is a safer place with Grenden Jordan off the streets.”

“This type of disregard for human life will not be tolerated and most especially by a previously convicted felon,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Rachel Byrd. “FBI Mobile will continue to work alongside our state, local, and federal partners to bring justice to the victims of this senseless gun violence.”

This case was brought as a 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Montgomery Police Department investigated this case, which Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon W. Bates and Michelle R. Turner prosecuted.

MIL Security OSI –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Man Admits Fraudulently Obtaining Student Visa, Other Documents

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

T. LOUIS – A man from St. Louis County, Missouri on Wednesday admitted fraudulently obtaining a student visa and admission to the University of Missouri and admitted using the visa to obtain a Social Security card, a driver license, a bank account and an apartment.

Mercy Ojedeji, 24, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of unlawful use of fraudulent immigration documents and one count of wire fraud.

Ojedeji admitted using counterfeit academic transcripts, recommendations, a resume and a report about his English language proficiency to obtain a student visa from the University of Missouri and admission to the chemistry PhD program in the fall of 2023. Ojedeji also obtained a stipend and a tuition waiver worth more than $49,000. Ojedeji presented his student visa and other documents to the Social Security Administration to obtain a Social Security card and used the fraudulently-issued Social Security number and other documents to open a bank account. He also used the Social Security number and documents produced by his paramour to rent an apartment. After Ojedeji failed to attend classes, his assistantship or join a research group, the university terminated him from the graduate program in January 2024. This also resulted in the termination of his student visa. On Feb. 26, 2024, Ojedeji used his fraudulently-obtained and now invalid visa and other documents to obtain a Missouri driver license.

The investigation into Ojedeji began when the U.S. Postal Inspection Service received complaints that romance fraud victims were mailing packages containing cash and gift cards to the home of Ojedeji’s paramour. Between Dec. 19, 2023, and Jan. 4, 2024, 35 Express Mail packages that had been tracked by Nigerian internet protocol addresses were delivered to the paramour’s address. A court-approved search of the home resulted in the discovery of packages sent pursuant to a Nigerian romance fraud scheme. A total of 193 packages were sent to the home through the Postal Services Express Mail, Federal Express, and United Parcel Service during Ojedeji’s relationship with the woman. At sentencing, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will argue that the total intended loss is more than $1 million, based on the $94,150 contained in the 17 packages seized by law enforcement. Ojedeji continues to deny any involvement in romance fraud.

A judge will ultimately determine the loss amount at Ojedeji’s sentencing hearing, scheduled for July 10. Wire fraud carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine. The immigration charge is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and the same fine.

“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is dedicated to defending the nation’s mail system from criminal activity, preserving the integrity of the U.S. Mail, and protecting United States Postal Service employees. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service values our law enforcement partners for supporting our mission to protect the integrity of the U.S. Mail,” said Ruth M. Mendonça, Inspector in Charge of the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which includes the St. Louis Field Office.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case, with the assistance of the FBI and the Town and Country Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Berry is prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former Teacher Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

MINNEAPOLIS – Former high school teacher Daniel Janke of Mankato, Minnesota, has been sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. Janke was also ordered to pay $18,000 in special assessments that benefit minors directly impacted by these types of offenses.

According to court documents, Daniel John Janke, 54, knowingly obtained and distributed images and videos depicting the graphic sexual exploitation of children. During an investigation of a specific chatroom on Kik, a social media application, an undercover (UC) law enforcement agent encountered the defendant using the pseudonym “Jack Frost.” Between October 23, 2023, and November 1, 2023, they exchanged multiple messages and Janke sent multiple CSAM images and a video to the UC agent. A subsequent forensic examination Janke’s electronic devices and Kik account confirmed that he collected and distributed sexually explicit images of pubescent and pre-pubescent minor victims.

“It’s hard to imagine someone working with children and then making the choice to exploit them on the internet,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “Teachers, coaches, daycare workers—it doesn’t matter who you are—my office will continue to prosecute predators in positions of trust to the fullest extent of the law.”

“This case is a stark reminder that child predators continue to operate in digital spaces, using technology to exploit children and share that abuse with others,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “The FBI is committed to protecting our most vulnerable and will continue to work with our partners to bring predators to justice.”

On October 29, 2024, Janke pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child sexual abuse material. Janke was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court by Judge John R. Tunheim. When pronouncing the sentence, Judge Tunheim specifically noted an aggravating aspect of the Janke matter was “the haunting reality that the distribution of CSAM material on the Internet means it lives on forever.”

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Laguna Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Assault Charges Involving Serious Injuries

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ALBUQUERQUE – A Laguna man pleaded guilty to federal assault charges for a violent attack that left the victim hospitalized with serious injuries.

According to court records, on August 18, 2023, Kenzie Alonzo, 26, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Laguna, physically assaulted Jane Doe during a verbal altercation. As a result, Jane Doe sustained serious bodily injury, including a concussion, severe bruising, and bite marks, requiring emergency medical transport and hospitalization.

At sentencing, Alonzo faces up to 10 years in prison. Upon his release from prison, Alonzo will be subject to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case with assistance from the Zia Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Government Seeks Death Penalty for Federal Inmate Charged with First Degree Murder

Source: US State Government of Utah

A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment this week, charging Ishmael Petty, 56, with first degree murder and murder by a federal prisoner serving a life sentence.

According to court documents, on Sept. 19, 2020, Petty murdered a fellow inmate while the two were housed in the same unit at the U.S. Penitentiary-Florence, Administrative Maximum Facility (ADX) in Florence, Colorado. Petty has been in federal custody since a 1998 conviction for bank robbery. In 2002, Petty was sentenced to life in prison for murdering an inmate at another federal prison. In 2015, Petty was sentenced to 60 years in prison for an assault on two federal officers at ADX.

For the current charges, the maximum penalty is death, and Attorney General Bondi has authorized the United States Attorney for the District of Colorado to pursue capital punishment in this case. Consistent with that authorization, the U.S. Attorney filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Petty.

Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Acting U.S. Attorney J. Bishop Grewell for the District of Colorado made the announcement.

The FBI Denver Field Office investigated the case.

This case is being prosecuted by the Violent Crime and Immigration Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado and the Criminal Division’s Capital Case Section.

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 –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Shiprock Man Guilty of Assault in Stabbing Case

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

strong>ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty as charged in his federal indictment for assault with a dangerous weapon because he intentionally stabbed his ex-girlfriend and struck her with his vehicle during a violent altercation.

According to court records, on November 2, 2024, Jane Doe, and her sister were stopped at a road construction zone when her ex-boyfriend, Tyrell Lee Johnson, 29, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, approached their vehicle. Johnson physically attacked Jane Doe, striking her head, stabbing her abdomen with a knife, and striking her with his vehicle as he fled the scene. Jane Doe sustained injuries, including an abdominal wound, bruises, abrasions, and a concussion.

Navajo Police located Johnson’s vehicle in Cudei, New Mexico, identified by its damaged front bumper, and apprehended him after a brief pursuit. Officers recovered a black folding knife from Johnson’s possession and confirmed he had no alcohol in his system during processing.

At sentencing, Johnson faces up to 10 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Government Seeks Death Penalty for Federal Inmate Charged with First Degree Murder

Source: United States Attorneys General 3

A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment this week, charging Ishmael Petty, 56, with first degree murder and murder by a federal prisoner serving a life sentence.

According to court documents, on Sept. 19, 2020, Petty murdered a fellow inmate while the two were housed in the same unit at the U.S. Penitentiary-Florence, Administrative Maximum Facility (ADX) in Florence, Colorado. Petty has been in federal custody since a 1998 conviction for bank robbery. In 2002, Petty was sentenced to life in prison for murdering an inmate at another federal prison. In 2015, Petty was sentenced to 60 years in prison for an assault on two federal officers at ADX.

For the current charges, the maximum penalty is death, and Attorney General Bondi has authorized the United States Attorney for the District of Colorado to pursue capital punishment in this case. Consistent with that authorization, the U.S. Attorney filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Petty.

Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Acting U.S. Attorney J. Bishop Grewell for the District of Colorado made the announcement.

The FBI Denver Field Office investigated the case.

This case is being prosecuted by the Violent Crime and Immigration Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado and the Criminal Division’s Capital Case Section.

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 –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Missouri man indicted for attempted drug trafficking

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment charging a Missouri man with a drug trafficking related offense.

According to court documents, Otis J. Newton, 58, of Kansas City, Missouri, was indicted on one count of attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case.

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

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Minnesota Couple Indicted in $15 Million Medical Billing Fraud Scheme

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

MINNEAPOLIS – An indictment was unsealed today alleging that Gabriel Langford and Elizabeth Brown, a Minnesota couple, engaged in a $15 million scheme to defraud Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurers by overbilling for neurofeedback therapy, following the couple’s arrest and initial appearances in Las Vegas, Nevada, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

According to court documents, beginning in 2018, Gabriel Adam Alexander Luthor, a.k.a. Gabriel Adam Alexander Langford, 39, and Elizabeth Christine Brown, 40, intentionally devised and carried out a scheme to overbill Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurers for medical services provided through Golden Victory Medical, LLC (GVM). Luthor and Brown were in a relationship, and together founded GVM in 2018.

According to court documents, one of the main medical services GVM claimed to provide was neurofeedback therapy. During neurofeedback therapy, a medical provider places sensors on a patient’s scalp to obtain images of the patient’s brain waves, for the purpose of indicating the effects of interventions meant to treat mental-health conditions. But according to the indictment, Luthor and Brown fraudulently overbilled insurers for GVM’s neurofeedback services using numerous inapplicable medical codes.

For example, GVM repeatedly submitted claims to insurers using medical codes that did not cover the neurofeedback services that GVM provided, combinations of codes that by definition could not be combined, and codes that indicated that GVM’s patients received a longer duration of services than the company had actually provided. Luthor and Brown caused GVM to continue submitting false claims even after repeated warnings from insurers, an outside auditor, and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

In total, GVM submitted hundreds of thousands of false claims to insurers, many of which the insurers paid, resulting in an estimated loss of over $15 million. Millions of dollars in fraudulent proceeds were transferred from bank account to bank account and ultimately retained by Luthor and Brown. Luthor and Brown used the funds to purchase a mansion in Eden Prairie and to pay their living expenses and the living expenses of other girlfriends of Luthor’s, who lived with Luthor and Brown and assisted in the fraud scheme.

“Minnesota has a fraud problem,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “This case is yet another example of defendants defrauding government programs out of millions. This type of widespread fraud is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

“Defrauding critical healthcare programs like Medicaid and Medicare burden systems designed to serve patients and puts them at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “The FBI and our partners will not tolerate those who abuse the healthcare system for personal gain and will pursue justice on behalf of taxpayers and patients.”

Luthor and Brown are each charged with six counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. They made their initial appearances in U.S. District Court in the District of Nevada earlier this week.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Eden Prairie Police Department, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Forbes is prosecuting the case.

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

MIL Security OSI –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Federal jury convicts South Dakota man of sexually abusing two victims on Fort Belknap Indian Reservation

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

GREAT FALLS — A federal jury yesterday convicted a South Dakota man of multiple crimes involving the sexual abuse of two victims on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

After a two-day trial, the jury found the defendant, Farron Gene American Horse, Sr., 40, guilty of sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact as charged in an indictment. On the more serious charge of sexual abuse, American Horse faces up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years to life of supervised release.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The Court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for July 17, 2025. American Horse will remain in custody pending further proceedings.

“Protecting the public on our Native American reservations has been, and remains, a top priority for the Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office here in Montana, especially vulnerable victims like those in this case. The defendant’s decision to abuse the children he was supposed to be caring for, is abhorrent and tragic. The jury’s guilty verdict should serve as a warning to others who would abuse others that they will be caught and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. I want to thank the Assistant U. S. Attorneys and staff in our office, and the law enforcement agents from the FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services for their hard work on the case.” U.S. Attorney Alme said.

The government alleged at trial and in court documents that American Horse sexually abused the victims in September and October 2020 in Hays, on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. In the summer of 2020, American Horse went to live with a woman and her family in Hays and helped look after the children. In October 2020, one victim, identified as Jane Doe 1, who had attained the age of 12 years but had not yet reached the age of 16 years, disclosed being sexually abused by American Horse while spending the night at the woman’s residence. About this time, another victim, identified as Jane Doe 2, who also had attained the age of 12 years but had not yet reached the age of 16 years, disclosed that American Horse had touched her while she was sleeping at the woman’s home weeks earlier.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.

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MIL Security OSI –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Pallone, 24 Armenian Caucus Members Urge Direct, Proactive American Engagement in South Caucasus Peace Negotiations

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chairs Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), David Valadao (CA-22), and Brad Sherman (CA-32) and 21 additional bipartisan members sent a letter today to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz requesting strong American engagement in the ongoing peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The United States has the potential to help secure an historic deal for this decades long conflict, and the letter encourages the Trump Administration to take additional steps to achieve this goal.

“We welcome recent efforts to ensure a negotiated and peaceful settlement of this long-standing conflict. We also strongly agree with Secretary Rubio’s statement that “now is the time to commit to peace” in the South Caucasus and NSA Waltz’s call to “finalize this peace deal now, release the prisoners, and work together to make the region more secure and prosperous.” To ensure a sustainable peace, the U.S. must play a pivotal role in preventing any additional barriers to the signing of a formal document between the two sides.”

“As Armenia seeks to reduce its dependence on Russia and pivot toward the West, securing a lasting peace in the South Caucasus is a national security imperative and directly in line with President Trump’s global peace initiatives. Considering Azerbaijan’s ongoing threats toward Armenia and the risk this poses to a fragile peace process, we believe the United States has a responsibility to pursue important confidence and security-building measures.”

The full list of cosigners includes: Representatives Pallone (NJ-06), Valadao (CA-22), Sherman (CA-32), Bilirakis (FL-12), Amo (RI-01), Chu (CA-28), Costa (CA-21), Friedman (CA-30), Gottheimer (NJ-05), Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Lawler (NY-17), S. Lee (NV-03), Lofgren (CA-19), Magaziner (RI-02), McGovern (MA-03), Min (CA-47), Mullin (CA-15), Norton (DC-AL), Omar (MN-05), (Pingree (ME-01), Sánchez (CA-38), Schakowsky (IL-09), Schneider (IL-10), Stevens (MI-11), Trahan (MA-03)

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MIL OSI USA News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Kelly on Abrupt ATF Director Change

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Robin Kelly (IL-02) released the following statement on the new director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). FBI Director Kash Patel was abruptly removed as Acting Director and replaced by U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, as reported exclusively by Reuters.

“Every day, over 110 Americans die from gun violence – and the Trump administration is playing musical chairs with the department in charge of enforcing gun safety laws. The ATF needs a director dedicated to the job, and not someone who will split time with another job. By naming U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll to also lead the ATF, President Trump continues to militarize our law enforcement. Gun crimes like straw purchasing and trafficking have serious and deadly consequences. The ATF must be at full capacity to enforce those laws.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Ogles Leads Legislation Targeting Chinese Cybersecurity Threats

Source:

WASHINGTON DC – Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) introduced the “Strengthening Cyber Resilience Against State-Sponsored Threats Act.” This bill would establish an interagency task force, led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), to address the widespread cybersecurity threats posed by state-sponsored cyber actors associated with the CCP.

The legislation also requires the task force to provide a detailed report and briefing to Congress annually for five years on its findings. The legislation was advanced by the House Committee on Homeland Security and passed unanimously by the House of Representatives in the 118th Congress.

“The Chinese Communist Party is the greatest foreign adversary we face, and Beijing continues to use cyberspace as a battlefield on which to undermine American sovereignty and interests. In the wake of attacks by CCP-backed actors against our critical infrastructure and even their intrusions into the campaign communications of President Trump and Vice President Vance, we must ensure the government is coordinating effectively to make sure this never happens again,” Congressman Ogles said. “As we learned from the Biden-Harris administration, turning a blind eye to China’s intrusions only invites more attacks. I look forward to getting this legislation to President Trump’s desk so we can keep securing our nation from this deadly enemy.”

“For too long, the federal government has been asleep at the wheel when it comes to combating increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks on our networks by Chinese-backed actors. Americans depend on critical infrastructure for vital services every day, from the phones in our pockets to the water in our homes and gas in our cars,” Chairman Mark Green said. “I fear the recent ‘Typhoon’ intrusions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the CCP’s espionage and pre-positioning in our infrastructure. With new threats mounting every day, our response must be a coordinated, whole-of-government effort. I am proud to continue fighting for this legislation alongside my friend and fellow Tennessean, Rep. Ogles. Let’s get this to the Senate and to President Trump’s desk without delay.”

“The cyber campaigns waged by PRC-backed actors like the Typhoons are acts of espionage aimed at placing U.S. critical infrastructure at risk. This legislation directs a focused, interagency response to identify, assess, and disrupt these persistent threats,” Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection Chairman Andrew Garbarino said. “As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection, I’m committed to ensuring the federal government uses every available tool to mitigate these threats and strengthen our cyber resilience where it matters most.”

“The Chinese Communist Party is increasingly using cyberattacks to target our critical infrastructure, and it’s time to take action to address this growing threat to the American people,” Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party Chairman John Moolenaar said. “The Strengthening Cyber Resilience Against State-Sponsored Threats Act will ensure the federal government has the resources and authority to defend against these threats and hold the CCP accountable. With groups like Volt Typhoon and Salt Typhoon already compromising our systems, it’s critical that we strengthen our defenses to protect national security and our economy.”

“The Chinese Communist Party, through cyber threat actors like Volt Typhoon, continues to infiltrate America’s critical infrastructure, posing a direct threat to our national security and economy. We cannot allow foreign adversaries to gain the upper hand through a fragmented response,” Rep. Laurel Lee said. “That is why I am proud to cosponsor the Strengthening Cyber Resilience Against State-Sponsored Threats Act to ensure a unified, whole-of-government strategy to combat the CCP’s cyber aggression and protect the essential systems Americans rely on every day.”

Cosponsors (4): Rep. Mark Green [TN-07]-, Laurel Lee [FL-15], John Moolenaar [MI-02], and Rep. Andrew Garbarino [NY-02].

Read The Bill Here

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MIL OSI USA News –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Pappas, Goodlander Help Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Affordable Housing
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) helped to introduce the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act, bipartisan legislation to support the financing and development of affordable housing across the country by expanding and strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (Housing Credit). Both Pappas and Goodlander are original cosponsors.

“New Hampshire continues to face a housing crisis that is impacting our families, small businesses, and economy,” said Congressman Pappas. “These tax credits are helping to get Granite Staters into stable housing and will become even more essential to ensuring its availability given the instability in the economy and higher building costs as a result of tariffs. I’m proud to help reintroduce this legislation and will continue working to expand tools and resources that will bolster New Hampshire’s affordable housing stock.”

“Having a home is a cornerstone of the American Dream. One of my top priorities in Congress is making housing more affordable for hardworking Granite Staters. I am proud to help introduce the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act to do just that,” said Representative Goodlander. “Everywhere I go, I hear from families, small businesses, and employers about the housing crisis. In Congress, I will continue looking for every possible path to expand access to affordable housing, eliminate barriers for development, and tackle the housing crisis head-on.”

“NeighborWorks has been utilizing the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program since our inception over 30 years ago to revitalize neighborhoods and create new affordable housing opportunities. This program has enabled us to build 550 apartments during that time,” said Robert Tourigny, Executive Director of NeighborWorks Southern New Hampshire. “We are hopeful that the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act will finally be enacted to increase the amount of federal tax credits available, and make this scarce resource go even further toward building more homes in New Hampshire.”

“The AHCIA represents a critical step forward in addressing the affordable housing crisis our communities face. By enhancing the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program, we can empower developers to create more affordable multifamily housing,” said New Hampshire Housing CEO, Rob Dapice. “This legislation not only provides equitable housing opportunities but also strengthens the economic foundation of our neighborhoods. We hope Congress will support this vital initiative for the well-being of our citizens.”

“New Hampshire has a severe shortage of homes affordable to low and extremely-low-income earners. These are our friends, neighbors, and workers who keep our economy running. The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act will directly address this shortage by enabling the construction and preservation of thousands of homes in our state,” said Nick Taylor, Director of Housing Action NH. “Every year, developers seek to build affordable housing through the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, yet program limits force many to be denied funding. It makes no sense to turn away the affordable homes we desperately need because of arbitrary federal limits. Thank you to Congresswoman Goodlander and Congressman Pappas for supporting this bipartisan, common-sense legislation.”

Since its creation, the Housing Credit has built or restored more than 3.5 million affordable housing units, nearly 90% of all federally funded affordable housing during that time. Roughly 8 million American households have benefited from the credit, and the economic activity that it generated has supported 5.5 million jobs and generated more than $617 billion in wages.

The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act will support the financing of nearly two million new affordable homes across the country by:
- Increasing the number of credits allocated to each state by 50 percent for the next two years and making the temporary 12.5 percent increase secured in 2018 permanent. These credits have already helped build more than 59,000 additional affordable housing units nationwide.
- Increasing the number of affordable housing projects that can be built using private activity bonds. This provision stabilizes financing for workforce housing projects built using private activity bonds by decreasing the amount of private activity needed to secure Housing Credit funding. As a result, projects would have to carry less debt, and more projects would be eligible to receive funding.
- Improving the Housing Credit program to serve at-risk and underserved communities, including veterans, victims of domestic violence, and rural Americans.
The text of the legislation can be found HERE.
MIL OSI USA News –
April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Montgomery Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm Recovered at Scene of Shooting Where Four-Year-Old Was Injured

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced the sentencing of a Montgomery, Alabama man for illegally possessing a firearm recovered at the scene of a shooting. On April 9, 2025, a judge ordered that 27-year-old Grenden James Jordan serve 174 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Following his 14-and-a-half-year prison sentence, Jordan will be on supervised release for three years. There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court records and evidence presented at his January 2025 trial, on March 16, 2024, an officer with the Montgomery Police Department responded to the scene of a shooting on Atlanta Highway near the Eastern Boulevard overpass after hearing gun shots. Upon arrival, the officer saw three men walking away from a blue Dodge Challenger that was stopped in one of the lanes of traffic. One of the men, later identified as Grenden James Jordan, was observed by the officer throwing a firearm towards the side of the road. This was also captured on the officer’s dash cam video. The three men fled the scene.

Witnesses stated that the three men were occupants of the Dodge Challenger and had exchanged gunfire with a red sedan, which left the scene when law enforcement arrived. Numerous bullet holes were found on the Dodge Challenger. There was a third vehicle on the scene that had been caught in the crossfire and had gunshot damage as well. This vehicle was occupied by innocent bystanders including a mother, father, and four-year-old child. The child sustained injuries from broken glass caused by the gunshots and was treated.

Officers recovered an AR-style pistol from the area where the firearm had been thrown by Jordan, along with a high-capacity drum magazine with ammunition. During the trial, the jury saw a photo taken prior to March 16, 2024, showing Jordan posing with an AR-style pistol matching the one found on the scene of the shooting. Law enforcement found two additional firearms when searching Jordan’s residence in April of 2024. Jordan has previous felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. The jury found Jordan guilty earlier this year for illegally possessing the firearm recovered on March 16, 2024.

“This significant sentence not only reflects the need to ensure justice is served, but it also reflects the gravity of the danger posed by Grenden Jordan’s reckless behavior,” said Acting United States Attorney Davidson. “Violent crime has an enormous impact on communities and those that work and live within them, including our children. This case is a stark reminder of the harm that can be inflicted when individuals use guns to settle disputes without regard for the wellbeing of others. Montgomery is a safer place with Grenden Jordan off the streets.”

“This type of disregard for human life will not be tolerated and most especially by a previously convicted felon,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Rachel Byrd. “FBI Mobile will continue to work alongside our state, local, and federal partners to bring justice to the victims of this senseless gun violence.”

This case was brought as a 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Montgomery Police Department investigated this case, which Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon W. Bates and Michelle R. Turner prosecuted.

MIL Security OSI –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: Versatility Of Commercial Drones Performing Growing Number of Tasks is Driving Rapidly Increasing Adoption Rate

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PALM BEACH, Fla., April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Commercial Drones are remotely piloted, optionally piloted, or fully autonomous aerial vehicles that play a significant role in the commercial sectors. They are commonly termed drones and are mostly known for their wide usage in various functions, such as Surveying & Mapping, Inspection & Monitoring among others. These vehicles are also used for mapping, surveying, and determining the weather conditions of a specific area. Drones are being increasingly adopted in industries such as agriculture for crop monitoring, in construction for site inspection, in energy for inspecting power lines among others. The versatility of drones to perform various tasks efficiently is driving their adoption. A report from MarketsAndMarkets said that the Commercial Drone market is projected to grow from USD 5.32 billion in 2024 to USD 9.34 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2024 to 2030. The report said: “As drone technology advances, regulatory bodies globally are proactively shaping clearer and more supportive regulations to facilitate drone operations. This strategic initiative aims to lower operational barriers and enhance safety, thereby accelerating the adoption of drones across various sectors. Enhanced regulatory frameworks are anticipated to unlock significant business opportunities and drive innovation in drone applications.” Active Companies in the drone industry today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), EHang Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: EH).

The report continued: “Drones are particularly important for inspecting difficult-to-reach locations at certain altitudes or in contaminated surroundings. The use of drones has modernized the telecommunication tower scrutiny as they can be used to carry out supervision of these towers cost-effectively and in less time. Drones can also be employed for aerial evaluation of buildings and other infrastructures, such as pipelines, electric grids, offshore plants, and solar plates. They can use thermal imaging cameras to detect hotspots on solar plates; spots where energy is not spreading evenly. This can enhance the productivity of solar power plants by the instant identification of potentially problematic areas. For instance, the Lockheed Martin Procerus Technologies Indago quadrotor can be used for inspections near energy generation plants. Drones can be used to deliver medical supplies in difficult terrains. Drones are considered the future of the last-mile delivery for consumer supplies since they will reduce cost per delivery, along with delivery time. As the wages of delivery persons persist to rise, autonomous delivery or human-less services will become gradually advantageous, especially in developed countries. The major players in the Commercial Drone market have adopted various growth strategies such as contracts, joint ventures, partnerships & agreements, acquisitions, and new product launches to further expand their presence in the Commercial Drone market.”

ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) Closes Miller Land Surveying Corporation, a Third Southeast Acquisition and a Fourth Nationally for the Drone as Service (DaaS) Rollout – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drone, Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS and Quantum Computing solutions, announces the closing of its acquisition of Miller Land Surveying Corporation (“Miller”) of Lake Worth, Florida, a land survey and mapping company with a 40 year history and deep portfolio of business customers in the Palm Beach County area of South Florida.

This is ZenaTech’s third acquisition in the Southeast region as part of a larger national roll-up strategy to disrupt the land survey industry by accelerating the use of drones for their speed and accuracy benefits. The acquisition also furthers the Company’s national Drone as a Service, or DaaS, business rollout as the fourth US acquisition.

“Miller Land Surveying brings a wealth of experience and customer relationships as a second-generation company known across Palm Beach County for quality land surveys and mapping. Their pioneering team is well suited to helping us bring drone innovation to premium residential and business land surveys. This acquisition is another step towards our vision to create a national DaaS business, bringing AI drone efficiencies and precision to a variety of legacy business verticals and manual tasks,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

ZenaTech’s DaaS business will incorporate the ZenaDrone 1000 and the IQ series of multifunction autonomous drones to provide a variety of service solutions from land surveys to power line inspections or power washing, made accessible and cost effective through an Uber-like business model on a regular subscription or pay-per-use basis. Customers can conveniently access drones for eliminating manual or time-consuming tasks achieving superior results, such as for surveying, inspections, security and law enforcement, or precision farming applications, without having to buy, operate, or maintain the drones themselves.

The DaaS business model offers customers such as government agencies, real estate developers, construction firms, farmers or energy companies reduced upfront costs as there is no need to purchase expensive drones, as well as convenience, as there is no need to manage maintenance and operation. The model also offers scalability to use more often or less often based on business needs and enables access to advanced drone technology sensors or attachments like spraying, without the need for specialized training.

Accurate land surveys are essential for the planning, designing, and executing of roads, bridges, and building projects for cities, commercial, and residential projects, and are required for legal purposes. Remotely piloted drones with an array of sensors and cameras, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and GPS systems for capturing high-resolution pictures and data are revolutionizing the land survey industry gathering aerial data across expansive terrains in a matter of hours instead of weeks or months using more traditional photogrammetry methods. Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

In Additional ZENA News: ZenaTech’s (NASDAQ:ZENA) Expands Domestic Manufacturing for US Commercial Customers and US Defense Without Needing to Increase Prices – ZenaTech, Inc. (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS and Quantum Computing solutions, today provides an update on its US-based ZenaDrone subsidiary’s expansion plans for “Made in America” manufacturing in light of the recent expanded tariffs announced by the current US Administration. ZenaTech maintains its commitment to domestic manufacturing for US defense drone solutions, including strategic local investments and military-compliant supply chains. ZenaDrone will now move some of its commercial drone production for US commercial customers to Arizona, meaning no need to increase prices for customers to offset tariff costs.

ZenaDrone’s headquarters is in Phoenix, Arizona, which includes sales, administration, research and development, and aerial testing operations. The company plans to expand its manufacturing capabilities over the next two months to produce drones for US commercial customers in addition to planned production for the US military. This expansion will include up to 2,000 additional square feet of production space. This will be the second global manufacturing facility; the company currently has development and production facilities for the ZenaDrone 1000 and IQ series of drones at its 10,000-square-foot facility in Sharjah, UAE.

In response to the evolving trade landscape, ZenaTech also expects that the expansion of its Phoenix-based manufacturing facility will bring over 150 new jobs to the region by the end of 2026.

“While tariffs can be challenging, they also reveal which companies are truly agile. ZenaTech has always been long-term in our thinking; engaging in smart resource management and supply chains and prepared to navigate global shifts,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D. “With increased US bans on Chinese drones and components and local incentives for domestic production, we are well-positioned to expand our manufacturing in Arizona, also creating more high-quality American jobs,” added Mr. Passley. Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.zenatech.com/newsroom/

Other recent developments in the drone industry include:

Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), an industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, recently released that they have been selected as the primary UAS provider by Balko Technologies, an industry-leading company specializing in the design and manufacture of high-performance LiDAR payloads and post-processing software.

This announcement follows the integration and testing of Balko LiDAR products on the Draganfly Commander 3XL and Apex UAS, providing Balko customers with a suite of modular LiDAR and Drone platforms supporting a wide variety of performance requirements, budgets, and operating scenarios.

Under this agreement, Balko becomes an official distributor of Draganfly’s products throughout North America, expanding access to cutting-edge drone technology for industrial, energy, and environmental monitoring applications. Since signing the agreement, multiple customers have issued purchase orders for the Draganfly Commander 3XL to be paired with Balko’s innovative modular Connectiv LiDAR sensor with one delivery completed in Q1.

Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, recently announced the appointment of Shawn Webb as President of FlightWave Aerospace Systems Corporation (“FlightWave”), a Red Cat company, effective immediately.

Webb brings more than 25 years of experience leading operational strategy and engineering across commercial and military aerospace sectors. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Operations at AeroVironment Inc., where he led the largest capacity and revenue expansion in the history of the company’s Loitering Munition Systems Business Segment.

Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. (“Liberty” or the “Company”) recently announced that The Honorable Mary Beth Long, former Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs and Independent Director of AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV) has joined our new Strategic Advisory Board. This new Board will help focus and guide Liberty Defense in scaling its groundbreaking technology globally and executing its growth strategy as a leader in security and detection applications.

Mary Beth Long served as US Assistant Secretary of Defense under Secretary Robert Gates, making her the first woman confirmed to a four-star military equivalent position in U.S. history, and also served as the Chair of NATO’s Nuclear and Missile Defense High-Level Group. Before that, she served as a career clandestine CIA officer, and she has been deeply involved in aviation and related security matters for nearly two decades.

EHang (NASDAQ: EH) recently announced that recent tariff developments between China and the United States are not expected to have any material impact on the Company’s operations.

Recent U.S. tariff adjustments on certain Chinese goods have triggered global market volatility, and EHang has experienced short-term share price fluctuations driven by market sentiment. In response, the Company hereby clarifies the following: Recent tariff measures announced by both governments are not expected to have any material impact on EHang’s operations. The Company does not currently export its autonomous aerial vehicles (AAVs) or related products to the U.S. market, nor does it rely on U.S.-origin components in its manufacturing processes. We do not use U.S.-restricted semiconductors, aerospace components, or other controlled technologies. Our supply chain remains secure and independent, ensuring no operational disruption due to trade policy changes.

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The MIL Network –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: KANZHUN LIMITED Releases 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance Report

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BEIJING, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KANZHUN LIMITED (“BOSS Zhipin” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BZ; HKEX: 2076), a leading online recruitment platform in China, today published its 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) report (“the report”), reaffirming the Company’s unwavering commitment to fostering a responsible and sustainable online recruitment platform that empowers job seekers, supports business development, and generates long-term societal value.

The report outlines the Company’s achievements and impacts across seven key ESG dimensions: ESG governance, products and services optimization, employee growth, green development, sustainable supply chain practices, community engagement, and standardized corporate governance, cultivating an ecosystem where opportunity, equity, and innovation thrive. By embedding sustainability into its core operations, the Company is dedicated to delivering lasting value to users, stakeholders, and society as a whole.

To access the full report, please visit the Sustainability section of the Company’s investor relations website at https://ir.zhipin.com.

About KANZHUN LIMITED

KANZHUN LIMITED operates the leading online recruitment platform BOSS Zhipin in China. The Company connects job seekers and enterprise users in an efficient and seamless manner through its highly interactive mobile app, a transformative product that promotes two-way communication, focuses on intelligent recommendations, and creates new scenarios in the online recruiting process. Benefiting from its large and diverse user base, BOSS Zhipin has developed powerful network effects to deliver higher recruitment efficiency and drive rapid expansion.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

KANZHUN LIMITED
Investor Relations
Email: ir@kanzhun.com

PIACENTE FINANCIAL COMMUNICATIONS
Email: kanzhun@tpg-ir.com

The MIL Network –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: KANZHUN LIMITED Files Its Annual Report on Form 20-F

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BEIJING, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KANZHUN LIMITED (“BOSS Zhipin” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BZ; HKEX: 2076), a leading online recruitment platform in China, today announced that it filed its annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 10, 2025, U.S. Eastern Time. The annual report can be accessed on the Company’s investor relations website at https://ir.zhipin.com.

The Company will provide a hard copy of its annual report containing the audited consolidated financial statements, free of charge, to its shareholders upon request. Requests should be directed to the Investor Relations Department of KANZHUN LIMITED via email at ir@kanzhun.com.

The Company has also published its annual report for Hong Kong purposes pursuant to the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (“HKEX”), which can be accessed on the Company’s investor relations website at https://ir.zhipin.com as well as the HKEX’s website at http://www.hkexnews.hk.

About KANZHUN LIMITED

KANZHUN LIMITED operates the leading online recruitment platform BOSS Zhipin in China. The Company connects job seekers and enterprise users in an efficient and seamless manner through its highly interactive mobile app, a transformative product that promotes two-way communication, focuses on intelligent recommendations, and creates new scenarios in the online recruiting process. Benefiting from its large and diverse user base, BOSS Zhipin has developed powerful network effects to deliver higher recruitment efficiency and drive rapid expansion.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

KANZHUN LIMITED
Investor Relations
Email: ir@kanzhun.com

PIACENTE FINANCIAL COMMUNICATIONS
Email: kanzhun@tpg-ir.com

The MIL Network –

April 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: Welnax BioClear Reviews: DO NOT Spend A Dime Till You Have Read This Eyeopener Report!
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ORLANDO, Fla., April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Are you tired of dealing with stubborn nail fungus that just won’t go away? Have you tried countless creams, pills, or treatments that promise results but fail to deliver? Are you looking for a safe, painless, and effective solution to restore the health of your nails? Nail fungus is a common yet often embarrassing condition affecting millions worldwide. Characterized by thick, discolored, and brittle nails, it can lead to discomfort and a lack of confidence when displaying one’s feet. Traditional treatments, including topical antifungals and oral medications, can be ineffective and may lead to unwanted side effects.

Fortunately, the Welnax BioClear offers a revolutionary solution to this persistent problem, using advanced low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to target and eliminate nail fungus at its source. Welnax not only promotes healthy nail growth but also boosts the immune system to help prevent future infections.

In recent years, the demand for effective, drug-free solutions for nail fungus has surged, as more individuals seek safe and convenient treatments. The Welnax BioClear stands out in a crowded market by providing a clinically proven method that can be used in the comfort of one’s home. Users report significant improvements in the condition of their nails after just a few sessions, with many expressing reliefs from the embarrassment and discomfort associated with nail fungus.

According to many research findings and expert reports, Welnax Bioclear has been referred to as the “Ultimate Toenail Fungus Cure” in the United States of America, Canada and Australia. Unlike messy creams or medications with potential side effects, Welnax is designed to be gentle, effective, and easy to use, with just seven minutes a day, you can experience visible improvements in nail health within weeks.

In this review, we will analyze every aspect of the Welnax BioClear, including its operation and real consumers reports and complaints experiences. In order for you to determine whether Welnax is the game-changer you’ve been waiting for in your quest for healthier nails, let us give you an unbiased analysis of everything it has to offer. Stay tuned as we explore the details and discover what makes Welnax BioClear the best solution for nail fungus in the United States.

What Is Welnax (Welnax BioClear Reviews)

Welnax BioClear is a legitimate at-home device designed to help improve the appearance of nails affected by fungal infections. Welnax offers an innovative solution using clinically proven low-level laser therapy to help restore the natural appearance of nails. Every review confirms that Welnax features 15 high-performance lasers that penetrate deep into the nail bed, targeting and breaking down fungal cells at their root. With regular use, users will see noticeable improvements in nail health, including the restoration of clear, smooth nails.

Developed by leading podiatrists and dermatologists, the Welnax BioClear is a safe, drug-free and reliable solution suitable for anyone struggling with nail fungus. Welnax BioClear epitomizes a pioneering breakthrough in fungus-fighting technology, utilizing a groundbreaking, medical-grade light therapy to eradicate fungal infections at their source. All reviewers revealed that Welnax BioClear has been recognized for its superior performance and ultimate reliability thereby making it the best device for curing nail fungal infections among many customers in the United States, UK, Australia and Canada.

In rigorous testing against some of the worst cases of nail infections, Welnax BioClear has delivered exceptional outcomes. Real users, including Mark, who battled a seven-year-long infection, Susan, a 62-year-old who canceled a potentially invasive surgery, and Jason, an athlete sidelined by painful fungus, have all experienced revolutionary improvements within weeks of daily, seven-minute sessions. With an impeccable star rating, Welnax BioClear commands an excellent performance from majority of the consumers that have used it, these success stories reinforce the Welnax’s ability to destroy fungal growth and revive the natural clarity and strength of the nails indicating that even the most chronic infections can be treated.

Many Welnax reviews say that the Welnax BioClear is, without doubt, the most affordable and best nail fungus solution with an array of very incredible features and functions. The Welnax BioClear has 4.97-star ratings given by the consumers of Canada & USA for its superior low-level laser therapy technology, reliability, and noninvasive treatment, which unequivocally make it the most efficient and reliable device for toenail fungus device on the market in the USA and Canada.

Engineered with optimal performance and convenience in mind, Welnax BioClear offers a non-invasive, risk-free alternative to costly treatments and harsh prescription medications. Its lightweight and intuitive model enables quick, at-home sessions that fit seamlessly into busy lifestyles. With no adverse side effects, no need for chemical applications, and a promise to wipe out infections where they hide, Welnax BioClear has become a dependable ally for those tired of ineffective creams and prolonged treatment sessions. Welcome to the future of nail care and reclaim the confidence of healthy, clear nails with Welnax BioClear.

CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR WELNAX BIOCLEAR FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT MASSIVE DISCOUNT TODAY

What Are The Unique Features of Welnax BioClear (Welnax BioClear Reviews)
- Advanced-Grade Light Therapy Technology: Welnax BioClear uses improved, advanced -grade light therapy that releases specific wavelengths to combat fungal cells deep within the nail bed. This feature guarantees that the light energy is targeted precisely on the infected area, penetrating through the nail’s surface layers. The technology is formulated to destroy fungus, offering an approach that directly tackles the source of the infection. Its accuracy in wavelength selection is a key technical attribute of the device.
- Non-Invasive and Drug-Free Operation: One of the most outstanding features of Welnax BioClear is its non-surgical, drug-free design. Welnax is designed to provide effective treatment without chemical agents or oral medications, removing the risk of side effects associated with traditional treatments. The system functions entirely through light therapy, making it a safe choice for users with sensitive skin or allergies. This design underscores its commitment to delivering a soothing yet powerful treatment solution.
- Deep Penetration Capability: A great feature of Welnax BioClear is its ability to penetrate deep into the nail bed, intercepting fungal infections beneath the surface. Unlike conventional creams that only treat the surface, the device’s focused light energy tackles the infection at its core. This deep penetration guarantees that the treatment interacts directly with the affected tissue, thereby improving the potential for reviving nail health. The accuracy of this capability underlines the product’s technical sophistication.
- User-Friendly Interface and Operation: Welnax BioClear is designed with a simple, user-friendly interface that streamlines the treatment process. Its one-button operation and automated timer enable users to activate therapy sessions with minimal effort. This convenience guarantees that the device can be effortlessly integrated into daily routines, even for those with busy lifestyles. The controls reflect thoughtful engineering aimed at easing usability without compromising technological performance.
- Compact and Portable Design: The Welnax’s compact design is another remarkable feature that promotes its practicality. Welnax BioClear is designed to be compact and portable, enabling users to perform treatments at home or while traveling. Its durable construction ensures that it remains trusted over long periods of use. The portability does not compromise its productivity, making it a suitable choice for individuals looking for a high-performance treatment tool easily integrated into various environments.
- Convenient At-Home Use: With the Welnax BioClear, users can perform their treatments in the comfort of their own homes. This convenience eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming visits to dermatologists or podiatrists for laser treatments, making it an accessible solution for everyone. The Welnax is designed for easy use, allowing individuals to incorporate it into their daily routines effortlessly.
- Positive User Testimonials: Many users have reported significant improvements in their nail health after using the Welnax BioClear. Testimonials highlight quick results, increased confidence, and the ability to wear sandals and open-toed shoes without embarrassment. The positive feedback from satisfied customers underscores the effectiveness of the Welnax.
Does the Welnax BioClear Really Work? (Welnax Reviews)

Welnax BioClear works exceptionally by utilizing advanced low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to effectively treat nail fungus. Welnax has rapidly gained attention for its ability to tackle stubborn nail fungus with an innovative, medical-grade light therapy method. Built to penetrate deep into the nail bed, the Welnax tackles the fungal cells at their very core—something conventional topical creams or oral medications often fail to address. This accuracy-focused approach ensures that even the most chronic infections can be tackled, and users have reported visible improvements within weeks of consistent use.

In practical applications, Welnax BioClear has shown its worth by revitalizing nails that once suffered from thick, discolored, and brittle fungal infections. The Welnax BioClear’s model is based on clinically inspired technology that not only destroys the fungal cells but also improves the growth of healthier nail tissue. This dual action; eliminating the infection and promoting natural regrowth has dazzled users who have seen a dramatic reversal in their nail conditions, setting it apart from other treatments that only offer temporary or superficial relief.

Ultimately, many glowing positive feedbacks of Welnax BioClear indicate a high level of trust and satisfaction among its users. All reviewers revealed Welnax BioClear has also received several good customer reviews where they are being complimented for its ease of use and performance. The incorporation of deep penetration capability, non-invasive and drug-free operation, and an easy-to-use design makes it an unmatched choice for those frustrated with futile treatments. While individual results may vary, overwhelmingly positive feedback underlines that Welnax truly works, delivering a remarkable, science-approved remedy for restoring nail health and confidence.

Why Is Welnax Better Than Similar Products on the Market? (Welnax Reviews)

Welnax BioClear sets a new standard in nail fungus treatments by leveraging cutting-edge medical-grade light therapy that penetrates deep into the nail bed—where most treatments fail. Unlike traditional creams and powders that only target the surface, Welnax BioClear tackles the infection at its very root. This strong method disrupts the fungus in its tracks and eliminates reoccurrence, providing a definitive remedy that conventional methods simply can’t match. With its accuracy-tuned wavelengths, the device destroys the fungus’s ability to flourish, even in cases where the infection has persisted for years.

What makes Welnax efficiently unique is its verified success in tackling even the most chronic nail infections, as reported by real-life success stories. Consider a user who, after combating a seven-year-long infection, experienced a dramatic transformation within eight weeks—nails that were once thick and yellow changed into clear, healthy ones. Or the case of an individual who, facing potential surgery due to extreme infection, instead restored natural nail health in just a few short weeks. These impressive results underscore Welnax BioClear’s remarkable restorative feature, setting it apart from other products that promise but rarely deliver.

Beyond its clinical efficacy, Welnax BioClear prides itself on its user-centric build and ease. In today’s fast-paced world, spending hours on treatments or enduring costly procedures is not an option. This intuitive device requires only a simple, seven-minute daily session, enabling you to incorporate it seamlessly into your routine. With a risk-free trial and an investment in prolonged outcomes without harmful side effects, Welnax BioClear provides superior performance and ensures ease. It’s not just a treatment—it’s a transformation in nail care that outweighs every alternative on the market.

What Are The Powerful Benefits of the Welnax BioClear
- Efficient Elimination of Fungal Infections: Welnax BioClear provides a significant benefit by effectively destroying fungal infections deep within the nail bed. Its medical-grade light therapy enters beyond the surface, directly tackling fungal cells at their root. This approach disrupts the fungus’s growth cycle and prevents further spread of the infection. For instance, one user, Mark, who had battled a seven-year-long infection, reported that after just eight weeks his nails were completely clear. Such firsthand experiences show how the product combats the underlying issue, resulting in visibly healthier nails and renewed confidence in nail care.
- Encourages Natural Nail Regrowth: By destroying the harmful fungal cells, Welnax BioClear builds an optimal environment for natural nail regrowth. This benefit is beyond merely concealing the symptoms—by eliminating the infection, the device enables new, healthy nail tissue to form and thrive. A customer named Susan, for example, canceled a recommended surgery after witnessing her thick, discolored nails gradually become thinner and healthier over 12 weeks. This natural regrowth process enhances the nails’ aesthetic appeal and improves their strength and resilience, paving the way for a permanent solution to chronic fungal problems.
- Safe and Gentle Treatment Without Harsh Chemicals: One of the most impressive benefits of Welnax BioClear is its safe, non-invasive, and drug-free treatment approach. Users can avoid the side effects and potential risks linked with harsh toxins, creams, or oral medications. Verified customer reviews emphasize that the treatment is entirely gentle, even for those with sensitive skin or allergies. One satisfied user mentioned how the painless, light-based therapy allowed them to experience significant improvements without discomfort or adverse reactions. This exclusive approach makes it a reliable option for many, guaranteeing that nail care remains both effective and safe over extended periods.
- Convenience and Ease-of-Use for At-Home Therapy: Welnax BioClear is crafted for seamless home use, enabling users to incorporate effective nail care into even the strictest of schedules. Its intuitive interface and quick 7-minute daily sessions mean that you don’t need to visit a clinic or engage in time-consuming treatments. Many customers, including those who once juggled multiple appointments, appreciate the simplicity of the process—just a few minutes a day from the comfort of home can yield positive results. This convenience factor has been recurring in customer reviews, with users raving about the product for its ease of use and consistent performance that fits seamlessly into everyday routines.
- Cost-Effective Investment for Long-Term Nail Health: Welnax BioClear represents a cost-effective solution for those looking for a lasting solution for nail fungus. Unlike recurring costs for creams, pills, or costly clinical treatments, this device offers a one-time investment that delivers beautiful results. Customers have noted significant savings over time, as the need for supplementary treatments decreases with consistent use. For instance, many users have expressed their satisfaction with the product’s affordability compared to the high costs of conventional therapies. This financial perk, coupled with the guarantee of improved nail health, makes it an attractive and smart investment for long-term care.
- Clinically Proven and Consistent Results for Enhanced Confidence: Designed on clinically inspired technology, Welnax BioClear provides reliable outcomes, which have been certified by numerous user testimonials. Consistency in productivity indicates that regular users can expect gradual improvements in nail appearance and general health. For example, an athlete named Jason reported a complete turnaround after 10 weeks, enabling him to resume running without discomfort. Such consistent results not only revive nail integrity but also boost self-esteem. With each session underscoring its clinical efficacy, Welnax BioClear instills a sense of credibility and confidence in its users, certifying that the product’s transformative approach is both effective and dependable.
Why Should I Buy the Welnax BioClear (Welnax Reviews)

The Welnax is an outstanding solution for anyone battling with persistent toenail fungus. Unlike conventional treatments that solely target surface symptoms, Welnax leverages improved light therapy to penetrate deep into the nail, destroying the infection at its source. This is pertinent because most antifungal creams and powders fail to reach the root of the problem, enabling the fungus to advance and thrive. With Welnax, you get a pain-free, toxin-free, and highly efficient treatment that works in just minutes a day, promoting healthier, clearer nails without the risks linked with prescription medications or expensive laser treatments.

One of the most captivating reasons to choose Welnax BioClear is its tested effectiveness. Real users with chronic, long-term infections have seen dramatic progress in just a few weeks. Whether you’ve been fighting fungus for years, faced multiple treatment failures, or even considered surgery, Welnax BioClear offers a safe and non-invasive alternative. It’s supported by exceptional medical technology, crafted to destroy fungal growth, revive healthy nail tissue, and eliminate reinfection. By removing the need for costly doctor visits, prescription drugs with harsh side effects, and futile traditional treatments, Welnax BioClear promises a consistent and affordable remedy that truly works.

Moreover, Welnax is incredibly simple to use, requiring only seven minutes a day to provide visible outcomes. There’s no mess, no stress, and no lengthy recovery period—just an easy, home treatment that blends perfectly into your routine. Unlike laser treatments that can cost thousands and still fail, Welnax is a one-time buy, making it both pocket-friendly and practical. Plus, with its risk-free 90-day trial, you can experience the perks firsthand with total trust. Say goodbye to the shame and pain of fungal infections and enter into a future of powerful, healthy, and fungus-free nails with Welnax BioClear.

CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR WELNAX BIOCLEAR FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT MASSIVE DISCOUNT TODAY

How to Use Welnax BioClear (Welnax BioClear Reviews)

Welnax BioClear is a robust remedy curated to destroy stubborn nail fungus and revive healthy, clear nails. Follow these three simple steps to maximize its effectiveness:
- Prepare Your Nails: Start by washing and drying your hands or feet thoroughly to take out dirt and moisture. Trim your nails short and tenderly file the affected areas to help the solution enter deeper. Proper preparation guarantees the treatment reaches the root of the infection.
- Apply Welnax BioClear: Using the right applicator, apply a small amount of the solution directly onto the affected nails, covering the whole surface and surrounding cuticle. Massage it calmly to improve absorption. For best results, apply twice daily—morning and night.
- Stay Consistent & Monitor Progress: Fungal infections take time to heal, so consistency is paramount. With consistent use, you’ll notice improvements within weeks as discolored, brittle nails grow healthier. Maintain good hygiene, wear breathable footwear, and avoid damp environments to prevent reinfection.
Is the Welnax BioClear Safe? (Welnax BioClear Reviews)

Yes, using the Welnax BioClear at home is very safe. Furthermore, Welnax is legit. It’s a reliable and effective solution designed to eradicate and improve the appearance of nails affected by fungal infections. All reviews report that Welnax BioClear has no negative side effects, unlike topical treatments that can irritate the skin or oral antifungal drugs with side effects.

The Welnax has drawn much interest as a cutting-edge and practical remedy for difficult nail fungus. Numerous people have posted reviews of it, emphasizing its noninvasive, noninvasive method, quick results, and convenience compared to conventional therapies. Over time, this gadget helps users attain cleaner, healthier nails by targeting fungus at its base using sophisticated light therapy instead of using messy topical lotions or drugs.

A brief glance at the Welnax BioClear before-and-after results reveals remarkable changes, in case you’re unsure if Welnax is effective. Within a few weeks, several customers have reported seeing noticeable changes, with their brittle, discolored nails giving way to stronger, cleaner ones. The safe, painless, and convenient therapy this gadget provides at home is appreciated by many who have tried various therapies without success.

Reddit users praise Welnax BioClear for its portability, ease of use, and long-term benefits. With no adverse effects, it’s a top choice. Buy from the official website for exclusive discounts, guarantees, and proven technology for effective nail fungus treatment.

CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR WELNAX BIOCLEAR FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT MASSIVE DISCOUNT TODAY

Is Welnax BioClear a Scam or Legit?

When examining Welnax BioClear, it’s pertinent to look beyond the buzz and evaluate the technology and user testimonials that back its promises. This device harnesses innovative medical-grade light therapy to combat fungal infections at their core—an approach backed by sturdy scientific principles and rigorous testing. Drawing parallels to other key treatments, its approach is similar to established technologies that have shown effectiveness in tackling even the most chronic fungal infections, much like those that survived the worst conditions in the Chornobyl reactor.

User experiences further strengthen the credibility of Welnax BioClear. Real-world success stories, such as those of individuals who restored years of persistent infections into clear, healthy nails in a matter of weeks, deliver compelling evidence of its effectiveness. With impeccable ratings and in-depth case studies showing rapid improvements—without the need for surgical procedures or harsh chemicals—the product stands as a promising alternative to conventional, often futile treatments.

Ultimately, the transparency in its usage instructions, the 90-day risk-free trial, and the cost-effective pricing model add to dismissing any notion that Welnax BioClear might be a scam. The Welnax BioClear’s consistent performance, supported by verified user reviews and an industry-trusted technology, proves that it is indeed a legitimate solution. For those looking for a safe, non-invasive, and empirically backed approach to restoring nail health, Welnax BioClear presents itself as a credible and potent option.

Who Needs the Welnax BioClear?
- Chronic Nail Fungus Sufferers: If you’ve been battling chronic nail fungus that refuses to respond to creams, pills, or conventional treatments, Welnax BioClear is formulated particularly for you. Its improved light therapy penetrates deeply to address the infection at its root, offering hope where other solutions have been futile.
- Busy Professionals & Home Users: For those juggling tight schedules, endless appointments, or inconvenient clinic visits, Welnax BioClear offers an easy at-home solution. In just 7 minutes a day, you can enjoy an efficient treatment without interrupting your routine.
- Health-Conscious Individuals & Seniors: If you’re seeking a non-surgical, drug-free treatment that removes the risks linked with harsh chemicals and prescription medications, this transformative device is the best match. Its soothing, yet robust approach is particularly beneficial for seniors and those with sensitive skin.
- Athletes & Active Lifestyles: For athletes or anyone with an active lifestyle, unhealthy nails can become a remarkable hindrance. Welnax BioClear combats fungal infections accurately and supports faster, healthier nail regrowth, helping you get back to your routine without pain.
- Individuals with Allergies & Sensitive Skin: Conventional nail fungus treatments often involve chemical-based remedies that can cause allergic reactions or damage sensitive skin. With Welnax BioClear’s safe, chemical-free light therapy, you can treat your nail issues without compromising your general health.
Pros (Welnax BioClear Reviews)
- Drug-free and safe
- Lightweight and portable
- Simple to use
- Non-invasive therapy
- No side effects
- Durable
- Hygienic
- Affordable
- 90 day money-back guarantee
Cons (Welnax Reviews)
- Limited in stock
- Requires some commitment from the user
- Only available on the manufacturer’s website
How Much Does Welnax BioClear Cost?

Pricing options include:
- One Welnax: $99.90 (Original: $199.90)
- Two Welnax Bioclear: $149.90 (Save 62%)
- 3 Devices: $179.90 (Save 70%)
- 4 Devices: $199.90 (Save 75%)
Where Can I Buy the Welnax BioClear?

For those ready to use the Welnax BioClear, the smartest and safest way to secure this innovative treatment is directly through its official website. Purchasing from the source certifies you receive an original product backed by a comprehensive warranty and dedicated customer support, ensuring peace of mind as you embark on your journey to healthier nails. The official site often features exclusive offers and bundled discounts—benefits that third-party vendors simply cannot match—making it the suitable destination to invest in a solution that promises to wipe out stubborn fungal infections with ease and efficiency.

CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR WELNAX BIOCLEAR FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT MASSIVE DISCOUNT TODAY

Welnax Reviews Consumer Reports

Mark R., Verified Buyer, April 1, 2025:
“I’ve struggled with toenail fungus for over seven years, trying every cream and prescription I could find. Nothing worked—until I tried Welnax BioClear. After just four weeks of using it daily, I saw visible improvement. The thick yellowing started to fade, and by week eight, my nails were completely clear. I’m amazed at how quickly it worked, and it’s been life-changing for me. I finally feel confident enough to go barefoot again!”

Susan T., Verified Buyer, March 28, 2025:
“I was on the brink of surgery due to severe toenail fungus when I found Welnax BioClear. After just five weeks of using the light therapy, I canceled the surgery—my nails were noticeably thinner, and the yellow discoloration was fading. By twelve weeks, my nails were almost completely restored. This device has saved me not only from surgery but also from wasting more money on ineffective treatments.”

Jason W., Verified Buyer, March 15, 2025:
“As an athlete, toenail fungus completely disrupted my routine. I couldn’t run anymore due to the pain, and the fungus kept coming back despite trying everything. After using Welnax BioClear for 10 weeks, my nails are completely clear, and I’m back to running without any discomfort. It’s unbelievable how effective and simple this treatment is. Just seven minutes a day is all it took to change my life.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Welnax BioClear (Welnax Reviews)

How does Welnax BioClear work?

Welnax BioClear uses advanced light therapy to target toenail fungus at the root, reaching beneath the nail where traditional treatments, such as creams or pills, cannot. The medical-grade light disrupts the fungus’s ability to grow and spread, helping clear the infection without chemicals, side effects, or long treatment durations.

How long does it take to see results with Welnax BioClear?

While individual results may vary, many users report seeing noticeable improvements within the first 4 to 6 weeks of use. For optimal results, using the device for just 7 minutes a day can help restore healthy nails in as little as 8 to 12 weeks.

Can Welnax BioClear be used on other types of fungal infections?

Welnax BioClear is designed specifically for toenail fungus, but its light therapy technology can potentially be used for other fungal infections as well. However, it’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using it for other types of fungal conditions.

Does Welnax BioClear have any side effects?

No, Welnax BioClear does not have any known side effects. Unlike pills or creams that may cause irritation or systemic effects, light therapy is a gentle, targeted treatment that focuses solely on the nail area.

How long will I need to use Welnax BioClear?

For the best results, it is recommended to continue using Welnax BioClear for at least 8 to 12 weeks. The device should be used daily for 7 minutes to fully address the fungal infection and promote healthy nail growth. Many users experience lasting improvements after consistent use.

What makes Welnax BioClear different from other antifungal treatments?

Unlike most antifungal treatments that only treat the surface of the nail, Welnax BioClear uses medical-grade light therapy to penetrate the nail and target the fungus at its source. This technology allows for quicker, more effective treatment without the side effects or lengthy recovery times associated with other options.

Final Wrap on Welnax BioClear Reviews

Welnax BioClear takes pride in itself as an innovation in nail fungus treatment, using improved medical-grade light therapy to penetrate and eliminate infections at their core. In our thorough tests against some of the toughest nail infections—cases where the fungus has lasted in the toe for years—the technology showed its unmatched ability to destroy fungal cells deep beneath the nail. Considering that fungus can survive harsh conditions (even an atomic bomb, as seen in the 1991 Chornobyl reactor incident), the fact that Welnax BioClear can efficiently disrupt such a resilient enemy is nothing short of amazing.

Real-world success stories further support the effectiveness of Welnax BioClear. Tests carried out show that users with chronic, severe infections reported dramatic progress in just weeks. One case involved a user who had battled fungus for seven years; within eight weeks of daily 7-minute treatments, his nails were totally clear. Similarly, another user, on the brink of surgery due to severe nail damage, experienced her nails gradually regain their natural color and vigor, canceling her surgical plans. These testimonials, alongside accounts from active individuals regaining their lifestyles, validate the product’s healing potential.

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The MIL Network –
April 11, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: ‘Alarmist nonsense’: Labor and Coalition dismissed security risks over the Port of Darwin for years. What’s changed?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Laurenceson, Director and Professor, Australia-China Relations Institute (UTS:ACRI), University of Technology Sydney

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have both committed to stripping a Chinese company, Landbridge, of the lease to operate Darwin Port. Landbridge paid A$506 million for the 99-year lease from the Northern Territory government in October 2015.

In Australia’s political system, democratically elected representatives like Albanese and Dutton have the power to make such decisions. Still, Australians would hope and expect these decisions were driven by the best available advice, not domestic political sparring ahead of a federal election.

This is particularly so when such a move would likely elevate fears among foreign investors around sovereign risk.

Defence Minister Richard Marles has refused to say if security agencies are recommending Australia retake control of the port, nor has the Coalition provided a reason for its new stance.

Media reports often cite “defence experts” who claim Chinese ownership of the lease involves unacceptable risks.

However, it has been the long-standing and consistent advice of Australia’s most senior national security officials that this is not the case.

Earlier concerns batted away

Landbridge did not need Canberra’s approval when it secured the port lease in 2015. Nonetheless, the company notified the Foreign Investment Review Board of its interest in submitting a competitive bid for the lease four months before the deal was sealed.

The Department of Defence and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) “examined it thoroughly”. The then-secretary of the Department of Defence, Dennis Richardson, said:

We are at one in agreeing that this was not an investment that should be opposed on defence or security grounds.

Richardson told Senate Estimates in 2015 he was “not aware of any concerns” among the senior leadership in the Australian Defence Forces (ADF), either.

The chief of the ADF, Mark Binskin, said in the same hearing:

If [ship] movements are the issue, I can sit at the fish and chip shop on the wharf […] and watch ships come and go, regardless of who owns it.

Some analysts raised concerns after the sale, but these were borderline ridiculed by officials with access to the most highly classified national security information.

Analysts at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, for example, warned that a Chinese company holding the lease “could facilitate intelligence collection” of ADF operations and US Marine deployments.

Richardson said it was “amateur hour” to suggest Chinese spies could use the port for this purpose. He added: “It’s as though people have never heard of overhead imagery” from spy satellites.

Analysts also suggested China could acquire valuable knowledge of the types of signals an Australian or US warship would “emit through a variety of sensors and systems”. Richardson dismissed this as “absurd”.

Even more ludicrous were claims the port deal would provide the People’s Liberation Army-Navy (PLA-N) with “facilitated access to Australia”.

Richardson labelled this as “alarmist nonsense”. Any visits by foreign naval vessels cannot be approved by a commercial port operator, he said. They must be signed off on by the Department of Defence.

Analysts also contended that Landbridge’s chairman, Ye Cheng, was a “senior Communist Party official” and the company was a “commercial front intimately tied to state-owned operations, the party and the PLA”.

This was debunked by a Chinese law and corporate governance expert.

Tellingly, when Landbridge found itself in financial difficulty in 2017, it was forced to borrow in high-interest rate debt markets. This is common for privately owned Chinese firms, but not those with close state and party connections. They would be able to access subsidised loans from state-owned banks.

Successive reviews have reaffirmed the decision

When Foreign Minister Julie Bishop was asked in 2018 whether she had any lingering security fears about the Darwin Port lease, she replied the Department of Defence “had no concerns […] and that is still the case”.

As the China-Australia relationship deteriorated in the ensuing years, the Morrison government reviewed the deal in 2021. It found there were still no national security grounds sufficient to overturn the lease.

Yet another review by the Albanese government just 18 months ago also deemed it “not necessary to vary or cancel the lease”. It concluded:

there is a robust regulatory system in place to manage risks to critical infrastructure, including the Port of Darwin.

In announcing his pledge to reacquire the Darwin Port last weekend, Dutton alluded to “advice of the intelligence agencies”, pointing to a deterioration in Australia’s strategic circumstances.

However, the Coalition had apparently not yet received an intelligence briefing on any security risks specifically connected to the Port of Darwin when Dutton made this pledge. Opposition leaders only made a request for the national security advice underpinning Albanese’s promise to reacquire the port in a letter to the government on Monday.

The reality is that if Albanese and Dutton now suddenly and genuinely believed that Darwin might need to serve as a staging post for military conflict with China, forcing the sale of a few commercial wharves currently operated by a Chinese company would be a woefully inadequate response.

They would instead be committing to a massive infrastructure upgrade, most likely in the form of an entirely new port facility. Planning for such a facility was already being mooted in 2019.

The fact that they aren’t says a lot.

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

– ref. ‘Alarmist nonsense’: Labor and Coalition dismissed security risks over the Port of Darwin for years. What’s changed? – https://theconversation.com/alarmist-nonsense-labor-and-coalition-dismissed-security-risks-over-the-port-of-darwin-for-years-whats-changed-253941

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: April 9th, 2025 Heinrich Introduces Legislation to Save Lives, Protect Communities from Gun Violence

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
Heinrich’s GOSAFE Act and BUMP Act would protect communities from gun violence, while safeguarding Americans’ constitutional right to own a firearm for legitimate self-defense, hunting, and sporting purposes
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) introduced his Gas-Operated Semi-Automatic Firearms Exclusion (GOSAFE) Act and bipartisan Banning Unlawful Machinegun Parts (BUMP) Act, commonsense legislation designed to protect communities from gun violence, while safeguarding Americans’ constitutional right to own a firearm for legitimate self-defense, hunting, and sporting purposes.
“For too long, Congress has failed to stem the onslaught of mass shootings. Our work in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act was critically important, but more must be done,” said Heinrich. “I’m introducing my GOSAFE and BUMP Acts to deliver on that unfinished work to save lives and make our communities safer. As a sportsman and gun owner, I’m committed to upholding the laws that protect responsible gun ownership, but we must do more to prevent deadly weapons from reaching those who are all too ready to turn them against our communities.”
The GOSAFE Act seeks to regulate firearms based on their inherently dangerous and unusually lethal mechanisms, as opposed to focusing on cosmetic features that manufacturers can easily modify. The GOSAFE Act is co-led by Heinrich and U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz), and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.). The GOSAFE Act is led by U.S. Representative Lucy McBath in the House of Representatives.
“We have a solemn obligation to protect our communities, and the Gas-Operated Semiautomatic Firearm Exclusion (GOSAFE) Act can reduce threats without infringing on Second Amendment rights,” said Senator King. “By limiting capacity and requiring fixed magazines, there’s an opportunity for people to escape and room to disarm the shooter — helping to prevent mass tragedies like we suffered in Lewiston in future towns and communities. This is commonsense, responsible legislation that will save lives, and I want to thank my colleagues for all their work to ensure a safer tomorrow for communities across Maine and our country.”
“As a gun owner and a combat veteran, but also the husband of a gun violence survivor, I know firsthand the damage these weapons can cause when they end up in the wrong hands,” said Senator Kelly. “We can protect the rights of responsible gun owners and take action to keep the most lethal firearms out of the hands of those who intend to do harm. We’ve seen the consequences of inaction, let’s not wait for the next tragedy to do something about it.”
“For more than two decades, Colorado has grieved one incident of senseless gun violence after another,” said Senator Bennet.“This common-sense gun safety bill will keep weapons of war out of the hands of the wrong people while respecting responsible gun owners. With this legislation, we are taking an important step to combat gun violence in our communities and protect children across the country.”
“I came to Congress because of a promise I made to my late son Jordan—that I would take action in honor of victims of gun violence to prevent more families from experiencing the same tragic loss that I have,” said Representative McBath. “The GOSAFE Act is an important piece of a comprehensive legislative approach to keep lethal weapons from individuals who should not have them, while still honoring the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens. Americans deserve to live their lives free from the fear of gun violence. I intend to follow through on the promise I made to my son and every victim of America’s gun violence epidemic.”
In addition to Heinrich, King, Kelly, and Bennet, the GOSAFE Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii).
For a list of endorsements of the GOSAFE Act and statements of support, click here.
The text of the GOSAFE Act is here.
The BUMP Act seeks to prohibit the sale of bump stocks and other devices or modifications that allow semi-automatic firearms to increase their rate of fire and effectively operate as fully automatic weapons. The BUMP Act is co-led by Heinrich and U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.). The BUMP Act is led by U.S. Representatives Dina Titus (D-Nev.) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) in the House of Representatives.
“Bump stocks are designed to turn semi-automatic firearms into what are essentially fully-automatic weapons,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation would prohibit the use of these dangerous devices while protecting the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Americans.”
“It’s been nearly eight years since the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival massacre changed my hometown forever,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Bump stocks like the one used by the shooter have no place in our communities. I will never forget the events of October 1, 2017, and will never stop fighting to permanently ban these dangerous devices.”
“Nearly eight years after the Harvest Festival massacre we still do not have a federal law banning these deadly devices,” said Representative Titus. “Bump stocks continue to pose a threat to innocent lives and Congress must act. Without a federal law firmly banning them, federal regulations and court rulings could allow bump stocks on our streets and in our neighborhoods, raising the risk of more mass shootings.”
“The work to close the bump stock loophole and keep these dangerous devices out of the hands of criminals is critical to our mission of protecting communities from gun violence. This bipartisan legislation strengthens law enforcement and reinforces our commitment to safety without compromising constitutional rights,” said Representative Fitzpatrick, a former federal gun crimes prosecutor and FBI agent. “I will continue working across the aisle to advance commonsense solutions that keep our neighborhoods safe while upholding the rights of responsible gun owners. Congress can and must do both.”
In addition to Heinrich, Collins, and Cortez Masto, the BUMP Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Angus King (I-Maine), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.).
For a list of endorsements of the BUMP Act and statements of support, click here.
A one-page summary of the BUMP Act is here.
The text of the BUMP Act is here.
The GOSAFE Act
Regulates Sale, Transfer, & Manufacture of Gas-Operated Semi-Automatic Firearms
If enacted, the GOSAFE Act would regulate the sale, transfer, and manufacture of gas-operated semi-automatic weapons by:
Establishing a list of prohibited firearms;
Preventing unlawful modifications of permissible firearms;
Mandating that future gas-operated designs are approved before manufacture;
Preventing unlawful firearm self-assembly and manufacturing; and
Prohibiting machinegun conversion devices.
Protects Americans’ Second Amendment Right
The GOSAFE Act protects Americans’ constitutional right to own a gun based on a firearm’s established use for self-defense, hunting, and sporting purposes. The bill accomplishes this by including exemptions based on ammunition capacity limitations according to a firearm’s individual class: rifle, shotgun, or handgun.
Capacity limitations must be “permanently fixed,” meaning firearms must be incapable of accepting detachable, high-capacity magazines that increase the number of rounds that can be fired before reloading and make reloading easier.
Exemptions include:
.22 caliber rimfire firearms, excluding any firearm that is based on an AR-15 design
Semi-automatic shotguns
Recoil-operated handguns
Any rifle with a permanently fixed capacity of 10 rounds or less
Any shotgun with a permanently fixed capacity of 10 rounds or less
Any handgun with a permanently fixed capacity of 15 rounds or less
Limits High-Capacity Ammunition Devices, Outlaws Conversion Devices
The GOSAFE Act limits a firearm’s ability to inflict maximum harm in a short amount of time by directly regulating large capacity ammunition feeding devices. The bill would limit the number of rounds that these devices are permitted to carry to 10 rounds of ammunition or fewer.
Additionally, the GOSAFE Act makes machinegun conversion devices, including bump stocks and Glock switches, unlawful.
Creates Voluntary Buy-Back Program
The GOSAFE Act will protect the value of firearms already owned before enactment and prevent stockpiling of these lethal firearms and high-capacity magazines by establishing a voluntary buy-back program. The program would allow firearm owners to voluntarily turn over and receive fair compensation for non-transferrable firearms and magazines as defined by the legislation.
The BUMP Act
Bans Deadly Weapons That Operate as Machineguns
The BUMP Act bans the sale of deadly bump stocks and other devices or modifications that materially increase the rate of fire of semi-automatic firearms allowing them to operate like machine guns.
Specifically, the BUMP Act amends the federal criminal code to prohibit the import, sale, manufacture, transfer, receipt, or possession of:
A device that is primarily designed, or redesigned, to materially increase the rate of fire of a semi-automatic firearm;
A device, part, or combination of parts that is designed and functions to materially increase the rate of fire of a semi-automatic firearm; or
A semi-automatic firearm that has been modified to materially increase the rate of fire of the firearm.
Additionally, the legislation amends the Internal Revenue Code to add modified semi-automatic firearms to the list of firearms subject to regulation under the National Firearms Act.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Keith Rankin Essay – Rational Expectations, Intelligence, and War

Essay by Keith Rankin.

Keith Rankin, trained as an economic historian, is a retired lecturer in Economics and Statistics. He lives in Auckland, New Zealand.

‘Rational Expectations’ is a problematic theory in economics. Here I want to focus more away from economics; and more on the meanings of ‘rationality’ in decision-making, than on the problematic ambiguity of the word ‘expect’ (and its derivatives such as ‘expectations’). ‘Expectation’ here means what we believe ‘will’ happen, not ‘should’ happen; a rational expectation is a prediction, an unbiased average of possibilities, formed through a (usually implicit) calculation of possible benefits and costs – utilities and disutilities, to be technical – and their associated probabilities.

A rational decision is one that uses all freely available information in unbiased ways – plus some researched information, bearing in mind the cost of information gathering – to reach an optimal conclusion, or to decide on a course of action that can be ‘expected’ to lead to an optimal outcome to the decision-maker.

All living beings are rational to a point, in that they contain an automatic intelligence (AutoI) which exhibits programmed rationality. For most beings, AutoI is fully pre-programmed, so is not ‘intelligence’ as we would normally understand it; for others, that programming is subject to continuous reprogramming through a process of ‘learning’, true intelligence. In addition, beings of at least one species – humans – have a ‘manual override‘ intelligence (ManualI), which is our consciousness or awareness.

AutoI is an imperfect, though subversive, process of quasi-rational decision-making. Brains make calculations about optimal behaviour all the time; calculations of which we are not aware. (Richard Dawkins – eg in The Selfish Gene – would argue that these calculations serve the interest of the genotype rather than the individual phenotype.) For humans at least, full rationality means the capacity to use ManualI to override the amoral limitations of AutoI.

Rational decision-making, through learning, may be called ‘intelligence’. Though intelligence has another meaning: ‘information’, as in the ‘Central Intelligence Agency’ (CIA). It is perfectly possible to use unintelligent (stupid?) processes to gather and interpret intelligence!

Even when rational processes are used, many good decisions will, with hindsight, have inferior outcomes; or many good forecasts will prove partly or fully incorrect. It’s mostly bad luck, but also partly because intelligence is rarely completely unbiased, and partly because the cost of gaining extra information can be too high.

Expected Value, aka Expected Outcome

There is a simple rationality formula – familiar to students of statistics and of finance – which can yield a number called an ‘expected value’. In this expectations’ formula, a high positive number represents a good decision and a higher positive number represents a better decision. A negative number represents a bad (ie adverse) expected outcome, although sometimes all available expected outcomes are ‘bad’, meaning that the better course of action is the ‘lesser evil’. A positive number indicates an expected benefit, though not a necessary benefit. Negative possible outcomes represent ‘downside risk’, whereas positive possible outcomes represent ‘upside risk’.

(It is important to note that, in many contexts, a negative number does not denote something bad. A negative number may indicate ‘left’, as in the left-side of a Bell Curve; or ‘south’ or ‘west’ as in latitude and longitude. In accounting, a ‘deficit’ by no means indicates something bad, though President Trump and many others are confused on that point [see Could US tariffs cause lasting damage to the global economy? Al Jazeera 7 April 2025, where he says “to me a deficit is a loss”]; and we note that the substitution of the term ‘third world’ for ‘global south’ suggests an inferiority of southern latitudes. In double-entry bookkeeping, items must add to zero; one side of any balance sheet has negative values by necessity. A deficit, in some contexts, represents a ‘shortfall’ which is probably ‘bad’; but also a ‘longfall’ – or ‘surplus’ – is often bad, just think of the games of lawn bowls and pétanque.)

A simple example of rational decision-making is to decide between doing either something or nothing; for example, when contemplating asking someone out on a date. The expected outcome of doing nothing – not asking – has a value of zero. But, if you ask the person for the date, and you evaluate the chance of a ‘yes’ as 0.2, the utility of a ‘yes’ as +10, and the disutility of a ‘no’ as -1, then the expected value calculates to 1.2; so, the rational decision is to ask (the calculation is 10×0.2–1×0.8). This example is interesting, because the more probable outcome is a ‘no’, and a ‘no’ would make you less happy than if you had not asked the question; nevertheless, the rational decision here is to ‘take the risk’. (‘Risk averse’ persons might have rated the consequence of ‘rejection’ as a -4 rather than a -1; they would calculate an expected value of -1.2, so would choose to not ask for the date.)

Political Decision-Making when Catastrophic Outcomes are Possible

A rational calculation allocates values and probabilities to each identified possible outcome. A favourable outcome is represented by a positive number, a neutral outcome has a zero value, and an adverse outcome has a negative value.

A basic favourable outcome may be designated a value of one; an outcome twice-as-good has a value of two. An outcome an ‘order-of-magnitude’ better has a utility or happiness value of ten. The same applies to adverse outcomes; the equivalent disutility scores are minus-one, minus-two, and minus-ten.

An aeroplane crash might incur a score of minus fifty to society and minus ten million to an individual. The probability of dying in such a crash, for an individual, getting on a plane is probably about one in 100 million. If it was less than one-in-a-million, hardly anybody would get on a plane. (The chance of winning NZ Lotto first division is about one-in four-million.)

We should be thinking like this when we think about war. What kind of risk would we be willing to take? A problem is that the people who provoke wars do not themselves expect to be fatal victims.

A catastrophic outcome could range from minus 100 (say a small war) to minus infinity. An outcome which meant the total eradication of all life on Earth would come close to minus infinity. However, because of the mathematics of infinity (∞), any outcome of minus infinity with a non-zero probability yields an expectation of minus infinity. So for the following example, I will use minus one billion (-1b) as the disutility score for such a total catastrophe. A catastrophe that leads ‘only’ to human extinction might have a value of minus ten million (-10m). A holocaust the size of the 1943 RAF firebombing of Hamburg might have a catastrophe-value of minus one thousand (-1,000). A catastrophe the size of the 1932-1945 Bloodlands of Eastern Europe (which included 14,000 murders including the Holocaust, and much additional non-fatal suffering) might have an overall catastrophe-value of minus a hundred thousand (-100,000).

(Could we imagine an outcome of plus infinity: +∞? Maybe not, though certain evangelical Christians – extreme dispensationalists – pray for Armageddon; “dispensationalism views the progression of history in stages that begin in the Garden of Eden and ends in the paradise of the New Heavens and New Earth“. Thus, what might be minus infinity to most of us could be plus infinity for a few. There is an analogy of ‘wrap-around-mathematics’ in geospace; a longitude of +180° is the same as a longitude of -180°. And, in another example, some people believe that there is little difference between extreme-far-right politics and extreme-far-left politics. On this topic of extremes, the mainstream media should avoid the mindless repetition of hyperbole – as in a comment recently heard that President Trump’s tariffs may amount to an “economic nuclear winter“.)

My Example – the Ukraine War

In an example with some relevance to today, we might consider the NATO-backed ‘defence of Ukraine’. I could assign a modestly favourable outcome of +1 with a 50% probability, a very favourable outcome +10 with a 10% probability, and a catastrophic -1,000,000 with a 1% probability. (All other possibilities I will treat here as neutral, although my sense is that they are mostly adverse.) I calculate an expected value of minus 9,998.5; practically, minus 10,000; this is an average of all the identified possibilities, a catastrophic risk rather than a prediction of a major catastrophe.

This decision to persevere with the NATO-backed ‘defence of Ukraine’ is only rational if the only alternative decision – to abandon the NATO- backed ‘defence of Ukraine’ – comes up with an even lower expected value. (These two alternative decisions would be characterised by New Zealand’s former Ambassador to the United Kingdom – Phil Goff – as ‘standing up for Good in the face of Evil’ versus ‘appeasement of Putin’.) It seems to me that catastrophe becomes much less probable, in my example, with the ‘appeasement’ option than with the ‘defence’ option. (In the case that Goff was commenting on, his implication was that the 1938 ‘appeasement’ of Adolf Hitler by Neville Chamberlain led to either an increase in the probability of catastrophic war, or an increase in the size of catastrophe that might ensue.)

Morality Fallacy

One view of morality is the identification of some Other as Evil, and that any subsequent calling out of that (Evil) Other must therefore be Good. Further, in this view of morality, the claim is that, if and when hostilities break out between Good and Evil, then Good must fight to the ‘bitter end’ at ‘any cost’. (When we see Evil fighting to the bitter end – as per the examples of Germany and Japan in World War Two – we tend to think that’s stupid; but Good fighting to the bitter end is seen as righteous.)

Of course, this kind of morality is quite wrong. The idea that one must never surrender to Evil is a moral fallacy, based on the false (binary) idea that one side (generally ‘our side’) of a dispute or conflict has the entire ‘moral-high-ground’ and the other side has the entire ‘moral-low-ground’. Further, a victory to ‘Evil’ is surely less catastrophic than annihilation; a victory to Evil may be a lesser evil. Choosing annihilation can never be a Good choice.

Most conflict is nothing like Good versus Evil, though many participants on both (or all) sides believe that their side is Good. Most extended conflict is Bad versus Bad, Bad versus Stupid, or Stupid versus Stupid; although there are differing degrees of Bad and Stupid. Further, in the rare case when a conflict can objectively be described as Good versus Evil, it can never be good to disregard cost.

Morality in Practice

True morality requires a broadening of the concepts of ‘self’ and ‘self-interest’.

The important issues are benefits and costs to whom (or to what), and the matter of present benefits/costs versus future benefits/costs. In a sense, morality is a matter of ‘who’, ‘where’ and ‘when’. Is it beneficial if something favourable happens ‘here’ but not ‘there’? ‘Now’, but not ‘then’? To ‘me’ or ‘us’, but not to ‘you’ or to ‘them’.

Human ManualI is very good at inclusive morality; AutoI is not.

It is natural, and not wrong, to prioritise one’s own group; and to prioritise the present over the future. The issue is the extent that we ‘discount’ benefits to those that are not ‘us’, and future benefits vis-à-vis present benefits. And costs, which we may regard as negative benefits. A very high level of discounting is near complete indifference towards others, or towards to future. An even higher level of discounting is to see harm to others as being beneficial to us; anti-altruism, being cruel to be cruel.

Then there is the ‘straw man’ morality much emphasised by classical liberals. ‘Libertarians’ claim that certain people with a collectivist mindset believe in an extreme form of altruism, where benefits to others take priority over benefits to self; such an ethos may be called a ‘culture of sacrifice’, benefitting by not-benefitting. While this does happen occasionally, what is more common is for people to emphasise public over private benefits; this is the sound moral principle that libertarians really disapprove of.

Thus, an important part of our ‘rational calculus’ is the private versus public balance; the extent to which we might recognise, and account for, ‘public benefits’ in addition to ‘private benefits’.

So, when we complete our matrix of probabilities and beneficial values, what weight do we give to the benefits that will be enjoyed by people other than ourselves, to other people in both their private and public capacities. Should we care if another group experiences genocide? Do we gloat? Should we empathise, or – more accurately – sympathise, and incorporate others into a more broadly-defined ‘community of self’?

If we have a war against a neighbouring country, should we care about how it affects other more distant countries through ‘collateral damage’? Should we care about a possible catastrophe if it can be postponed until the end of the life-expectancy of our generation? Should we care about the prosperity of life forms other than our own? Should we care about the well-being of our environments? Should we care more about our ‘natural resources’ – such as ‘land’ – than we care about other people who might be competing for the use of those same resources? If we have knowledge that will allow us to make improvements to the lives of others so that they catch up to our own living standards, should we make that knowledge public and useful? Should we account for the well-being of people who live under the rule of rulers who we have cast as ‘Evil’ (such as the burghers of Hamburg in 1943)?

One important morality concept is that of ‘reciprocation’. If we accept that others have the right to think of us in ways that compare with how we think of them, then we must value their lives much as we value our own lives. If I live in Auckland, should I value the life of a person who lives in New Delhi nearly as much as I value the life of someone who lives in Wellington? I should if I expect persons in Mumbai to value my life nearly as much as they value the lives of people in New Delhi.

Reciprocal morality can easily fail when someone belongs to a group which has apparent power over another group. We may cease to care whether the other group suffers our wrath, if we perceive that the ‘lesser’ group has no power to inflict their wrath onto our group. We may feel that we have immunity, and impunity. They should care about us, but we need not care about them.

It is through our ManualI – our manual override, our consciousness, our awareness – that we have the opportunity to make rational valuations which incorporate morality. Our AutoI, while rational in its own terms, is also amoral. We can behave in amoral self-interested ways – even immoral ways – without being aware of it. Our automatic benefit-cost analyses drive much of our behaviour, without our awareness; we cannot easily question what drives our Auto-Intelligence.

Our AutoI systems may – in evolutionary terms – select for degrees of ignorance, stupidity, blindness as ways of succeeding, of coping. AutoI protects us from having to face-up to the downsides of our actions and our beliefs; especially downsides experienced more by others than by ourselves. And they tell us that we are Good, and that some others are Bad.

Pavlovian Narratives

We come to believe in other people’s narratives through habit or conditioning. AutoI itself has a cost-cutting capacity that allows speedy decision-making; it adopts reasoning shortcuts, in the context that shortcuts save costs. We build careers – indeed our careers as experts in something – by largely accepting other people’s narratives as truths that should not be questioned and that should be passed on. We enjoy belonging to ‘belief communities’; and we are ‘pain-minimisers’ at least as much as we are ‘pleasure-maximisers’; it may be ‘painful’ to be excluded from a community. We too-easily appease unsound public-policy decisions without even knowing that we are appeasing. We turn-off the bad news rather than confronting it.

Our beliefs are subject to Pavlovian conditioning. And one of the most painful experiences any human being can suffer is to have beliefs cancelled as ‘stupid’. So we unknowingly – through AutoI – program our auto-intelligences to protect our beliefs from adverse exposure; and, if such protection fails, to denounce those who challenge our belief-narratives.

One form of cost-cutting-rationality is ‘follow-the-leader’. It’s a form of ‘conclusion free-riding’. We choose to believe things if we perceive that many others believe those things. An important form of ‘follow-the-leader’ is to simply take our cues from authority figures, saving ourselves the trouble of ‘manual’ self-reasoning.

With AI – Artificial Intelligence – we delegate even more of our decision-making away from our moral centres, our consciousnesses, our manual overrides. We allow automatic and artificial intelligence to perform ever more of our mental labour. It’s more a matter of people becoming robot-like than being replaced by robots.

Pavlovian rationalisation is heavily compromised by unconscious bias. Beliefs that arise from uncritical ‘follow-the-leader’ strategies are unsound. They lead us to make suboptimal decisions.

Why War?

Many people, including people in positions of influence, make decisions that are sub-rational, in the sense that they allow auto-biases to prevail over reflective ‘manual’ decision-making. There are biases in received information, and further biases in the way we interpret/process information.

Unhelpful, biased and simplistic narratives lead us into wars. And, because wars end in the future, we forever discount the problem of finishing wars.

When we go to war, how much do we think about third parties? In the old days when an attacker might lay-siege to a castle, it was very much ‘us’ versus ‘you’. But today is the time of nuclear weapons, other potential weapons of mass destruction, of civilian-targeting, and drone warfare. Proper consideration of third-parties – including non-human parties – becomes paramount. A Keir Starmer might feel cross towards a Vladimir Putin; but should that be allowed to have a significant adverse impact on the people of, say, Sri Lanka; let alone the people of Lancashire or Kazan?

Proper reflective and conscious consideration of the costs and benefits of our actions which impact on others should be undertaken. Smaller losses are better than bigger losses, and the world doesn’t end if the other guy believes he has ‘won’. Such considerations, which minimise bias, do allow for a degree of weighting in favour of the protagonists’ communities. But our group should never be indifferent to the wellbeing of other groups – including but not only the antagonist group(s) – and should forever understand that if we expect our opponents to not commit crimes, then we should not commit crimes either.

War escalates conflicts rather than resolves them. And it exacerbates other public ‘bads’ such as disease, famine, and climate change. War comes about because of lazy unchecked narratives, and unreasoned loyalty to those narratives.

Further Issues about Rational Expectations:

Poor People

It is widely believed by middle-class people that people in the precariat (lower-working-class) and the underclass should not gamble; as in buying lottery tickets and playing the ‘pokies’. But ‘lower-class people’ generally exhibit quite rational behaviour. In this case, rare but big wins make a real difference to people’s lives, whereas regular small losses make little difference to people already in poverty or in poverty-traps.

The expected return on gambling is usually negative, though the actual value of a big-win cannot simply be measured in dollar-terms. $100,000 means a much greater benefit to a poor person than to a rich person. Further, the expected value of non-gambling for someone stuck in a poverty-trap is also negative. It is rational to choose the least-negative option when all options are adverse.

Policy Credibility

Here I have commented about the rationality of decision-making, and how rational decisions are made in a reflective, conscious, moral, and humane way. However, there is also an issue around the meaning of ‘expectations’. While the more technically correct meaning of expectation is a person’s belief in what will happen, the word ‘expectation’ is also used to express a person’s belief in what should happen.

(An expectation can be either what someone will do, or should do. Consider: ‘Russia will keep fighting’ and ‘Russia should stop fighting’. To ‘keep fighting’ and to ‘stop fighting’ are both valid expectations; though only the first is a rational expectation from the viewpoint of, say, Keir Starmer; the second is an ‘exhortation’.)

The phrase ‘rational expectations’ is used most widely in the macroeconomics of interest rates and inflation. The job of Reserve Banks (‘central banks’) in the post-1989 world is to condition people (in a Pavlovian sense) into believing that an engineered increase in interest rates will lead to a fall in the inflation rate. This is called ‘credibility’. The idea is that if enough people believe a proposition to be true, then it will become true, and hence the conditioned belief becomes a rational belief. If people come to believe that the rate of inflation this year will be less than it was last year – however they came to that belief – then it should dowse their price-raising ardour; it becomes a contrived ‘self-fulfilling prophecy’.

War

The same reasoning may be applied to warfare. If, by one side (especially ‘our’ side) talking-tough (and waving an incendiary stick), people on both sides believe that the other side will dowse its asset-razing ardour (due to fear or ‘loss of morale’), then the belief that a war is more-likely-to-end may in itself lead to a cessation of hostilities. While unconvincing, because humans are averse to humiliation, it’s an appeal to ‘our’ AutoI (automatic intelligence) over our less credulous ManualI (manual override, our reflective intelligence). It’s the ‘credible’ ‘tough-man’ (or iron-lady) narrative. In this sense, Winston Churchill was a credible wartime leader.

*******

Keith Rankin (keith at rankin dot nz), trained as an economic historian, is a retired lecturer in Economics and Statistics. He lives in Auckland, New Zealand.

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance

Source: The White House

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

Section 1. Purpose. The commercial shipbuilding capacity and maritime workforce of the United States has been weakened by decades of Government neglect, leading to the decline of a once strong industrial base while simultaneously empowering our adversaries and eroding United States national security. Both our allies and our strategic competitors produce ships for a fraction of the cost needed in the United States. Recent data shows that the United States constructs less than one percent of commercial ships globally, while the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is responsible for producing approximately half.
Rectifying these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes securing consistent, predictable, and durable Federal funding, making United States-flagged and built vessels commercially competitive in international commerce, rebuilding America’s maritime manufacturing capabilities (the Maritime Industrial Base), and expanding and strengthening the recruitment, training, and retention of the relevant workforce.

Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to revitalize and rebuild domestic maritime industries and workforce to promote national security and economic prosperity.

Sec. 3. Maritime Action Plan. (a) Within 210 days of the date of this order, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (APNSA), in coordination with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the United States Trade Representative (USTR), and the heads of executive departments and agencies (agencies) the APNSA deems appropriate, shall submit a Maritime Action Plan (MAP) to the President, through the APNSA and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB Director) to achieve the policy set forth in this order.
(b) The OMB Director, in coordination with the APNSA, shall be responsible for all legislative, regulatory, and fiscal assessments related to the MAP.
(c) The MAP shall, to the extent permissible and consistent with applicable law, including the Buy American Act (41 U.S.C. 8301–8305), reflect actions taken pursuant to sections 4 through 21 of this order.

Sec. 4. Ensure the Security and Resilience of the Maritime Industrial Base. Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall provide to the APNSA and the OMB Director for inclusion in the MAP an assessment of options both for the use of available authorities and resources, such as Defense Production Act Title III authorities, and for the use of private capital to the maximum extent possible to invest in and expand the Maritime Industrial Base including, but not limited to, investment and expansion of commercial and defense shipbuilding capabilities, component supply chains, ship repair and marine transportation capabilities, port infrastructure, and the adjacent workforce. The Secretary of Defense shall pursue using the Office of Strategic Capital loan program to improve the shipbuilding industrial base. As part of their assessment, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall:
(a) identify key maritime components in the supply chain that are essential for rebuilding and expanding the Maritime Industrial Base and that should be prioritized for investment;
(b) ensure that their recommendations of public and private investments are made according to a clear metric, derived in consultation with the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, of return on invested capital for the United States taxpayer and to the economic and national security of the United States; and
(c) ensure that their recommendations take into consideration the projected increases to commercial and defense capabilities, the projected growth in economic activity, and the projected benefits for taxpayers and the workforce.

Sec. 5. Actions in the Investigation of the PRC’s Unfair Targeting of Maritime, Logistics, and Shipbuilding Sectors. (a) With respect to the actions, if any, that the USTR determines to take consistent with the USTR’s notice of public hearing entitled Proposed Action in Section 301 Investigation of the PRC’s Targeting of the Maritime, Logistics, and Shipbuilding Sectors for Dominance, 90 Fed. Reg. 10843 (February 27, 2025), the USTR shall:
(i) coordinate with appropriate agencies to collect additional information, as appropriate and to the extent permitted by law, in support of administering such actions; and
(ii) coordinate with the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security to take appropriate steps to enforce any restriction, fee, penalty, or duty imposed pursuant to such actions.
(b) Based on the USTR’s determinations arising out of its Section 301 investigation into the PRC’s targeting of the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors, the USTR shall also consider taking all necessary steps permitted by law to propose the following actions:
(i)   tariffs on ship-to-shore cranes manufactured, assembled, or made using components of PRC origin, or manufactured anywhere in the world by a company owned, controlled, or substantially influenced by a PRC national; and
(ii) tariffs on other cargo handling equipment.

Sec. 6. Enforce Collection of Harbor Maintenance Fee and Other Charges. In order to prevent cargo carriers from circumventing the Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) on imported goods through the practice of making port in Canada or Mexico and sending their cargo into the United States through land borders, and to ensure the collection of other charges as applicable, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall take all necessary steps, including proposing new legislation, as permitted by law to:
(a) require all foreign-origin cargo arriving by vessel to clear the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) entry process at a United States port of entry for security and collection of all applicable duties, customs, taxes, fees, interest, and other charges; and
(b) ensure any foreign-origin cargo first arriving by vessel to North America clearing the CBP process at an inland location from the country of land transit (Canada or Mexico) is assessed applicable customs, duties, taxes, fees (including the HMF), interest, and other charges plus a 10 percent service fee for additional costs to the CBP, so long as the cargo being shipped into the United States is not substantially transformed from its condition at the time of arrival into the country of land transit (with the discretion for such decisions to be determined by CBP).

Sec. 7. Engage Allies and Partners to Align Trade Policies. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the USTR, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Commerce, shall engage treaty allies, partners, and other like-minded countries around the world with respect to their potential imposition of any actions taken pursuant to sections 5 and 6 of this order. The USTR shall deliver an engagement plan and progress report on these engagements to the President.

Sec. 8.  Reduce Dependence on Adversaries through Allies and Partners. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, shall recommend to the APNSA and the OMB Director for inclusion in the MAP all available incentives to help shipbuilders domiciled in allied nations partner to undertake capital investment in the United States to help strengthen the shipbuilding capacity of the United States.

Sec. 9. Launch a Maritime Security Trust Fund. In conjunction with the formulation of the President’s Budget, the OMB Director shall, in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation, develop a legislative proposal, which shall be described in detail in the MAP, to establish a Maritime Security Trust Fund that can serve as a reliable funding source to deliver consistent support for MAP programs. This proposal shall consider how new or existing tariff revenue, fines, fees, or tax revenue could further the goal of establishing a more reliable, dedicated funding source for programs support by the MAP.

Sec. 10. Shipbuilding Financial Incentives Program. In conjunction with the formulation of the President’s Budget and consistent with the findings of the report required under section 12 of this order, the Secretary of Transportation shall submit a legislative proposal to the APNSA and the OMB Director, which shall be described in detail in the MAP, that establishes a financial incentives program with broad flexibility to incentivize private investment in the construction of commercial components, parts, and vessels; capital improvements to commercial vessel shipyards; capital improvements to commercial vessel repair facilities and drydocks through grants; and Federal Credit Reform Act-compliant loans and loan guarantees. Such proposal may augment or replace existing programs with similar purpose including the Small Shipyard Grant Program and the Federal Ship Financing (Title XI) Program.

Sec. 11. Establish Maritime Prosperity Zones. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall deliver a plan to the President through the APNSA for inclusion in the MAP that identifies opportunities to incentivize and facilitate domestic and allied investment in United States maritime industries and waterfront communities through establishment of maritime prosperity zones. The proposal shall: (a) model these maritime prosperity zones on the opportunity zones established pursuant to section 13823 of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (Public Law 115-97, 131 Stat. 2054), which I signed into law during my first Administration;
(b) include stipulations for appropriate regulatory relief in the establishment of such zones; and
(c) provide for zones that are outside of traditional coastal shipbuilding and ship repair centers and are geographically diverse, including river regions as well as the Great Lakes.

Sec. 12. Report on Maritime Industry Needs. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Transportation, in coordination with the Secretary of Homeland Security and the heads of other agencies as appropriate, shall deliver a report to the OMB Director and APNSA for inclusion in the MAP that inventories Federal programs that could be used to sustain and grow the supply of and demand for the United States maritime industry. The report and inventory shall include:
(a) any Federal programs that provide financial and regulatory incentives for United States shipping, shipbuilding, and shipbuilding supply chains, including the training of shipbuilders and United States-credentialed mariners;
(b) Maritime Administration programs such as the Tanker Security Program, Cable Security Fleet, Maritime Security Programs, Maritime Environmental and Technical Assistance Program, Title XI, Assistance to Small Shipyards, Port Infrastructure Development Program, the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), and programs that support the State Maritime Academies;
(c) existing domestic cargo preference laws, including the Military Cargo Preference Act of 1904, as amended, (10 U.S.C. 2631) and the Cargo Preference Act of 1954, as amended, (46 U.S.C. 55304), and whether and how they can be used to ensure that United States cargo is transported on United States-built and flagged vessels, including a review of the existing waiver process and all current waivers to ensure they are consistent with the promotion of American domestic shipping;
(d) other available means that could further support the industry, including modifications of existing programs, establishment of new programs, and tax and regulatory relief; and
(e) in coordination with the National Security Council and the Office of Management and Budget, the costs and benefits of increased cargo preference rates, including on liquid cargo carriers, tankers, and military useful vessels, and options for increasing cargo preference compliance and directing open market procurement of shipping to meet urgent military needs for maritime vessels.

Sec. 13. Expand Mariner Training and Education. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Education, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall deliver a report to the President through the APNSA for inclusion in the MAP with recommendations to address workforce challenges in the maritime sector through maritime educational institutions and workforce transitions.
(a) In preparing their report, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Education, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall consult, as needed, with industry stakeholders including private industry and labor organizations.
(b) The report shall:
(i)    include the current number of credentialed mariners and estimate the additional credentialed mariners required to support the policies described in this order;
(ii)   analyze the impact of establishing new and expanding existing merchant marine academies as a means of educating, training, and certifying the additional credentialed merchant mariners estimated under subsection (b)(i) of this section;
(iii) identify any requirements for credentialing mariners that are unnecessary, insufficient, or unduly burdensome and provide recommendations for reform;
(iv)   inventory existing educational and technical training grants and scholarships to colleges and vocational-technical training institutions for critical shipbuilding specialties and other maritime studies, and provide recommendations for enhancement; and
(v)    assess the United States Coast Guard credentialing program applicability to United States Navy Active Duty and Reserve sailors to increase opportunities for sailors to transfer into the Merchant Marine with validated skills.
(c) Consistent with the findings of the report and in conjunction with the formulation of the President’s Budget, the Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Education, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall deliver a legislative proposal to the APNSA and the OMB Director that:
(i)    reflects the recommendations of the report required under this section;
(ii)   establishes national maritime scholarships to send promising maritime experts abroad to learn cutting edge techniques and subjects, such as innovative maritime logistics, clean fuels and advanced nuclear energy, human-machine teaming, and additive manufacturing and other advanced technologies; and
(iii) offers scholarships to maritime experts from allied countries to teach at United States institutions.

Sec. 14. Modernize the United States Merchant Marine Academy.
(a) The Secretary of Transportation shall:
(i) within 30 days of this order consistent with applicable law and available appropriations, take action to hire the necessary facilities staff and reprogram budgetary resources needed to execute urgent deferred maintenance projects and any other mission critical repair works at the USMMA;
(ii) take immediate action to finalize a long-term master facilities plan (LMFP) for the modernization of the USMMA campus and submit such plan to the APNSA and OMB Director for concurrence; and
(iii) within 90 days of the concurrence described in subsection (a)(ii) of this section, in consultation with the Department of Government Efficiency, submit a 5-year capital improvement plan (CIP) consistent with the LMFP to the APNSA and OMB Director that includes capital project budgets, schedules, and sequencing, as well as an inventory of deferred maintenance items necessary to sustain campus operations through completion of the CIP.
(b) All actions taken pursuant to this section shall be detailed in the MAP.

Sec. 15. Improve Procurement Efficiency. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Director of the National Science Foundation shall develop a proposal for improved acquisition strategies processes for United States Government vessels and submit such proposal to APNSA and the OMB Director for inclusion in the MAP. The proposal shall: (a) have as its objective providing American shipbuilders with market forecasting needed to justify investments in infrastructure, workforce, and intellectual property to meet United States demand;
(b) include reforms recommended by the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security related to:
(i) staff structure and innovations in acquisition strategies that will improve Federal vessel procurement; and
(ii) reductions of the layers of approval needed to execute, build, and improve the vessel acquisition process, including by utilizing commercial acquisition and modular design practices that reduce complexity and prevent frequent changes to ship designs;
(c) identify for elimination excessive requirements, including the number of Government reviews and onerous regulations that add to ship design and acquisition delays; and
(d) consider use of broad industry standards and American-made readily available parts and components to drive up production volume while shrinking the iterative design process, which historically has led to delays and cost increases.

Sec. 16. Improve Government Efficiency. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Department of Government Efficiency shall begin a separate review of the Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security vessel procurement processes and deliver a proposal to the President, through the APNSA for inclusion in the MAP, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of these processes.

Sec. 17.  Increase the Fleet of Commercial Vessels Trading Internationally under the flag of the United States. Within 180 days of the date of this order, in conjunction with the formulation of the President’s Budget and consistent with the findings of the report required under section 12 of this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, deliver a legislative proposal to the APNSA and OMB Director for inclusion in the MAP that:
(a) is designed to ensure that adequate cubed footage and gross tonnage of United States-flagged commercial vessels can be called upon in times of crisis, while limiting the likelihood of Government waste;
(b) provides incentives that will:
(i)   grow the fleet of United States built, crewed, and flagged vessels that serve as readily deployable assets for national security purposes; and
(ii) increase the participation of United States commercial vessels in international trade; and
(c) enhances existing subsidies to include coverage of certain construction or modification costs in a manner designed to enhance incentives for the commercial shipping industry to operate militarily useful ships that trade internationally under the flag of the United States.

Sec. 18. Ensure the Security and Leadership of Arctic Waterways. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall develop a strategy that identifies the vision, goals, and objectives necessary to secure arctic waterways and enable American prosperity in the face of evolving arctic security challenges and associated risks, and deliver it to the APNSA for inclusion in the MAP.

Sec. 19. Shipbuilding Review. Within 45 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall conduct a review of shipbuilding for United States Government use and submit a report to the President with recommendations to increase the number of participants and competitors within United States shipbuilding, and to reduce cost overruns and production delays for surface, subsurface, and unmanned programs. This report must include separate itemized and prioritized lists of recommendations for the United States Army, Navy, and Coast Guard and shall be included in the MAP.

Sec. 20. Deregulatory Initiatives. Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall conduct a review of their regulations, and implementation thereof, across all components pertaining to the domestic commercial maritime fleet and maritime port access to determine where each agency may be able to deregulate within the framework of Executive Order 14192 of January 31, 2025 (Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation), to reduce unnecessary costs and clear barriers to emerging technology and related efficiencies. Each agency will submit a report of its findings to the OMB Director and to the APNSA for inclusion in the MAP.

Sec. 21. Inactive Reserve Fleet. Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense shall conduct a review and issue guidance on the funding, retention, support, and mobilization of a robust inactive reserve fleet. This review and guidance shall be delivered to the APNSA for inclusion in the MAP.

Sec. 22. Coordination. Unless otherwise specified in this order, the plans, reports, reviews, and recommendations that are required to be submitted to the President by this order shall be developed through interagency coordination in accordance with National Security Presidential Memorandum 1 of January 20, 2025 (Organization of the National Security Council and Subcommittees), or its successors.

Sec. 23. Severability. If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of its provisions to any other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.

Sec. 24. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

THE WHITE HOUSE,
    April 9, 2025.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Banks Continue Push to Protect American Institutions from Foreign Control
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Banks (R-IN) in cosponsoring the Safeguarding American Education From Foreign Control Act. This bill requires universities to disclose gifts they receive from foreign adversaries, regardless of the amount of the gift or contract. This bill aligns with President Trump’s America First agenda by preventing foreign money and influence from infiltrating our higher education institutions.

Sen. Tuberville cosponsored this legislation in the 118^th Congress.

“The Chinese Communist Party wants to brainwash our kids and destroy our country — not on my watch,” said Sen. Tuberville. “The CCP has made it clear their plan of action is to infiltrate our education system and indoctrinate our kids. It is astounding that we have allowed universities to get away with taking money from a country that hates us. I was glad to see Troy University in Alabama close its CCP-backed Confucius Institute, and hope other universities will follow their lead. Transparency about how China is funding our schools is not only vital to our national security — our kids’ futures depend on it.”

“Americans deserve to know if universities are accepting money from our enemies like China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea. This bill delivers that transparency and stops hostile nations from hiding their influence on our campuses,” said Sen. Banks.

Sens. Tuberville and Banks were joined by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) in cosponsoring the legislation.

Representative Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) is leading the effort in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Read full text of the legislation here.

BACKGROUND:

Key Provisions of the Safeguarding American Education from Foreign Control Act are:
- Requiring Disclosures – Universities Must Report:
  
  All gift disclosures from foreign sources associated with a covered nation (Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea)
  
  Reports from Section 117 of the Higher Education Act of 1965
  
  Investigations enacted by the Department of Education
- Guaranteeing transparency by ensuring the Department of Education transmits disclosure reports to the FBI, ODNI, and Department of State
- Enforcing accountability by allowing the FBI and the ODNI to request the DOJ bring forward action for inability to comply with disclosure requirements
According to the Americans for Public Trust, China donated more than $175 million to American universities last year.

In August 2023, Sen. Tuberville joined 19 of his Senate colleagues in sending a letter to the Biden Administration’s Department of Education (ED) expressing outrage for allowing the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to infiltrate U.S. classrooms through Confucius programming. Confucius programming establishes a partnership between schools, universities, or nonprofits and a Chinese government entity. Expansion of Confucius Classrooms in the United States is a top priority for the Chinese government. A report released in July 2023 shows over 143 United States schools across 34 states and the District of Columbia have received CCP-related funding. Additionally, the report shows the CCP has ties to 20 school districts near United States military bases. Read the letter here.

In February 2023, Sen. Tuberville let Troy University know that future funding opportunities would be in jeopardy if they did not end their Confucius Institute program. He was pleased when Troy announced they were closing the program.

Since assuming office in the U.S. Senate in 2021, Sen. Tuberville has led and supported numerous efforts to protect American resources, farmland, investments, intellectual property, and national security from the growing threat of Communist China.

Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.
MIL OSI USA News –
April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Previously Convicted Felon Sentenced to More Than 26 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm in Connection With Drug Trafficking Fentanyl, Wire Fraud, and Aggravated Identity Theft

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Defendant convicted after trial on drug and firearms offenses and thereafter pled guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft

Baltimore, Maryland – Today, Chief U.S. District Judge George L. Russell, III, sentenced Ryan E. Dales, 36, of Baltimore, to 26 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Dales, a previously convicted felon, was charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm as a felon, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft.

Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Baltimore Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Troy W. Springer, of the National Capital Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG).

“Mr. Dales’s criminal activity was callous, dangerous, and with complete disregard for his victims,” Hayes said. “Thanks to our federal, local, and state law-enforcement partners, we’re showing Mr. Dales and others that engaging in criminal activity comes with a price. We’re serious about holding those accountable who commit illegal acts and terrorize our community with fentanyl, firearms, and fraud. Fortunately, Mr. Dales will have plenty of time to think about his actions while in prison.”

“This sentence of 26 years reflects the seriousness of Dales’ actions which include drug and weapon offenses as well as identity theft and fraud schemes. As a repeat offender, Dales knew the consequences of his wrongdoing yet chose to continue dealing drugs and committing crimes,” DelBagno said. “The FBI has no tolerance for repeat offenders who threaten the safety and security of our communities.”

“Ryan Dales engaged in a multi-faceted pandemic-relief fraud scheme by filing fraudulent UI claims in the names of identity theft victims. Dales stole benefits intended for unemployed American workers who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Springer said. “The significant prison sentence imposed today is the direct result of outstanding collaboration with our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and the FBI in ensuring the integrity of these critical benefit programs. This is particularly true when it involves firearms and drug trafficking as well as other violent crimes in our communities.”

On December 9, 2024, a federal jury found Dales guilty of unlawfully possessing a firearm as a felon, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Additionally, Dales faced a second trial on wire fraud and aggravated identity theft charges, but on January 10, 2025, Dales pled guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.

According to the evidence presented at trial, on January 20, 2023, authorities arrested Dales pursuant to a federal arrest warrant, and law enforcement executed a federal search warrant the same day at Dales’s residence. Dales resided in a luxury apartment building in Locust Point. During the search, law enforcement located and seized, among other things, various items used in connection Dales’s illegal business selling drugs, including two loaded firearms, specifically, a stolen Smith & Wesson firearm, and one which was a privately made “ghost gun” Polymer80 9mm firearm with no serial number, and a box containing 28 rounds of 9mm ammunition, including hollow point ammunition. In addition, law enforcement seized numerous packages of controlled dangerous substances, including hundreds of grams of fentanyl packaged for street level distribution, multiple digital scales, sifters, a heat sealer, a bag containing 10,000 empty capsules meant to package drugs, other drug packing materials, various cutting agents, a respirator, and six cell phones.

Later, Dales voluntarily waived his Miranda rights and admitted to living in his apartment alone and that the firearms seized in his apartment were his. He also told law enforcement that he was a “very resourceful person,” referring to his livelihood as a drug dealer. Dales’ DNA was later determined to be present on both firearms and their magazines.

Law enforcement’s later review of Dales’s cell phones revealed the existence of numerous Telegram chats where he negotiated purchasing drugs and cutting agents from multiple people, including mass producers of fentanyl in China. Investigators further found evidence that about a month before the execution of the search warrant, Dales traveled to Boston with a firearm (identical in appearance to the ghost gun found in his apartment) and a bag full of cash to purchase drugs. Dales’s device search history included searches for where fentanyl is produced in China, how to dye powders, and how many bullets a Smith and Wesson M&P 9c firearm — the same type seized from his apartment — can hold.

After his conviction at trial on the drug and firearms offenses, Dales pled guilty to a fraud scheme in which he used victims’ identities to obtain various high-end lawnmowers on credit and received fraudulent unemployment insurance (UI) benefits. From December 2020 through September 2022 — while serving a federal sentence for bank-fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft — and living in a halfway house while on federal supervised release in the District of Maryland, Dales engaged in various fraudulent schemes. Dales attempted to defraud the State of Maryland, Maryland Department of Labor (MD-DOL), the Small Business Administration, and various businesses and financial institutions to obtain more than $25,000 in unlawful COVID-19 benefits funds though the submission of fraudulent claims for UI benefits; more than $95,000 worth of high-end riding lawn mowers on credit using the stolen personal identifiable information (PII) of seven victims information —such as names, dates of birth, social security numbers, and addresses of real persons — and attempting to fraudulently obtain an $8,000 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).

During the execution of the residential search warrant, law enforcement seized various items used in connection with Dales’s fraud and identity theft schemes, including multiple computers, an embosser and ID card printer, laminate sheets with security holograms, gift cards in various denominations, a card printer and card reader, bulk packages of shrink-wrapped white PVC cards; and multiple fraudulent and fabricated South Carolina driver’s licenses made by Dales containing PII of various victims, but which displayed Dales’s photograph.

Dales used the fabricated driver’s licenses in connection with the fraudulent purchases of riding mowers and other impermissible uses. He also obtained the identity theft victims’ PII on the dark web. The total amount obtained by Dales from the UI fraud scheme, as well as the fraudulent purchase of the lawnmowers on credit was $121,242.51.

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

The District of Maryland Strike Force is one of five strike forces established throughout the United States by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud, including fraud relating to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The strike forces focus on large-scale, multi-state pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.

For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI and DOL-OIG for their work in connection with the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul A. Riley and Reema Sood, who prosecuted the federal case. She also recognized the assistance of the Maryland COVID-19 Strike Force Paralegal Specialist Joanna B.N. Huber.

For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Pasadena Woman Pleads Guilty to Stalking Campaign Against Victims and Threatening to Bomb U.S. Consulate in Vietnam

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

LOS ANGELES – A San Gabriel Valley woman pleaded guilty today to federal criminal charges for stalking a victim then impersonating him and his wife to further stalk government employees at a United States consulate in Vietnam, which she threatened to bomb.

Natalie Nguyen, 39, of Pasadena, pleaded guilty to one count of stalking and one count of threat by interstate commerce to kill another person and to damage and destroy buildings by fire and explosives.

Nguyen has been in federal custody since February 2024.

According to her plea agreement, Nguyen stalked a victim – identified in court documents as “T.H.” – from April 2023 to February 2024, sending emails threatening to kill him and his wife. One of the emails contained screenshots of a text conversation about paying a hitman $15,000 to kill the victim’s wife.

Nguyen also began stalking five employees at the U.S. consulate in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. At times, she impersonated T.H.’s wife, including in an August 2023 email in which she threatened to “bomb the [expletive] consular in Ho Chi Minh City.”

In October 2023, Nguyen – impersonating T.H. and using T.H.’s email account without permission – sent an email to three government employees at the U.S. consulate stating, “i wil [sic] kill every [expletive] one of you who has been delaying issuing my wife visa.”

In January 2024, Nguyen – impersonating T.H.’s wife – sent a message to U.S. officials through an online portal stating, “Device will be detonated at America consular in Saigon and in San Francisco. All of you will be exploded for causing my separation with my husband for this last year. Everything will be exploded around new year or after.”

The following month, Nguyen impersonated T.H. and sent an inquiry to a U.S. Embassy online portal threatening to explode grenades around the time of the lunar new year at the consulate. Several minutes later, Nguyen, impersonating T.H., sent an email to the Vietnamese consulate stating, “i have a grenade set to be exploded this lunar new year at the consulate. my wife is ready.”

United States District Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett scheduled a June 18 sentencing hearing, at which time Nguyen will face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for the stalking count and up to 10 years in federal prison for the threats count.

The FBI investigated this matter with assistance from the Diplomatic Security Service.

Assistant United States Attorney Diane Roldán of the Violent and Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

MIL Security OSI –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: News 04/9/2025 Blackburn, Coons, Salazar, Dean, Colleagues Introduce “NO FAKES Act” to Protect Individuals and Creators from Digital Replicas

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), along with U.S. Representatives Maria Salazar (R-Fla.) and Madeleine Dean (D-Penn.), introduced the bipartisan Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe (NO FAKES) Act to protect the voice and visual likenesses of individuals and creators from the proliferation of digital replicas created without their consent:
“While AI has opened the door to countless innovations, it has also exposed creators and other vulnerable individuals to online harms,” said Senator Blackburn. “Tennessee’s creative community is recognized around the globe, and the NO FAKES Act would help protect these individuals from the misuse and abuse of generative AI by holding those responsible for deepfake content to account.”
“Nobody—whether they’re Tom Hanks or an 8th grader just trying to be a kid—should worry about someone stealing their voice and likeness,” said Senator Coons. “Incredible technology like AI can help us push the limits of human creativity, but only if we protect Americans from those who would use it to harm our communities. I am grateful for the bipartisan partnership of Senators Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis, the support of colleagues in the House, and the endorsements of leaders in the entertainment industry, the labor community, and firms at the cutting edge of AI technology.”
“While AI presents extraordinary opportunities for technological advancement, it also poses some new problems, including the unauthorized replication of the voice and visual likeness of individuals, such as artists,” said Senator Tillis. “We must protect against such misuse, and I’m proud to co-introduce this bipartisan legislation to create safeguards from AI, which will result in greater protections for individuals and that which defines them.”
“Americans from all walks of life are increasingly seeing AI being used to create deepfakes in ads, images, music, and videos without their consent,” said Senator Klobuchar. “We need our laws to be as sophisticated as this quickly advancing technology. The bipartisan NO FAKES Act will establish rules of the road to protect people from having their voice and likeness replicated through AI without their permission.”
“In this new era of AI, we need real laws to protect real people,” said Representative Salazar. “The NO FAKES Act is simple and sacred: you own your identity—not Big Tech, not scammers, not algorithms. Deepfakes are digital lies that ruin real lives, and it’s time to fight back.”
“As AI’s prevalence grows, federal law must catch up—we must support technological innovation while preserving the privacy, safety, and dignity of all Americans,” said Representative Dean. “By granting everyone a clear, federal right to control digital replicas of their own voice and likeness, the NO FAKES Act will empower victims of deep fakes; safeguard human creativity and artistic expression; and defend against sexually explicit deepfakes. I’m grateful to work with a bipartisan group of colleagues on common sense, common ground regulations of this new frontier of AI.”
BACKGROUND
With the rapid advance of generative artificial intelligence (AI), artists and creators have already begun to see their voices and likenesses used without their consent in videos and songs created as nearly indistinguishable replicas.
In one high-profile example, AI-generated replicas of the voices of pop stars Drake and The Weeknd were used to produce a viral song titled “Heart on My Sleeve,” generating hundreds of thousands of listens on YouTube, Spotify, and other streaming platforms before it was flagged as a fake and removed from the platforms.
The harmful effects of unauthorized AI-generated content go far beyond celebrities. For example, in Maryland, a Baltimore high school athletic director was arrested and charged after using AI to create a deepfake voice recording of the school’s principal that included racist and derogatory comments about students and staff – statements the principal never actually made.
NO FAKES ACT
The NO FAKES Act would address the use of non-consensual digital replications in audiovisual works or sound recordings by:
Holding individuals or companies liable if they distribute an unauthorized digital replica of an individual’s voice or visual likeness;
Holding platforms liable for hosting an unauthorized digital replica if the platform has knowledge of the fact that the replica was not authorized by the individual depicted;
Excluding certain digital replicas from coverage based on recognized First Amendment protections; and
Preempting future state laws regulating digital replicas.
Click here to read the bill text.
ENDORSEMENTS
This legislation is endorsed by the Recording Industry Association of America; Motion Picture Association; SAG-AFTRA; YouTube; Recording Academy; OpenAI; Warner Music Group; Universal Music Group; Sony Music; The Walt Disney Company; IBM; Vermillio; Hive; Independent Film & Television Alliance; WME; Creative Artists Agency; Human Artistry Campaign; National Association of Broadcasters; the Model Alliance; ASCAP; Nashville Songwriters Association International; the Authors Guild; the National Center on Sexual Exploitation; Television Academy; Enough is Enough; American Association of Independent Music; and more.
“This bill proves that we can prioritize the growth of AI and protecting American creativity at the same time. We applaud the Senate and House sponsors driving this legislation that provides balanced and effective protections for all individuals against exploitative uses of their voice and likeness while supporting free speech, reducing litigation and achieving the promise of AI technology,” said Mitch Glazier, Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) Chairman & CEO.
“The NO FAKES Act thoughtfully establishes federal protections for performers from generative AI abuse while also respecting creators’ First Amendment rights and freedoms,” said Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association (MPA). “The MPA thanks Senators Blackburn, Coons, Klobuchar, and Tillis for re-introducing this bill. Specifically, we appreciate the inclusion of safeguards intended to prevent the chilling of constitutionally protected speech such as biopics, docudramas, parody, and satire. This is necessary for any new law to be durable. The MPA will continue to work closely with the bill’s sponsors as the NO FAKES Act makes its way into law.”
“In the age of digital clones, deepfakes can be devastating,” said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, SAG-AFTRA. “We all deserve the right to demand platforms remove illegal voice and image clones, and to seek damages from those who intentionally cause harm. Thank you Senators Blackburn, Coons, Klobuchar, and Tillis for reintroducing the NO FAKES Act. As innovation continues to rapidly evolve, it’s time for commonsense legislation that defends individual rights.”
“For nearly two decades, YouTube has been at the forefront of handling rights management at scale, and we understand the importance of collaborating with partners to tackle these issues proactively. Now, we’re applying that expertise and dedication to partnership to ensure the responsible deployment of innovative AI tools. We thank Senators Coons and Blackburn, and Representatives Salazar and Dean, for their leadership on the NO FAKES Act, which is consistent with our ongoing efforts to protect creators and viewers, and reflects our commitment to shaping a future where AI is used responsibly,” said Leslie Miller, VP of Public Policy, YouTube.
“The Academy is proud to represent and serve creators, and for decades, GRAMMYs on the Hill has brought music makers to our nation’s capital to elevate the policy issues affecting our industry. Today’s reintroduction of the NO FAKES Act underscores our members’ commitment to advocating for the music community, and as we enter a new era of technology, we must create guardrails around AI and ensure it enhances – not replaces – human creativity. We thank Senators Blackburn and Coons, and Representatives Dean and Salazar for their unwavering support on this issue, and we look forward to working alongside them to pass the NO FAKES Act this Congress,” said Harvey Mason jr., CEO, Recording Academy.
“OpenAI is happy to once again support the NO FAKES Act, which supports creators and artists. We applaud Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis for their leadership, and we look forward to working with the sponsors and fellow supporters as this legislation moves forward,”said OpenAI Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane.
“I applaud Senators Blackburn and Coons and Representatives Salazar and Dean for their leadership in introducing the NO FAKES Act. This bill reflects what can happen when tech and creative industries come together – foster cutting edge innovation while protecting human identity and artistry. We look forward to working with key members of the US Senate and House to help pass the NO FAKES Act this year,” said Robert Kyncl, Warner Music Group CEO.
“Universal Music Group applauds the reintroduction of the NO FAKES Act – landmark, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to address ‘deepfakes’ and other threats to individuals’ rights to control their own voice and visual likeness,” said Universal Music Group. “At once, this legislation secures First Amendment protections and takes a critical step to ensure all Americans can protect and control their own persona. We are grateful to the bill’s sponsors for their thoughtful leadership on this important issue.”
“Sony Music is proud to support the No FAKES Act to promote the ethical use of AI and give artists more control over their identity and creative expression,” said Sony Music. “Thank you to the Senate and House sponsors for continuing to champion this bipartisan legislation, which will provide meaningful protections against the unauthorized use of an artist’s voice and image. We look forward to working towards passage of this legislation allowing AI innovation and creativity to flourish.”
“Disney is pleased to support the reintroduction of the NO FAKES Act. We look forward to working with the sponsors to see this legislation enacted to ensure important and meaningful protections for individuals against misuse of their image and voice through AI while maintaining critical speech protections for legitimate storytelling rooted in the First Amendment,” said the Walt Disney Company.
“AI is now widely used across sectors, and as advancements continue, it’s vital to protect creators and individuals from potential deepfake risks,” said Mike Harney, Vice President, Government & Regulatory Affairs, IBM. “IBM supports the NO FAKES Act, which safeguards individuals from unauthorized AI replication of their images, voices, or likenesses. We thank Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis for their leadership on this important bipartisan legislation.”
“The NO FAKES Act makes a critical stride towards establishing NIL protections that deliver consent, credit, compensation, and control to all Americans,” said Dan Neely, Co-Founder and CEO, Vermillio. “With deepfakes representing only one piece of a much larger battle against unauthorized content, the entertainment industry must implement robust AI safeguards to protect American creativity, one of our most valuable assets. We appreciate the leadership of Senators Coons, Blackburn, Tillis, and Klobuchar, who recognize the essential role of cutting-edge technologies in delivering national security, protecting all citizens, and closing vulnerabilities that allow bad actors to misuse AI.”
“The development of AI-generated media and AI detection technologies must evolve in parallel,” said Kevin Guo, CEO and cofounder of Hive. “We envision a future where AI-generated media is created with permission, clearly identified, and appropriately credited. We stand firmly behind the NO FAKES Act as a fundamental step in establishing oversight while keeping pace with advancements in artificial intelligence to protect public trust and creative industries alike.”
“The Independent Film & Television Alliance® supports the NO FAKES Act and thanks lead sponsors Senators Coons and Blackburn, and sponsors Senators Klobuchar and Tillis, for their ongoing efforts to enact this bill,” said Jean Prewitt, President and CEO, IFTA. “This essential legislation establishes a standardized federal solution to prevent the unauthorized exploitation of an individual’s voice, image and likeness, upholds crucial First Amendment safeguards to protect free speech, and includes an important preemption clause.”
“We view technology as a complement, not a substitute, for human artistry,” said Christian Muirhead, Co-Chairman, WME. “Guardrails must be put into place that ensure continued innovation while protecting our clients’ name, image, likeness, and voice. We thank Senators Coons, Blackburn, Tillis, and Klobuchar for recognizing the urgency of this issue, and will continue to work with them to ensure all artists and our clients remain at the center of this vital legislation.”
“As advancements in AI continue to move at an unprecedented pace, so too must our legal frameworks. We thank Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis for creating this legislation that ensures artists maintain control over how their name, image, likenesses, voice, and IP are used. These forward-thinking policies are an essential first step to navigating this new digital era, striking a critical balance between innovation and strong protections,” said Bryan Lourd, CEO and Co-Chairman, Creative Artists Agency (CAA).
“The Human Artistry Campaign stands for preserving essential qualities of all individuals – beginning with a right to your own voice and image. The NO FAKES Act is an important step towards necessary protections that also support free speech and AI development. The Human Artistry Campaign commends Senators Blackburn and Coons and Representatives Salazar, Dean, Moran, and Balint for shepherding bipartisan support for this landmark legislation, a necessity for every American to have a right to their own identity as highly realistic voice clones and deepfakes become more pervasive,” said Dr. Moiya McTier, Human Artistry Campaign Senior Advisor.
“NAB applauds Senators Blackburn and Coons for reintroducing the NO FAKES Act, which takes an important step toward protecting trusted broadcast journalists, local radio hosts and other on-air personalities from the unauthorized use of their voice, image or likeness. Broadcasters play a vital role in keeping communities informed, and the spread of deceptive deepfakes undermines both individual rights and public trust. This bipartisan bill offers meaningful safeguards while respecting First Amendment protections, and we look forward to working with Congress to advance it,” said the National Association of Broadcasters.
“As AI adoption grows, workers whose livelihoods depend on their image face a new frontier of exploitation: their digital replica being used without consent. That’s why the Model Alliance is proud to endorse the NO FAKES Act, which will empower individuals to control their digital likeness,” said Sara Ziff, Founding Director of Model Alliance. “As image-based workers who lack union protection, models are the canary in the coal mine. Federal standards for AI use are urgently needed to protect all individuals, particularly those whose image is their livelihood.”
“American songwriters and other music creators need Congress to put human beings first and pass laws that ensure transparency, consent, compensation, credit, and global consistency when it comes to generative AI. ASCAP commends this bipartisan group of leaders for introducing legislation that recognizes the value of human creativity to AI development,” said Elizabeth Matthews, CEO of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.
“NMPA is proud to support the reintroduction of the No Fakes Act. In an era where artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the creative landscape, it is critical that we protect the rights of creators from exploitation, fraud, and misuse. We commend Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis for their leadership in protecting songwriters and artists from illicit theft of their work. By establishing new protections against the harmful use of digital replicas, the No Fakes Act will provide the necessary framework to ensure that AI serves as a tool to enhance creativity rather than undermine the rights of those who create it. We urge the Senate to move swiftly in passing this critical legislation and securing the protections the creative community deserves,” said David Israelite, President and CEO, The National Music Publishers Association.
“The NO FAKES Act is an extremely important part of the puzzle in protecting human creators in the age of generative Artificial Intelligence. We applaud Senators Blackburn and Coons for introducing this bill in recognition that it should be a person’s right to protect their own voice and likeness and use it in only the ways they see fit. The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) strongly supports the NO FAKES Act and urges Congress to pass and enact this legislation expeditiously in the interest of protecting our creators,” said Jennifer Purdon Turnbow, COO of Nashville Songwriters Association International.
“The Authors Guild thanks Senators Chris Coons, Marsha Blackburn, Thom Tillis, and Amy Klobuchar for introducing the NO FAKES Act,” said Mary Rasenberger, CEO, Authors Guild. “It marks a significant step in protecting creators’ rights to their own persona. By prohibiting the unauthorized use of AI-generated replicas in audiovisual and sound recordings and establishing clear legal guidelines and liability for misuse, this bill helps safeguard creators from unauthorized and unpaid uses of their images and voices.”
“Imagine waking up one morning to find your face or the face of someone you love manipulated into sexually explicit imagery—distributed online for the world to see. This is now the reality we face. The proliferation of nonconsensual digital depictions has exploded online: 98% of deepfake videos online today are pornographic, and 99% of these deepfakes explicitly target women. The NO FAKES Act offers vital relief for victims by providing a path to seek justice through civil remedies,” said Haley McNamara, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Programs, National Center on Sexual Exploitation.
“Representing nearly 30,000 members across all disciplines of the television industry, the Television Academy supports the NO FAKES Act and applauds Senators Coons and Blackburn for working on this important bill. Television is built on the talent, creativity, and hard work of real people – writers, producers, and TV executives to camera operators and cinematographers who bring stories to life. As artificial intelligence and digital replication technologies evolve, it is essential to put in place meaningful protections that prevent the unauthorized and exploitative use of performers’ voices, likenesses, and creative expressions. The Television Academy supports the NO FAKES Act to establish clear federal protections that uphold the rights of television professionals and the creative foundation of the television industry,” said the Television Academy.
“Senator Blackburn (R) has long been a champion of protecting children and families from the harms of online exploitation and abuse and we proudly support her efforts, as well as her co-sponsor Senator Coons (D) in introducing the bi-partisan NO FAKES Act. As technology evolves exponentially, so do those who exploit these technologies at the expense of others. While artificial intelligence is increasingly relied upon to educate, inform, and create, it can also be used by bad actors to harm through the growing problem of ‘deepfakes’ and fraudulent unauthorized computer generated recreations of an individual’s voice or visual likeness. The NO FAKES Act would protect against such nonconsensual digital replications by providing harmed individuals with the ability to hold civilly liable those responsible for producing and distributing such content as well as the platforms who knowingly host such unauthorized content. AI can be a wonderful tool with vast benefits, but we must guard against its misuse to produce nonconsensual voice or visual replicas! No one is immune and we encourage Congress to move thoughtfully and aggressively forward to pass bi-partisan laws that prioritize the safety of both children and adults in the digital world,” said Donna Rice Hughes, CEO/President of Enough Is Enough.
“GenerativeAI development is moving at lightning speed, without the guardrails needed to make sure that artists who spend lifetimes developing their art don’t see their livelihoods eaten along with untold harm to the America’s creative culture. The NO FAKES Act would arm our community of over 550 independent labels with a new tool to combat the egregious theft of artists’ professional identities by big tech behemoths intent on winning at all costs. We are so thankful to our champions in the House and Senate for introducing the NO FAKES Act today,”said Dr. Richard James Burgess, President and CEO of the American Association of Independent Music.
RELATED

MIL OSI USA News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Blackburn, Reps. Salazar, Dean, colleagues reintroduce NO FAKES Act to protect individuals and creators from digital replicas

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), along with U.S. Representatives Maria Salazar (R-Fla.) and Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.), introduced the bipartisan Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe (NO FAKES) Act today to protect the voice and visual likenesses of individuals and creators from the proliferation of digital replicas created without their consent.
“Nobody—whether they’re Tom Hanks or an 8th grader just trying to be a kid—should worry about someone stealing their voice and likeness,” said Senator Coons. “Incredible technology like AI can help us push the limits of human creativity, but only if we protect Americans from those who would use it to harm our communities. I am grateful for the bipartisan partnership of Senators Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis, the support of colleagues in the House, and the endorsements of leaders in the entertainment industry, the labor community, and firms at the cutting edge of AI technology.”
“While AI has opened the door to countless innovations, it has also exposed creators and other vulnerable individuals to online harms,” said Senator Blackburn. “Tennessee’s creative community is recognized around the globe, and the NO FAKES Act would help protect these individuals from the misuse and abuse of generative AI by holding those responsible for deepfake content to account.”
“While AI presents extraordinary opportunities for technological advancement, it also poses some new problems, including the unauthorized replication of the voice and visual likeness of individuals, such as artists,” said Senator Tillis. “We must protect against such misuse, and I’m proud to co-introduce this bipartisan legislation to create safeguards from AI, which will result in greater protections for individuals and that which defines them.”
“Americans from all walks of life are increasingly seeing AI being used to create deepfakes in ads, images, music, and videos without their consent,” said Senator Klobuchar. “We need our laws to be as sophisticated as this quickly advancing technology. The bipartisan NO FAKES Act will establish rules of the road to protect people from having their voice and likeness replicated through AI without their permission.”
“In this new era of AI, we need real laws to protect real people,” said Representative Salazar. “The NO FAKES Act is simple and sacred: you own your identity—not Big Tech, not scammers, not algorithms. Deepfakes are digital lies that ruin real lives, and it’s time to fight back.”
“As AI’s prevalence grows, federal law must catch up—we must support technological innovation while preserving the privacy, safety, and dignity of all Americans,” said Representative Dean. “By granting everyone a clear, federal right to control digital replicas of their own voice and likeness, the NO FAKES Act will empower victims of deep fakes; safeguard human creativity and artistic expression; and defend against sexually explicit deepfakes. I’m grateful to work with a bipartisan group of colleagues on common sense, common ground regulations of this new frontier of AI.”
With the rapid advance of generative artificial intelligence, artists and creators have already begun to see their voices and likenesses used without their consent in videos and songs created as nearly indistinguishable replicas. In one high-profile example, AI-generated replicas of the voices of pop stars Drake and The Weeknd were used to produce a viral song titled “Heart on My Sleeve,” generating hundreds of thousands of listens on YouTube, Spotify, and other streaming platforms before it was flagged as a fake and removed from the platforms.
The harmful effects of unauthorized AI-generated content go far beyond celebrities. For example, in Maryland, a Baltimore high school athletic director was arrested and charged after using AI to create a deepfake voice recording of the school’s principal that included racist and derogatory comments about students and staff – statements the principal never actually made.
The NO FAKES Act would address the use of non-consensual digital replications in audiovisual works or sound recordings by:
Holding individuals or companies liable if they distribute an unauthorized digital replica of an individual’s voice or visual likeness
Holding platforms liable for hosting an unauthorized digital replica if the platform has knowledge of the fact that the replica was not authorized by the individual depicted
Excluding certain digital replicas from coverage based on recognized First Amendment protections
Preempting future state laws regulating digital replicas.
This legislation is endorsed by the Recording Industry Association of America; Motion Picture Association; SAG-AFTRA; YouTube; Recording Academy; OpenAI; Warner Music Group; Universal Music Group; Sony Music; The Walt Disney Company; IBM; Vermillio; Hive; Independent Film & Television Alliance; American Bar Association; WME; Creative Artists Agency; Human Artistry Campaign; National Association of Broadcasters; Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE); the Model Alliance; ASCAP; Nashville Songwriters Association International; the Authors Guild; the National Center on Sexual Exploitation; Television Academy; Enough is Enough; American Association of Independent Music; and more.
“This bill proves that we can prioritize the growth of AI and protecting American creativity at the same time. We applaud the Senate and House sponsors driving this legislation that provides balanced and effective protections for all individuals against exploitative uses of their voice and likeness while supporting free speech, reducing litigation and achieving the promise of AI technology,” said Mitch Glazier, Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) Chairman & CEO.
“The NO FAKES Act thoughtfully establishes federal protections for performers from generative AI abuse while also respecting creators’ First Amendment rights and freedoms,” said Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association (MPA). “The MPA thanks Senators Blackburn, Coons, Klobuchar, and Tillis for re-introducing this bill. Specifically, we appreciate the inclusion of safeguards intended to prevent the chilling of constitutionally protected speech such as biopics, docudramas, parody, and satire. This is necessary for any new law to be durable. The MPA will continue to work closely with the bill’s sponsors as the NO FAKES Act makes its way into law.”
“In the age of digital clones, deepfakes can be devastating,” said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, SAG-AFTRA. “We all deserve the right to demand platforms remove illegal voice and image clones, and to seek damages from those who intentionally cause harm. Thank you Senators Blackburn, Coons, Klobuchar, and Tillis for reintroducing the NO FAKES Act. As innovation continues to rapidly evolve, it’s time for commonsense legislation that defends individual rights.”
“For nearly two decades, YouTube has been at the forefront of handling rights management at scale, and we understand the importance of collaborating with partners to tackle these issues proactively. Now, we’re applying that expertise and dedication to partnership to ensure the responsible deployment of innovative AI tools. We thank Senators Coons and Blackburn, and Representatives Salazar and Dean, for their leadership on the NO FAKES Act, which is consistent with our ongoing efforts to protect creators and viewers, and reflects our commitment to shaping a future where AI is used responsibly,” said Leslie Miller, VP of Public Policy, YouTube.
“The Academy is proud to represent and serve creators, and for decades, GRAMMYs on the Hill has brought music makers to our nation’s capital to elevate the policy issues affecting our industry. Today’s reintroduction of the NO FAKES Act underscores our members’ commitment to advocating for the music community, and as we enter a new era of technology, we must create guardrails around AI and ensure it enhances – not replaces – human creativity. We thank Senators Blackburn and Coons, and Representatives Dean and Salazar for their unwavering support on this issue, and we look forward to working alongside them to pass the NO FAKES Act this Congress,” said Harvey Mason Jr., CEO, Recording Academy.
“OpenAI is happy to once again support the NO FAKES Act, which supports creators and artists. We applaud Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis for their leadership, and we look forward to working with the sponsors and fellow supporters as this legislation moves forward,” said OpenAI Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane.
“I applaud Senators Blackburn and Coons and Representatives Salazar and Dean for their leadership in introducing the NO FAKES Act. This bill reflects what can happen when tech and creative industries come together – foster cutting edge innovation while protecting human identity and artistry. We look forward to working with key members of the US Senate and House to help pass the NO FAKES Act this year,” said Robert Kyncl, Warner Music Group CEO.
“Universal Music Group applauds the reintroduction of the NO FAKES Act – landmark, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to address ‘deepfakes’ and other threats to individuals’ rights to control their own voice and visual likeness,” said Universal Music Group. “At once, this legislation secures First Amendment protections and takes a critical step to ensure all Americans can protect and control their own persona. We are grateful to the bill’s sponsors for their thoughtful leadership on this important issue.”
“Sony Music is proud to support the No FAKES Act to promote the ethical use of AI and give artists more control over their identity and creative expression,” said Sony Music. “Thank you to the Senate and House sponsors for continuing to champion this bipartisan legislation, which will provide meaningful protections against the unauthorized use of an artist’s voice and image. We look forward to working towards passage of this legislation allowing AI innovation and creativity to flourish.”
“Disney is pleased to support the reintroduction of the NO FAKES Act. We look forward to working with the sponsors to see this legislation enacted to ensure important and meaningful protections for individuals against misuse of their image and voice through AI while maintaining critical speech protections for legitimate storytelling rooted in the First Amendment,” said the Walt Disney Company.
“AI is now widely used across sectors, and as advancements continue, it’s vital to protect creators and individuals from potential deepfake risks,” said Mike Harney, Vice President, Government & Regulatory Affairs, IBM. “IBM supports the NO FAKES Act, which safeguards individuals from unauthorized AI replication of their images, voices, or likenesses. We thank Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis for their leadership on this important bipartisan legislation.”
“The NO FAKES Act makes a critical stride towards establishing NIL protections that deliver consent, credit, compensation, and control to all Americans,” said Dan Neely, Co-Founder and CEO, Vermillio. “With deepfakes representing only one piece of a much larger battle against unauthorized content, the entertainment industry must implement robust AI safeguards to protect American creativity, one of our most valuable assets. We appreciate the leadership of Senators Coons, Blackburn, Tillis, and Klobuchar, who recognize the essential role of cutting-edge technologies in delivering national security, protecting all citizens, and closing vulnerabilities that allow bad actors to misuse AI.”
“The development of AI-generated media and AI detection technologies must evolve in parallel,” said Kevin Guo, CEO and cofounder of Hive. “We envision a future where AI-generated media is created with permission, clearly identified, and appropriately credited. We stand firmly behind the NO FAKES Act as a fundamental step in establishing oversight while keeping pace with advancements in artificial intelligence to protect public trust and creative industries alike.”
“The Independent Film & Television Alliance® supports the NO FAKES Act and thanks lead sponsors Senators Coons and Blackburn, and sponsors Senators Klobuchar and Tillis, for their ongoing efforts to enact this bill,” said Jean Prewitt, President and CEO, IFTA. “This essential legislation establishes a standardized federal solution to prevent the unauthorized exploitation of an individual’s voice, image and likeness, upholds crucial First Amendment safeguards to protect free speech, and includes an important preemption clause.”
“The ABA applauds Senator Coons and Senator Blackburn for their bipartisan leadership on the NO FAKES legislation to fight the scourge of unauthorized Generative AI digital replicas,” said ABA President William R. Bay.
“We view technology as a complement, not a substitute, for human artistry,” said Christian Muirhead, Co-Chairman, WME. “Guardrails must be put into place that ensure continued innovation while protecting our clients’ name, image, likeness, and voice. We thank Senators Coons, Blackburn, Tillis, and Klobuchar for recognizing the urgency of this issue, and will continue to work with them to ensure all artists and our clients remain at the center of this vital legislation.”
“As advancements in AI continue to move at an unprecedented pace, so too must our legal frameworks. We thank Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis for creating this legislation that ensures artists maintain control over how their name, image, likenesses, voice, and IP are used. These forward-thinking policies are an essential first step to navigating this new digital era, striking a critical balance between innovation and strong protections,” said Bryan Lourd, CEO and Co-Chairman, Creative Artists Agency (CAA).
“The Human Artistry Campaign stands for preserving essential qualities of all individuals – beginning with a right to your own voice and image. The NO FAKES Act is an important step towards necessary protections that also support free speech and AI development. The Human Artistry Campaign commends Senators Blackburn and Coons and Representatives Salazar, Dean, Moran, and Balint for shepherding bipartisan support for this landmark legislation, a necessity for every American to have a right to their own identity as highly realistic voice clones and deepfakes become more pervasive,” said Dr. Moiya McTier, Human Artistry Campaign Senior Advisor.
“NAB applauds Senators Blackburn and Coons for reintroducing the NO FAKES Act, which takes an important step toward protecting trusted broadcast journalists, local radio hosts and other on-air personalities from the unauthorized use of their voice, image or likeness. Broadcasters play a vital role in keeping communities informed, and the spread of deceptive deepfakes undermines both individual rights and public trust. This bipartisan bill offers meaningful safeguards while respecting First Amendment protections, and we look forward to working with Congress to advance it,” said the National Association of Broadcasters.
“Unauthorized digital replicas threaten the livelihoods of members of DPE unions who earn a living through their voices and likenesses,” said Jennifer Dorning, President, Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE). “The NO FAKES Act will establish important federal protections to ensure that middle-class creative professionals have the ability to hold responsible those who misuse digital replicas. I applaud Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis for re-introducing this critical legislation.”
“As AI adoption grows, workers whose livelihoods depend on their image face a new frontier of exploitation: their digital replica being used without consent. That’s why the Model Alliance is proud to endorse the NO FAKES Act, which will empower individuals to control their digital likeness,” said Sara Ziff, Founding Director of Model Alliance. “As image-based workers who lack union protection, models are the canary in the coal mine. Federal standards for AI use are urgently needed to protect all individuals, particularly those whose image is their livelihood.”
“American songwriters and other music creators need Congress to put human beings first and pass laws that ensure transparency, consent, compensation, credit, and global consistency when it comes to generative AI. ASCAP commends this bipartisan group of leaders for introducing legislation that recognizes the value of human creativity to AI development,” said Elizabeth Matthews, CEO of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.
“NMPA is proud to support the reintroduction of the No Fakes Act. In an era where artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the creative landscape, it is critical that we protect the rights of creators from exploitation, fraud, and misuse. We commend Senators Coons, Blackburn, Klobuchar, and Tillis for their leadership in protecting songwriters and artists from illicit theft of their work. By establishing new protections against the harmful use of digital replicas, the No Fakes Act will provide the necessary framework to ensure that AI serves as a tool to enhance creativity rather than undermine the rights of those who create it. We urge the Senate to move swiftly in passing this critical legislation and securing the protections the creative community deserves,” said David Israelite, President and CEO, The National Music Publishers Association.
“The NO FAKES Act is an extremely important part of the puzzle in protecting human creators in the age of generative Artificial Intelligence. We applaud Senators Blackburn and Coons for introducing this bill in recognition that it should be a person’s right to protect their own voice and likeness and use it in only the ways they see fit. The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) strongly supports the NO FAKES Act and urges Congress to pass and enact this legislation expeditiously in the interest of protecting our creators,” said Jennifer Purdon Turnbow, COO of Nashville Songwriters Association International.
“The Authors Guild thanks Senators Chris Coons, Marsha Blackburn, Thom Tillis, and Amy Klobuchar for introducing the NO FAKES Act,” said Mary Rasenberger, CEO, Authors Guild. “It marks a significant step in protecting creators’ rights to their own persona. By prohibiting the unauthorized use of AI-generated replicas in audiovisual and sound recordings and establishing clear legal guidelines and liability for misuse, this bill helps safeguard creators from unauthorized and unpaid uses of their images and voices.”
“Imagine waking up one morning to find your face or the face of someone you love manipulated into sexually explicit imagery—distributed online for the world to see. This is now the reality we face. The proliferation of nonconsensual digital depictions has exploded online: 98% of deepfake videos online today are pornographic, and 99% of these deepfakes explicitly target women. The NO FAKES Act offers vital relief for victims by providing a path to seek justice through civil remedies,” said Haley McNamara, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Programs, National Center on Sexual Exploitation.
“Representing nearly 30,000 members across all disciplines of the television industry, the Television Academy supports the NO FAKES Act and applauds Senators Coons and Blackburn for working on this important bill. Television is built on the talent, creativity, and hard work of real people – writers, producers, and TV executives to camera operators and cinematographers who bring stories to life. As artificial intelligence and digital replication technologies evolve, it is essential to put in place meaningful protections that prevent the unauthorized and exploitative use of performers’ voices, likenesses, and creative expressions. The Television Academy supports the NO FAKES Act to establish clear federal protections that uphold the rights of television professionals and the creative foundation of the television industry,” said the Television Academy.
“Senator Blackburn (R) has long been a champion of protecting children and families from the harms of online exploitation and abuse and we proudly support her efforts, as well as her co-sponsor Senator Coons (D) in introducing the bi-partisan NO FAKES Act. As technology evolves exponentially, so do those who exploit these technologies at the expense of others. While artificial intelligence is increasingly relied upon to educate, inform, and create, it can also be used by bad actors to harm through the growing problem of ‘deepfakes’ and fraudulent unauthorized computer generated recreations of an individual’s voice or visual likeness. The NO FAKES Act would protect against such nonconsensual digital replications by providing harmed individuals with the ability to hold civilly liable those responsible for producing and distributing such content as well as the platforms who knowingly host such unauthorized content. AI can be a wonderful tool with vast benefits, but we must guard against its misuse to produce nonconsensual voice or visual replicas! No one is immune and we encourage Congress to move thoughtfully and aggressively forward to pass bi-partisan laws that prioritize the safety of both children and adults in the digital world,” said Donna Rice Hughes, CEO/President of Enough Is Enough.
“Generative AI development is moving at lightning speed, without the guardrails needed to make sure that artists who spend lifetimes developing their art don’t see their livelihoods eaten along with untold harm to the America’s creative culture. The NO FAKES Act would arm our community of over 550 independent labels with a new tool to combat the egregious theft of artists’ professional identities by big tech behemoths intent on winning at all costs. We are so thankful to our champions in the House and Senate for introducing the NO FAKES Act today,” said Dr. Richard James Burgess, President and CEO of the American Association of Independent Music.
This bill was initially introduced last Congress. A one-pager can be found here. You can read the full text of the bill here.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 10, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: Reforming Foreign Defense Sales to Improve Speed and Accountability

Source: The White House

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

Section 1. Purpose. To serve the interests of the American people, the United States must maintain the world’s strongest and most technologically advanced military through a dynamic defense industrial base, coupled with a robust network of capable partners and allies. A rapid and transparent foreign defense sales system that enables effective defense cooperation between the United States and our chosen partners is foundational to these objectives. Reforming this system would simultaneously strengthen the security capabilities of our allies and invigorate our own defense industrial base. This mutually reinforcing approach would enhance United States warfighting capabilities by fostering healthy American supply chains, domestic production levels, and technological development.

Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of my Administration to:
(a) Improve accountability and transparency throughout the foreign defense sales system to ensure predictable and reliable delivery of American products to foreign partners in support of United States foreign policy objectives.
(b) Consolidate parallel decision-making when determining which military capabilities the United States will choose to provide, and to which countries.
(c) Reduce rules and regulations involved in the development, execution, and monitoring of foreign defense sales and of transfer cases to ensure alignment with United States foreign policy objectives.
(d) Increase government-industry collaboration to achieve cost and schedule efficiencies in the execution of the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.
(e) Advance United States competitiveness abroad, revitalize the defense industrial base, and lower unit costs for the United States and our allies and partners by integrating exportability features in the design phase, improving financing options for partners, and increasing contract flexibility overall.

Sec. 3. Phased Implementation. (a) The Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense shall promptly:
(i) Implement National Security Presidential Memorandum 10 of April 19, 2018 (United States Conventional Arms Transfer Policy), or any successor policy directive.
(ii) Reevaluate restrictions imposed by the Missile Technology Control Regime on Category I items and consider supplying certain partners with specific Category I items, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce.
(iii) Submit a joint letter to the Congress proposing an update to statutory congressional certification (also known as congressional notification) thresholds of proposed sales under the FMS and Direct Commercial Sales (DCS) programs in the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2751 et seq.). The Secretary of State shall also work with the Congress to review congressional notification processes to ensure the timely adjudication of notified FMS and DCS cases.

(b) Within 60 days of the date of this order:
(i) The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, shall develop a list of priority partners for conventional arms transfers and issue updated guidance to Chiefs of the United States Diplomatic Missions regarding this list.
(ii) The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of State, shall:
(A) develop a list of priority end-items for potential transfer to priority partners identified by the Secretary of State in the list required by this subsection;
(B) ensure the transfer of priority end-items to priority partners would not cause significant harm to United States force readiness; and
(C) ensure the transfer of priority end-items to priority partners would advance my Administration’s goal of strengthening allied burden-sharing, both by sharing the cost of end-item production and by increasing our allies’ capacity to meet capability targets independently, without sustained support from the United States.
(c)(i) The Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense shall review, update, and reissue the lists of priority partners and military end-items on an annual basis.
the United States Munitions List, 22 C.F.R. part 121, to focus protections solely on our most sensitive and sophisticated technologies, and shall establish clear criteria for including an item on the FMS-Only List.
(ii) The Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense shall review and update the list of defense items that can only be purchased through the FMS process (the FMS-Only List) and
(d) Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce, shall submit a plan to the President, through the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (APNSA), to: improve the transparency of United States defense sales to foreign partners by developing metrics for accountability; secure exportability as a requirement in the early stages of the acquisition process; and consolidate technology security and foreign disclosure approvals.
(e) Within 120 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense, with the assistance of the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Commerce, shall submit a plan to the APNSA to develop a single electronic system to track all DCS export license requests and ongoing FMS efforts throughout the case life-cycle.

Sec. 4. Definitions. For purposes of this order:

(a) “Parallel decision-making” refers to the granting of simultaneous certifications and approvals during the FMS process, as opposed to sequential decision-making where agencies wait for other agencies to make decisions before taking action.
(b) “Exportability” means the process to identify, develop, and integrate technology protection features into United States defense systems early in the acquisition process to protect critical technologies, capabilities, and program information and thus enable export to partners.
(c) “FMS-only” means defense articles that are exclusively available through the FMS process as opposed to the DCS process, as authorized in the Arms Export Control Act and described in the Security Assistance Management Manual (SAMM), Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), Chapter 4.
(d) “End-item” means the final product when assembled and ready for issue or deployment.
(e) “Foreign defense sales system” means the enterprise devoted to the transfer of defense articles, services, and training by the United States Government and United States companies to international partners and organizations.
(f) All other terms related to FMS cases shall have the meanings given to them by the SAMM, DSCA 5105.38M.

Sec. 5.  General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

THE WHITE HOUSE,
    April 9, 2025.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 10, 2025

Category: Intelligence Agencies

Naxalmukt Bharat Abhiyan: From Red Zones to Growth CorridorsIndia’s Decisive Battle Against Left Wing Extremism

Earlier concerns batted away

Successive reviews have reaffirmed the decision

Naxalmukt Bharat Abhiyan: From Red Zones to Growth Corridors

India’s Decisive Battle Against Left Wing Extremism