NewzIntel.com

Category: Intelligence Agencies

  • MIL-OSI Security: Southern Nevada Man Sentenced To 10 Years In Prison For Coercion And Enticement Of A Child And Possession Of Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAS VEGAS – A Henderson, Nev., resident was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 10 years in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release for engaging in a sexually explicit conversation with who he believed to be a child and possessing child sexual abuse material on his phone.

    According to court documents, on April 5, 2023, Nathan Thomas Foreman (43) engaged in a sexually explicit conversation via text messaging with someone who he believed to be an 11-year-old girl in an attempt to meet her and engage in sexual intercourse. Throughout the course of the conversation, he inquired about her sexual preferences, requested photos, described what he wanted to do with her, and sent pornography depicting the sexual conduct he described in words. The conversation concluded with Foreman coordinating a time for the two to meet in person to engage in sexual intercourse. On April 6, 2023, Foreman was arrested at the predetermined meet up location. A forensic analysis of his cellphone revealed approximately 10 images and 12 videos of child sexual abuse material.

    “The defendant not only attempted to coerce and entice who he believed to be an 11-year-old girl to engage in sexual intercourse with him, but he also possessed child sexual abuse material of infants and toddlers,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Through the Justice Department’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and our law enforcement partners are continuously working to combat child sexual exploitation in Nevada.”

    “When children are victimized, the FBI, along with our law enforcement partners, will exert every effort to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Today’s sentencing reflects our unwavering commitment to pursuing justice for our most vulnerable victims.”

    On October 1, 2024, Foreman pleaded guilty to one count of coercion and enticement and one count of possession of child pornography.

    In addition to imprisonment, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, Foreman must register as a sex offender and keep the registration current.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Afroza Yeasmin prosecuted the case.

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

    Anyone with information on suspected child sexual exploitation can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or online at https://report.cybertip.org.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Indicted for $1 Million Bank Fraud Scheme Involving Stolen Treasury Check

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – Today, a federal grand jury indicted three members of a bank fraud conspiracy.

    Orelien Martial Nguepi-Tankoua, Jean Paul Bayoi, and Tamblyn Milton Frasier were implicated in a bank fraud conspiracy involving a stolen United States Treasury check, the use of fraudulent identities to establish illegitimate bank accounts, and subsequent money laundering activities.

    In September 2021, Frasier opened a bank account in the Northern District of Georgia using a falsified driver’s license and a fabricated identity, both of which were obtained with the assistance of Bayoi. The account details were based on the payee information listed on a stolen United States Treasury check valued at over $1 million. After the account was established, Nguepi-Tankoua deposited the stolen Treasury check via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM).

    Attempts were made to withdraw the funds from the fraudulent account; however, the U.S. Department of the Treasury – Office of Inspector General and the United States Secret Service intervened. They successfully seized the remaining funds available in the account.

    On the dates of March 13, 14, and 19, Frasier, Nguepi-Tankoua, and Bayoi made their respective initial appearances before a United States Magistrate Judge.

    On April 8, Nguepi-Tankoua, Bayoi, and Frasier were formally indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, and money laundering. The individuals have previously appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judges in both Florida and Georgia. Each defendant faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Javan Wilson of the U.S. Department of Treasury Office of Inspector General, Acting Inspector in Charge Steven L. Hodges, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Miami Division, Special Agent in Charge Rafael Barros of the United States Secret Service Miami Field Office, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles of the FBI, Miami Field Office announced the indictments.

    The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Treasury – Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, United States Secret Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rinku Tribuiani is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Paster is handling asset forfeiture.

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

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-mj-8126.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Reed, Coons Lead National Security Senators in Sounding Alarm Over Recent Firings at NSA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, without cause or justification, President Donald Trump fired the top American cybersecurity official responsible for countering foreign cyber threats, just as the U.S. is confronting the most complex, sophisticated, and sustained attacks on U.S. cyber infrastructure our nation has ever experienced. The abrupt firing of General Timothy Haugh, the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM), as well as the reassignment of Wendy Noble, the Deputy Director of the NSA, comes on the heels of the Trump Administration undermining the federal government’s election-related cyberdefenses, the mass-firing of federal cybersecurity personnel across multiple agencies, and an attempt to shift cyberdefense responsibilities onto states and municipalities.
    This week, Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee Jack Reed (D-RI), and Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense Chris Coons (D-DE), led 21 of their committee colleagues in a letter to President Trump regarding the still unexplained ouster of General Haugh and Deputy Director Noble and warning that the Trump Administration’s actions are exposing the U.S. to serious threats from foreign adversaries and sophisticated cybercriminals.
    “These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure,” the 24 Senators wrote. “In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.”
    The senators also highlighted the impact this move would have on the dual-hat arrangement, in which a single officer leads both the NSA and CYBERCOM, and stressed that prematurely severing this agreement could put U.S. national security at risk.
    They continued, “Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”
    Joining Vice Chairman Warner and Ranking Members Reed and Coons in this letter are U.S. Senators: Patty Murray (D-WA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Gary Peters (D-MI), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Chris Murphy (D-CT).
    As members of the key committees tasked with conducting oversight over NSA, the senators requested written justification for why General Timothy Haugh and Deputy Director Wendy Noble were removed from their posts, and asked for a Congressional briefing regarding any additional actions the administration plans to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.
    Full text of the letter follows:
    Dear President Trump,
    We write with alarm at the sudden and inexplicable firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander, U.S. Cyber Command, General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble. Not only have both dutifully served this nation for decades under both Democratic and Republican administrations, but their removals were conducted in the middle of the night with no consultation with Congress and, according to reports, at the behest of a private citizen who has a record of promoting conspiracy theories.
    These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure. In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.
    Furthermore, we urge you to exercise careful consideration and consultation with Congress on any further actions that may impact NSA’s or CYBERCOM’s abilities to provide the critical intelligence and operational support to policymakers and warfighters. This includes, but is not limited to, any considerations to terminate the dual-hat arrangement. Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”
    As Members of the respective committees of oversight, we request that you formally provide in writing a justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts and provide a briefing to Congress on any additional actions you plan to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder of Supreme Court Justice in Maryland

    Source: US State of California

    Nicholas John Roske, 29, of Simi Valley, California, pleaded guilty today to attempting to kill a U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

    “This calculated attempt on the life of a sitting U.S. Supreme Court Justice was a heinous attack on the Court itself,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Anyone who thinks they can use violence or intimidation to influence our courts will be met with the full force of the law and face up to life in prison.”

    “Nicholas Roske sought to commit a despicable, premeditated attack on a Supreme Court Justice and today is another step toward accountability,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “No violent attacks can be tolerated, whether those targeted are public officials or private citizens – and the FBI and our partners will aggressively investigate and bring to justice all those who engage in such plots.”

    “The attempted assassination of a U.S. Supreme Court Justice is an extreme, brazen act, one that we — along with our federal, local, and state law-enforcement partners — will not tolerate,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “It’s through these partnerships that we’re able to hold criminals accountable and uphold the rule of law. We are committed to relentlessly pursuing and prosecuting those who are involved in planning and executing acts of violence against others.”

    As part of his guilty plea, Roske admitted that on June 7, 2022, he flew from Los Angeles International Airport to Dulles International Airport with a firearm and ammunition in his checked baggage. He then took a taxi from the airport to Montgomery County, Maryland, with the intent to kill the Supreme Court Justice.

    According to the criminal complaint and the Government’s factual allegations, on June 8, 2022, at approximately 1:05 a.m., two Deputy U.S. Marshals, protecting the residence of a Supreme Court Justice, observed Roske arrive in and get out of a taxi in front of the residence. Roske wore black clothing and had a backpack and suitcase. Upon observing Roske, the two Deputy U.S. Marshals started to get out of their vehicles as the defendant proceeded to walk down the street.

    Shortly after, Roske told a Montgomery County Emergency Communications Center call taker that he was having homicidal and suicidal thoughts, had a gun in his suitcase, and flew from California to kill a specific Supreme Court Justice.

    Montgomery County Police Department officers responded to the location and took Roske into custody. A search of Roske’s suitcase and backpack revealed a firearm; black tactical chest rig and tactical knife; two magazines, each containing 10 rounds of ammunition; 17 additional rounds of ammunition; pepper spray; zip ties; a hammer; screwdrivers; a nail punch; a crowbar; a pistol light; duct tape; hiking boots with padding on the outside of the soles; and lock-pick tools, along with other items.

    Law enforcement transported Roske to a Montgomery County Police Department station where he was read his Miranda rights. Roske then stated that he was upset about a recently leaked Supreme Court draft decision on abortion as well as the recent school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. The defendant also admitted that he came from California with the intent to use the firearm and burglary tools and to kill the Supreme Court Justice.

    Roske faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman scheduled sentencing for Oct. 3. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, MCPD, and Police Department for the U.S. Supreme Court for their work and cooperation in the investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas M. Sullivan and Coreen Mao for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance from Trial Attorney John Cella of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Senior Member of Violent D.C. Drug Crew Is Sentenced to 420 Months in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON –Broadus Jamal Daniels, 30, of Washington, D.C. was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 420 months (35 years) in prison in connection with drug and gun charges related to a drug-trafficking conspiracy.

                The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, FBI Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, ATF Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Washington Field Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

                Daniels, aka “Wardy,” was found guilty by a federal jury on September 16, 2024, of possessing machine guns in furtherance of drug trafficking, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, conspiracy to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana, possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, unlawful possession of machine guns, and possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.

                In addition to the 35-year prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson ordered Daniels to serve four years of supervised release.

                According to the evidence presented at trial, Daniels, was a “big homie” or senior member in a street gang known as Jugg Gang, or “JG.”  In approximately August 2018, the Jugg Gang became allied with a neighboring D.C. street crew known as “Push Dat Shit” or “PDS.”  PDS maintained gang territory in the 3300 – 3500 blocks of Wheeler Road, Southeast, and adjacent areas, and operated an open-air drug market outside a grocery located on the 3500 block of Wheeler Road, Southeast.

                Between August 2018 and April 2023, members of the allied PDS/JG street crew sold drugs from Holiday Market and from “trap houses” that they maintained in apartment buildings surrounding that location. As their drug business grew, PDS/JG became the target of drive-by shootings conducted by rival gangs – shootings they referred to as “spinning the block.” Beginning in August 2019, a PDS/JG member began assembling AR-pistol assault rifles from kits purchased from online retailers and modified them to be capable of fully automatic fire. Such firearms are defined as “privately made firearms” by the ATF but are frequently referred to as “ghost guns” on the street.

                As proved at trial, PDS/JG members used, carried, and possessed these “ghost gun” AR-pistol machine guns to defend their territory from rival gangs, and also to “spin the block” on rival gangs to deter their rivals from entering PDS/JG territory.

                This sentencing is part of an ongoing joint investigation which has resulted in 26 convictions, and the seizure of two vehicles, 35 firearms, four machine guns, more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition, approximately 60 pounds of marijuana, 41 grams of cocaine base, dozens of oxycodone pills, and approximately $500,000 in cash.

                Daniels’ co-defendant, Andre Alonte Willis, who was a leader of PDS, was sentenced February 20, 2025, to 20 years in prison on five felony convictions related to drug trafficking and firearms offenses.

                The case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the ATF’s Washington Field Division, and the Metropolitan Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys James B. Nelson and Justin F. Song and Paralegal Specialist Melissa Macechko.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: California Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder of Supreme Court Justice in Maryland

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Nicholas John Roske, 29, of Simi Valley, California, pleaded guilty today to attempting to kill a U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

    “This calculated attempt on the life of a sitting U.S. Supreme Court Justice was a heinous attack on the Court itself,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Anyone who thinks they can use violence or intimidation to influence our courts will be met with the full force of the law and face up to life in prison.”

    “Nicholas Roske sought to commit a despicable, premeditated attack on a Supreme Court Justice and today is another step toward accountability,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “No violent attacks can be tolerated, whether those targeted are public officials or private citizens – and the FBI and our partners will aggressively investigate and bring to justice all those who engage in such plots.”

    “The attempted assassination of a U.S. Supreme Court Justice is an extreme, brazen act, one that we — along with our federal, local, and state law-enforcement partners — will not tolerate,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “It’s through these partnerships that we’re able to hold criminals accountable and uphold the rule of law. We are committed to relentlessly pursuing and prosecuting those who are involved in planning and executing acts of violence against others.”

    As part of his guilty plea, Roske admitted that on June 7, 2022, he flew from Los Angeles International Airport to Dulles International Airport with a firearm and ammunition in his checked baggage. He then took a taxi from the airport to Montgomery County, Maryland, with the intent to kill the Supreme Court Justice.

    According to the criminal complaint and the Government’s factual allegations, on June 8, 2022, at approximately 1:05 a.m., two Deputy U.S. Marshals, protecting the residence of a Supreme Court Justice, observed Roske arrive in and get out of a taxi in front of the residence. Roske wore black clothing and had a backpack and suitcase. Upon observing Roske, the two Deputy U.S. Marshals started to get out of their vehicles as the defendant proceeded to walk down the street.

    Shortly after, Roske told a Montgomery County Emergency Communications Center call taker that he was having homicidal and suicidal thoughts, had a gun in his suitcase, and flew from California to kill a specific Supreme Court Justice.

    Montgomery County Police Department officers responded to the location and took Roske into custody. A search of Roske’s suitcase and backpack revealed a firearm; black tactical chest rig and tactical knife; two magazines, each containing 10 rounds of ammunition; 17 additional rounds of ammunition; pepper spray; zip ties; a hammer; screwdrivers; a nail punch; a crowbar; a pistol light; duct tape; hiking boots with padding on the outside of the soles; and lock-pick tools, along with other items.

    Law enforcement transported Roske to a Montgomery County Police Department station where he was read his Miranda rights. Roske then stated that he was upset about a recently leaked Supreme Court draft decision on abortion as well as the recent school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. The defendant also admitted that he came from California with the intent to use the firearm and burglary tools and to kill the Supreme Court Justice.

    Roske faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman scheduled sentencing for Oct. 3. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, MCPD, and Police Department for the U.S. Supreme Court for their work and cooperation in the investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas M. Sullivan and Coreen Mao for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance from Trial Attorney John Cella of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Teacher Sentenced for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

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

    HOUSTON – A 31-year-old former College Station resident has been ordered to federal prison after he shared multiple images on various online platforms containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. 

    Daniel Byrd pleaded guilty Nov. 25, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt has now sentenced Byrd to a total of 60 months in prison. In handing down the sentence, the court stated that the defendant may never have control of his addictive conduct, but the responsibility lies with Byrd himself. He was further ordered to serve 10 years on supervised release following the completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Byrd will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

    The investigation began after authorities discovered Byrd shared multiple CSAM images on various online platforms. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Byrd’s residence and seized his electronic devices.

    Some images depicted sexual contact between prepubescent males, while others showed adult males having sex with prepubescent males.  

    Byrd admitted to using online platforms Telegram and Kik to view and download CSAM utilizing his smart phone. He also stated he created a Mega account, a cloud-based storage and file hosting service, to save the child pornography. He would then distribute it to others by sending them links. 

    At the time of his arrest, Byrd was a teacher in the Navasota area. 

    Previously released on bond, Byrd was taken into custody following the sentencing today where he will remain pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance from College Station Police Department and the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Leo and Jay Hileman prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Snohomish County men indicted for drug trafficking conspiracy involving cocaine, fentanyl, and firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Two of the three defendants received commutations of long sentences in state court for serious violent crimes

    Seattle – Three Snohomish County men remain in federal detention tonight following their indictment last week for conspiracy, drug trafficking, and gun crimes, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Percy Levy, 54, Eugene Smith, 69, and Robert O. Baggett, 60, remain at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac. At a hearing today Magistrate Judge Michelle Peterson ordered Baggett held pending trial. The other two defendants have detention hearings later this week and next week.  Jury trial is scheduled in front of Judge John H. Chun on June 9, 2025.

    According to records filed in the case, as early as 2023, Levy and Baggett were on the radar of the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force for dealing cocaine. Baggett repeatedly sold cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine to an undercover officer and identified his boss as Percy Levy. Later, surveillance by law enforcement identified Smith as another conspirator. On March 13, 2025, Smith was arrested after he delivered cocaine and fentanyl powder to an undercover officer at a drug deal at a local casino.

    Shortly after Smith’s arrest, officers served a search warrant on Levy’s residence where they found bricks of cocaine,

     fentanyl powder, digital scales, and packaging materials. They also seized a loaded firearm from under the pillow on the bed in the room where they discovered the drugs.

    Baggett allegedly repeatedly sold not only drugs but firearms in his dealing with undercover officers.

    All three defendants have significant criminal history and are prohibited from possessing firearms. Levy has a criminal history dating back to 1988 with convictions for burglary, assault with a deadly weapon, and robbery. Levy was sentenced to more than 19 years in prison in 2003 but was granted conditional clemency in 2019.

    Baggett’s criminal history dates to 1983 and includes 14 felonies including theft and assault.

    Smith has criminal history dating back to 1976. He has convictions for robbery, drug trafficking and assault. In 1996 he was sentenced to life in prison under the state’s Third Strike law.  His sentence was conditionally commuted in 2020.

    All three men are charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Levy is also charged with possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute for the cocaine and fentanyl found in his home and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Both Levy and Baggett are charged with unlawful possession of a firearm.

    The charges against Levy are punishable by a mandatory minimum 15 years to life in prison.  The charges against Baggett and Smith are punishable by a mandatory minimum ten years in prison to life in prison. 

    The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations.  A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The case is being investigated by the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force (SRDTF) and the FBI.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brian Wynne and Cindy Chang.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Vernon Man Admits Receiving Sexually Explicit Images from Minors on Snapchat

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DARYL TODD, 44, of Vernon, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to a child exploitation offense.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, an investigation by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force revealed that Todd used Snapchat to communicate with minor girls and entice them to send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves, sometimes in return for money that Todd sent the victims using the mobile payment service Cash App.  Todd also sent sexually explicit images of himself to the minor victims.

    After Todd was arrested on March 7, 2024, analysis of his cellphone revealed sexually explicit images of minor females.

    Todd pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 1.

    Todd is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.

    This matter has been investigated by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation.

    For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, 22 Colleagues Demand Answers On Abrupt Firing Of NSA Leaders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    April 08, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, joined 22 of their Senate colleagues in a letter to President Donald Trump regarding the firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM), General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble.

    “These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure,” the senators wrote. “In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.”

    The senators warned that ending the dual-hat arrangement—where one officer leads both NSA and CYBERCOM—could seriously undermine U.S. national security: “Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”

    The senators requested written justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts and asked for a Congressional briefing regarding any additional actions the administration plans to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.

    U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-Va.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) also signed the letter.

    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.

    Dear President Trump,

    We write with alarm at the sudden and inexplicable firing of the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Commander, U.S. Cyber Command, General Timothy Haugh, as well as the reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble. Not only have both dutifully served this nation for decades under both Democratic and Republican administrations, but their removals were conducted in the middle of the night with no consultation with Congress and, according to reports, at the behest of a private citizen who has a record of promoting conspiracy theories.

    These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure. In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.

    Furthermore, we urge you to exercise careful consideration and consultation with Congress on any further actions that may impact NSA’s or CYBERCOM’s abilities to provide the critical intelligence and operational support to policymakers and warfighters. This includes, but is not limited to, any considerations to terminate the dual-hat arrangement. Premature termination of the dual-hat arrangement would severely degrade the speed and effectiveness of NSA’s and CYBERCOM’s abilities to execute their missions and could have dire consequence for our national security. As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not “pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States.”

    As Members of the respective committees of oversight, we request that you formally provide in writing a justification for why Director Timothy Haugh and Ms. Wendy Noble were removed from their posts and provide a briefing to Congress on any additional actions you plan to take with respect to NSA and CYBERCOM, including but not limited to the separation of the dual-hat.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Jersey Man Sentenced for Prescription Opioid Conspiracy

    Source: US State of California

    A New Jersey man was sentenced today to 16 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, a highly addictive controlled substance.  

    According to court documents, between November 2022 and March 2023, Chris Ruediger, 61, of Pennsauken, purchased prescription oxycodone pills from a relative and sold them to another relative involved in unlawfully distributing oxycodone. Ruediger admitted to distributing between 100 and 400 kilograms of opioids by converted drug weight. Ruediger also admitted that he attempted to obstruct the investigation by attempting to persuade one of his co-conspirators not to talk with law enforcement.

    In November 2024, Ruediger pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.  

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI Philadelphia Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s South Jersey Resident Agency investigated the case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division.

    Trial Attorneys Paul J. Koob and Nicholas K. Peone of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Jersey Man Sentenced for Prescription Opioid Conspiracy

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    A New Jersey man was sentenced today to 16 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, a highly addictive controlled substance.  

    According to court documents, between November 2022 and March 2023, Chris Ruediger, 61, of Pennsauken, purchased prescription oxycodone pills from a relative and sold them to another relative involved in unlawfully distributing oxycodone. Ruediger admitted to distributing between 100 and 400 kilograms of opioids by converted drug weight. Ruediger also admitted that he attempted to obstruct the investigation by attempting to persuade one of his co-conspirators not to talk with law enforcement.

    In November 2024, Ruediger pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.  

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI Philadelphia Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s South Jersey Resident Agency investigated the case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division.

    Trial Attorneys Paul J. Koob and Nicholas K. Peone of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Joins Colleagues in Expressing Outrage Over Recent Firings of Leaders of U.S. Cyber Command, National Security Agency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee’s Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, with oversight of U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM) and the National Security Agency (NSA), joined Senate colleagues in a letter to President Trump demanding information on the sudden and unjustified firing of the Director of the NSA and Commander of CYBERCOM, General Timothy Haugh, as well as the abrupt reassignment of the Deputy Director of the NSA, Wendy Noble, reportedly at the request of a private individual and online provocateur, who has a long record of peddling in vicious conspiracy theories.
    “These actions severely compromise our ability to keep Americans safe. As you are well aware, our nation currently faces serious cyber threats from foreign adversaries, such as from China’s Salt Typhoon, with near-daily attacks against our critical infrastructure,” wrote the senators. “In addition, our nation’s military is engaged in ongoing operations against multiple threats, from the Houthis in Yemen to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. Given the dangers facing the United States, it is inexplicable that the Administration would remove the senior leaders of NSA/CYBERCOM without cause or warning, and risk disrupting critical ongoing intelligence operations.”
    “As Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis has repeatedly made clear in the National Defense Authorization Acts for Fiscal Years 2017, 2018, and 2020, clear criteria must be met before any termination can be considered and both the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs must together certify that separation will not ‘pose risks to the military effectiveness of the United States Cyber Command that are unacceptable to the national security interests of the United States,’” they concluded.
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been fighting back against the Trump Administration’s recklessness, which is putting our national security at risk. Last month, she led 15 of her Senate colleagues in a letter calling on the Senate Armed Services Committee, the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to hold hearings to fully investigate this national security breach. Senator Rosen also joined fellow members of the Senate Armed Services Committee in a letter demanding answers from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth regarding the recent abrupt dismissals of several Judge Advocate Generals.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on Senior National Security Nominations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today chaired a hearing examining nominees for several senior positions at the Department of Defense and one at the Department of Energy.  
    During his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker underscored the significant responsibilities these roles entail, including the modernization of our nuclear weapons and the protection of our intelligence against China’s aggressive espionage campaign.  
    Read Senator Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered below. 
    I welcome our four witnesses and their families, and I thank them for being here this morning. 
    Mr. Brandon Williams has been nominated to be Under Secretary of Energy for Nuclear Security and the Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). As the Administrator, Mr. Williams would be responsible for rebuilding and modernizing our long-neglected nuclear weapons stockpile. Failure here is not an option. Over the past several years, we have watched as Russia, China, and North Korea have rapidly expanded their nuclear arsenals and developed new types of weapons – weapons for which we are sorely unprepared. 
    This committee is focused on ensuring that the Department of Defense and the NNSA deliver results. As the Congressional Strategic Posture Commission made clear, modernizing our country’s nuclear deterrent is a national imperative. I look forward to hearing how Mr. Williams intends to pursue this objective.
    Mr. Bradley Hansell has been nominated to be the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence & Security. In addition to serving as the Secretary of Defense’s principal advisor on intelligence, counterintelligence, security, and law enforcement matters, the Under Secretary is tasked with protecting the Department’s most sensitive information from our adversaries. This includes ensuring the provision of timely and accurate intelligence to our forces, overseeing the security clearance vetting process, guarding against insider threats, and protecting our industrial base from China’s aggressive campaign of espionage and theft. 
    Mr. Hansell served as a Naval officer and an Army Green Beret. During his distinguished career in uniform, he saw first-hand that quality intelligence is crucial to executing the mission. That experience and his work in the private sector gives me confidence he will do an excellent job. I look forward to hearing Mr. Hansell outline his priorities for our intelligence and security enterprise. 
    Mr. Earl Matthews has been nominated to be the General Counsel of the Department of Defense. He has had a distinguished career as a Judge Advocate in the Army Reserve and the Army National Guard, serving as the senior headquarters staff judge advocate for the D.C. National Guard. Mr. Matthews also brings extensive civilian government experience. He worked for Secretary Mattis in 2017 before moving over the Army General Counsel office, where he served as Acting General Counsel of the Army. 
    President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have taken bold and necessary steps to reform the Department of Defense. As we all know, purposeful and thoughtful reform requires purposeful and thoughtful lawyers. I am confident that Mr. Matthews possesses both qualities. I look forward to hearing his opinion about what the DOD Office of General Counsel is doing right, and I want to hear his ideas for how he would do things differently. 
    Mr. Dale Marks has been nominated to be the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment, a role which ensures the operational readiness and resiliency of the Department of Defense (DoD). If confirmed, Mr. Marks would oversee the management of military installations and infrastructure, the bedrock of the safety and well-being of service members and their families. 
    This critical position will play a key part in the implementation of several reforms from last year’s NDAA. Among them are the mandate requiring a minimum four-percent plant replacement value for DOD facilities – let me repeat that – among them are the mandate, in the NDAA, requiring a minimum four-percent plant replacement value for DOD facilities, leveraging of area-wide contracting authorities, and a review of Biden-era green energy policies that focus more on climate change than combat lethality. I look forward to hearing from Mr. Marks about how he intends to tackle these important issues. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King: America’s Nuclear Programs a “Not Fail Mission,” Warns Against Firings at Key Department

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King, in a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), spoke with Brandon Williams, the nominee to serve as the Under Secretary of Energy for Nuclear Security, about the grave importance of keeping the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) staffed amid reckless cuts and buyouts inflicted upon the department by the White House at the urging of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). During the exchange, Senator King pressed Williams for his commitment to protect the NNSA workforce and ensure it is properly staffed to meet the demand as the United States seeks to bolster its nuclear arsenal and keep pace with global foes. The hearing comes on the heels of the Trump Administration firing — then scrambling to rehire — more than 300 NNSA employees without realizing they oversee the country’s weapons stockpile.

    I am gravely concerned about this memo that was mentioned on Friday of the possibility of 500 people in the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) as non-essential. That is 20% of the workforce. The testimony is it is one of the greatest scientific engineering organizations in human history. I just do not understand how that wonderful organization, if that’s true, how 20% are non-essential. I did a little calculation. That is 2/10th of 1% of the budget. What is to be gained by reducing the staff by 20% of this essential agency at this moment with the rebuilding of our nuclear triad,” asked Senator King.

    “Senator King, thank you for that question and your attention on the workforce which I think is absolutely critical. If confirmed, I commit to you that I will stand up for the men and women of NNSA, that I will advocate for them. We are facing a moment in history where NNSA must perform. I think there are opportunities for us to innovate at NNSA, to deliver on the program record and the expectations that this committee has set and that we will stand up to our adversaries,” replied Williams.

    “You are absolutely right. This is a no fail mission. Because of the modernization program we are in the midst of, the demands on NNSA have never been greater, probably since the founding of the agency. I hope you will stand up for that workforce. There is an issue here not only of the people, the 500 people being non-essential, the effect on morale in the workforce is something to be considered. I hope you can address this early in your tenure and be sure that the workforce is protected, and that the morale of the agency can be maintained. Will you commit to that,” questioned Senator King.

    “If confirmed, I will certainly commit to that,” responded Williams.

    Senator King is a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and also serves as the ranking member of the subcommittee on Strategic Forces — which performs critical oversight of America’s nuclear weapons arsenal. He has been a steady voice on the need to address the growing nuclear capacity of our adversaries and has previously expressed concern about Russia and China’s emerging “nightmare weapon” hypersonic missiles. Senator King has also warned extensively of the carelessness of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) antics, and raised the alarms on Constitutional overstep as the White House continues to pare down the federal workforce. He wrote a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, alongside 36 senators, sharing the detrimental effects of  the Trump Administration’s dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). He also joined fellow Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) colleagues in writing a letter to the White House about the risks to national security by allowing unvetted Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staff and representatives to access classified and sensitive government materials. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Scheme to Defraud Medicare

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

    A Florida man pleaded guilty on Monday to purchasing Medicare identification numbers and using those numbers to cause over $8.4 million of false and fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicare.

    Corey Alston, 47, of Fort Lauderdale, pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud the United States and to illegally purchase Medicare beneficiary identification numbers in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare for COVID-19 test kits that were ineligible for reimbursement. According to court documents, Alston and his co-defendant, Latresia A. Wilson, conspired to unlawfully purchase Medicare beneficiary identification information (including Medicare Beneficiary Identification Numbers) and used that information to submit millions of dollars in claims to Medicare for COVID-19 test kits that the beneficiaries did not want or request.

    Over the course of just seven months, from July 2022 through February 2023, Alston, Wilson, and others, through companies they owned and controlled, submitted over $8.4 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare that were ineligible for reimbursement. Medicare paid over $2.6 million based on the false and fraudulent claims.

    Wilson previously pleaded guilty on June 10, 2024, to conspiracy to defraud the United States and to illegally purchase Medicare beneficiary identification. She is scheduled to be sentenced on May 15. Alston is scheduled to be sentenced on July 9. Alston and Wilson each face a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Matthew W. Fodor of the FBI Tampa Field Office; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jesus Barranco of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.

    The FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Shane Butland and Keith Clouser and Senior Litigation Counsel Catherine Wagner of the National Rapid Response Strike Force of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. Acting Assistant Chief Justin Woodard assisted in charging the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Portland Man Admits Drug Distribution Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PORTLAND, Maine: A Portland man pleaded guilty today to three counts of drug distribution in U.S. District Court in Portland, Maine.

    According to court records, Francis Mezan, 34, sold drugs to a confidential source on three separate occasions in the summer of 2024. The transactions were video-recorded and monitored via surveillance. Mezan sold quantities of cocaine and cocaine base to the confidential source.

    Mezan faces up to 20 years in federal prison, a maximum fine of $1 million, and three years to life of supervised release. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI investigated the case, with assistance from the Portland Police Department and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Home health care companies owner sentenced to more than 3 years in prison for $5.7 million Medicaid fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – Sally Njume-Tatsing, 47, formerly of Pickerington, was sentenced in federal court here today to 42 months in prison for committing Medicaid fraud. Njume-Tatsing was found guilty in September 2024 on all 13 counts as charged following a jury trial.

    According to court documents and trial testimony, in 2017, Njume-Tatsing owned and operated three home healthcare businesses named Labelle Home Health. The agencies were located in Reynoldsburg, Mt. Vernon and Parma.

    Njume-Tatsing resided in California during the majority of the time she owned the businesses, and despite not being involved in Labelle’s daily operations, she did all of the Medicaid billing for nursing services.

    While billing Medicaid for health aide services to individuals in their homes, the defendant inflated the hours of services provided, billed for registered nurses when licensed practical nurses completed the care, and billed for care for patients who were either deceased or ineligible to receive Medicaid.

    Njume-Tatsing was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2023 and charged with one count of health care fraud and 12 counts of making false health care statements.

    As part of her sentence, Njume-Tatsing is ordered to pay $5.7 million in restitution to Medicaid.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and the Ohio Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU); the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; and Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; announced the sentence imposed today by Chief U.S. District Judge Sarah D. Morrison. Assistant United States Attorney Kenneth A. Affeldt and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan L. Metzler of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office are representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – MEPs and Ukrainian parliamentarians discuss shaping a common European future

    Source: European Parliament

    Meeting on Tuesday, leading members of the European Parliament and of the Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada signalled their strong support for Ukraine’s EU accession process.

    At their second meeting, held remotely on Tuesday, European Parliament and Verkhovna Rada parliamentary committee chairs, MEPs and Ukrainian parliamentarians discussed the ongoing cooperation between the two institutions to prepare Ukraine for future EU accession. Committee chairs from both parliaments reaffirmed their strong commitment to Ukraine’s resilience and democracy, and to a common European future. They also took stock of ongoing policy cooperation and pledged to step up their engagement going forward.

    In a video address to those gathered, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said: “Ukraine’s rightful place is in the European family. Ukraine has proven with significant progress on reforms that they are ready for these accelerated accession talks to move further, and our Parliament’s response is equally clear: our Union must continue to move ahead with even more resolve and action.”

    The speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, Ruslan Stefanchuk, thanked the EU and in particular the European Parliament for its leadership and support to Ukraine ever since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. He also pointed to Ukraine’s determined efforts to make progress on its European integration path, adding: “We are fully committed to the reform process”.

    During the meeting, MEPs and their Ukrainian counterparts stressed the significance of the mutually reinforcing relationship between Ukraine and the EU, with many highlighting the importance for Ukraine of continuing to reform its laws and economy as it moves towards EU membership. They also stressed that their shared future rests on defending the values of democracy and rule of law.

    Touching on topics ranging from post-war economic recovery, infrastructure and energy to sanctions, nature restoration and justice, many participants on the Ukrainian side expressed gratitude for the European Parliament’s support for the Verkhovna Rada and called on the EU to continue to stand firmly by Ukraine, stressing that the country’s ultimate goal is to become a full EU member. They asked the European Union to continue to provide assistance, including through the confiscation of frozen Russian assets, and to ensure justice for Russian war crimes. Some MEPs also called for Europe to contribute to credible security guarantees for Ukraine to be able to deter future Russian aggression. Finally, participants on both sides committed to maintain close ties and exchange best practices.

    Background

    Since the first Inter-Committee Meeting, on 12 April 2023, the relevant European Parliament standing committees have held a series of bilateral meetings with their Rada counterparts, ensuring comprehensive sectoral cooperation between the two institutions. The European Parliament has kept up its cross-cutting political and administrative support for the Verkhovna Rada and for Ukraine’s European integration process.

    The EU formally opened accession negotiations with Ukraine at the first Intergovernmental Conference in June 2024. Work is underway to prepare talks in specific areas, based on the negotiating framework, which outlines the underlying procedure and principles.

    You can watch the meeting again here. (08.04.2025)

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Climate Activist Found Guilty in Defacing Degas Exhibit at National Gallery of Art

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Timothy Martin, 55, of Raleigh, North Carolina, was found guilty by a federal jury for his role in the April 27, 2023, defacement of an art exhibit at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

                The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., and Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division.

                President Trump directed federal authorities in a March 2025 Executive Order to Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful by launching a multi-faceted initiative to address both crime and beautification. This includes the creation of the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force to coordinate law enforcement efforts, and a program to restore and enhance the city’s public spaces.

                “This verdict sends a strong message to the thousands of people who come to D.C. each year to demonstrate and be heard,” said U.S Attorney Martin. “Free speech is a constitutional right. But when you take action, such as destroying property like priceless pieces of art, you are crossing a line that no one in this city will condone.  We want to Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful Again, and we will not tolerate anyone defacing our city to get attention for their cause.”

                After a four-day trial, the jury, yesterday, found Martin guilty of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and injury to a National Gallery of Art exhibit. U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson scheduled sentencing for August 22, 2025.

                According to evidence introduced in court, Martin and co-defendant Johanna Smith, 54, of Brooklyn, NY, smeared paint on the case and base of Edgar Degas’ Little Dancer, Age Fourteen, a sculpture which has drawn visitors for years to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Following the attack, a group called Declare Emergency claimed credit.       

                Martin and Smith agreed, along with other co-conspirators, to enter the National Gallery of Art for the purpose of injuring the exhibit and entered the museum armed with water bottles filled with paint. Martin and Smith handed their phones to other co-conspirators and waited until patrons cleared the area in front of the Little Dancer. The pair proceeded to smear paint on the case and base of the exhibit, at times smacking the case with force. Prior to the attack, members of the conspiracy had alerted the Washington Post, and two reporters from the Post recorded and photographed the offense. Additionally, other members of the conspiracy filmed and photographed the offense.

                Smith and Martin caused over $4,000 in damage, including material and labor costs, and the exhibit was removed from public display for 10 days so that it could be repaired.

                Smith pleaded guilty December 15, 2023, to one count of causing injury to a National Gallery of Art exhibit. She was sentenced to 60 days in prison, followed by 24 months of supervised release and ordered to pay a $3,000 fine and $4,062 in restitution. 

                The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, specifically the FBI’s Art Crime Team, with assistance from National Gallery of Art Police, and U.S. Park Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cameron A. Tepfer and Jennifer Blackwell of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.

    23cr182

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: How the FBI’s Victim Services Division Supports Survivors of Crime

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

    Child-adolescent forensic interviewers (CAFIs)  

    Sloane, who’s worked as an FBI CAFI for just under two decades—most recently, in a supervisory role—said an average day on the job is hard to encapsulate. “It’s hard to describe a day in the life of a CAFI because it varies, and that’s one of the beauties but also the challenges,” she said, adding that the job comprises far more than just conducting interviews.

    It can also include: 

    • Consultation 
    • Court testimony 
    • Trainings 
    • Presentations 
    • Working Groups 
    • Working on multidisciplinary teams 

    And, Sloane stressed, CAFIs don’t work in a bubble. CAFIs are neutral fact-finders, but to accomplish that mission, they collaborate with FBI agents, task force officers, victim specialists, and prosecutors. “That’s the importance of working as a team to provide victims the best support possible to maneuver and survive this process,” she said. 

    Sloane and other supervisory CAFIs, in particular, also help resolve conflicts that might arise during the course of an investigation. Their job, in these situations, is to balance the best interest of the victim or witness in question with that of the case. SCAFIs also strategically divvy up resources to CAFIs scattered throughout the field to ensure they’re equipped to do their jobs. 

    “We don’t heal or succeed in isolation—that’s why there are really kind, authentic people to guide and support you,” Sloane said. “Your suffering matters, and we want to be here to assist in any way that we can.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Repeat sex offender sentenced to 25 years in prison for coercing minors online

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DAYTON, Ohio – A repeat sex offender was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 300 months in prison for coercing two minor victims and producing child pornography. 

    Christopher Jewett, 26, of Dayton, met adolescent and teenage girls on an online, virtual world and social networking site.

    According to court documents, in summer 2023 and spring 2024, while on supervised release for similar prior sex offenses, Jewett communicated with minor victims online. The defendant sent the victims explicit videos and asked for explicit content in return.

    Jewett lied regarding his registered address and possessed cell phones, violating the terms of his probation. Jewett’s prior sex offenses included local convictions for unlawful sexual conduct with a minor.

    The defendant was charged federally in July 2024 and pleaded guilty in October 2024.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; and Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; announced the sentence imposed on April 7 by U.S. District Court Judge Michael J. Newman. Assistant United States Attorneys Jahan S. Karamali and Christina Mahy are representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Far-right activist Laura Loomer cements her influence after White House firings

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andrew Gawthorpe, Lecturer in History and International Studies, Leiden University

    The US president, Donald Trump, met with far-right activist Laura Loomer in the Oval Office last week. Loomer is a figure so extreme that she is shunned by many, even in Trump’s “make America great again” (Maga) movement.

    Hours after their meeting, Trump fired a string of national security officials, including General Timothy D. Haugh, the head of the National Security Agency and US Cyber Command, apparently at Loomer’s request. Trump has said Loomer was not involved in the firings, but also praised her judgment.

    Even for a president who has always listened to – and, indeed, echoed – fringe voices, the incident stood out. It served as a reminder that Trump is less constrained than ever before, and that his White House is responsive to his personal whims rather than any deliberative policy-making process.

    Gone are the days of Trump’s first administration, when aides would at least try to block the most extreme conspiracy theorists from having access to the president. Now, apparently, even a four-star general (the highest officer rank) like Haugh serves only at the pleasure of figures such as Loomer.

    So, who exactly is Loomer? She is, first and foremost, a media influencer – someone who made her name in far-right circles by spreading hate and conspiracy theories.

    She calls herself a “proud Islamophobe” and “pro-white nationalism”. She has endorsed claims that the 9/11 terrorist attacks were an “inside job”, alleged that the “deep state” manipulates the weather to influence elections, and spread conspiracy theories implying that the FBI let school shootings happen in election years to help the Democrats push gun control.

    Loomer’s claims, and her open racism, have sometimes proven too much even for other prominent Maga figures, who prefer to be slightly more subtle in their messaging.

    When Loomer said in 2024 that if Kamala Harris won the election, the White House “will smell like curry” and speeches will be “facilitated via a call centre,” she drew push-back from the now vice-president, J.D. Vance, and far-right congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene.

    But Trump seems to have appreciated Loomer’s commentary all the same. The president has repeatedly praised her in public and backed her unsuccessful run as a Republican candidate for a US House of Representatives seat in Florida in 2020.

    Like many other Maga media figures, Loomer has realised that her antics give her direct exposure to a television-obsessed president, and that this exposure can be transformed into access and, ultimately, political power.

    Loomer, who is only 31, is entirely a product of the Trump era. As an adult, practically the only conservatism she has known is the conservatism of Maga – openly prejudiced, vindictive, and more a stew of grievance and hatred than a coherent political platform.

    Insofar as Loomer advocates for particular policies, they are a crude channeling of these impulses. She has campaigned for a ten-year immigration moratorium and has called for the death penalty for Democrats who oppose Trump.

    On a podcast in June 2024 about whether Democrats should be prosecuted and jailed if Trump wins the election over alleged “unscrupulous behaviour,” Loomer said: “Not just jailed, they should get the death penalty. You know, we actually used to have the punishment for treason in this country.”

    But the chief way in which Loomer personifies modern American conservatism is her single-minded loyalty to the president. Loyalty to Trump, and fury at the disloyalty of others, is the central component of her identity.

    Deep loyalty

    This loyalty seems to be both a deeply felt emotion and also a shrewd way of recommending herself to the president. And, more than anything else, it was what landed her in the Oval Office last week.

    Loomer’s apparent recommendation that Trump fire a slew of national security officials had its roots in this obsession with loyalty. Many people serving in national security positions in the Trump administration are not card-carrying members of the Maga movement.

    This reflects the fact that such positions require deep expertise developed over long apolitical careers in the civil service or military. As the product of a movement that disdains expertise and rationality, few Maga die-hards have the requisite knowledge to do these jobs.

    For Loomer, such figures pose a threat. It ought to be emphasised that this is not because people like General Haugh have ever shown open disloyalty to Trump. It is merely that they are not, like Loomer, his fanatical adherents. In her worldview, anything less is unacceptable.

    Trump seems to agree, which opens the way to more firings in the future. Sensing her opening, Loomer has declared that she will establish an organisation dedicated to investigating executive branch officials for suspected disloyalty to the president.

    Government officials will have to live in fear of being targeted, creating a chilling atmosphere in which pushing back against Trump’s whims becomes impossible.

    Loomer’s growing influence also suggests that the Trump White House is becoming more chaotic and unpredictable.

    The president’s aides have long claimed that the White House would be run in a controlled fashion this time around, with clear chains of command and questionable outsiders kept away. Loomer’s presence in the Oval Office – at Trump’s personal request – blows that story away.

    For her part, Loomer seems to have what she has always wanted: the president’s attention. Where might she direct it next?

    Andrew Gawthorpe 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. Far-right activist Laura Loomer cements her influence after White House firings – https://theconversation.com/far-right-activist-laura-loomer-cements-her-influence-after-white-house-firings-253870

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kansas Doctor Admits Accepting Kickbacks to Commit Health Care Fraud

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

    ST. LOUIS – A medical doctor from the Kansas City, Kansas area on Friday admitted accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars in kickbacks to order medically unnecessary health care for thousands of patients.

    Dr. Scott Taggart Roethle, 47, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of health care fraud. He admitted that from 2017 until 2020, he conspired with health care companies and others to order medically unnecessary durable medical equipment, pain creams and genetic tests for thousands of patients in exchange for hundreds of thousands of dollars in kickbacks.

    Dr. Roethle contracted with multiple health care companies as a telemedicine doctor. Using electronic portals to review patient information and documents, Dr. Roethle ordered health care services for patients without evaluating them or their actual medical needs. He did not have a prior doctor-patient relationship with the telemedicine patients and admitted providing no follow-up care after ordering the health care services.

    Dr. Roethle was typically paid about $30 for each of his fraudulent orders. He admitted receiving payments of $674,000 from five companies. He also admitted that Medicare paid out at least $1.5 million while relying on his fraudulent orders. At the time of Dr. Roethle’s sentencing, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will argue that the total loss due to the health care fraud is between $7 million and $9.5 million.

    Dr. Roethle was licensed to practice in 22 states during the time of his crime and worked primarily as an anesthesiologist.

    The trial of Dr. Roethle, of Leawood, was scheduled to begin Monday. His sentencing is set for July 17.

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman and Justin Ladendorf are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lawrence Man Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Distributing Fentanyl

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

    BOSTON – A Lawrence man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for distributing fentanyl.

    George Jimenez, 31, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to 41 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In October 2024, Jimenez pleaded guilty to distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.  Jimenez was initially charged by criminal complaint in October 2023.

    On Sept. 27, 2022, Jimenez sold 99 grams of fentanyl to a cooperating witness in Methuen which was captured on video by a recording device. The video depicted Jimenez meeting the cooperating witness between two buildings. Jimenez made a quick hand-to-hand transaction with the cooperating witness, providing the witness with the drugs ordered in exchange for $1,500.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip C. Cheng of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit prosecuted the case.

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

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ATF Announces 2025 Raven’s Challenge Interoperability Explosives Exercises

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

    HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) National Center for Explosives Training and Research (NCETR) in partnership with the U.S. Army, announce the locations for the 2025 Raven’s Challenge Interoperability Exercises.

    The event trains explosives-expert participants on preparing for and countering the threat of improvised explosive devices. The training occurs at multiple locations throughout the U.S.

    • April 13 – 18, Volunteer Training Site, Tunnel Hill, Georgia
    • May 18 – 23, Camp Gruber, Braggs, Oklahoma
    • June 8 – 13, Fort Carson, Colorado Springs, Colorado
    • July 13 – 18, Camp Dawson, Kingswood, West Virginia

    Raven’s Challenge started in 2004 as an ATF-led training exercise for military explosives ordinance disposal teams and civilian public safety bomb squads in the Pacific Northwest. The exercise grew into the largest explosives disposal public safety training exercise in the world. Last year’s challenge had more than 900 participants and included training staff from the U.S. and 18 countries.

    “This training is vital in strengthening partnerships between multiple organizations allowing us to protect the public from these evolving threats,” said Greg Smith, Law Enforcement Training Specialist and ATF Raven’s Challenge Program Manager. “Our training team continues to lean forward and remains focused on providing realistic scenarios in operational environments.”

    Raven’s Challenge includes participants from all U.S. military branches, local and state bomb squads, and teams from the Department of Justice. International participation has increased to include countries from Europe and north Africa.

    The training emphasizes the U.S. military’s explosives ordnance disposal role in Defense Support of Civil Authorities and their interoperability with public safety bomb squads in support of homeland defense.

    Raven’s Challenge is funded by the U.S. Army and executed by ATF and partner agencies including the U.S. Army, the FBI, and local and state law enforcement agencies throughout the country.

    ATF provides training facilities and the expertise of its training staff in delivering life-saving advanced explosives and arson training for our nation’s explosives handlers, bomb technicians and certified fire investigators.

    NCETR manages ATF’s key explosives, fire, and response operations at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. NCETR consists of the Explosives Enforcement and Training Division, Explosives Research and Development Division, and the Fire Investigation and Arson Enforcement Division. Other components include the National Canine Division located in Front Royal, Virginia. The main NCETR facility and explosives ranges in Huntsville make this center a unique resource in the fight against violent crime.

    For more information and videos, visit Raven’s Challenge Interoperability Exercise.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Atlanta announces results of multiagency operations across Georgia

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    ATLANTA — U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement announced April 4 the results of interagency enforcement operations targeting illegal aliens present in Georgia.

    Since Jan. 22, federal agents have arrested about 1,500 illegal aliens statewide, through a targeted enforcement effort aimed at protecting public safety and upholding the rule of law. These arrests were made possible through strong collaboration among federal agencies including the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the United States Marshalls Service.

    Since March 24, agents and officers have made over 150 arrests for criminal and civil immigration violations across Georgia with a focus on gangs, drug trafficking, violent crimes, organized crime, and other public safety threats. During these actions, agents seized narcotics, firearms, and bulk currency drug proceeds from illegal aliens. ICE Homeland Security Investigations simultaneously led a large-scale labor trafficking operation which resulted in the rescue of trafficking victims and criminal arrests. These arrests are a crucial part of ICE’s ongoing commitment to identifying and removing aliens who pose a risk to public safety and communities across the state of Georgia and the United States.

    Key Highlights of the Operation: 

    • ICE assisted the Cobb County Police Department with the arrest of a Honduran national, who is illegally in the United States, for the alleged murder and rape of an unidentified female. The subject was previously ordered removed by an immigration judge in July of 2023.
    • During an ICE, ATF, and DEA operation, law enforcement arrested four individuals and seized 13 firearms. One of the subjects arrested is in the United States illegally and was in possession of a firearm.
    • During an ICE, DEA, ATF, and FBI operation, law enforcement arrested 13 illegal aliens and seized two firearms and approximately $170,000 in cash. One subject will be charged with possession of a firearm.
    • ICE, with assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies including the FBI, Georgia Bureau of Investigations, and the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office, arrested the owner of a flooring manufacturing company and the owner’s nephew during a labor trafficking operation in Cartersville, Georgia. In total, eight search warrants were executed, and more than 60 victims were rescued. The victims were allegedly brought to the United States and forced to live in deplorable housing conditions and work long hours under poor conditions for unfair wages.

    “HSI remains unwavering in its mission to protect the safety and security of our communities,” said ICE HSI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Steven N. Schrank, which covers Georgia and Alabama. “The individuals arrested in these operations are not only in the U.S. illegally but have also been involved in activities that harm American citizens and residents. Through these operations, we are sending a clear message that criminal activity will not be tolerated, regardless of immigration status.”

    Many of those arrested were previously convicted of serious crimes such as assault, drug distribution, weapons offenses, child exploitation, and other felonies. These individuals were apprehended through coordinated efforts with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

    In addition to its criminal enforcement operations, ICE, alongside its federal, state, and local partners, continues to focus on dismantling human trafficking networks, disrupting smuggling operations, and working to combat transnational criminal organizations. The agency’s focus on criminal illegal aliens aligns with its commitment to enhancing national security and public safety.

    ICE encourages the public to report suspicious activity to the ICE Tip Line at 1-866-347-2423.

    For more information about HSI’s work, please follow us on X: @HSIAtlanta.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former UNM Football Player Convicted of Methamphetamine Trafficking in Cibola County Correctional Center

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A federal jury convicted a former University of New Mexico football player on charges of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine while incarcerated at Cibola County Correctional Center. The verdict came after a five-day trial and approximately three-and-a-half hours of deliberation.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, while in custody awaiting trial for the 2022-armed robbery of a U.S. Postal Service employee, Rayshawn Boyce, 29, was implicated in a separate case involving drug trafficking within the Cibola County Correctional Center (CCCC). On May 17, 2022, CCCC personnel conducted a search of a unit and discovered a bag containing approximately one pound of methamphetamine in the shower area.

    Photo of drugs in shower area

    Review of surveillance footage revealed that on the evening of May 16, 2022, Correctional Officer Gabriella Torres smuggled a bundle of methamphetamine into the facility under her hoodie and dropped it in cell in an area that was not covered by a camera for Boyce to retrieve. A short time later, Boyce retrieved the bundle, concealed it in a blanket, and walked back to his cell. When he learned that the jail was being searched the next day, Boyce moved the bundle from his cell in the middle of the night, submerged it in water, and left it near the showers, where it was found that morning by CCCC personnel.

    Federal investigators determined that Boyce and Torres were in a romantic relationship, during which Boyce persuaded Torres to smuggle drugs into the CCCC. On two separate occasions, Torres successfully smuggled marijuana into the facility for Boyce to distribute. Boyce instructed buyers to send payments through a CashApp account he had Torres established specifically for these transactions. On May 16, 2022, Boyce coordinated the delivery of a methamphetamine shipment to Torres for smuggling into CCCC.

    Torres pled guilty to one count of conspiracy and remains on conditions of release pending sentencing, which is not currently scheduled. At sentencing, Torres could face 10 years to life in prison followed by three years of supervised release.

    Following the verdict, the Court ordered that Boyce remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Boyce faces a mandatory minimum term of ten years of imprisonment and up to life.

    In April 2024, a federal jury convicted Boyce of robbing a postal carrier, stealing an arrow key belonging to the United States Postal Service, and being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. At sentencing for this prior conviction, Boyce faces up to ten years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    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 FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from Cibola County Correctional Center and CoreCivic. Assistant United States Attorneys Letitia Carroll Simms and Joseph M. Spindle are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney Bill Essayli Announces Criminal Task Force to Investigate Fraud and Corruption Involving Homelessness Funds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – United States Attorney Bill Essayli today announced the formation of the Homelessness Fraud and Corruption Task Force, which will investigate fraud, waste, abuse, and corruption involving funds allocated toward the eradication of homelessness within the seven-county jurisdiction of the Central District of California.

    This task force will be comprised of federal prosecutors from the Major Frauds Section, the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section, and the Civil Division’s Civil Fraud Section of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California. Assisting the U.S. Attorney’s Office will be the FBI, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General (HUD-OIG), and IRS Criminal Investigation.       

    The Central District of California is comprised of approximately 20 million residents within the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura.

    Los Angeles County alone contains a homeless population of more than 75,000, of which more than 45,000 are within the city limits of Los Angeles. The total homeless population of the remaining six counties of the district exceeds 20,000.

    Despite voter-approved initiatives and billions of dollars spent on tackling this issue, homelessness remains a crisis, especially in Los Angeles County. Last month, a court-ordered audit found that homelessness services provided by the city and county of Los Angeles were “disjointed” and contained “poor data quality and integration” and lacked financial controls to monitor contracts for compliance and performance. 

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government sent $100 million in emergency aid to Los Angeles County to address homelessness. Last month, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded more than $200 million to address homelessness in Los Angeles.

    “California has spent more than $24 billion over the past five years to address homelessness,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “But officials have been unable to account for all the expenditures and outcomes, and the homeless crisis has only gotten worse. Taxpayers deserve answers for where and how their hard-earned money has been spent. If state and local officials cannot provide proper oversight and accountability, we will do it for them. If we discover any federal laws were violated, we will make arrests.”

    Partnering with federal law enforcement agencies, the Homelessness Fraud and Corruption Task Force will investigate crimes related to the misappropriation of federal tax dollars intended to alleviate homelessness in the Central District of California. The task force will prioritize a review of federal, state, and local programs receiving federal grants and funding. The task force will also investigate fraud schemes involving the theft of private donations intended to provide support and services for the homeless population.

    “Any exploitation of the homelessness crisis via the theft of funds intended to improve conditions cannot and will not be tolerated,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI is proud to join the newly formed task force and will continue to investigate fraudulent schemes and corrupt officials who misappropriate government funding or private donations intended to aid those in need.”

    “The U.S. Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General is proud to join the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners as part of the Homeless Fraud and Corruption Task Force,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Lawler with HUD-OIG. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to protecting vulnerable communities, ensuring accountability, and promoting integrity in programs intended to serve those most in need.”

    “IRS Criminal Investigation is uniquely poised to track any funds granted through various federal programs,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher of IRS Criminal Investigation in Los Angeles. “We look forward to working with our federal partners to ensure taxpayer and donor funds are spent in accordance with their original intended purposes.”  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Blackberry Volunteer Fire Chief Sentenced for COVID-19 Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LEXINGTON, Ky. – The former Fire Chief of the Blackberry Volunteer Fire Department (BVFD) in Pike County, Christopher Chapman, 36, was sentenced on Monday by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell to 12 months in prison, for theft of public funds.

    In 2021, as part of the American Rescue Plan Act, to support communities and local governments that were struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government distributed emergency funding to local governments to maintain vital local services.  In Spring 2022, Pike County local government authorized the distribution of $50,000 of these funds through grants that were allocated for the purchase of turnout gear for fire and rescue, along with equipment and building maintenance. Chapman applied for these grants on behalf of BVFD, and the local government awarded the full amount of the grants.

    According to his plea agreement, on April 11, 2022, Chapman created a company named Rural Public Safety Equipment, LLC. (RPSE), as the sole organizer and member, and registered it with the West Virginia Secretary of State.  Chapman then informed members of the BVFD that he could obtain fire safety equipment at cost from a safety equipment company, and he failed to disclose that he was the owner of the company.  The fire department pre-paid and ordered $76,854.50 worth of fire and safety equipment from RPSE.  Instead of using the prepayments from BVFD to fulfill the orders, Chapman never fulfilled any fire and safety equipment orders, spent all the money on his own personal use, and withdrew $61,500 in cash from the RPSE bank account.

    Under federal law, Chapman must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence.  Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years. Chapman was also ordered to pay $76,854.50 in restitution. 

    Paul McCaffrey, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Michael E. Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; and Bruce Roberts, Interim Executive Director, Kentucky Fire Commission, jointly announced the sentencing.

    The investigation was conducted by the FBI and the Kentucky Fire Commission.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Dunn-Pirio is prosecuting the matter on behalf of the United States.

    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. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

    — END —

    MIL Security OSI –