NewzIntel.com

Category: Intelligence Agencies

  • MIL-OSI Security: Miami U.S. Attorney Charges Suspected Tren de Aragua Gang Member with Illegal Possession of Loaded 9 Millimeter Handgun

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – A Venezuelan national and suspected member of the violent transnational Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang who used the now-disabled Customs and Border Protection (CBP) One Application to enter the United States in 2023, has been charged with possessing a firearm as an illegal alien – a federal crime. 

    Luis Ernesto Veliz Riera, 23, made his initial appearance yesterday before a magistrate judge in the Southern District of Florida. According to the unsealed criminal complaint affidavit, Veliz Riera was allowed to enter the United States at the Mexico-El Paso, Texas border in February 2023, after appearing for an appointment he booked online through the (now inactive) CBP One Application system. Prior to being shut down on January 20, 2025, the online system allowed undocumented aliens to submit information and schedule appointments at eight southwest United States border ports of entry.

    On the day he entered, CBP presented Veliz Riera with a Notice to Appear for a hearing before an immigration judge in Las Vegas, Nevada – where he told officials he was headed. According to the affidavit, Veliz-Ruiz skipped his immigration hearing and stayed in El Paso, waiting for his girlfriend (also a Venezuelan national) to illegally cross from Mexico into the United States in April-May 2023. The couple traveled together from El Paso to Chicago – to New York City – and finally to Homestead, Florida. On April 30, 2024, an immigration judge entered an order to remove Veliz Riera from the United States after he failed to appear in immigration court or otherwise report to immigration authorities.  

    On October 17, 2024, in connection with an investigation into potential TdA illegal activity, local law enforcement stopped a car that Veliz Riera was driving. Records and other checks showed that Veliz Riera was wanted on an open state crime warrant and that he was in the country illegally. Further investigation showed that, despite his illegal status, Veliz Ruiz kept a Taurus, PT609 Pro 9mm, semi-automatic handgun with a 30-round magazine inside the Homestead hotel room he shared with his girlfriend and that he had loaded the gun earlier that day, says the affidavit. 

    On October, 17, 2024, Veliz Ruiz was arrested on state charges.

    On November 16, 2024, based on his illegal status, Veliz Riera went into immigration detention where he was released into the community on electronic monitoring.  

    On February 3, 2025, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE-ERO) administratively arrested Veliz Riera to reexamine the decision to release him from immigration detention.

    On February 14, 2025, Miami federal prosecutors charged Veliz Riera with one count of possessing a firearm as an illegal alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A). During his initial appearance in federal court today, Veliz Riera agreed to remain in Bureau of Prisons custody pending trial.

    United States Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jose R. Figueroa of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement.

    HSI-Miami’s Fort Lauderdale office is investigating the case. HSI federal task force officers from Homestead Police Department, City of Miami Police Department, Sweetwater Police Department, and Broward Sheriff’s Office assisted, as did United States Border Patrol-Dania Beach Station, ATF Miami, ICE-ERO Miami, and FBI Miami.

    Assistant United States Attorney Kseniya Smychkouskaya is prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint 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-02303.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Charting A Way Forward: An Early Review of the Implementation of the FIRST STEP Act

    Source: US National Institute of Justice (video statements)

    The First Step Act of 2018 (FSA) aims to reform the federal prison system and reduce recidivism. At the 2019 American Society of Criminology Annual Meeting, NIJ held a panel that discussed the FSA and next steps in implementation.

    Following the panel, we interviewed three of the panelists, who addressed several questions:
    • What is the First Step Act and why is it important?
    • What is the Prisoner Assessment Tool Targeting Estimated Risk and Need (PATTERN) and how will the Bureau of Prisons Use it?
    • Prisoner Assessment Tool Targeting Estimated Risk and Need
    • How does PATTERN work?
    • What are the main takeaways from PATTERN and your work on the FSA?
    • How was your experience working on PATTERN and the FSA with NIJ?

    Speakers include:
    • Grant Duwe, Research Director, Minnesota Department of Corrections
    • Zachary Hamilton, Associate Professor, NEED UPDATED ASSOCIATION
    • Alix McLearan, Acting Senior Deputy Assistant Director, Reentry Services Division, U.S. Bureau of Prisons

    (Opinions or points of view expressed represent the speaker and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice. Any product or manufacturer discussed is presented for informational purposes only and do not constitute product approval or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Justice.)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONPW44WXzZc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, FBI arrest high-ranking MS-13 leader who controlled gang activities in US, Mexico, Europe

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BALTIMORE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the FBI apprehended an illegal Salvadoran alien charged in his home country with possession of firearm, extorsion and terrorist affiliation when officers arrested David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman, 27, in Hyattsville, Maryland, Feb. 27.

    “The apprehension of David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman strikes a significant blow to the leadership and organization of the MS-13 terrorist organization,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Matthew Elliston. “This arrest speaks volumes about the cooperation enjoyed between ICE and the FBI. We will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders from our communities.”

    Orellana is a high-ranking leader in the MS-13 transnational terrorist organization and controlled the operation of MS-13 cliques in the United States, Mexico, and Europe.

    “Maryland is immediately safer because of this arrest. Working together, we took custody of one of the highest-ranking gang members in the United States,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno. “David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman is no longer in his alleged position of power directing violence. His arrest demonstrates the success we can have when we collectively investigate and disrupt violent criminals seeking to exploit our communities.”

    Authorities in El Salvador arrested Orellana Dec. 1, 2016, and charged him for possession of a firearm, extorsion and terrorist affiliation as a documented member of MS-13.

    Orellana illegally entered the United States on an unknown date, at an unknown location, and without being inspected, admitted, or paroled by a U.S. immigration official.

    The Prince George’s County Police Department arrested Orellana Dec. 9, 2024, and charged him for driving without a license.

    Orellana remains in ICE custody following his arrest.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our Maryland communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBaltimore.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: SIOS High Availability Software Now Validated for Cimcor’s CimTrak Integrity Suite

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN MATEO, Calif., March 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SIOS Technology Corp., a leading provider of application high availability (HA) and disaster recovery (DR) solutions, today announced that SIOS LifeKeeper and SIOS DataKeeper clustering software have been validated for use with Cimcor’s cybersecurity solution, the CimTrak Integrity Suite. This collaboration allows Cimcor customers to seamlessly integrate high availability and disaster recovery into their CimTrak environments, ensuring continuous protection against cyber threats and minimizing downtime in critical cybersecurity operations.

    SIOS LifeKeeper is a high availability solution that ensures critical applications are always available, automatically detecting failures and initiating failover to standby systems to maintain uninterrupted service. SIOS DataKeeper offers synchronous data replication, ensuring that data is consistently mirrored across multiple servers for fast recovery in case of server failure. Together, these solutions provide comprehensive protection for business-critical applications like CimTrak, helping organizations minimize the risk of downtime and data loss while maintaining secure, highly available systems.

    CimTrak is the industry’s leading System Integrity Assurance platform that provides real-time monitoring and protection of critical IT assets – from servers and networks to cloud configurations, containers, databases, and industrial control systems. Its patented real-time detection technology lets CimTrak instantly detect and remediate unwanted and unexpected changes across your infrastructure while maintaining system integrity. The platform helps organizations strengthen their security posture, maintain continuous compliance, and protect against external and internal threats through automated workflows and comprehensive change management.

    “We’re excited to strengthen our partnership with Cimcor and offer SIOS high availability and disaster recovery solutions for their CimTrak customers,” said Masahiro Arai, COO of SIOS Technology. “As cybersecurity becomes even more critical for organizations worldwide, SIOS is committed to helping our joint customers achieve the highest levels of resilience and uptime, ensuring that their security systems remain operational and effective against evolving threats.”

    “Our collaboration with SIOS brings their proven high availability and disaster recovery solutions to our CimTrak customers,” said Robert E. Johnson, III, President and CEO of Cimcor. “As organizations work to protect increasingly large and complex infrastructures, ensuring cybersecurity resilience is more critical than ever. This partnership provides a seamless and reliable HA/DR solution, helping our joint customers stay secure, operational, and prepared for unexpected disruptions.”

    About SIOS Technology Corp.

    SIOS Technology Corp. high availability and disaster recovery solutions ensure availability and eliminate data loss for critical Windows and Linux applications operating across physical, virtual, cloud, and hybrid cloud environments. SIOS clustering software is essential for any IT infrastructure with applications requiring a high degree of resiliency, ensuring uptime without sacrificing performance or data – protecting businesses from local failures and regional outages, planned and unplanned. Founded in 1999, SIOS Technology Corp. (https://us.sios.com) is headquartered in San Mateo, California, with offices worldwide.

    SIOS, SIOS Technology, SIOS DataKeeper, SIOS LifeKeeper and associated logos are registered trademarks or trademarks of SIOS Technology Corp. and/or its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    Media Contact:

    Beth Winkowski
    Winkowski Public Relations, LLC for SIOS
    978-649-7189
    bethwinkowski@US.SIOS.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s security apparatus must remain adaptive to emerging threats such as cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, space-based challenges, and transnational organised crime: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh

    Source: Government of India

    India’s security apparatus must remain adaptive to emerging threats such as cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, space-based challenges, and transnational organised crime: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh

    Advanced systems & technologies must be leveraged not only for security operations but also for disaster management & humanitarian relief: RM

    “It is not enough for security agencies and technology developers to take the lead. Every citizen should know how to respond in times of crisis”

    Posted On: 04 MAR 2025 2:27PM by PIB Delhi

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) – Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Collaboration Conference-Cum-Exhibition on ‘Advanced Technologies for Internal Security and Disaster Relief Operations’ at DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi on March 04, 2025. Organised by the Directorate of Low Intensity Conflict (DLIC) under DRDO, the two-day conference aims to equip Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) officers with the latest advancements in technology to address challenges in their operations. The event provided a platform for the exchange of ideas and collaboration to strengthen India’s internal security and disaster response framework.

    Addressing the gathering, Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the growing complexities in global security and the increasing overlap between internal and external threats. “Security challenges in the modern world are evolving rapidly, and the overlap between internal and external security is increasing. It is imperative that our institutions break silos and work collaboratively to ensure a strong, secure, and self-reliant India,” he stated. He stressed that India’s national security must be viewed holistically, integrating efforts across different security agencies and leveraging the latest technological advancements.

    Shri Rajnath Singh underscored that India’s security apparatus must remain adaptive to emerging threats such as cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, space-based challenges, and transnational organised crime. He noted that India’s internal security is not just about managing conventional threats like terrorism, separatist movements, and left-wing extremism but also about preparing for unconventional threats that can destabilise the nation’s economic and strategic interests. “The adversaries of today do not always come with traditional weapons; cyber-attacks, misinformation campaigns, and space-based espionage are emerging as new-age threats that require advanced solutions,” he stated.

    “DRDO has played a pivotal role in enhancing India’s defence capabilities, and its contributions to internal security are equally commendable. From small arms and bulletproof jackets to surveillance and communication systems, DRDO’s innovations are empowering our security forces,” Raksha Mantri underlined. He urged DRDO and MHA to work together to create a common list of scalable products that can be jointly developed and deployed in a time-bound manner. “Our security forces require the best tools and technologies to remain ahead of the curve. It is encouraging to see DRDO’s focus on modernisation, with products like small arms, surveillance equipment and drone systems either inducted or undergoing evaluation for deployment in internal security agencies,” he highlighted.

    Shri Rajnath Singh recalled his tenure as Home Minister, highlighting how the collaboration between security agencies and scientific institutions led to significant technological advancements. He cited examples of DRDO-developed technologies such as the corner shot weapon system, INSAS rifles, IED jammer vehicles and riot control vehicles, which were effectively integrated into the operations of CAPFs.

    Shri Rajnath Singh also spoke about the importance of leveraging technology not just for security but also for disaster management and humanitarian relief. “The role of technology is not just in defence but also in ensuring peace and social welfare. Advanced systems like bulletproof jackets, drones, surveillance equipment and anti-drone technologies must be leveraged not only for security operations but also for disaster management and humanitarian relief,” he said. He cited the increasing frequency of natural calamities like cyclones, avalanches, earthquakes & cloud bursts and underscored the critical need for advanced rescue tools. He mentioned that the use of technologies such as thermal imaging cameras, drone-based detection systems, and victim locating devices can significantly reduce casualties and damage.

    Referring to the recent avalanche in Mana, Uttarakhand, Raksha Mantri lauded the use of advanced rescue equipment in saving lives and reducing the impact of the disaster. He threw light on the fact that although disasters are tragic in themselves, their impact can be minimised with the use of advanced technology and how, in the recent avalanche, technologies like rotary rescue saws, thermal imaging, victim locating cameras, avalanche rods, and drone-based detection systems played a crucial role in saving lives.

    Highlighting the importance of public awareness in disaster management, Shri Rajnath Singh called for greater involvement of civil society in disaster preparedness. “Today, India is a prospering nation, and disaster management must become an integral part of our preparedness. It is not enough for security agencies and technology developers to take the lead; we must also educate the general public. Every citizen should know how to respond in times of crisis,” he urged.

    Raksha Mantri also stressed the need for focused conferences on specific security challenges faced by different regions of the country. “Security threats in India are not uniform. The issues faced in the Northeast due to insurgencies are different from those in Naxal-affected areas or border regions. Similarly, urban security concerns are different from those in rural areas. We need to organise dedicated conferences that focus on region-specific challenges and solutions,” he said.

    As part of the event, the Transfer of Technology (ToT) of the ASMI 9x19mm Machine Pistol was handed over by DRDO to Lokesh Machinery Tool, marking a step forward in the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Shri Rajnath Singh also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing DRDO-designed technologies developed in collaboration with the Indian defence industry, highlighting achievements in indigenisation. Three significant documents were also released to strengthen cooperation and technological advancements in internal security and disaster management. These include:

    1. Compendium of DRDO Products for Internal Security

    2. Compendium of DRDO Products for Police Operations

    3. Compendium of DRDO Products for Disaster Relief Operations

    The conference includes seven technical sessions focusing on key areas such as Left-Wing Extremism, border management, advanced weapon technologies, drone & counter-drone solutions, disaster management, policing & crowd control, and futuristic communication technologies.

    Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat during the conference stated that more than 100 products from DRDO developed technologies have been or soon will be inducted into various agencies of MHA. He further mentioned that the technologies which DRDO develops for the services are also being utilised in internal security as well as disaster relief operations. Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Secretary (Border Management) MHA Shri Rajendra Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, DG (Production, Coordination & Services Interaction) Dr Chandrika Kaushik, senior officials from Ministry of Defence and MHA were also present on the occasion.

    *****

    VK/SR/KB

    (Release ID: 2108036) Visitor Counter : 62

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: President’s message | March 2025

    Source: Australian Human Rights Commission

    We must work together to address the scourge of racism.

    The Director-General of ASIO, Mike Burgess, said in Parliament last week that “in terms of threats to life” antisemitism is ASIO’s top priority. He said he believed it was the first time a form of racism was the agency’s highest priority.

    The assessment underscored the intensification and severity of the attacks against the Jewish community over recent months. On top of racist abuse, threats and graffiti on homes, schools and neighbourhoods, these have included arson attacks on synagogues and a childcare centre, and the discovery of a caravan filled with explosives.

    These antisemitic attacks seek to instil fear and division. The targeting of the Jewish community affects us all. It tests us as a nation. If we fail to protect any community from harm, we fail as a nation.

    Racism more broadly is rising. Muslim and Palestinian communities have experienced increased racism since 7 October 2023. As the Special Envoy has said, Islamophobia is normalised and underacknowledged in Australia.

    First Nations communities continue to experience widespread racism which spiked in volume and hostility during and after the Voice referendum. The systemic nature of racism affecting First Nations people is highlighted by the lack of progress on so many of the Closing the Gap targets including child removal and imprisonment.

    The Australian Human Rights Commission is responding to racism in a number of ways:

    •    Our access to justice services provide free, impartial and accessible dispute resolution services for people affected by racial discrimination and vilification.

    •    Late last year we released our National Anti-Racism Framework which outlines a comprehensive, whole of society approach for eliminating racism in Australia.

    •    We are undertaking work to support Arab, Jewish, Muslim and Palestinian communities in Australia through our Seen and Heard Project.

    •    We are conducting a landmark national study on the prevalence, nature and impact of racism at universities and how to address it.

    •    We continue to provide expert advice on law reform and policy proposals to tackle racism including on doxxing, the display of Nazi symbols, misinformation and disinformation and anti-hate and vilification laws.

    Racism is pervasive and harmful. But it is not inevitable. Working together, we can build a society where everyone can live with dignity and respect and has the same opportunity to thrive, regardless of their race, culture or faith.

    Hugh de Kretser
     

    Connect with me:
    LinkedIn – Hugh de Kretser
    Instagram @hughdekretser
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Senate Judiciary Democrats Press Justice Department On Diversion Of Law Enforcement To Purported Immigration Enforcement Initiative

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 03, 2025

    Under the guise of “enhanced immigration enforcement efforts,” Donald Trump and Pam Bondi continue to weaken the Department’s national security and public safety capabilities by reallocating vital resources, reassigning career officials, and purging longtime civil servants

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, led all Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats in pressing Attorney General Pam Bondi on her reallocation of resources from mission-critical Department of Justice (DOJ) projects to purported “immigration enforcement initiatives.”

    The Justice Department recently issued a directive to take legal action against so-called “sanctuary cities,” demanded an increase in immigration-related prosecutions, and reallocated resources away from critical national security and public safety efforts. The Senators request that Attorney General Bondi rescind this memo.

    The Senators begin by summarizing how the directive undermines our country’s national security and public safety capabilities, writing: “We are alarmed at recent changes within the Department of Justice (DOJ) that have significantly destabilized the agency and made America less safe. The shortsighted removal or reassignment of senior career DOJ and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) officials with national security expertise have diminished the country’s ability to respond to national security or public safety threats. We ask that you rescind the January 21, 2025, Memorandum and reverse any personnel decisions that diverted resources away from the Department’s critical national security and public safety missions.”

    The Senators then criticize the January 21, 2025, memo’s broad directive to divert resources away from vital law enforcement activities to vague immigration enforcement efforts, writing: “We are deeply disturbed that the Department is redirecting resources from the prosecution of violent crimes to the pursuit of dubious claims against so-called ‘sanctuary’ jurisdictions. Multiple studies have shown that localities that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement do not have higher crime rates.  Reassigning law enforcement officers to ill-defined immigration-focused initiatives, for which they have no expertise, and instructing prosecutors to investigate and potentially pursue charges against sanctuary jurisdictions will not successfully target those who pose an actual threat to public safety. These reassignments drain law enforcement resources from critical missions and create an experience and leadership vacuum in our national security, counterintelligence, and public safety apparatus.”

    The brain drain of the Department’s senior expertise is so severe that all the career officials who attended the daily threats session for years have been removed from their positions, per public reporting. A large number of officials have been reassigned to a newly created “Sanctuary City Enforcement Working Group,” despite the attorneys having no experience in immigration law and the group having no enforcement or litigation authority, which led to forced multiple resignations by veteran attorneys.

    Other reported efforts underway reallocate valuable government resources from critical missions to immigration enforcement matters, including from efforts to fight transnational-organized crime, violent crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism.

    The Senators then outline the disruption caused by the resource reallocation, writing: “The sweeping changes to personnel assignments and resource allocation across DOJ will lead to widespread disruption and delay in prosecutions, investigations, and sensitive operations… It is irresponsible and dangerous to divert DOJ and FBI law enforcement officials from their primary missions and areas of expertise to bolster the Trump Administration’s mass deportation effort.”

    The Senators conclude with a request to rescind the January 21, 2025, memo, before making a series of information requests with a deadline of March 17, 2025, writing: “DOJ’s extensive focus on immigration enforcement, to the detriment of other vital national security and public safety priorities, intentionally diverts the Department’s resources and will fail to actually move the needle on immigration enforcement. Personnel at DOJ, the FBI, and other component agencies are now limited in their ability to combat threats to public safety and national security, and a dedicated and talented workforce is facing a crisis of morale. To that end, we ask that you rescind the January 21, 2025, Memorandum and reverse any personnel decisions that diverted resources away from critical national security and public safety missions.”

    In addition to Durbin, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Alex Padilla (D-CA).

    For a PDF copy of the letter sent to Attorney General Pam Bondi, click here.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Europe unveils plan for Ukraine peace deal amid Transatlantic rifts

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Following last week’s Trump-Zelensky White House clash, more than a dozen Western leaders gathered Sunday to revive efforts for a Ukraine peace deal and propose a settlement to Washington.

    British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the summit as a “once-in-a-generation moment for the security of Europe.” Although the meeting could push the region toward greater self-reliance in security, many observers fear the measures may be too little and too late.

    WAKE-UP CALL

    Europe now finds itself at a moment of truth in its security strategy. Before Friday’s diplomatic debacle at the White House, Russia-U.S. talks on the Ukraine crisis took place in Riyadh on Feb. 18, with neither Europe nor Ukraine given a seat at the table.

    This photo shows a scene during a defense summit in London, Britain, March 2, 2025. (Lauren Hurley/No 10 Downing Street/Handout via Xinhua)

    Just one week later, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a plan to impose a 25-percent tariff on all goods imported from the European Union (EU), and justified the move by claiming that the EU was formed to “screw” the United States.

    Europe was in a “moment of real fragility,” Starmer told the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.

    Asked about the White House clash involving the duo of Trump and U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Finnish President Alexander Stubb told BBC before the summit that the breakdown was a “wake-up call” for European nations, stressing that they must adopt a cohesive strategy for the Ukraine crisis and post-conflict arrangements.

    Stubb expressed frustration over shifting transatlantic ties, saying the U.S.-Europe relationship “is evolving,” and “we’re witnessing a more transactional United States, where the Trump administration — rightly or wrongly — is pursuing an ‘America First’ policy.”

    This has led European leaders to explore their own security solutions. At the Munich Security Conference last month, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pushed for an emergency clause that would allow governments to increase defense spending without being constrained by the EU’s strict budget deficit rules. After Sunday’s summit, she reiterated that Europe must “step up massively” and forge a common security approach.

    French President Emmanuel Macron proposed on Sunday that European countries should boost their defense spending to between 3 and 3.5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). His proposal came a few days after Starmer’s announcement that Britain would increase its defense spending to 2.5 percent of its GDP by 2027 and to 3 percent in the next parliamentary term, which would mean by 2034 at the latest.

    Following a bilateral meeting with Ukraine on Saturday, Britain also agreed to loan Ukraine 2.26 billion pounds (2.84 billion U.S. dollars) to bolster its defense capabilities. Shortly after the summit, Britain further committed 1.6 billion pounds (2 billion dollars) in export finance, allowing Ukraine to purchase over 5,000 air defense missiles.

    More than eight years after Britain voted to depart from the EU, it has positioned itself at the forefront of European security efforts, trying to play the role of a “bridge” between Europe and the United States to secure a peace deal for Ukraine.

    STRENGTHENED BOND

    After Sunday’s summit, Starmer outlined a four-step plan to strengthen Ukraine and support peace: to maintain military aid to Ukraine while the conflict continues and increase economic pressure on Russia; to ensure that any lasting peace guarantees Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, with Ukraine at the table for any negotiations; to deter “any future invasion by Russia” in the event of a peace deal; and to establish a “coalition of the willing” to defend Ukraine and uphold peace in the country.

    The summit’s outcome was welcomed by European leaders. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called it “a good meeting,” saying “European countries are stepping up to ensure Ukraine has what it needs to fight for as long as necessary.”

    German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of NATO and said on social media on Sunday: “In recent years, we have strengthened our alliance with new members and increased defense spending. This is the path we will continue to follow.”

    However, doubts remain over whether Europe can fully safeguard a peace deal on its own. When asked how Britain plans to persuade more countries to join the “coalition of the willing,” Starmer acknowledged that some countries may be reluctant to contribute militarily.

    “I strongly feel that unless some countries move forward, we will stay in the position we’re in and not be able to move forward,” he said, while admitting the goal to “stay in lockstep with the United States.”

    TRANSATLANTIC DISAGREEMENTS

    The EU and the Trump administration have a range of disagreements on the settlement of the Ukraine crisis, while the U.S. provision of security guarantees for Ukraine is foremost among the discussions.

    Within a week before the London summit, both Macron and Starmer visited Washington to seek U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine or Europe, but failed to persuade Trump in this regard.

    Trump sidestepped the question of security guarantees, expressing confidence that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, would “keep his word” if an agreement is reached. He also ruled out the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO. Ukraine’s NATO membership has been a focal issue in the crisis.

    Earlier on Sunday before the summit, Starmer announced that Britain, France and Ukraine will work on a ceasefire plan to present to the United States. He named three essential points to achieve “lasting peace” — a strong Ukraine, a European element with security guarantees and a U.S. backstop, with the last one being the subject of “intense” discussion.

    After the announcement of the four-step plan to guarantee peace in Ukraine at the summit, the participating leaders also agreed to meet again soon to sustain the momentum behind these efforts.

    “Europe must do the heavy lifting,” Starmer said, emphasizing that the agreement needs U.S. backing.

    Iain Begg, a research fellow at the London School of Economics and Political Science, told Xinhua: “The real question is whether this will be enough to sway the White House. We’ve seen time and again that Washington can reverse its stance overnight.”

    Also on Sunday, Macron told a French newspaper that he was “trying to make Washington understand that disengaging from Ukraine is not in America’s interest.”

    While the summit has pushed Europe toward greater security commitments, the region still faces divisions over whether to deploy troops to Ukraine under a peacekeeping framework.

    For now, some major European countries, including Germany, Spain and Poland, remain hesitant to commit troops to Ukraine, with Britain and France taking the lead in potentially sending military forces.

    Meanwhile, the EU is still in the early stages of developing a defense budget plan. Some experts noted that Europe’s efforts to build its own defense capabilities may still have a long way to go.

    David Galbreath, a professor of international security at the University of Bath, pointed to the U.S. military’s capabilities: “The U.S. provides far sharper military capabilities, such as long-range strikes, sophisticated anti-tank systems and advanced surface-to-air missiles, than anything coming from Europe.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, FBI arrest high-ranking MS-13 leader who controlled gang activities in U.S., Mexico, Europe

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BALTIMORE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the FBI apprehended an illegal Salvadoran alien charged in his home country with possession of firearm, extorsion and terrorist affiliation when officers arrested David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman, 27, in Hyattsville, Maryland, Feb. 27.

    “The apprehension of David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman strikes a significant blow to the leadership and organization of the MS-13 terrorist organization,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Matthew Elliston. “This arrest speaks volumes about the cooperation enjoyed between ICE and the FBI. We will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders from our communities.”

    Orellana is a high-ranking leader in the MS-13 transnational terrorist organization and controlled the operation of MS-13 cliques in the United States, Mexico, and Europe.

    “Maryland is immediately safer because of this arrest. Working together, we took custody of one of the highest-ranking gang members in the United States,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno. “David Alejandro Orellana-Aleman is no longer in his alleged position of power directing violence. His arrest demonstrates the success we can have when we collectively investigate and disrupt violent criminals seeking to exploit our communities.”

    Authorities in El Salvador arrested Orellana Dec. 1, 2016, and charged him for possession of a firearm, extorsion and terrorist affiliation as a documented member of MS-13.

    Orellana illegally entered the United States on an unknown date, at an unknown location, and without being inspected, admitted, or paroled by a U.S. immigration official.

    The Prince George’s County Police Department arrested Orellana Dec. 9, 2024, and charged him for driving without a license.

    Orellana remains in ICE custody following his arrest.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our Maryland communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBaltimore.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Joseph Sanberg, Co-Founder of Aspiration Partners, Arrested for Conspiring to Defraud an Investment Fund of at Least $145 Million

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SANTA ANA, California – Joseph Neal Sanberg, 45, of Orange, the co-founder and largest shareholder of the financial and sustainability services company Aspiration Partners, Inc., was arrested today on a federal criminal complaint alleging that he conspired to defraud two investor funds of at least $145 million.

    Sanberg’s coconspirator, Ibrahim Ameen AlHusseini, 51, of Venice, pleaded guilty today to an information charging him with wire fraud for falsifying documents and information to assist Sanberg. According to his plea agreement, signed on February 7, 2025, and unsealed today, AlHusseini personally received approximately $12.3 million in payments from the scheme. AlHusseini is scheduled for sentencing on September 29, 2025. 

    Sanberg is scheduled to make his initial appearance this afternoon in United States District Court in Santa Ana. AlHusseini was arrested on a criminal complaint on October 7, 2024, and has been released on bond since November 13, 2024. That criminal complaint was previously dismissed against AlHusseini to facilitate his cooperation in the prosecution of others, including Sanberg.

    “Our prosecutors and law enforcement partners have worked methodically to secure a guilty plea from one of the main offenders in this case and have now charged another member of the conspiracy,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “We will continue to ensure that markets and businesses receive an honest and level playing field in which to operate.”

    According to the complaint against Sanberg and AlHusseini’s plea agreement, Sanberg obtained $145 million in loans secured by AlHusseini, who Sanberg knew did not have sufficient financial assets to cover those loans if Sanberg defaulted.  Sanberg hid this fact from investors, then defaulted on the loans, which resulted in at least a $145 million in losses.

    In January 2020, Sanberg began negotiating a $55 million loan from Investor Fund A to Sanberg, in which Sanberg pledged 10.3 million shares of Aspiration Partners stock as collateral. Because Aspiration Partners was a non-public company without a liquid market to sell its stock, Investor Fund A required Sanberg to find a buyer for the 10.3 million shares of Aspiration Partners stock as a hedge against the risk that the shares could not be sold on the open market.

    To secure the $55 million loan, Sanberg recruited AlHusseini, who served on Aspiration Partners’ board of directors, to enter into a put option agreement with Investor Fund A that obligated AlHusseini to buy the 10.3 million shares of Aspiration Partners stock in the event of Sanberg’s default. A put option is an investment contract in which the option buyer has the right to require the option seller to buy an asset from the option buyer at a pre-determined price. Under the option, AlHusseini was obligated to purchase the 10.3 million shares in Aspiration Partners for $55 million from Investor Fund A.

    Aware that AlHusseini lacked sufficient assets to cover the put option obligation, as required by the deal, Sanberg and AlHusseini hid that fact and lied to Investor Fund A, court documents state. Among other things, Sanberg and AlHusseini enlisted a graphic designer in Lebanon to create fake brokerage account and bank account statements that falsely inflated AlHusseini’s financial assets by between approximately $80 million and $200 million.

    Unaware of the fraud, Investor Fund A extended the $55 million loan to Sanberg and purchased the put option from AlHusseini. AlHusseini received approximately $6 million of the $55 million loan at the time of the loan’s execution as consideration (also known as a “premium payment”) for guaranteeing Sanberg’s repayment of the loan.

    Unsealed court documents also state that, in November 2021, Sanberg refinanced the $55 million loan against his 10.3 million shares of Aspiration Partners stock with Investor Fund B. Investor Fund B loaned $145 million to Sanberg against the same 10.3 million shares of stock as collateral. Investor Fund B and AlHusseini agreed to a new put option agreement in which AlHusseini was obligated to pay $65 million to Investor Fund B if Sanberg defaulted on the $145 million loan. The terms of the agreement required AlHusseini to have sufficient assets to pay $65 million in the event of Sanberg’s default.

    Because AlHusseini lacked sufficient assets to cover his obligation, Sanberg and AlHusseini again submitted falsified brokerage account and bank account statements to Investor Fund B to secure the $145 million loan. AlHusseini received a premium payment of approximately $6.3 million as consideration for guaranteeing Sanberg’s repayment of the refinanced loan.

    Sanberg thereafter defaulted on the $145 million loan in November 2022 and again in the spring of 2023. Investor Fund B exercised its put option requiring AlHusseini to buy the pledged shares of Aspiration Partners stock, which he has not done. As a result of Sanberg and AlHusseini’s fraud, Investor Fund B has suffered at least $145 million in losses.

    Investor Fund A and Investor Fund B are investment funds that loaned investors’ capital to high-net-worth borrowers. 

    A criminal complaint contains allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted of the charge in the complaint, Sanberg would face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. AlHusseini faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

    The FBI and the United States Postal Inspection Service are investigating the case. 

    Assistant United States Attorneys Brett A. Sagel, Nisha Chandran, and Jenna Williams of the Corporate and Securities Fraud Strike Force, along with Theodore M. Kneller and Adam L.D. Stempel for the Fraud Section of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, are prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Gladwyne Entrepreneur Pleads Guilty to Bilking Dozens of Investors, Employees, and Business Partners Out of Millions of Dollars

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHILADELPHIA – Acting United States Attorney Nelson S.T. Thayer, Jr., announced that Josh S. Verne, 47, formerly of Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, now a resident of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Court Judge John F. Murphy to three counts of securities fraud, nine counts of wire fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft, charges arising from a series of schemes through which the defendant defrauded dozens of investors, prospective investors, employees, and business partners out of millions of dollars.

    Verne was charged by indictment in August of last year with carrying out the schemes, which took place from in or about 2017 to 2020.

    As detailed in the indictment and admitted by the defendant during today’s guilty plea hearing, Verne held himself out as a wealthy and successful businessman, entrepreneur, and investor, carrying out his fraudulent activities through a series of limited liability companies, of which he was the chief executive and over which he maintained control.

    Among other things, Verne falsely represented his prior business successes, falsely represented his personal net worth, falsely represented his own investments, and falsely represented the financial health of his companies and investments, in order to induce others to invest in or provide loans to him or his companies.

    For instance, Verne admitted to providing an investor with a forged Goldman Sachs statement that showed family investment holdings for Verne of more than $50 million, when, in fact, Verne did not have an investment account at Goldman Sachs in his own name or in his family’s names, much less an account with a market value of more than $50 million.

    Verne also misused business and investor funds to repay prior debts and to finance an affluent lifestyle he could not afford, such as personal expenses related to renovations to his showcase vacation property on the Jersey shore, travel on private jets, contributions to political candidates, personal charitable contributions, and country club payments.

    The defendant admitted that, in order to delay and prevent discovery by law enforcement of his own misconduct, he later sent bank and FedEx confirmations purporting to confirm delivery of funds to investors to whom he had promised repayment; the bank and FedEx confirmations were false and fraudulent.

    Further, Verne stole the identity of a former employee from his company, forging the employee’s signature on a sales agreement to disguise an unauthorized sale of the employee’s shares of stock. Verne obtained $150,000 from the unauthorized sale and used those funds to make payments to himself and to a prior investor.

    The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on June 13 and faces a maximum possible sentence of 242 years’ imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum of two years’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, a $17,500,000 fine, and a $1,300 special assessment. Full restitution also shall be ordered.

    The case was investigated by FBI Philadelphia’s Fort Washington Resident Agency and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Paul G. Shapiro and Jerome M. Maiatico. The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Philadelphia Regional Office investigated civil securities fraud charges against Verne, which are pending.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minister Rishworth interview on the Today Show with Charles Croucher

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

     E&OE TRANSCRIPT

    Topics: Laos methanol poisoning investigation; Rugby League in Las Vegas; Academy Awards.

    CHARLES CROUCHER, HOST:  Welcome back. The parents of Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, who died of methanol poisoning in Laos, are urging travellers to boycott the country until it adequately investigates their daughter’s deaths. Joining us to discuss is Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth and Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie. Good morning to you both. Amanda, I’m going to start with you. There are concerns that are boycott might discourage authorities there from doing the right thing by these families. How do we approach this?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH, MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES: Firstly, I would say the Australian Government continues to stand with Holly and Bianca’s family and continues to of course press the Laos Government to fully and transparently investigate these circumstances. Of course, there are warnings on Smartraveller which is an important government resource to look at the risks. But we as a Government will continue to press for a full investigation because it is really important that any issues that emerge from that are addressed to make sure travellers are safe.

    CHARLES CROUCHER: I guess the issue is, is there something more the Government can be doing if the parents are now encouraging travellers to do the lobbying for them?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: We have continued on an ongoing basis to have conversations and to continue to press the Laos Government and we will continue to do that. We’ve been providing consular support to Bianca’s and Holly’s families. We will continue to do everything we can as a Government to push this. But it’s important people are properly informed when they do travel overseas about what the risks are.

    CHARLES CROUCHER: Bridget, can we be doing more?

    BRIDGET MCKENZIE, NATIONALS SENATOR: Well, I think the Government’s outlined that it’s pursuing every diplomatic measure it can. It’s an absolute tragedy what happened to Holly and Bianca. We don’t want any other young Australians who go overseas for a great holiday to suffer the same fate. So, we need to be pushing for a full investigation so that the issues can be made clear. And you know, we back the Government all the way in their efforts to do that.

    CHARLES CROUCHER: And we stay with the parents because it’s such a tough situation they’ve been in, and we’ve been sort of amazed at how brave they’ve been in speaking out as well. Well, we’re going to move on because the NRL’s Vegas gamble well and truly paid off. It reached, we’re told, an audience that was unprecedented and generated more than $100 million. Now the attention turns to the AFL which weather permitting, will kick off on Thursday. Bridget, you’re a Senator from Victoria. It’s the AFL home state. Are they getting beaten when it comes to launching the season by the people from up north.

    BRIDGET MCKENZIE: Look, we know that NRL is a spectator sport that had the most successful seat opening since 2010. And I think what really resonated with the US was no helmets, no pads, all action, no timeout. And I mean, when you compare that to the NFL, the US rocked up in droves to actually see the NRL live. Obviously, Charles, I am from Victoria. We’ve got the G and we pack it out week in, week out to watch our great game. So, you know, I think it’s the difference between the two sports. One is, you know, best live and the other is building that, you know, a sustainable funding base going forward. Because we know if the NRL gets 1 per cent of the US market, it’ll be sustaining funding for them going forward, which is also good news in decades to come.

    CHARLES CROUCHER: A great TV product, of course, and it’s on Nine as well, which shows. Amanda, Gather Round [AFL] is in South Australia. Never ruined that with an election on the same weekend, obviously. But should the AFL be doing more to make this round the number one?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: Well, you know, the Gather Round is an absolutely amazing round, I have to say. It brings a buzz not just to South Australia but to footy fans, to be all in the same place. I think the AFL has been looking at how they engage their audiences and I would say that Gather Round is a great example of that and will continue to do so. But congratulations to the NRL. And hopefully we’ll start seeing people in America wearing those NRL colours. But of course, I would like to see everyone in America wearing some AFL colours as well. And I think we can all work towards that.

    CHARLES CROUCHER: All right, finally, from Conan O’Brien’s opening monologue to Anora’s sweeping success, the Oscars delivered a host of memorable moments. We’re sort of short on time, so I might even just go with a hands up approach here. But did anyone tune in and has anyone seen any of the movies that are nominated this year? 

    BRIDGET MCKENZIE: Too busy fighting Labor. 

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: I’ve seen Wicked.

    BRIDGET MCKENZIE: Charles, I’m halfway through Conclave on a flight.

    CHARLES CROUCHER: That’s probably the way you’re going to do it. And Amanda’s seen Wicked. So that’s a good sign of the way things are going for Conclave and Wicked – two brutal fights of political natures. And that shapes well for whatever’s to come in the next couple of weeks. Really lovely speaking to both you this morning.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Hapeville Police Officer Charged with Excessively Tasing Detainee

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ATLANTA – Shevoy Brown, a former officer with the Hapeville (GA) Police Department, has been arraigned on charges of using unreasonable force by repeatedly tasing a handcuffed detainee who had been arrested for trespassing.                                                                                                                                     

    “Our local law enforcement partners employ dedicated officers who risk their lives and safety every day to help make our district safer.  This indictment alleges conduct by a former officer that runs counter to the culture of professionalism and public service that epitomizes the work performed by police officers in and outside our district,” said Acting United States Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr.

    “People being held under arrest have the right to be treated humanely,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to protect the civil rights of the public and ensure those who abuse their power are held responsible.”

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the indictment, information provided in court, and other publicly available information: On June 3, 2024, Hapeville, Georgia Police Department officers arrested a man for trespassing and transported him to the department’s headquarters.  The man was placed alone in a small holding cell and handcuffed to a stationary bench.  Although the detainee was a threat to no one, former Hapeville Police Officer Shevoy Brown allegedly tased him at least six times without any legal justification. The repeated tasing injured the detainee and required medical attention.  Following the tasing, Brown allegedly wrote a false use of force report to cover up his conduct.  So in addition to the offense of excessive force, Brown is also charged with obstruction of justice.

    Shevoy Brown, of Hampton, Georgia, was arraigned before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Russell G. Vineyard.  He was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 12, 2025.

    Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges.  The defendant is presumed innocent, and it will be the government’s burden to prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Brent Alan Gray and Bret R. Hobson are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Equip Female DHS Officers with Next Generation Body Armor Technology

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    Published: 02.25.2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, reintroduced bipartisan legislation to provide next generation body armor tailored to best meet the coverage, fit, and functionality needs of female law enforcement personnel at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Recent ballistic testing by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified that body armor typically used by DHS officers can allow bullets to deflect off the chest of the armor and hit the throat area, leaving female officers vulnerable. The bill would require all agencies under DHS to provide law enforcement personnel with appropriately fitting improved ballistic body armor, ensuring that DHS can better protect all personnel.   
    “The dedicated officers serving in DHS law enforcement roles deserve nothing less than the most effective protective equipment available,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan legislation addresses a safety gap that puts our officers at unnecessary risk. By ensuring access to properly fitted body armor that meets the highest safety standards, we’re fulfilling our duty to protect those who protect us.” 
    In 2022, the FBI conducted ballistic testing using updated procedures and improved body molds that accounted for different body types. The testing found that the commonly used body armor, when tested on a female mold was vulnerable to a bullet, or other projectile, ricocheting off the top center of the front armor panel and into the throat area, which could kill an officer. Since the testing, improved ballistic body armor has been created and is available. This legislation would address the demonstrated safety risks identified in FBI testing and ensure that all DHS law enforcement officers have access to potentially life-saving protection.  
    The bipartisan DHS Better Ballistic Body Armor Act would require all agencies under DHS to provide all their law enforcement personnel, particularly female law enforcement officers, with improved ballistic body armor to better protect them in the line of duty.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: James River Announces Fourth Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PEMBROKE, Bermuda, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — James River Group Holdings, Ltd. (“James River” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: JRVR) today reported the following results for the fourth quarter 2024 as compared to the same period in 2023:

      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		   Three Months Ended
    December 31,
    ($ in thousands, except for share data)   2024     per diluted share     2023     per diluted share
    Net (loss) income from continuing operations available to common shareholders $ (92,669 )   $ (2.25 )   $ 17,431     $ 0.46  
    Net loss from discontinued operations1   (1,372 )   $ (0.03 )     (170,211 )   $ (3.89 )
    Net loss available to common shareholders   (94,041 )   $ (2.28 )     (152,780 )   $ (3.43 )
    Adjusted net operating (loss) income2   (40,803 )   $ (0.99 )     12,442     $ 0.33  

    Net loss from continuing operations available to common shareholders was $92.7 million ($2.25 per diluted share). Adjusted net operating loss2 was $40.8 million ($0.99 per diluted share) for the fourth quarter of 2024. The decrease to both was largely attributable to the previously announced $52.8 million of consideration paid in connection with the Excess and Surplus Lines (“E&S”) adverse development reinsurance contract with Cavello Bay Reinsurance Limited, a subsidiary of Enstar Group Limited (“Enstar”) (“E&S Top Up ADC”) that closed on December 23, 2024. Net loss from continuing operations available to common shareholders was also negatively impacted by the $27 million deemed dividend resulting from the November 2024 amendment to the Series A Preferred Shares.

    Unless specified otherwise, all underwriting performance ratios presented herein are for our continuing operations and business not subject to retroactive reinsurance accounting for loss portfolio transfers (“LPTs”).

    Highlights for 2024 included:

    • During the year we completed several strategic actions including (i) closing the sale of JRG Reinsurance Company Ltd. (“JRG Re”) to focus our business around our U.S. insurance businesses, (ii) entering into a $160.0 million combined loss portfolio transfer and adverse development cover for our E&S business (the “E&S ADC”), (iii) initiating a new strategic partnership with Enstar which, in part, entailed a $12.5 million equity investment in the Company and an additional $75.0 million E&S Top Up ADC, and (iv) amending the Certificate of Designations for our Series A Preferred Shares to, among other things, convert $37.5 million of the outstanding Series A Preferred Shares to common shares (see Amendment of Series A Preferred Shares on page 5). We believe these and other actions meaningfully strengthen our balance sheet and position us to generate attractive returns in the future.
    • E&S segment gross written premium exceeded $1.0 billion for a second consecutive year, a slight increase compared to the prior year as the Company continued to focus on its leading, wholesale driven franchise. The Company had its highest levels of both new and renewal annual submission growth in five years, and positive renewal rate change of 9.0% for 2024, as compared to 9.3% for 2023.
    • Full year 2024 net investment income increased 10.8% compared to 2023, with a majority of asset classes reporting higher income.
    • Specialty Admitted Insurance segment combined ratio was 92.2% for 2024 as compared to 95.9% for 2023. Underwriting profit grew 68.6% compared to the prior year.
    • Shareholders’ equity per share of $10.10 decreased sequentially from $14.02 at September 30, 2024, due to the net loss from continuing operations and increase in the common shares outstanding.
    • The Company does not expect any meaningful losses associated with the tragic series of California wildfires.

    Frank D’Orazio, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, “2024 was a costly but transformational year for James River. We have meaningfully de-risked the organization and concluded an extensive strategic review, emerging with a renewed focus. The E&S market remains very healthy, and we believe that 2025 will provide significant opportunities to responsibly grow while taking advantage of the attractive rate environment.”

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Operating Results

    • Gross written premium of $358.3 million, consisting of the following:
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		  
    ($ in thousands)   2024     2023   % Change
    Excess and Surplus Lines $ 280,287   $ 275,171   2 %
    Specialty Admitted Insurance   78,005     114,134   (32 )%
      $ 358,292   $ 389,305   (8 )%
    • Net written premium of $114.0 million, consisting of the following:
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		    
    ($ in thousands)   2024     2023   % Change  
    Excess and Surplus Lines $ 99,684   $ 146,628   (32 )%
    Specialty Admitted Insurance   14,307     25,573   (44 )%
      $ 113,991   $ 172,201   (34 )%
    • Net earned premium of $105.6 million, consisting of the following:
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		    
    ($ in thousands)   2024     2023   % Change  
    Excess and Surplus Lines $ 87,275   $ 153,926   (43 )%
    Specialty Admitted Insurance   18,311     28,027   (35 )%
      $ 105,586   $ 181,953   (42 )%

    Lower net retention for the E&S segment reflects the $52.8 million of ceded premium recorded upon closing the E&S Top Up ADC as well as reinstatement premium which reduced net written premiums in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the prior year quarter.

    • E&S Segment Fourth Quarter Highlights:
      • The E&S segment grew gross written premium by 1.9% compared to the prior year quarter. Excluding excess casualty, where we have been cautious, the segment grew by 11.2%.
      • Total submissions grew 9% compared to the prior year quarter. The E&S segment received over 80,000 new and renewal policy submissions for the fourth consecutive quarter, its third consecutive quarter of 9% submission growth, a level not seen since 2020.
    • Specialty Admitted Insurance Segment Fourth Quarter Highlights:
      • Gross written premium for the fronting and program business declined 11.1% compared to the prior year quarter, excluding the impact of our large workers’ compensation program and Individual Risk Workers’ Compensation book, which were non-renewed in the second quarter of 2023 and sold via a renewal rights transaction in the third quarter of 2023, respectively. Including these two programs, segment gross written premium declined 31.7%.
    • Pre-tax favorable (unfavorable) reserve development by segment on business not subject to retroactive reinsurance accounting was as follows:
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,
    ($ in thousands)   2024       2023  
    Excess and Surplus Lines $ (8,943 )   $ (25,005 )
    Specialty Admitted Insurance   —       (38 )
      $ (8,943 )   $ (25,043 )
    • The fourth quarter of 2024 reflected $8.9 million of net unfavorable reserve development in the E&S segment. The Company ceded $29.5 million of unfavorable reserve development on business subject to the E&S ADC during the fourth quarter of 2024 and the majority of the $8.9 million of net unfavorable development represents the retained loss corridor on that structure. There remains $116.2 million of aggregate limit on the E&S ADC and E&S Top-Up ADC which cover the overwhelming majority of all E&S reserves from 2010-2023.
    • Retroactive benefits of $2.7 million were recorded in loss and loss adjustment expenses during the fourth quarter and the total deferred retroactive reinsurance gain on the Balance Sheet is $58.0 million as of December 31, 2024.
    • Gross fee income was as follows:
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		  
    ($ in thousands)   2024     2023   % Change
    Specialty Admitted Insurance $ 4,828   $ 5,874   (18)%
    • The consolidated expense ratio was 43.7% for the fourth quarter of 2024, which was an increase from 24.2% in the prior year quarter. The expense ratio increase was primarily the result of $52.8 million of consideration paid in connection with the E&S Top Up ADC that closed on December 23, 2024, which resulted in lower net earned premium.

    Investment Results

    Net investment income for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $22.0 million, a decrease of 14.2% compared to $25.6 million in the prior year quarter. The decline in income was primarily due to a lower asset base across our fixed income and bank loan portfolios as we managed the portfolio for the payment of the $52.8 million of consideration paid in connection with the E&S Top Up ADC, as well as lower income from private investments, which in the prior year quarter benefited from a one-time payment of approximately $2.5 million related to the sale of certain investments.

    The Company’s net investment income consisted of the following:

      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		  
    ($ in thousands)   2024     2023   % Change
    Private Investments   1,334     3,199   (58)%
    All Other Investments   20,628     22,389   (8)%
    Total Net Investment Income $ 21,962   $ 25,588   (14)%

    The Company’s annualized gross investment yield on average fixed maturity, bank loan and equity securities for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was 4.7% (versus 4.8% for the three months ended December 31, 2023).

    Net realized and unrealized losses on investments of $2.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to net realized and unrealized gains on investments of $8.0 million in the prior year quarter.

    Capital Management

    The Company announced that its Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.01 per common share. This dividend is payable on March 31, 2025 to all shareholders of record on March 10, 2025.

    Amendment of Series A Preferred Shares

    As previously disclosed, on November 11, 2024, the Company amended the Series A Preferred Shares. Among other amended terms, this amendment converted $37.5 million of the outstanding Series A Preferred Shares to common shares. The Company accounted for the amendment as an extinguishment due to the significance of qualitative and quantitative changes to the shares.

    The Company estimated the fair value of the new Series A Preferred Shares to be $133.1 million on the date of issuance. The Company recorded a deemed dividend of $25.7 million within retained deficit for the difference between the $144.9 million carrying value of the extinguished pre-amendment Series A preferred shares and the combined $133.1 million estimated fair value of the new Series A Preferred Shares and $37.5 million of new common shares. The Company also recorded a deemed dividend of $1.3 million for the difference between the $37.5 million of Series A Preferred Shares converted to common shares in the amendment and the $38.8 million fair value of the common shares issued. The combined $27 million deemed dividend increased the Net Loss to Common Shareholders and reduced tangible common equity for the fourth quarter of 2024 by approximately $0.60 per share.

    Tangible Equity

    Shareholders’ equity of $460.9 million at December 31, 2024 declined 13.1% compared to shareholders’ equity of $530.3 million at September 30, 2024. Tangible equity3 of $437.7 million at December 31, 2024 decreased 11.0% compared to tangible equity of $491.9 million at September 30, 2024, due to losses from continuing and discontinued operations as well as an increase in unrealized investment losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”). Other comprehensive loss was $27.2 million during the fourth quarter of 2024, due to a decrease in the value of the Company’s fixed maturity securities.

    Board of Directors

    The Company also announced that Non-Executive Chairman Ollie L. Sherman Jr. has chosen to retire from his leadership role and that the Board has appointed Christine LaSala as its next Non-Executive Chairperson. Following a period of transition, Mr. Sherman will also retire from the Board on April 30, 2025.

    Mr. Sherman has served on the Board of Directors since May 2016 and had previously retired as a Managing Principal with Towers Watson in 2010. Ms. LaSala joined the Board of Directors in July 2024. She has over 45 years of management, client leadership and financial experience in the insurance industry in underwriting and insurance broking roles. She currently serves as a director of Sedgwick, a leading provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled risk, benefit and business solutions. She served as a director of Beazley plc for eight years, including in a variety of board leadership roles such as Interim Chair, prior to stepping down in April 2024.

    Conference Call

    James River will hold a conference call to discuss its fourth quarter results tomorrow, March 4, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. Investors may access the conference call by dialing (800)-715-9871, Conference ID 6424000, or via the internet by visiting www.jrvrgroup.com and clicking on the “Investor Relations” link. A webcast replay of the call will be available by visiting the company website.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, such forward-looking statements may be identified by terms such as believe, expect, seek, may, will, should, intend, project, anticipate, plan, estimate, guidance or similar words. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Although it is not possible to identify all of these risks and uncertainties, they include, among others, the following: the inherent uncertainty of estimating reserves and the possibility that incurred losses may be greater than our loss and loss adjustment expense reserves; inaccurate estimates and judgments in our risk management may expose us to greater risks than intended; downgrades in the financial strength rating or outlook of our regulated insurance subsidiaries impacting our ability to attract and retain insurance business that our subsidiaries write, our competitive position, and our financial condition; the amount of the final post-closing adjustment to the purchase price received in connection with the sale of our casualty reinsurance business and outcome of litigation relating to such transaction; the potential loss of key members of our management team or key employees and our ability to attract and retain personnel; adverse economic factors resulting in the sale of fewer policies than expected or an increase in the frequency or severity of claims, or both; the impact of a higher than expected inflationary environment on our reserves, loss adjustment expenses, the values of our investments and investment returns, and our compensation expenses; exposure to credit risk, interest rate risk and other market risk in our investment portfolio; reliance on a select group of brokers and agents for a significant portion of our business and the impact of our potential failure to maintain such relationships; reliance on a select group of customers for a significant portion of our business and the impact of our potential failure to maintain, or decision to terminate, such relationships; our ability to obtain insurance and reinsurance coverage at prices and on terms that allow us to transfer risk, adequately protect our company against financial loss and that supports our growth plans; losses resulting from reinsurance counterparties failing to pay us on reinsurance claims, insurance companies with whom we have a fronting arrangement failing to pay us for claims, or a former customer with whom we have an indemnification arrangement failing to perform its reimbursement obligations, and our potential inability to demand or maintain adequate collateral to mitigate such risks; inadequacy of premiums we charge to compensate us for our losses incurred; changes in laws or government regulation, including tax or insurance law and regulations; changes in U.S. tax laws (including associated regulations) and the interpretation of certain provisions applicable to insurance/reinsurance businesses with U.S. and non-U.S. operations, which may be retroactive and could have a significant effect on us including, among other things, by potentially increasing our tax rate, as well as on our shareholders; in the event we did not qualify for the insurance company exception to the passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”) rules and were therefore considered a PFIC, there could be material adverse tax consequences to an investor that is subject to U.S. federal income taxation; the Company or its foreign subsidiary becoming subject to U.S. federal income taxation; a failure of any of the loss limitations or exclusions we utilize to shield us from unanticipated financial losses or legal exposures, or other liabilities; losses from catastrophic events, such as natural disasters and terrorist acts, which substantially exceed our expectations and/or exceed the amount of reinsurance we have purchased to protect us from such events; potential effects on our business of emerging claim and coverage issues; the potential impact of internal or external fraud, operational errors, systems malfunctions or cyber security incidents; our ability to manage our growth effectively; failure to maintain effective internal controls in accordance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended; changes in our financial condition, regulations or other factors that may restrict our subsidiaries’ ability to pay us dividends; and an adverse result in any litigation or legal proceedings we are or may become subject to. Additional information about these risks and uncertainties, as well as others that may cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, is contained in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including our most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In presenting James River Group Holdings, Ltd.’s results, management has included financial measures that are not calculated under standards or rules that comprise accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). Such measures, including underwriting (loss) profit, adjusted net operating (loss) income, tangible equity, tangible common equity, adjusted net operating return on tangible equity (which is calculated as annualized adjusted net operating income divided by the average quarterly tangible equity balances in the respective period), and adjusted net operating return on tangible common equity excluding AOCI (which is calculated as annualized adjusted net operating income divided by the average quarterly tangible common equity balances in the respective period, excluding AOCI), are referred to as non-GAAP measures. These non-GAAP measures may be defined or calculated differently by other companies. These measures should not be viewed as a substitute for those measures determined in accordance with GAAP. Reconciliations of such measures to the most comparable GAAP figures are included at the end of this press release.

    About James River Group Holdings, Ltd.

    James River Group Holdings, Ltd. is a Bermuda-based insurance holding company that owns and operates a group of specialty insurance companies. The Company operates in two specialty property-casualty insurance segments: Excess and Surplus Lines and Specialty Admitted Insurance. Each of the Company’s regulated insurance subsidiaries are rated “A-” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Company.

    Visit James River Group Holdings, Ltd. on the web at www.jrvrgroup.com

    For more information contact:

    Zachary Shytle
    Senior Analyst, Investments and Investor Relations
    980-249-6848
    InvestorRelations@james-river-group.com

    James River Group Holdings, Ltd. and Subsidiaries
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Data (Unaudited)
    ($ in thousands, except for share data)  December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    ASSETS      
    Invested assets:      
    Fixed maturity securities, available-for-sale, at fair value $ 1,189,733   $ 1,324,476
    Equity securities, at fair value   86,479     119,945
    Bank loan participations, at fair value   142,410     156,169
    Short-term investments   97,074     72,137
    Other invested assets   36,700     33,134
    Total invested assets   1,552,396     1,705,861
           
    Cash and cash equivalents   362,345     274,298
    Restricted cash equivalents (a)   28,705     72,449
    Accrued investment income   10,534     12,106
    Premiums receivable and agents’ balances, net   243,882     249,490
    Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses, net   1,996,913     1,358,474
    Reinsurance recoverable on paid losses   101,210     157,991
    Deferred policy acquisition costs   30,175     31,497
    Goodwill and intangible assets   214,281     214,644
    Other assets   466,635     457,047
    Assets of discontinued operations held-for-sale   0     783,393
    Total assets $ 5,007,076   $ 5,317,250
           
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
    Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses $ 3,084,406   $ 2,606,107
    Unearned premiums   572,034     587,899
    Funds held (a)   25,157     65,235
    Deferred reinsurance gain   57,970     20,733
    Senior debt   200,800     222,300
    Junior subordinated debt   104,055     104,055
    Accrued expenses   53,178     56,722
    Other liabilities   315,446     333,183
    Liabilities of discontinued operations held-for-sale   0     641,497
    Total liabilities   4,413,046     4,637,731
           
    Series A redeemable preferred shares   133,115     144,898
    Total shareholders’ equity   460,915     534,621
    Total liabilities, Series A redeemable preferred shares, and shareholders’ equity $ 5,007,076   $ 5,317,250
           
    Tangible equity (b) $ 437,719   $ 485,608
    Tangible equity per share (b) $ 7.40   $ 11.13
    Tangible common equity per share (b) $ 6.67   $ 9.05
    Shareholders’ equity per share $ 10.10   $ 14.20
    Common shares outstanding   45,644,318     37,641,563
           
    (a) Restricted cash equivalents and the funds held liability includes funds posted by the Company to a trust account for the benefit of a third party administrator handling the claims on the Rasier commercial auto policies in run-off. Such funds held in trust secure the Company’s obligations to reimburse the administrator for claims payments, and are primarily sourced from the collateral posted to the Company by Rasier and its affiliates to support their obligations under the indemnity agreements and the loss portfolio transfer reinsurance agreement with the Company.
    (b) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures”      
    James River Group Holdings, Ltd. and Subsidiaries
    Condensed Consolidated Income Statement Data (Unaudited)
     
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		   Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
    ($ in thousands, except for share data)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    REVENUES              
    Gross written premiums $ 358,292     $ 389,305     $ 1,431,772     $ 1,508,660  
    Net written premiums   113,991       172,201       580,854       693,901  
                   
    Net earned premiums   105,586       181,953       600,196       708,005  
    Net investment income   21,962       25,588       93,089       84,046  
    Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments   (2,803 )     7,954       3,625       10,441  
    Other income   1,968       2,609       10,716       9,517  
    Total revenues   126,713       218,104       707,626       812,009  
    EXPENSES              
    Losses and loss adjustment expenses (a)   144,560       133,162       554,374       500,157  
    Other operating expenses   47,068       45,734       193,198       193,656  
    Other expenses   1,563       2,325       6,145       3,792  
    Interest expense   5,709       6,561       24,666       24,627  
    Intangible asset amortization and impairment   91       91       363       2,863  
    Total expenses   198,991       187,873       778,746       725,095  
    (Loss) income from continuing operations before income taxes   (72,278 )     30,231       (71,120 )     86,914  
    Income tax (benefit) expense on continuing operations   (8,883 )     10,175       (7,634 )     25,705  
    Net (loss) income from continuing operations   (63,395 )     20,056       (63,486 )     61,209  
    Net loss from discontinued operations   (1,372 )     (170,211 )     (17,634 )     (168,893 )
    NET LOSS $ (64,767 )   $ (150,155 )   $ (81,120 )   $ (107,684 )
    Dividends on Series A preferred shares   (29,274 )     (2,625 )     (37,149 )     (10,500 )
    NET LOSS AVAILABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS $ (94,041 )   $ (152,780 )   $ (118,269 )   $ (118,184 )
    ADJUSTED NET OPERATING (LOSS) INCOME (b) $ (40,803 )   $ 12,442     $ (41,503 )   $ 50,317  
                   
    (LOSS) INCOME PER COMMON SHARE              
    Basic              
    Continuing operations $ (2.25 )   $ 0.46     $ (2.60 )   $ 1.35  
    Discontinued operations $ (0.03 )   $ (4.52 )   $ (0.46 )   $ (4.49 )
      $ (2.28 )   $ (4.06 )   $ (3.06 )   $ (3.14 )
    Diluted (c)              
    Continuing operations $ (2.25 )   $ 0.46     $ (2.60 )   $ 1.34  
    Discontinued operations $ (0.03 )   $ (3.89 )   $ (0.46 )   $ (4.47 )
      $ (2.28 )   $ (3.43 )   $ (3.06 )   $ (3.13 )
                   
    ADJUSTED NET OPERATING (LOSS) INCOME PER COMMON SHARE        
    Basic $ (0.99 )   $ 0.33     $ (1.07 )   $ 1.34  
    Diluted (d) $ (0.99 )   $ 0.33     $ (1.07 )   $ 1.33  
                   
    Weighted-average common shares outstanding:              
    Basic   41,237,480       37,656,268       38,685,003       37,618,660  
    Diluted   41,237,480       43,744,208       38,685,003       37,810,440  
    Cash dividends declared per common share $ 0.01     $ 0.05     $ 0.16     $ 0.20  
                   
    Ratios:              
    Loss ratio   111.4 %     73.9 %     86.2 %     69.9 %
    Expense ratio (e)   43.7 %     24.2 %     31.4 %     26.6 %
    Combined ratio   155.1 %     98.1 %     117.6 %     96.5 %
    Accident year loss ratio (f)   65.6 %     58.8 %     66.2 %     64.0 %
                   
                   
                   
    (a) Losses and loss adjustment expenses include $27.0 million and $37.2 million of expense for deferred retroactive reinsurance gains for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024, respectively ($1.3 million of benefit and $5.0 million of expense in the respective three and twelve month prior year periods).
    (b) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures”.
    (c) The outstanding Series A preferred shares were dilutive for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Dividends on the Series A preferred shares were added back to the numerator in the calculation and 5,971,184 common shares from an assumed conversion of the Series A preferred shares were included in the denominator.
    (d) The outstanding Series A preferred shares were anti-dilutive for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Dividends on the Series A preferred shares were not added back to the numerator in the calculation and 5,971,184 common shares from an assumed conversion of the Series A preferred shares were excluded from the denominator.
    (e) Calculated with a numerator comprising other operating expenses less gross fee income (in specific instances when the Company is not retaining insurance risk) included in “Other income” in our Condensed Consolidated Income Statements of $926,000 and $4.6 million for the three and twelve months ended months ended December 31, 2024, respectively ($1.7 million and $5.3 million in the respective prior year periods), and a denominator of net earned premiums.
    (f) Ratio of losses and loss adjustment expenses for the current accident year, excluding development on prior accident year reserves, to net earned premiums for the current year (excluding ceded earned premium associated with adverse development covers covering prior accident years and net earned premium adjustments on certain reinsurance treaties with reinstatement premiums associated with prior years).
    James River Group Holdings, Ltd. and Subsidiaries
    Segment Results
    EXCESS AND SURPLUS LINES
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		       Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,    		    
    ($ in thousands)   2024       2023     % Change     2024       2023     % Change
    Gross written premiums $ 280,287     $ 275,171     1.9 %   $ 1,017,029     $ 1,007,351     1.0 %
    Net written premiums $ 99,684     $ 146,628     (32.0 )%   $ 508,445     $ 589,551     (13.8 )%
                           
    Net earned premiums $ 87,275     $ 153,926     (43.3 )%   $ 512,237     $ 609,566     (16.0 )%
    Losses and loss adjustment expenses excluding retroactive reinsurance   (103,327 )     (112,680 )   (8.3 )%     (448,714 )     (420,044 )   6.8 %
    Underwriting expenses   (36,166 )     (32,348 )   11.8 %     (140,978 )     (135,175 )   4.3 %
    Underwriting (loss) profit (a) $ (52,218 )   $ 8,898     —     $ (77,455 )   $ 54,347     —  
                           
    Ratios:                      
    Loss ratio   118.4 %     73.2 %         87.6 %     68.9 %    
    Expense ratio   41.4 %     21.0 %         27.5 %     22.2 %    
    Combined ratio   159.8 %     94.2 %         115.1 %     91.1 %    
    Accident year loss ratio (b)   64.1 %     55.5 %         64.3 %     61.9 %    
                           
    (a) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures”.
    (b) Ratio of losses and loss adjustment expenses for the current accident year, excluding development on prior accident year reserves, to net earned premiums for the current year (excluding ceded earned premium associated with adverse development covers covering prior accident years and net earned premium adjustments on certain reinsurance treaties with reinstatement premiums associated with prior years).


    SPECIALTY ADMITTED INSURANCE

      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		         Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,    		    
    ($ in thousands)   2024       2023     % Change       2024       2023     % Change
    Gross written premiums $ 78,005     $ 114,134     (31.7 )%   $ 414,743     $ 501,309     (17.3 )%
    Net written premiums $ 14,307     $ 25,573     (44.1 )%   $ 72,409     $ 104,350     (30.6 )%
                             
    Net earned premiums $ 18,311     $ 28,027     (34.7 )%   $ 87,959     $ 98,439     (10.6 )%
    Losses and loss adjustment expenses   (14,264 )     (21,752 )   (34.4 )%     (68,423 )     (75,122 )   (8.9 )%
    Underwriting expenses   (3,186 )     (4,080 )   (21.9 )%     (12,663 )     (19,240 )   (34.2 )%
    Underwriting profit (a), (b) $ 861     $ 2,195     (60.8 )%   $ 6,873     $ 4,077     68.6 %
                             
    Ratios:                        
    Loss ratio   77.9 %     77.6 %           77.8 %     76.3 %    
    Expense ratio   17.4 %     14.6 %           14.4 %     19.6 %    
    Combined ratio   95.3 %     92.2 %           92.2 %     95.9 %    
    Accident year loss ratio   77.9 %     77.5 %           78.5 %     77.3 %    
                             
    (a) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures”.                      
    (b) Underwriting results for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024 include gross fee income of $4.8 million and $21.0 million, respectively ($5.9 million and $24.2 million in the respective prior year periods).  


    Underwriting Performance Ratios

    The following table provides the underwriting performance ratios of the Company’s continuing operations inclusive of the business subject to retroactive reinsurance accounting. There is no economic impact to the Company over the life of a loss portfolio transfer contract so long as any additional losses subject to the contract are within the limit of the loss portfolio transfer and the counterparty performs under the contract. Retroactive reinsurance accounting is not indicative of our current and ongoing operations. Management believes that providing loss ratios and combined ratios on business not subject to retroactive reinsurance accounting for loss portfolio transfers gives the users of our financial statements useful information in evaluating our current and ongoing operations.

      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		   Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
      2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Excess and Surplus Lines:              
    Loss Ratio 118.4 %   73.2 %   87.6 %   68.9 %
    Impact of retroactive reinsurance 30.9 %   (0.8 )%   7.3 %   0.8 %
    Loss Ratio including impact of retroactive reinsurance 149.3 %   72.4 %   94.9 %   69.7 %
                   
    Combined Ratio 159.8 %   94.2 %   115.1 %   91.1 %
    Impact of retroactive reinsurance 30.9 %   (0.8 )%   7.3 %   0.8 %
    Combined Ratio including impact of retroactive reinsurance 190.7 %   93.4 %   122.4 %   91.9 %
                   
    Consolidated:              
    Loss Ratio 111.4 %   73.9 %   86.2 %   69.9 %
    Impact of retroactive reinsurance 25.5 %   (0.7 )%   6.2 %   0.7 %
    Loss Ratio including impact of retroactive reinsurance 136.9 %   73.2 %   92.4 %   70.6 %
                   
    Combined Ratio 155.1 %   98.1 %   117.6 %   96.5 %
    Impact of retroactive reinsurance 25.5 %   (0.7 )%   6.2 %   0.7 %
    Combined Ratio including impact of retroactive reinsurance 180.6 %   97.4 %   123.8 %   97.2 %


    RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES

    Underwriting Profit

    The following table reconciles the underwriting profit by individual operating segment and for the entire Company to consolidated income from continuing operations before taxes. We believe that the disclosure of underwriting profit by individual segment and of the Company as a whole is useful to investors, analysts, rating agencies and other users of our financial information in evaluating our performance because our objective is to consistently earn underwriting profits. We evaluate the performance of our segments and allocate resources based primarily on underwriting profit. We define underwriting profit as net earned premiums and gross fee income (in specific instances when the Company is not retaining insurance risk) less losses and loss adjustment expenses on business from continuing operations not subject to retroactive reinsurance accounting and other operating expenses. Other operating expenses include the underwriting, acquisition, and insurance expenses of the operating segments and, for consolidated underwriting profit, the expenses of the Corporate and Other segment. Our definition of underwriting profit may not be comparable to that of other companies.

      Three Months Ended
    December 31,    		   Twelve Months Ended
    December 31,
    ($ in thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Underwriting (loss) profit of the operating segments:              
    Excess and Surplus Lines $ (52,218 )   $ 8,898     $ (77,455 )   $ 54,347  
    Specialty Admitted Insurance   861       2,195       6,873       4,077  
    Total underwriting (loss) profit of operating segments   (51,357 )     11,093       (70,582 )     58,424  
    Other operating expenses of the Corporate and Other segment   (6,790 )     (7,628 )     (34,972 )     (33,940 )
    Underwriting (loss) profit (a)   (58,147 )     3,465       (105,554 )     24,484  
    Losses and loss adjustment expenses – retroactive reinsurance   (26,969 )     1,270       (37,237 )     (4,991 )
    Net investment income   21,962       25,588       93,089       84,046  
    Net realized and unrealized (losses) gains on investments   (2,803 )     7,954       3,625       10,441  
    Other income (expense)   (521 )     (1,394 )     (14 )     424  
    Interest expense   (5,709 )     (6,561 )     (24,666 )     (24,627 )
    Amortization of intangible assets   (91 )     (91 )     (363 )     (363 )
    Impairment of IRWC trademark intangible asset   —       —       —       (2,500 )
    (Loss) income from continuing operations before taxes $ (72,278 )   $ 30,231     $ (71,120 )   $ 86,914  
                   
    (a) Included in underwriting results for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024 is gross fee income of $4.8 million and $21.0 million, respectively ($5.9 million and $24.2 million in the respective prior year periods).


    Adjusted Net Operating Income

    We define adjusted net operating (loss) income as income available to common shareholders excluding a) (loss) income from discontinued operations b) the impact of retroactive reinsurance accounting for loss portfolio transfers, c) net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments, d) certain non-operating expenses such as professional service fees related to various strategic initiatives, and the filing of registration statements for the offering of securities, e) severance costs associated with terminated employees, and f) deemed dividend related to the conversion of the Series A Preferred Shares. We use adjusted net operating income as an internal performance measure in the management of our operations because we believe it gives our management and other users of our financial information useful insight into our results of operations and our underlying business performance. Adjusted net operating income should not be viewed as a substitute for net income calculated in accordance with GAAP, and our definition of adjusted net operating income may not be comparable to that of other companies.

    Our (loss) income available to common shareholders reconciles to our adjusted net operating (loss) income as follows:

      Three Months Ended December 31,
        2024       2023  
    ($ in thousands) Income
    Before
    Taxes    		   Net
    Income    		   Income
    Before
    Taxes    		   Net
    Income
    Loss available to common shareholders $ (102,924 )   $ (94,041 )   $ (142,605 )   $ (152,780 )
    Loss from discontinued operations   1,372       1,372       170,211       170,211  
    Losses and loss adjustment expenses – retroactive reinsurance   26,969       21,306       (1,270 )     (1,003 )
    Net realized and unrealized investment losses (gains)   2,803       2,214       (7,954 )     (6,284 )
    Other expenses   1,563       1,340       2,321       2,298  
    Series A deemed dividends   27,006       27,006       —       —  
    Adjusted net operating (loss) income $ (43,211 )   $ (40,803 )   $ 20,703     $ 12,442  
                   
      Twelve Months Ended December 31,
        2024       2023  
    ($ in thousands) Income
    Before
    Taxes    		   Net
    Income    		   Income
    Before
    Taxes    		   Net
    Income
    Loss available to common shareholders $ (125,903 )   $ (118,269 )   $ (92,479 )   $ (118,184 )
    Loss from discontinued operations   17,634       17,634       168,893       168,893  
    Losses and loss adjustment expenses – retroactive reinsurance   37,237       29,418       4,991       3,943  
    Net realized and unrealized investment gains   (3,625 )     (2,865 )     (10,441 )     (8,248 )
    Other expenses   6,145       5,573       1,588       1,938  
    Impairment of IRWC trademark intangible asset   —       —       2,500       1,975  
    Series A deemed dividends   27,006       27,006       —       —  
    Adjusted net operating (loss) income $ (41,506 )   $ (41,503 )   $ 75,052     $ 50,317  


    Tangible Equity (per Share) and Tangible Common Equity (per Share)

    We define tangible equity as shareholders’ equity plus mezzanine Series A preferred shares and the deferred retroactive reinsurance gain less goodwill and intangible assets (net of amortization). We define tangible common equity as tangible equity less mezzanine Series A preferred shares. Our definition of tangible equity and tangible common equity may not be comparable to that of other companies, and it should not be viewed as a substitute for shareholders’ equity calculated in accordance with GAAP. We use tangible equity and tangible common equity internally to evaluate the strength of our balance sheet and to compare returns relative to this measure. The following table reconciles shareholders’ equity to tangible equity and tangible common equity for December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, December 31, 2023, and September 30, 2023.

      December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   September 30, 2023
    ($ in thousands, except for share data)              
    Shareholders’ equity $ 460,915   $ 530,347   $ 534,621   $ 562,544
    Plus: Series A redeemable preferred shares   133,115     144,898     144,898     144,898
    Plus: Deferred reinsurance gain (a)   57,970     31,001     20,733     37,653
    Less: Goodwill and intangible assets   214,281     214,372     214,644     214,735
    Tangible equity $ 437,719   $ 491,874   $ 485,608   $ 530,360
    Less: Series A redeemable preferred shares   133,115     144,898     144,898     144,898
    Tangible common equity $ 304,604   $ 346,976   $ 340,710   $ 385,462
                   
    Common shares outstanding   45,644,318     37,829,475     37,641,563     37,619,749
    Common shares from assumed conversion of Series A preferred shares   13,521,635     6,848,763     5,971,184     5,640,158
    Common shares outstanding after assumed conversion of Series A preferred shares   59,165,953     44,678,238     43,612,747     43,259,907
                   
    Equity per share:              
    Shareholders’ equity $ 10.10   $ 14.02   $ 14.20   $ 14.95
    Tangible equity $ 7.40   $ 11.01   $ 11.13   $ 12.26
    Tangible common equity $ 6.67   $ 9.17   $ 9.05   $ 10.25
                   
    (a) Deferred reinsurance gain for the period ending September 30, 2023 includes the deferred retroactive reinsurance gain of $15.7 million related to the former Casualty Reinsurance LPT.

    1 The Company closed the sale of JRG Reinsurance Company Ltd. on April 16, 2024. The full financials for our former Casualty Reinsurance segment have been classified to discontinued operations for all periods.
    2 Adjusted net operating (loss) income, tangible common equity per share and adjusted net operating return on tangible common equity are non-GAAP financial measures. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” at the end of this press release.

    3 Tangible equity and tangible common equity are non-GAAP financial measures. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” and “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” at the end of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Customs Worker Guilty in Stolen Vehicle Conspiracy

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    McALLEN, Texas – A 33-year-old former member of the Mexican National Guard has entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to defraud the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Luis Enrique Guzman Pablo was assigned to work at customs in Matamoros, Mexico. As part of his official duties, he would inspect and observe vehicles departing the United States to Mexico. 

    From May to July of 2024, Pablo facilitated the entry of stolen vehicles into Mexico in exchange for compensation.

    As part of the scheme, co-conspirators would provide Pablo a description of the vehicle to be exported. He would then ensure the stolen vehicle would pass through the inspection process without being denied entry into Mexico.

    In one instance in May 2024, Pablo assisted co-conspirators with the exportation of a stolen Chevrolet Trailblazer that was exported via the Veteran’s International Bridge in Brownsville to Matamoros in exchange for payment.

    “No matter what side of the border or what country they represent, we expect all authorities to do their duties and respect the law,” said Ganjei. “Pablo abused his position in order to enrich himself, and The Southern District of Texas will continue to ensure those like him face the appropriate consequences.”

    Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane will impose sentencing May 13. At that time, Pablo up to five years in prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    Pablo has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

    Homeland Security Investigations and FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection and the Fiscalia General de la Republica in Mexico.

    This case is a result 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 on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr. and Sarina D. DiPiazza are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Acting United States Attorney Fondren Announces Federal Indictment Against Gynecologist for Sexually Abusing Patients, Adulterating Medical Devices for Reuse on Patients, and Health Care Fraud

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

    Memphis, TN – Reagan Fondren, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced today that Sanjeev Kumar, 44, was arrested this morning and charged with enticing and inducing four victims to travel interstate to engage in illegal sexual activity, adulteration of medical devices, misbranding of medical devices, and healthcare fraud.

    The indictment unsealed today alleges that from at least in or about September 2019 and up to and including at least in or about June 2024, Kumar enticed and induced four victims to travel interstate to his medical offices in Memphis, Tennessee, at least in part for the purpose of subjecting them to a sexual activity for which he could be charged with a criminal offense in violation of Tennessee Code Annotated Section 39-13-503.

    According to the Indictment, between 2019 and 2024, Kumar sexually abused women by conducting medically unnecessary gynecologic procedures with medical devices that he held under insanitary conditions and reused on patients when they were required to be disposed of or properly reprocessed. Kumar did not inform patients that he was reusing “single use” or improperly reprocessed devices before he inserted the devices into their vaginas. He also billed Medicare and Medicaid as if the procedures were medically necessary and as if he had used a new or properly reprocessed device for each procedure.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren said: “Kumar was consistently the top-paid provider in Tennessee for Medicare and Medicaid for hysteroscopy biopsy services, and he profited substantially from these criminal acts. The allegations indicate that Kumar acted as a predator in a white coat and used the cover of conducting medical examinations to put his patients at risk and enrich himself.”   

    “This doctor put profit ahead of patients,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “The abusive behavior alleged here took place over five years, which means there could be many victims out there we have not heard from. We want you to know FBI victim specialists, special agents, and analysts investigating this case are here for each and every one of you, and we are your advocates. It is important to remember nothing Dr. Kumar has done was, or ever will be, your fault. We see time and time again that voices matter, and those who have stepped forward have empowered others to do the same. If you have any information concerning this case, or if you believe you are a victim or may have been affected by these alleged crimes, please visit www.fbi.gov/KumarVictims and complete the questionnaire so that we can contact you.  Your responses are voluntary but would be useful in the federal investigation and would enable us to serve you as a victim.”

    “Physicians have a sworn duty to prioritize the health and safety of their patients,” said Kelly Blackmon, Special Agent in Charge at the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG).  “HHS-OIG is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who exploit their patients and federal health care programs for personal gain.”

    This case is being investigated by the United States HHS-OIG, the United States Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations (FDA-OCI), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI).

    The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence.  The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.  If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of the factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Lynn Crum, Scott Smith, and Sarah Pazar Williams for prosecuting this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case. 

    ###

    For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lab Operator Convicted of $4 Million Medicare Fraud Scheme

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    A federal jury in Detroit convicted a California man today for his role in defrauding Medicare of over $4 million in fraudulent claims for medically unnecessary urine drug testing for patients receiving pain management treatment.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Sherif Khalil, 50, of Redondo Beach, conspired with others to submit claims to Medicare for the highest-reimbursing urine drug testing panels, which doctors did not want or order.

    Sherif Khalil operated Spectra Clinical Labs, a toxicology lab located in Gardena, California. As the owner of Spectra, Khalil implemented a scheme to pay marketers a percentage of Medicare reimbursements and incentivize them to obtain doctors’ orders for expensive drug testing panels. Khalil concealed Spectra’s payments to marketers by routing the payments through nominally independent marketing companies that Khalil secretly controlled. To maximize Spectra’s profits and their own commission payments, Spectra’s marketers then trained staff members at doctors’ offices to send Spectra orders for medically unnecessary urine drug tests that doctors did not actually want or authorize. Khalil also knew that orders Spectra received from physician practices were not supported by documentation of medical necessity.

    The medically unnecessary laboratory tests ordered in exchange for illegal kickbacks to marketers caused Medicare to pay more than $4 million to the Spectra Clinical Labs.

    Khalil was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay, offer, receive, and solicit health care kickbacks. Khalil is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 7 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud count and five years in prison on the count for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay, offer, receive, and solicit health care kickbacks. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI Detroit Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Mario Pinto of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.

    The FBI Detroit Field Office and HHS-OIG investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys S. Babu Kaza, Jeffrey A. Crapko, and Kelly Warner and Assistant Chief Shankar Ramamurthy of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted 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: NEWS: Sanders Statement: Meet Donald Trump’s New Best Friend, Vladimir Putin

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, March 3 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released the following statement introducing the American people to the background and history of Russian dictator, and apparent ally of President Trump, Vladimir Putin.
    Donald Trump’s attacks on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are a gift to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump is dividing the Western alliance, and undermining Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion. His actions may prolong the war by convincing Putin he can manipulate Trump into a deal with concessions he couldn’t win on the battlefield.
    Trump is cozying up to Vladimir Putin – so, who is Putin?
    Putin is a former Soviet spy who spent 16 years in the KGB, where he learned how to manipulate people by playing on their egos, greed and fears. After the end of the Cold War, Putin was named head of the FSB, Russia’s post-KGB intelligence agency. In 1999, Putin was named Prime Minister, becoming president when former President Yeltsin unexpectedly resigned. Putin has ruled Russia ever since.
    At the heart of Putin’s rule are two forces: corruption and violence.
    As Russia’s new leader, Putin, who is now believed to be one of the wealthiest people on earth, consolidated power at home by reining in Russia’s powerful oligarchs. He offered them a simple deal: If they granted him absolute power and shared the spoils, he would let them steal as much as they wanted from the Russian people. The result: while the vast majority of the Russian population struggles economically, Putin and his fellow oligarchs stashed trillions of dollars in offshore tax havens. In the process, Putin crushed Russia’s brief movement toward democracy. He eliminated rivals, cracked down on freedom of speech, and strangled the free media. Political dissidents, investigative journalists, and opposition leaders started turning up dead.
    Today, 26 years after he took power, Putin is the absolute ruler of Russia. Russian elections are blatantly fraudulent, with Putin’s lackeys barely hiding their ballot-stuffing. In the last sham election, Putin won 88 percent of the “vote” against carefully screened opposition candidates.
    That is Putin’s Russia. There is no freedom of speech. Protests are violently suppressed. Tens of thousands of people are in imprisoned for speaking out against his rule. The bravest and most prominent dissidents – people like Alexei Navalny, Boris Nemtsov and Sergei Magnitsky – are murdered outright. And the billionaire oligarchs become even richer.
    That is the leader Trump defends and admires.
    But it’s not just repression at home. Putin has also engaged in four brutal wars: in Chechnya, Georgia, Syria and Ukraine (twice). In Chechnya, his forces targeted civilians and medical personnel, flattening entire cities. Against Georgia, he launched an unprovoked invasion and annexed 20 percent the country. In Syria, Russian aircraft bombed schools, hospitals and crowded markets, killing thousands of civilians to prop up the brutal dictator Bashar al-Assad. And in Ukraine, Putin has invaded twice, first in 2014 and then again in 2022.
    Right now, Russia occupies about 20 percent of Ukraine. Because of Putin’s invasion, over one million people have been killed or injured. Every single day, Russia rains down hundreds of missiles and drones on Ukrainian cities. Putin’s forces have massacred civilians and kidnapped thousands of Ukrainian children, bringing them back to Russian “re-education” camps. These atrocities led the International Criminal Court to issue an arrest warrant for Putin in 2023 as a war criminal.
    Putin has also directly attacked the United States and its allies, repeatedly hacking our computer systems, attempting to sabotage critical infrastructure, meddling in our elections and harassing our diplomats.
    That is Donald Trump’s new best friend, Vladimir Putin.
    Every American – regardless of his or her political views – should see the current reality clearly. For the first time in American history, we have a president who is prepared to turn his back on our democratic allies and democratic values to align himself with one of the world’s most brutal dictators.
    For 250 years, people all over the world have looked to the United States, the longest existing democracy on earth, as a source of inspiration. In many countries, democratic leaders have studied our Declaration of Independence and our Constitution for guidance as to how to form governments of the people, by the people, and for the people. In this difficult historical moment, we cannot let them down. More importantly, we cannot let ourselves down. We cannot turn our backs on democracy and our own history.
    We must not allow authoritarians and oligarchs to rule the world.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Jersey Woman Pleads Guilty to Producing, Distributing, and Receiving Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    Ocala, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Alexandria Stevens (20, New Jersey) has pleaded guilty to producing, distributing, and receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Stevens faces a minimum penalty of 15 years, up to 30 years, in federal prison for the production offense, and a minimum penalty of 5 years’ imprisonment, up to 20 years, for each of the distribution and receipt offenses. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Stevens remains detained in federal custody pending the resolution of this case.

    According to the plea agreement, while visiting Florida in November 2023, Stevens and co-defendant Michael Taylor, Jr. produced CSAM with an 8-year-old child. They also received and distributed images of CSAM over the internet. 

    Taylor was also charged for his alleged role in this case. His case is pending.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.

    It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Delaware County Teacher Convicted After Trial of Coercing, Transporting, and Sexually Abusing Students

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Paul Geer was a Teacher at the “Family Foundation” Private Boarding School, Which Operated in Hancock, New York, From Approximately 1992 Until 2014

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Paul Geer, age 57, of Hancock, New York, was convicted today by a federal jury after a two-week-long trial on two counts of coercing and enticing two separate children to travel across state lines to engage in unlawful sexual activity and two counts of transporting the children across state lines with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity with those children.  The jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict on two additional counts. 

    Acting United States Attorney Daniel Hanlon and Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Craig Tremaroli made the announcement.

    The evidence at trial proved that, while Geer was a teacher at the Family Foundation School in Hancock, New York, he imposed various disciplinary sanctions on students that were tantamount to torture. The sanctions Geer imposed on students included depriving children of food or forcing children to eat food that had been regurgitated, binding children in rugs and leaving them in isolated rooms for extended periods of time and forcing children to perform forced physical labor. The evidence at trial further proved that, in 1994 and 2001, Geer used his position of authority and his ability to impose these brutal sanctions to coerce two students to travel with him, on separate occasions, to Maine and Toronto, Canada. The evidence at trial also proved that Geer transported the students across state lines with the intent to engage in sexual activity with them. While on those trips, Geer raped or otherwise sexually abused each of the two children.

    Geer was taken into custody following the verdict. 

    At sentencing currently scheduled for July 9, 2025, in Albany, New York, the two counts of coercion and enticement each carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years. The two counts of transporting children across state lines each carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

    The case was investigated by the FBI with assistance New York State Police and the Colonie, New York Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica N. Carbone, Adrian S. LaRochelle, and Michael D. Gadarian prosecuted the case as a part of Project Safe Childhood.

    Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, and led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon Sentenced To 26 Years In Prison For Armed Robberies And Assault Of Federal Officer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who has prior felony convictions was sentenced today in two separate cases to a total of 26 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. He admitted to committing armed robberies of two jewelry stores and assaulting a detention officer while in custody.

    According to court documents, on December 12, 2016, Wyatt Scott Peterson (42) entered EZ Pawn in Las Vegas and demanded the keys to the jewelry case. During the course of the robbery, he brandished a 9mm semi-automatic handgun to intimidate employees into not resisting and complying with his demands. The firearm was discharged into a display case during the robbery. Peterson stole at least $40,000 and left the store. Then, on December 21, 2016, Peterson entered Super Pawn in Las Vegas and demanded the keys to the jewelry case. He stole 29 rings, three pairs of earrings, and five bracelets combined worth more than $20,000 before he left the store.

    Peterson has prior felony convictions including identity theft in Colville, Washington; Possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver in Spoke, Washington; and Attempt carrying concealed firearm or other deadly weapon in Clark County, Nevada. He is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.

    In December 2016, Peterson was charged and detained pending trial for the armed robbery case. He was housed at Nevada Southern Detention Center in Pahrump, Nevada. While in custody, he confronted a detention officer at the stairwell and began punching the detention officer.

    Peterson pleaded guilty to one count each of commerce by robbery, possessing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, felon in possession of a firearm, and assault on a federal officer.

    Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.

    The case was investigated by the FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jim Fang prosecuted the cases.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Prosecutors Charge 126 Previously Removed Illegal Aliens, Many with Felony Criminal Records, with Illegally Re-Entering the U.S.

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Working with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal law enforcement partners, federal prosecutors in recent weeks filed charges against 126 defendants who allegedly illegally re-entered the United States after being removed, the Justice Department announced today.

    Many of the defendants charged in this operation were previously convicted of felony offenses before they were removed from the U.S., offenses that include manslaughter and crimes against children.

    Filed as part of immigration enforcement activities  across the region over the past week, the criminal cases charge each defendant with being an illegal alien found in the United States following a previous removal from the United States. The criminal complaints and indictments were filed in federal court in Los Angeles, Santa Ana, and Riverside. The recently filed illegal re-entry cases resulted in nearly three dozen arrests over the past week.

    The crime of being found in the United States following removal carries a base sentence of up to two years in federal prison, defendants who were removed after being convicted of a felony face a maximum 10-year sentence, and defendants removed after being convicted of an aggravated felony face a maximum of 20 years in federal prison.

    “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is enforcing long-standing immigration laws, and Illegal aliens who defy lawful removal orders by returning to this nation will be prosecuted,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “These charges promote respect for the immigration laws. The individuals charged over the past week include sex offenders, narcotics dealers, violent criminals, and others who pose a danger to the public.”

    “This result represents a brand new, whole-of-government approach to immigration enforcement,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles Acting Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco. “Our primary goal, along with our federal law enforcement partners, is to ensure those who commit transnational crimes such as drug trafficking, financial fraud and child exploitation can no longer commit it in the U.S.”

    Some of the recently filed cases are summarized below with information contained in court documents. Most of these defendants were arrested February 23. Each of these defendants are Mexican nationals.

    • Ricardo Reynoso-Garcia, 59, of Arleta, was convicted in federal court of illegal reentry into the United States in September 2013 and sentenced to 46 months in prison. He was separately removed four other times between 1984 and 2018. Reynoso-Garcia was convicted in Los Angeles Superior Court of voluntary manslaughter in January 1995 and sentenced to 24 years in prison. He also was convicted in U.S. District Court of fraud and misuse of visas in April 2017 and sentenced to 18 months in prison.
    • Oscar Parra-Reyes, 50, of El Monte, was removed four previous times between 1995 and 2006. He was convicted in Los Angeles Superior Court in February 1993 for sale/transportation of marijuana and sentenced to two years in prison. He subsequently was convicted in Los Angeles Superior Court of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor, corporal injury to a child’s parent and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
    • Luis Roberto Calderon Collantes, 52, of Rialto, was removed from the United States in August 2021 following his February 2017 conviction in San Bernardino County Superior Court for transporting methamphetamine, a felony offense for which he was sentenced to five years in California state prison. In March 2024, Collantes was found in the United States when FBI agents identified his fingerprints on a package of fentanyl they obtained through an undercover purchase on the dark web, a package investigators believe originated from his Rialto home.
    • Valentin Vidal-Lopez, 35, of Granada Hills, was removed from the United States in April 2018. He was convicted of attempted murder in January 2011 in Los Angeles County Superior Court and was sentenced to 10 years in California state prison. According to court documents, immigration authorities were notified on January 26 that Vidal-Lopez was in the custody of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office after his arrested on the charges of resisting, delaying or obstructing a peace officer, DUI alcohol, and possessing a forged driver’s license. At the time of his arrest, Vidal-Lopez allegedly ignored officer commands to step out of his vehicle and then began to drive away. Vidal-Lopez allegedly continued to ignore officer commands and verbally threatened to fight the officers. When taken into custody, Vidal-Lopez allegedly possessed a driver’s license and a Social Security card in other people’s names, along with a bogus lawful permanent resident card, commonly known as a “green card.”
    • Erasmo Hermosillo-Martin, 69, of Inglewood, was removed from the United States to Mexico in March 1994. He was convicted of kidnapping and terrorist threats in May 1991 in Los Angeles County Superior Court and was sentenced to five years and eight months in California state prison. On January 14, law enforcement was notified via the HSI Tipline that Hermosillo-Martin had returned to the United States.
    • Angel Navarro-Camarillo, 42, was removed from the United States four times between 2007 and 2021. He was convicted in Orange County Superior Court in August 2004 for lewd and lascivious acts upon a child under 14 and sentenced to five years’ probation and 202 days in jail. In October 2005, but his probation was revoked, and he was sentenced to three years in prison. Navarro-Camarillo was convicted in U.S. District Court in February 2019 for being an illegal alien found in the United States following removal and was sentenced to 46 months in prison.
    • Isidro Jimenez-Ibanez, 51, of Coachella, was arrested February 24. Jimenez-Ibanez was removed in 1995 following a conviction for possession for sale of methamphetamine in Riverside County Superior Court. According to the criminal complaint, Jimenez-Ibanez returned to the United States and was convicted in 2023 of assault with a deadly weapon in Riverside County.

    Criminal complaints and indictments contain allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The illegal re-entry cases filed as part of the past week’s immigration enforcement activities are being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations.

    The FBI; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the United States Marshals Service; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service provided substantial support during the enforcement activities this week.

    The criminal cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys in the Domestic Security and Immigration Crimes Section and the General Crimes Section.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbus men sentenced to decades in prison for their roles in drug & human trafficking rings, overdose & violent deaths

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – Two Columbus men were sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 25years and 23 years in prison for drug crimes, sex trafficking crimes and their roles in the deaths of a local man and woman. The defendants are two of nearly two dozen individuals charged in a case involving large-scale drug and human trafficking rings, the overdose death of at least one individual and the violent death of a second victim.

    Dustin A. Speakman, 35, of Columbus, was sentenced to 276 months in prison. He pleaded guilty in March 2024 to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances within 1,000 of an elementary school. As part of his plea, Speakman admitted to his role in the violent death of one victim that occurred during the time he was operating a drug distribution house.

    Tyler Bourdo, 31, of Columbus, was sentenced to 300 months in prison. He also pleaded guilty in March 2024 to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances within 1,000 of an elementary school, as well as distributing fentanyl and cocaine that resulted in death and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking.

    Speakman and Bourdo are two of 23 defendants charged in a narcotics and human trafficking case that involves at least two deaths. Two of the defendants were found guilty following a jury trial last month. All 23 defendants have been convicted or pleaded guilty.

    According to court documents, from 2008 until June 2022, lead defendants Patrick Saultz and Cordell Washington ran a large-scale drug trafficking organization in Columbus that included sex trafficking, labor trafficking and money laundering.

    Court documents detail that the drug trafficking organization brought large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone, alprazolam and marijuana into Columbus. These drugs were sold or used to coerce individuals into sexual activity for some members of the drug ring and their profit.

    Speakman joined the drug trafficking organization after being released from jail in 2022, where he was housed with Saultz. Speakman was a mid-level drug distributor for the group out of residences on South Ogden and South Warren.

    As part of his guilty plea, Speakman admitted to severely beating one of his drug runners in May 2022 and then providing him with free drugs to make up for the attack. Witnesses said the male was beaten by Speakman and then given cocaine and fentanyl as compensation. Shortly after, the victim began to seize and foam at the mouth and did not respond to Narcan. The victim was driven to an alley near Grant Hospital where he was found unconscious by Columbus Fire Department personnel with severe trauma to the face and head. His cause of death was ultimately determined to be blunt force trauma caused by Speakman.

    Bourdo supplied and oversaw the drug distribution at one of the stash houses on North Warren. He was providing the property’s owners approximately $100 in illegal narcotics per day for use of the residence.

    According to Bourdo’s plea agreement, on Oct. 14, 2021, an individual was found deceased in an alley between Bourdo’s primary residence and a drug distribution house. The woman was found with a needle in her hand and another needle in her pocket and had been dead for approximately 18 hours.

    Further investigation revealed that, on Oct. 10, 2021, the woman had overdosed on crack cocaine and fentanyl at one of the organization’s drug houses that Bourdo supplied on North Warren. Witnesses on site immediately placed the woman in a bathtub and soaked her in cold water. The witnesses provided multiple rounds of Narcan, CPR and chest compressions, eventually resuscitating her. The woman left and, over the next 48 hours, met up with Bourdo on more than one occasion to get and use more drugs.

    Video surveillance of the alley shows Bourdo walking to the deceased woman’s body just moments before police personnel arrived to attempt (unsuccessfully) to obtain her phone to prevent further investigation into her death.

    As part of his plea, Bourdo admitted to coercing adult drug-addicted females into performing commercial sex acts by using violence as well as providing and then withholding or threatening to withhold narcotics and lodging.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Kelly A. Norris commended the investigation coordinated by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force, which includes Columbus Division of Police Chief Elaine Bryant; Jared Murphey , Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; and Andrew Lawton, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Other agencies that have assisted the task force with the investigation include the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, HIDTA Task Force, IRS-Criminal Investigation, FBI, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI), Ohio National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, Pickerington Police Department, New Albany Police Department, and the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Prichard and Emily Czerniejewski are representing the United States in this case.

    This investigation 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. More information about OCDETF can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Owner of Oahu Physical Therapy Clinic Sentenced to Nine Months in Federal Prison for Health Care Fraud

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    HONOLULU – Acting United States Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson announced that Stephen Timothy Wells, 41, of Waialua, was sentenced yesterday in federal court by U.S. District Judge Jill A. Otake to 9 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release for health care fraud. Wells, the owner of Oahu Spine and Rehab, a physical therapy clinic with locations in Kailua and Aiea, pleaded guilty to the charge on September 27, 2024. As part of his sentence, Wells was also ordered to pay restitution to TRICARE, a healthcare program for United States military service members and their families, and Medicare totaling $392,157.20.

    In his plea agreement, Wells admitted that from July 2013 through early 2020, he submitted false claims for payment for physical therapy services to TRICARE and Medicare. Wells used individuals not trained in physical therapy, including massage therapists, athletic trainers, personal trainers, and an individual who had no professional licenses or certifications whatsoever, to provide physical therapy services to patients. Wells admitted that he knew these individuals were not authorized providers and that he could not legitimately bill TRICARE and Medicare for physical therapy services rendered by them, even under supervision. Nevertheless, Wells billed the programs as though the services had been provided by licensed practitioners.

    “Tens of billions of dollars are lost to health care fraud each year, robbing Americans of vitally needed quality health services,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “Over a nearly seven-year period, the defendant endeavored to bilk our nation’s taxpayer-funded TRICARE and Medicare programs out of as much money as possible. He diverted scarce program dollars from military service members and their families, as well as elderly and disabled Americans—some the most deserving and physically and financially vulnerable members of our society. Today’s sentence should serve as a warning to those who attempt to cheat our taxpayer funded insurance programs: you will be caught and when you are, a prison sentence awaits.”

    This case was investigated by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mohammad Khatib and Rebecca Perlmutter prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Temple Terrace Man Indicted for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death

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

    Tampa, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the return of an indictment charging Charles Zumbahlen (31, Temple Terrace) with distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. If convicted, Zumbahlen faces a minimum penalty of 20 years, up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Zumbahlen that the United States intends to forfeit all assets which are alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.

    According to the indictment, on November 24, 2024, Zumbahlen distributed a lethal amount of fentanyl that resulted in the death of Victim-1. 

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

    This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Candace Garcia Rich.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA INAUGURATES VISITOR’S CONFERENCE 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    PRESIDENT OF INDIA INAUGURATES VISITOR’S CONFERENCE 2024-25

    PRESENTS VISITOR’S AWARDS 2023

    YOU HAVE A CRUCIAL ROLE IN ACHIEVING THE GOAL OF ESTABLISHING INDIA AS AN IMPORTANT CENTRE OF THE KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY: PRESIDENT MURMU TO HEADS OF INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING

    Posted On: 03 MAR 2025 6:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the two-day Visitor’s Conference 2024-25 at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (March 3, 2025). The President of India is the Visitor of 184 Central Institutes of Higher Education.

    In her inaugural address, the President said that the level of development of any country is reflected in the quality of its education system. She told the heads of the institutions of higher learning that they have a crucial role in achieving the goal of establishing India as an important centre of the knowledge economy. She highlighted the need to pay a lot of attention to research along with education. She said that the Government of India has established the National Research Fund with a very good objective. She expressed confidence that institutions of higher learning would make good use of this important initiative and encourage research.

    The President said that the ambition of our higher education community should be that researchers from our institutions get recognition at the world level, patents of our institutions can bring change in the world, and students from developed countries choose India as a preferred destination for higher education.

    The President said that students from India enrich the world’s leading educational institutions and developed economies with their talent. She emphasised the need of making efforts to utilize their talent in our country. She stated that our national goal of establishing India as a Global Knowledge Super Power would be achieved only when the world community is eager to adopt the work being done in our laboratories.

    The President said that many higher education institutions of our country have global brand value. The students of these institutions get big responsibilities in the best institutions and companies of the world. However, all our institutions should move ahead very fast. The leadership of heads of institutions of higher learning would be recognised by developing and utilising the immense talent of our large youth population.

    The President said that along with excellence, social inclusion and sensitivity should also be an essential aspect of our education system. No economic, social, or psychological limitation of any kind should be a hindrance in getting higher education. She said that heads and teachers of institutions of higher learning should take care of young students, remove any insecurity from their minds and provide them moral and spiritual strength. She urged them to make every possible effort to provide counselling and inspiration to students and spread positive energy in the campuses.

    The President said that our country has a rich tradition of scientific achievements. The branches and sub-branches of Indian knowledge and science have flourished in every region of the country. It would be very useful to rediscover the invaluable but extinct streams of knowledge and science by doing intense research. She stated that it is the responsibility of the higher education ecosystem to find ways to use such organically grown knowledge systems in today’s context.

    The President said that educational institutions shape the future of the nation. Young students learn from the conduct of our policy makers, teachers, heads of institutions, and senior students. She expressed confidence that with their global thinking, the heads of higher learning institutions would prepare a generation of builders of a developed India.

    During the inaugural session, the President presented the eighth Visitor’s Awards in the categories of Innovation, Research, and Technology Development.

    ·  The Visitor’s Award for Innovation was given to Prof Saripella Srikrishna, Banaras Hindu University, for developing Novel Indigenous Innovation in Quantum Technology to boost the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

    ·  The Visitor’s Award for Research in the field of Physical Sciences was conferred upon Prof Ashwini Kumar Nangia, University of Hyderabad, for his seminal research in the discovery and development of high bioavailability drugs and pharmaceuticals with enhanced efficacy at affordable cost.

    ·  The Visitor’s Award for Research in Biological Sciences was jointly presented to Prof Rina Chakrabarti, University of Delhi and Prof Raj Kumar, Central University of Punjab. Prof Chakrabarti has been conferred the Award for her research contributions to Sustainable Freshwater Aquaculture while Prof Raj Kumar has been presented the Award for his research contributions to exploring various cancer hallmarks and the development of synthetic anticancer lead molecules.

    ​·    The Visitor’s Award for Technology Development was presented to Dr Venkateswarlu Chintala, Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, for his research contributions to the petrol and diesel production at commercial scale from landfill municipal mixed plastic waste. 

    Tomorrow, the Conference will deliberate on issues such as – Flexibility in academic courses, Credit Sharing and Credit Transfer with multiple entry and exit options; Internationalisation efforts and collaboration; Translation Research and Innovation related to converting research or innovation into useful products and services; Effective student selection processes and respecting student choices in context of NEP; and Effective assessments and evaluation. The outcome of these deliberations will be presented before the President in the closing session of the Conference.

    Please click here to see the President’s Speech – 

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2107822) Visitor Counter : 21

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  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements Under Oath in a Bankruptcy Case

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Travis Lee Harry, 40, of Kernersville, North Carolina, pleaded guilty today to making false statements under oath in a bankruptcy case.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Harry had owned and lived in a house in Princeton, West Virginia, which he sold on December 23, 2019. On February 5, 2020, Harry filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of West Virginia. On the Statement of Financial Affairs he submitted as part of the bankruptcy filing, and which he signed under penalty of perjury, Harry falsely stated that he and his spouse co-owned the house and sold it together. At a March 6, 2020, meeting of creditors as part of the bankruptcy proceeding, Harry falsely testified under oath that he had co-owned the house with his spouse. Harry admitted as part of his guilty plea that he solely owned the house, and that his spouse was never a co-owner. Harry further admitted that he falsely indicated during the creditors’ meeting that all of the proceeds from selling the house went to pay taxes.

    Harry is scheduled to be sentenced on July 7, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The United States Trustee’s Charleston field office, which serves West Virginia, made the criminal referral of this case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The United States Trustee Program is a component of the Department of Justice whose mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public.

    Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage is prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-143.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Paul W. Brown Named Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Office

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

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation has named Paul W. Brown as the special agent in charge of the Atlanta Field Office. Mr. Brown most recently served as the special agent in charge of the Mobile Field Office.

    Mr. Brown joined the FBI as a special agent in 2006 and was first assigned to the Bedford Resident Agency in New Hampshire.

    In 2012, Mr. Brown was promoted to supervisory special agent and moved to the Counterterrorism Division at FBI Headquarters. He was promoted to unit chief in 2013 and served as a program manager over U.S.-based international terrorism investigations.

    Mr. Brown transferred in 2015 to the Jacksonville Field Office, where he led the North Florida Joint Terrorism Task Force.

    In 2018, Mr. Brown was selected to serve as the assistant special agent in charge of cyber, counterintelligence, and crisis response programs of the Phoenix Field Office. He left in 2019 when he was promoted to section chief and appointed director of the FBI’s High-Value Detainee Interrogation Group.

    Mr. Brown was promoted again in 2020 to deputy assistant director of the Weapons of Mass Destruction Directorate. In 2022, he moved to Alabama to serve as the special agent in charge of the Mobile Field Office.

    Prior to joining the FBI, Mr. Brown served as an officer in the U.S. Army and worked as a business consultant for a multinational professional services company.  He earned a bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University and an MBA from Tarleton State University in Texas.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Cartel Boss Tied to Southlake Murder-for-Hire Among Defendants Expelled From Mexico

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

    Among the 29 cartel bosses expelled from Mexico and transferred to the custody of the United States on Thursday was Northern District of Texas defendant Jose Rodolfo Villarreal Hernandez, aka “El Gato,” announced Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad Meacham. 

    Mr. Villarreal Hernandez, a Mexican national who held a high-level position in the Beltran-Leyva Organization (BLO) Drug Cartel, was charged in June 2018 with interstate stalking and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire in the brutal slaying of a 43-year-old Southlake, Texas lawyer in 2013. 

    He was added to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List in October 2020 and arrested by Mexican law enforcement agents in Atizapán de Zaragoza, Mexico in January 2023.

    Attorney General Pam Bondi announced his successful extradition yesterday, pledging to prosecute all extradited cartel bosses “to the fullest extent of the law in honor of the brave law enforcement agents who have dedicated their careers — and in some cases, given their lives — to protect innocent people from the scourge of violent cartels.” 

    Mr. Villarreal Hernandez will make his initial appearance in federal court next week.

    According to evidence presented at the trial of his coconspirators, Mr. Villarreal Hernandez allegedly directed and financed a multi-year effort to locate and assassinate his victim, an attorney with ties to a rival cartel. Testimony revealed that Mr. Villarreal Hernandez allegedly believed the attorney was involved with the death of Mr. Villarreal Hernandez’s father and wanted revenge. 

    The victim was shot while sitting in the passenger seat of his vehicle outside an upscale shopping center in  Southlake on May 22, 2013. His wife was standing near the driver’s side door when her husband was killed. 

    Three men who, acting on orders from Mr. Villarreal Hernandez, tracked the victim prior to his death were convicted and sentenced in 2016: Jose Luis Cepeda-Cortes and Jesus Gerardo Ledezma-Cepeda were convicted at trial of interstate stalking and conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire; Mr. Cepeda-Cortez was also convicted of tampering with documents or proceedings. Both men received life sentences. Jesus Gerardo Ledezma-Campano, son of Mr. Ledezma-Cepeda, pleaded guilty prior to trial to one count of interstate stalking and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

    A fourth defendant, Ramon Villarreal-Hernandez, the brother of Jose Rodolfo, was arrested in Mexico and extradited to the United States in 2020. He pleaded guilty to interstate stalking in June 2022 and was sentenced to ten years in prison.

    According to the U.S. State Department, in addition to allegedly ordering the Southlake murder, Mr. Villarreal Hernandez is believed to have overseen the importation of large quantities of cocaine into the United States as well as committing violent acts within the Republic of Mexico and the United States to maintain his organization’s power and status.

    “After more than a decade, Mr. Villarreal Hernandez will have to answer for his alleged crimes in an American courtroom,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Chad Meacham. “Since the victim was gunned down in a public parking lot in 2013, law enforcement’s commitment to this case has never wavered. I extend my sincere thanks to the federal, state, local, and international partners who have pulled together to ensure this defendant will be brought to justice.”

    “FBI Dallas and the Southlake Police Department have been determined to bring this individual to justice since he orchestrated a brutal murder in one of the many communities we serve in North Texas,” said R. Joseph Rothrock, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Dallas Field Office. “We would like to thank the United States Marshals Service for ensuring that Villarreal-Hernandez arrived safely and is now in federal custody on U.S. soil.”

    “An investigative success such as this one does not come easily or through individual efforts.  Policing is a team sport,” said DEA Dallas Special Agent in Charge, Eduardo A. Chávez. “We are proud to stand hand-in-hand with our colleagues from the FBI to secure Villarreal Hernández’ indictment, arrest, and transfer.  Violence and drug trafficking are evil bedfellows, but together we will ensure communities remain safe and criminals face justice.”

    An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Mr. Villarreal Hernandez is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

    The statutory maximum penalty for interstate stalking is life in prison; the statutory maximum for the murder-for-hire charge is life in prison or death.

    The investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Dallas Field Division, with assistance from the Southlake Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, US. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office, the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office, the Fort Worth Police Department, and the Grapevine Police Department. The  Mexican Secretariat of the Navy, Fiscalía Generalde la República (FGR), Coordinación Nacional Antisecuestro (CONASE) coordinated in the arrest of Mr. Villarreal-Hernandez.  The U.S. Marshal Service for the Northern District of Texas assisted in securing the defendant upon his arrival in Texas. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the FBI’s Legal Attaché Office in Mexico City, and the U.S. Marshals Mexico City Foreign Field Office provided valuable assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Burgess (fmr) and Aisha Saleem prosecuted the case against Mr. Luis Cepeda-Cortes, Mr. Ledezma-Cepeda, and Mr. Ledezma-Campano. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn Smith and Laura Montes are prosecuting the case against Mr. Villarreal Hernandez.

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