NewzIntel.com

Category: Intelligence Agencies

  • MIL-OSI Security: Thirteen Members of Houston Robbery Crew Charged in Robbery and Drug Conspiracy

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Three Crew Members Charged With Murder

    A grand jury in the Southern District of Texas returned a superseding indictment yesterday charging 13 Texas men for their roles in a robbery crew that engaged in robbery, drug trafficking, obstruction of justice, and murder, including the killing of two individuals in July 2023.

    The following 13 defendants, all of Houston, have been charged in the superseding indictment with one count of robbery conspiracy and one count of drug distribution conspiracy:

    • Derrick Dewayne Butler, also known as Kutt and Kutt Throat, 28;
    • Travon Maxwell, also known as Goonie, 29;
    • Emmanuel Winnfield, also known as Pimp, 36;
    • Herman Mitchell, also known as Boobie, 37;
    • Tyrone Raymond Bolton, also known as Honeybee, 32;
    • Joe Devon Champion, also known as Champ, 35;
    • Jonta Allen Glover, 32;
    • Dewayne Donnell Champion, also known as Wayne, 37;
    • Cedric Lynn Andrews, also known as Ced, 50;
    • Jermar Ballard Jones, also known as Mar, 37;
    • Christian Xavier Rucker, also known as Gucci, 30;
    • Samuel Lamonte Draper, 25; and
    • Jeremy James Jenkins, 21.

    If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the robbery conspiracy count and a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison on the drug distribution conspiracy count. In addition, the defendants are each charged with one or more counts of attempt to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and Jones is charged with obstruction.

    Three of the defendants, Butler, Rucker, and Jones, were also charged with two counts of murder in aid of racketeering, using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of causing death through the use of a firearm relating to the killing of two men on July 19, 2023. If convicted of murder in aid of racketeering, Butler, Rucker, and Jones each face a mandatory minimum of life in prison or a maximum of the death penalty.

    Twelve of the defendants, Bolton, J. Champion, Glover, Winnfield, D. Champion, Mitchell, Andrews, Jones, Butler, Maxwell, Draper, and Jenkins, each face, if convicted, an additional mandatory minimum of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison for possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    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, U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas, and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. of the FBI Houston Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Houston Field Office and Houston Police Department investigated the case with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Texas Department of Public Safety. This case is part of both the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative (VCI) in Houston and an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.

    Trial Attorneys Justin G. Bish, Ralph Paradiso, Ben Tonkin, and Jodi Anton of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Byron H. Black and Kelly Zenón-Matos for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    The Houston VCI is conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas and local, state, and federal law enforcement. The joint effort addresses violent crime by employing, where appropriate, federal laws to prosecute gang members and associates in Houston. As part of the initiative, the Criminal Division has dedicated attorneys and other resources to prosecuting violent offenders and assisting intervention, prevention, and reentry efforts to address the root causes of violent crime.

    OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Justice Department’s OCDETF webpage.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Use of Canines to Solve Crime

    Source: US National Institute of Justice (video statements)

    This training was presented as a part of the National Center on Forensics conference at George Mason University on August 8th, 2023. In this session, FBI Forensic Canine Operations Specialist Craig Schultz discusses canine application in the United States and how canines are being utilized regarding human scent evidence and human remains. This presentation is geared specifically for scientists and practitioners to understand the limitations and the strengths of canines and how science, law, and canines come together to reach a specific goal.

    (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=Z6z3FMnpsh8

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Impression Session: Firearms and Toolmarks

    Source: US National Institute of Justice (video statements)

    This training was presented as a part of the National Center on Forensics Conference at George Mason University on August 10th, 2023. In this session, NIST Senior Forensic Science Research Manager Rob Thompson and FBI Supervisory Physical Scientist/Forensic Examiner Michelle Machalka introduce the concepts of firearm and fingerprint impressions. This session is useful for understanding what impressions are, how they transfer, how they are collected, how they are analyzed, and what challenges analysts encounter.

    (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=CNfyG_HkPtY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: DNA 101

    Source: US National Institute of Justice (video statements)

    This training was presented as a part of the National Center on Forensics conference at George Mason University on August 8th, 2023. In this session, FBI Forensic DNA Examiner Amanda Bakker introduces all the most vital concepts of DNA analysis and evidence. For those who aren’t DNA analysts but work in tangential fields such as law enforcement and criminal justice, this session will be incredibly useful for understanding topics such as what DNA is, how it transfers, how it is collected, and how it is analyzed.

    (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=5vlD1S1918E

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Employee Sentenced to Federal Prison for Embezzling More Than $135,000 From Dupo School District

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

    EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A judge sentenced a Waterloo woman to 15 months’ incarceration, requiring three months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons and 12 additional months in community confinement, for embezzling more than $135,000 from Dupo Community Unit School District #196 while employed by the district.

    Linda J. Johnson, 58, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of theft from a federally funded program. In addition to imprisonment, Johnson was ordered to pay $135,566.80 in restitution to Dupo Community Unit School District #196 and the Ohio Casualty Insurance Company.

    According to court documents, Johnson committed the embezzlement while employed in an administrative support role in the superintendent’s office between 2016 and 2022.

    In this position, Johnson was responsible for depositing cash and checks into the district’s activities account intended to support student athletics, clubs and extracurriculars. She stole donations and funds raised to support yearbook, cheer, dance, vending machines, trivia nights, science clubs, ROTC and more.

    To conceal her crime, Johnson drafted bank deposit slips reflecting the correct amount of cash and checks received, but later she prepared a second set of fraudulent deposit slips that only accounted for the checks, while she kept the cash.

    Johnson committed 165 fraudulent transactions, and the loss to the school district was $135,566.80. OCIC incurred a portion of the loss after issuing a Public Official Bond insuring Johnson’s duties as the bookkeeper.

    District officials said the sentencing holds Linda Johnson responsible for severely violating public trust, for the crime directly harmed students, staff and the Dupo School District. The district is resolute in its commitment to safeguarding district resources and ensuring accountability. The district extends sincere gratitude to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI and Dupo Police Department for their work on this case. The district believes the court’s decision sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated in schools.

    The Dupo Police Department and the FBI Springfield Field Office contributed to the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Weinhoeft prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fraudster Receives Prison Sentence in Illegal Paycheck Protection Program Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ATLANTA – Jerry Baptiste, the last of 20 defendants charged in a wide-ranging criminal scheme to steal Paycheck Protection Program funds during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been sentenced for his role in the scheme.

    “This defendant and his co-conspirators used an unprecedented global crisis to defraud the government and the American people,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. “Today’s tough, but fair, sentence sends the message that stealing from the government does not pay.” 

    “This sentencing wraps up an exhaustive investigation into a fraud scheme that stole emergency funds from businesses and individuals that desperately needed them during the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta.  “The FBI will make every effort to ensure federal funds are used as intended and punish anyone who would steal from our government.”

    “The sentencings of the 20 defendants serves as a reminder to those who committed PPP fraud that investigations into their criminal acts have not ended,” said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation special agents will continue their diligent search for those who defrauded the American people during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the third superseding indictment, and other information presented in court: from April 2020 through May 2020, Jerry Baptiste conspired with Darrell Thomas, Denesseria Slaton, Amanda Christian, Charles Petty, Bern Benoit, and others to submit a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan application for Transportation Management Services Inc. (“Transportation Management”), a company that Benoit purported to own. The PPP loan application for Transportation Management falsely represented that it maintained 66 employees and an average monthly payroll of $332,167, and that it would use the PPP funds for payroll, lease payments or mortgage interest, and utilities.

    To support its payroll figures, Transportation Management submitted with its PPP loan application false IRS Form 941s, which are the Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return, for each quarter of 2019. Transportation Management also included with its PPP loan application a fraudulent bank statement. Through the Transportation Management PPP loan application, Baptiste and his co-conspirators fraudulently obtained $830,417. Baptiste also participated in preparing other fraudulent PPP loans.

    Jerry Baptiste, 47, of Miami, Florida was sentenced by U.S. District Judge J. P. Boulee to six and a half years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of$830,417. On October 29, 2024, Baptiste pleaded guilty to money laundering pursuant to a negotiated plea agreement.

    All the defendants in Baptiste’s case have now been convicted and sentenced, with punishments ranging from probation to 15 years’ imprisonment:

    • Darrell Thomas. On June 16, 2021, Thomas pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud and money laundering. On May 9, 2022, Thomas was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $13,206,752.10 in restitution.
    • Andre Lee Gaines. On June 17, 2021, Gaines pleaded guilty to the charge of making a false statement. On October 5, 2021, Gaines was sentenced to five years’ probation and ordered to pay $806,710 in restitution.
    • Kahlil Gibran Green. On September 1, 2020, Green pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud. On January 14, 2021, Green was sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $830,000 in restitution.
    • Bern Benoit. On March 11, 2021, Benoit pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud. On September 8, 2021, Benoit was sentenced to 27 months’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $1,105,217 in restitution.
    • Carla Jackson. On February 15, 2024, Jackson was found guilty of money laundering by jury verdict. On May 16, 2024, Jackson was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $335,238.22 in restitution.
    • Ricky Dixon. On August 1, 2022, Dixon pleaded guilty to the charges of aggravated identity theft and conspiracy to commit money laundering. On January 25, 2023, Dixon was sentenced to 100 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $4,320,928.31 in restitution.
    • Meghan Thomas. On July 27, 2022, Thomas pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. On May 23, 2023, Thomas was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,381,760.35 in restitution.
    • Jesika Blakely. On March 15, 2022, Blakely pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering. On February 8, 2023, Blakely was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $5,348,498.89 in restitution.
    • Amanda Christian. On March 5, 2022, Christian pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. On September 13, 2022, Christian was sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $835,542 in restitution.
    • Dwan Ashong. On June 29, 2022, Ashong pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering. On October 31, 2022, Ashong was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $3,604,807 in restitution.
    • John Gaines. On January 31, 2024, Gaines pleaded guilty to the charge of money laundering. On June 26, 2024, Gaines was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $806,710 in restitution.
    • Charles Petty. On November 2, 2021, Petty pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud. On February 25, 2022, Petty was sentenced to 46 months’ imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $830,417 in restitution.
    • Derek Parker. On April 14, 2022, Parker pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. On August 31, 2022, Parker was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $163,620.40 in restitution.
    • David Belgrave II. On May 25, 2022, Belgrave pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud. On August 25, 2022, Belgrave was sentenced to nine months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, with 18 months on home detention, and ordered to pay $877,000 in restitution.
    • Charles Hill IV. On September 29, 2021, Hill pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. On January 12, 2022, Hill was sentenced to five years’ probation, with 27 months on home detention, and ordered to pay $1,004,805 in restitution.
    • Ryan Whittley. On May 25, 2022, Whittley pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. On August 29, 2022, Whittley was sentenced to 21 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $797,275 in restitution.
    • El Hadj Sall. On August 24, 2022, Sall pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. On November 29, 2022, Sall was sentenced to 27 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $973,585 in restitution.
    • Rick McDuffie. On April 27, 2022, McDuffie pleaded guilty to the charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. On August 23, 2022, McDuffie was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment followed by one year of supervised release, and ordered to pay $5,125 in restitution.
    • Teldrin Foster. On February 15, 2024, Foster was found guilty of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, making a false statement to a federally insured bank, and money laundering by jury verdict. On June 25, 2024, Foster was sentenced to 121 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $9,606,627.35 in restitution. 

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samir Kaushal and Nathan Kitchens, and former Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tal Chaiken and Norman Barnett, of the Northern District of Georgia, and Trial Attorney Siji Moore of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, prosecuted the case.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jewelry Store Robber Sentenced to 19 Years for East Coast Robbery Conspiracy

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

    Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Harvey E. Schlesinger has sentenced Avery Fuller (30, Washington D.C.) to 19 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robberies in New Jersey and Florida and brandishing a firearm during the robberies. Fuller pleaded guilty on October 29, 2024.

    According to court documents, Fuller and his co-conspirators planned and executed a series of jewelry store robberies in New Jersey, Florida, and the District of Columbia. Based in the Washington, D.C. area, the group targeted predominantly South Asian jewelry stores along the east coast. Wearing disguises and armed with firearms, they used hammers to smash jewelry display cases and steal valuable items. These stores were specifically chosen because they sold high-purity gold, which yielded higher proceeds when sold for cash.

    On June 10, 2022, Fuller, along with Trevor Wright, William Hunter, Franklin Hunter, Davon Johnson, and at least four other co-conspirators, committed an armed robbery of Virani Jewelers, located at 1394 Oaktree Road in Iselin, New Jersey. The group left Washington, D.C., at approximately 12:09 p.m., and traveled together in three separate vehicles. At approximately 7:45 p.m., Fuller and his co-conspirators arrived at Virani, exited their vehicles, and ran into the store wearing masks.

    Once inside the store, Fuller and his co-conspirators pointed firearms at store employees. Two of the co-conspirators immediately forced at least two employees to the ground at gunpoint. Hunter and another co-conspirator used hammers to smash the display cases throughout the store and one of the store’s cameras. One co-conspirator pointed his firearm at the back of an employee’s head, pushed her to the back of the store, and commanded her to open the vault. Other co-conspirators shoveled gold jewelry into bags before exiting the store and entering the vehicles; all three vehicles fled from the scene together. After the robbery, Fuller and his-conspirators immediately traveled back to Washington, D.C. with approximately $1.2 million in gold jewelry, which they ultimately melted down into bars of gold and split among the group by grams of gold.

    Approximately six months later, in early December 2022, Fuller and his co-conspirators—Trevor Wright, Jameise Christian, Antonio Tate, Delontae Martin, and Jaylaun Brown—planned another robbery, this time at a jewelry store in Jacksonville. To prepare, Fuller and Wright coordinated everyone’s travel from Washington, D.C., to Miami, where they rented a black vehicle and a white vehicle. On December 6, 2022, the group drove these vehicles to Jacksonville. Upon arrival at the jewelry store, four co-conspirators exited the black vehicle, entered the store wearing disguises, and brandished firearms. One co-conspirator ordered store employees to kneel behind the counter with their heads down while the group used a hammer to smash glass display cases. Meanwhile, Wright and Fuller remained in the white vehicle to monitor the store’s entrance.

    After approximately three minutes, one of the conspirators exited the store and drove the black vehicle directly in front of the store, honking the horn to signal the others to exit. Before leaving, one co-conspirator approached the store employees kneeling in the corner, pointed his firearm, and stole the store owner’s wallet. The group then loaded the stolen jewelry into the trunk of the black vehicle and fled the scene, with the white vehicle traveling in the same direction. The group stole approximately $880,000 in jewelry from the jewelry store.

    Through the collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Columbia, this complex investigation resulted in the identification of six individuals, who were eventually traced back to Miami. The suspects were observed at a Miami condominium, where they were seen exiting their vehicles unmasked and carrying the stolen jewelry.

    To date, all individuals involved in the Jacksonville and New Jersey robberies have been arrested with pending federal cases in Jacksonville and Washington, D.C. In Jacksonville, Delontae Martin, Antonio Tate, and Jameise Christian pleaded guilty to brandishing a firearm in furtherance of the Jacksonville robbery. Martin was sentenced to 9 years’ imprisonment, Tate was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, and Christian was sentenced to 12 years and 10 months in federal prison. Trevor Wright and Jaylaun Brown are in custody and awaiting trial in Washington, D.C. for robbery and firearm offenses.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Miami Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kirwinn Mike.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Carjacking of Off-Duty South Carolina Police Detective

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBIA, S.C. —Shia Lee, 35, of Burlington, North Carolina has pleaded guilty to brandishing a firearm in connection with a violent crime for the armed carjacking of an off-duty South Carolina police detective and his wife.

    According to evidence presented in court, on Dec. 19, 2020, the detective and his wife were travelling on Interstate 26 passing through the Orangeburg area. Their car was parked with the detective in the passenger seat and his wife in the driver’s seat as they were switching drivers.

    Lee walked up to the driver’s side, demanded the car, and the victim driver fought back and resisted. Lee then brandished a firearm at the victim and ordered her out of the vehicle. With the firearm pointed at her, she complied. Lee entered the car, saw the officer in the passenger seat, and pointed the firearm at the second victim, which the officer recognized to be a 9mm or a .380 caliber pistol.  The second victim exited the vehicle, and Lee took control of the car.  Lee then drove the victims’ Jeep Cherokee away from the rest stop along with the police detective’s duty weapon and police badge.

    One day later, 911 dispatch received a call for service associated with a separate alleged vehicle theft from a gas station in Branchville while the victim was inside. Lee was arrested in that car after the Denmark Police Department pursued Lee in a chase and deployed stop sticks. The off-duty officer’s car was found abandoned on a local road, and Lee’s car was found by the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office at the rest stop with another firearm inside, along with Lee’s identifying documents.

    The carjacking victims identified Lee in a photo lineup, and Lee admitted his involvement to Orangeburg County deputies. A federal grand jury then indicted Lee on charges of carjacking and the brandish of a firearm in connection with a crime of violence.

    Lee faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison and a mandatory minimum of seven years. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, restitution for any losses incurred by the victims, and five years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Lee after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.

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

    This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, and the Denmark Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott B. Daniels is prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack: The Easiest 100x Leverage Futures Exchange with Double Deposit Bonus and No KYC Crypto Trading

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With Bitcoin’s price fluctuating below $100,000, many analysts predict a prolonged period of high volatility in the crypto market. Holding spot positions may struggle to generate short-term profits in such conditions. As a result, 100x leverage futures trading has become the preferred tool for seasoned investors looking to maximize potential gains in this volatile market. BexBack Exchange is ramping up its efforts to offer traders unmatched promotional packages.The platform now offers a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and up to 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, providing excellent opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and 50 other major cryptocurrencies for futures contracts.. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector–including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining–complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dde26d5f-0289-4b3c-ba8d-0f0d518aa9f6

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f9c947fb-28db-4be3-8b80-8b3ac08bfd1b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/08170e51-9af3-4971-bd32-a39c2e8d4ac8

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6017b63a-46ff-435d-9ab4-6f1a5eefb3f2

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: H&R Block Brings Taxes to the Gaming World with Immersive Roblox Experience

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KANSAS CITY, Mo., Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — H&R Block (NYSE: HRB), the company that pioneered the tax preparation category 70 years ago, has launched a highly immersive, tax-themed experience ​with​in​ popular Roblox games Mega Mansion Tycoon and Club Roblox – the first-ever tax company to do so – for users ages 18 and older. The timing couldn’t be better as young adult Gen Z gamers may be unaware of their current tax obligations, and that their 2025 activity could trigger a 1099 form next year.

    H&R Block offers an immersive gaming experience that is authentically additive in the following ways: 

    • Through video ads on the platform, Roblox will feature a custom H&R Block-branded universe, launching on Feb. 28 and accessible to gamers ages 18 and up around the world through March 28, 2025.
    • Users interact with 30-second H&R Block content in exchange for exclusive and limited-edition items for their avatars, making the gameplay experience easier and more enjoyable.
    • A Club Roblox integration will take the H&R Block interactivity a step further. In doing so, users can engage with Max, H&R Block’s “TaxCot,” in a branded in-game tax office within the Club Roblox and Mega Mansion Tycoon games.
    • With Max’s help, players can complete tasks allowing them to level up – illustrating how it’s better with Block, and that H&R Block makes the tax process easy and convenient, no matter the complexity of the gamer’s situation.

    WHY GAMING

    For H&R Block, the most trusted company in tax prep, the addressable audience for potential gaming taxpayers is huge: more than half of 85M+ Roblox’s daily active users are Gen Z, engaging across community-created and brand-created content and immersive experiences. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, in late 2023, the share of Gen Zers in the workforce surpassed Baby Boomers for the first time.

    “At H&R Block, our purpose is to provide help and inspire confidence for our clients – and that often means showing up authentically in and on the platforms about which they are passionate,” said Jill Cress, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer, H&R Block. “Gaming and taxes are an unlikely pairing, which is exactly why we created a tax-themed gaming experience on Roblox. We have found that Gen Z is skeptical of traditional advertising, and they expect more from companies than just promoting products. By integrating into Roblox, we are meeting this generation where they are, reminding them that tax season is here – and we are here to help.”

    TAXES + GAMING 

    In the real world, outside the gaming universe, H&R Block is ensuring all avid gamers, including Roblox users, are aware of potential tax implications of receiving in-game currency.

    “Gamers may not realize that some of their online activities where they earn money can be taxable,” said Andy Phillips, Vice President, H&R Block’s The Tax Institute. “If their online earnings are more than $600, that income will generally be reported to the IRS on Form 1099-NEC.”

    Form 1099-NEC is used to report non-employee compensation. A breakdown of its purpose follows:

    • For taxpayers: This form is typically issued to independent contractors, freelancers, and other self-employed individuals. This form will show the gross amount paid to that person during the year.
    • For tax reporting: Recipients will use this information to properly report the income on their tax return. If they are conducting a business, the recipient will generally report the income on Schedule C, along with any allowable expenses. If the activity is more of a hobby, there are special rules for how to report hobby income and expenses.

    Gamers receiving a Form 1099-NEC for the first time may need help in determining if their activity rises to the level of a trade or business or looks more like a hobby. This may be a good opportunity to work with a tax professional to ensure the income is properly reported, and any allowable expenses are deducted.

    No matter how or what hardworking Americans do to make a living, they can be confident that H&R Block’s unmatched expertise will maximize their refund1. To learn more about H&R Block’s tax preparation services, many ways to file, and year-round financial support, visit hrblock.com. For media assets, visit maximize their refund1. To learn more about H&R Block’s tax preparation services, many ways to file, and year-round financial support, visit hrblock.com. For media assets, visit hrblock.com/tax-center/newsroom or for a downloadable Tax Season 2025 media kit, visit https://www.hrblock.com/tax-center/media-kit/tax-season-2025/. And for helpful tips and information, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.

    About H&R Block 
    H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE: HRB) provides help and inspires confidence in its clients and communities everywhere through global tax preparation services, financial products, and small-business solutions. The company blends digital innovation with human expertise and care as it helps people get the best outcome at tax time and also be better with money using its mobile banking app, Spruce. Through Block Advisors and Wave, the company helps small-business owners thrive with year-round bookkeeping, payroll, advisory, and payment processing solutions. For more information, visit H&R Block News.

    1All tax situations are different. Not everyone gets a refund. See hrblock.com/guarantees for complete details.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts South Carolina Man Of Attempted Extortion, Stalking, And Wire Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

              KALAMAZOO – Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Andrew Birge today announced that a federal jury convicted Glenn Daeward Boyd, 36, of Kershaw, South Carolina, of attempted extortion, stalking, and five counts of wire fraud. Boyd is scheduled to be sentenced on a date determined by the court. At sentencing, Boyd faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for attempted extortion, 5 years in prison for stalking, and 20 years in prison for each count of wire fraud.

              “Perpetrators like Mr. Boyd who attempt to extort people online using sexual exploitation will be held accountable, and cannot hide behind their cell phones and computers,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Birge. “We will continue to investigate and prosecute these crimes that often result in tragedy.”

              According to the evidence from a two-day jury trial in Kalamazoo, while in prison in South Carolina for unrelated criminal convictions, Boyd purported to be “Jad,” an 18-year-old girl from Grand Rapids, Michigan on the “Plenty of Fish” dating application, and communicated with B.G. beginning on August 2, 2023. Two days later, Boyd, continuing to pose as “Jad,” told B.G. he was a 15-year-old girl. Boyd then assumed the identity of “Jad’s grandparents,” threatening B.G. that “they” would contact police and B.G.’s family to report B.G. as a pedophile if B.G. did not send Boyd money. Boyd also used a Facebook profile to post on an account related to B.G.: “He is a pedophile I have all the evidence if anyone wants to see it.” In response, and on the same day of the threats, B.G. reported Boyd’s extortion and scheme to police, and then committed suicide. B.G. was 22 years old.

              “Glenn Boyd’s conviction sends a clear and powerful message: individuals who engage in online exploitation and financial crimes will be held fully accountable under the law,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “This case involved a financially driven sextortionist who specifically targeted and manipulated the victim for personal gain. The investigation was a collaborative effort, involving the Wyoming (Michigan) Police Department, South Carolina Department of Corrections-Office of Inspector General, South Carolina Department of Corrections, Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office, Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office, FBI Charlotte, FBI Columbia, and FBI Omaha. If you or someone you know is a victim of sextortion, we strongly urge you to contact local law enforcement or reach out to the FBI directly at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.”

              The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wyoming Police Department, South Carolina Department of Corrections, Newaygo County Sheriff’s Department, and Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Constance R. Turnbull and Jonathan Roth are prosecuting it.

              The FBI provides the following tips on how people can protect themselves from online sextortion schemes:

    1. Be selective about what you share online. If your social media accounts are open to everyone, a predator may be able to figure out a lot of information about you.
       
    2. Be wary of anyone you encounter for the first time online. Block or ignore messages from strangers.
       
    3. Be aware that people can pretend to be anything or anyone online. Videos and photos are not proof that people are who they claim to be. Images can be altered or stolen. In some cases, predators have even taken over the social media accounts of their victims.
       
    4. Be suspicious if you meet someone on one game or app and that person asks you to start talking on a different platform.
       
    5. Be in the know. Any content you create online—whether it is a text message, photo, or video—can be made public. And nothing actually “disappears” online. Once you send something, you don’t have any control over where it goes next.
       
    6. Be willing to ask for help. If you are getting messages or requests online that don’t seem right, block the sender, report the behavior to the site administrator, or go to an adult. If you have been victimized online, tell someone. Being a victim of sextortion is not your fault. You can get through this challenge, even if it seems scary and overwhelming. There are people who want to help.

              If you have information about or believe you are a victim of sextortion, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or report it online at http://tips.fbi.gov. More FBI sextortion resources are available here.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Castellum, Inc. Announces the Award of a $103.3 million Contract to its GTMR Subsidiary

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VIENNA, Va., Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) (“Castellum” or “CTM”), a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software engineering services company focused on the federal government, announces that its Global Technology and Management Resources, Inc. (“GTMR”) subsidiary has been awarded a $103.3 million, five and one-half year contract for Special Missions Management of On-Site Services (“MOSS”) in support of the Naval Air Systems Command (“NAVAIR”) Program Office 290 (“PMA-290”) Special Missions. The contract consists of multiple Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (“ISR&T”) programs but not limited to, the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force Family of Systems, P-8A Research and Development, SM Platforms, Minotaur Family of Services, P-8A Increment 3, P-8A Foreign Military Sales, MQ-4C Triton Multiple Intelligence, Mobile Quick Look, ground & mission support stations, and future capabilities.

    This award represents the largest contract win in Castellum’s history and is expected to start next month. We will provide all aspects of the acquisition life cycle, including material solution analysis, technology development, engineering and manufacturing development, production and deployment, and operations support. This support encompasses engineering analysis and recommendations for technical, logistics, training, and acquisition life-cycle support for the ISR&T platforms and infrastructure, as well as their accompanying Ground Support Stations and classified network(s) entry facilities. With our leading-edge technology services and solutions, we will support the program maturation and integration of electronic warfare and special missions capabilities.

    “We are building a strong and enduring foundation and winning culture here at Castellum and this major win and new opportunity reinforce the positive and powerful momentum our CTM Team continues to determinedly drive. As an industry leading technology services and solutions company, our CTM team could not be more proud and excited for this special opportunity to support our NAVAIR PMA-290 Special Missions customer as their trusted ‘go to’ prime contractor We are privileged and honored to be an essential part of their team and to help achieve their crucial mission to ensure our nation’s warfighters are armed with the most technologically advanced capabilities in the world and assure their success. And once again, it’s our remarkable team of outstanding CTM professionals who bring world-class skills, talent, experience, and dedication in these key technological domains, that make a very real and positive difference with their vital contributions to our all-important national security needs. This win reflects our uncompromising commitment to our people, our mission customers and our shareholders in our unrelenting pursuit of growing Castellum better and stronger in every way, for the long term. It also reflects the applied effectiveness of our renewed and re-energized organic growth strategy that we agilely and timely adjust based upon market conditions and the constantly evolving needs and capabilities requirements of our mission customers. I could not be more confident and encouraged for our CTM team as we look ahead,” said Glen Ives, President and Chief Executive Officer of Castellum.

    About Castellum, Inc.

    Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) is a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software engineering services company focused on the federal government – https://castellumus.com/.

    Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements:

    This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements represent the Company’s expectations or beliefs concerning future events and can generally be identified by the use of statements that include words such as “estimate,” “project,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “shooting to,” “intend,” “plan,” “foresee,” “likely,” “will,” “would,” “appears,” “goal,” “target” or similar words or phrases. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s expectations for revenue growth and new customer opportunities, improvements to cost structure, and profitability. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s expectations for revenue growth and new customer opportunities including opportunities arising from its contracts with NAVAIR and other customers, improvements to cost structure, and profitability. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: the Company’s ability to compete against new and existing competitors; its ability to effectively integrate and grow its acquired companies; its ability to identify additional acquisition targets and close additional acquisitions; the impact on the Company’s revenue due to a delay in the U.S. Congress approving a federal budget, operating under a prolonged continuing resolution, government shutdown, or breach of the debt ceiling, as well as the imposition by the U.S. government of sequestration in the absence of an approved budget; the ability of the U.S. federal government to unilaterally cancel a contract with or without cause, and more specifically, the potential impact of the U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization on government spending and terminating contracts for convenience. For a more detailed description of these and other risk factors, please refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) which can be viewed at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the Company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. The Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements made in this release or in any of its SEC filings except as may be otherwise stated by the Company.

    Contact:
    Glen Ives
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: (703) 752-6157
    info@castellumus.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0bfdbdc0-17de-4f32-a7b1-1494f3d330e5

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oxford Square Capital Corp. Announces Net Asset Value and Selected Financial Results for the Quarter Ended December 31, 2024 and Declaration of Distributions on Common Stock for the Months Ending April 30, May 31, and June 30, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GREENWICH, Conn., Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxford Square Capital Corp. (NasdaqGS: OXSQ) (NasdaqGS: OXSQZ) (NasdaqGS: OXSQG) (the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) announced today its financial results and related information for the quarter ended December 31, 2024.

    • On February 27, 2025, our Board of Directors declared the following distributions on our common stock:
    Month Ending Record Date Payment Date Amount Per Share
    April 30, 2025 April 16, 2025 April 30, 2025 $0.035
    May 31, 2025 May 16, 2025 May 30, 2025 $0.035
    June 30, 2025 June 16, 2025 June 30, 2025 $0.035
    • Net asset value (“NAV”) per share as of December 31, 2024 stood at $2.30, compared with a NAV per share on September 30, 2024 of $2.35.
    • Net investment income (“NII”) was approximately $6.0 million, or $0.09 per share, for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, compared with approximately $6.2 million, or $0.10 per share, for the quarter ended September 30, 2024.
    • Total investment income for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 amounted to approximately $10.2 million, compared with approximately $10.3 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2024.
      • For the quarter ended December 31, 2024 we recorded investment income from our portfolio as follows:
        • $5.4 million from our debt investments;
        • $4.1 million from our CLO equity investments; and
        • $0.8 million from other income.
    • Our total expenses for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 were approximately $4.2 million, which was approximately the same as the quarter ended September 30, 2024.
    • As of December 31, 2024, the following metrics applied (note that none of these metrics represented a total return to shareholders):
      • The weighted average yield of our debt investments was 15.8% at current cost, compared with 14.5% as of September 30, 2024;
      • The weighted average effective yield of our CLO equity investments at current (start of quarter for existing investments) cost was 8.8%, compared with 9.6% as of September 30, 2024; and
      • The weighted average cash distribution yield of our cash income producing CLO equity investments at current cost was 16.2%, compared with 15.3% as of September 30, 2024.
    • For the quarter ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a net increase in net assets resulting from operations of approximately $3.3 million, consisting of:
      • NII of approximately $6.0 million;
      • Net realized losses of approximately $44.8 million; and
      • Net unrealized appreciation of approximately $42.1 million.
    • During the fourth quarter of 2024, we made investments of approximately $25.1 million and received approximately $22.0 million from sales and repayments of investments.
    • Our weighted average credit rating was 2.3 based on total fair value and 2.4 based on total principal amount as of December 31, 2024, compared with a weighted average credit rating of 2.4 based on total fair value and 2.8 based on total principal amount as of September 30, 2024.
    • As of December 31, 2024, we had one debt investment in one portfolio company on non-accrual status, with a fair value of approximately $0.5 million. Also, as of December 31, 2024, our preferred equity investments in one of our portfolio companies were on non-accrual status, which had an aggregate fair value of approximately $4.6 million.
    • For the quarter ended December 31, 2024, we issued a total of approximately 1.8 million shares of common stock pursuant to an “at-the-market” offering. After deducting the sales agent’s commissions and offering expenses, this resulted in net proceeds of approximately $5.0 million. As of December 31, 2024, we had approximately 69.8 million shares of common stock outstanding.

    We will hold a conference call to discuss fourth quarter results today, Friday, February 28th, 2025 at 9:00 AM ET. The toll-free dial-in number is 1-800-549-8228. There will be a recording available for 30 days. If you are interested in hearing the recording, please dial 1-888-660-6264. The replay pass-code number is 06523#.

    A presentation containing further detail regarding our quarterly results of operations has been posted under the Investor Relations section of our website at www.oxfordsquarecapital.com.

     
    OXFORD SQUARE CAPITAL CORP.

    STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
             
        December 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023
        (Unaudited)    
    ASSETS                
    Non-affiliated/non-control investments (cost: $358,356,496 and $440,069,822, respectively)   $ 256,238,759     $ 261,614,335  
    Affiliated investments (cost: $16,836,822 and $16,836,822, respectively)     4,614,100       5,276,092  
    Cash and cash equivalents     34,926,468       5,740,553  
    Interest and distributions receivable     2,724,049       3,976,408  
    Other assets     1,227,598       1,060,384  
    Total assets   $ 299,730,974     $ 277,667,772  
    LIABILITIES                
    Notes payable – 6.25% Unsecured Notes, net of deferred issuance costs of $309,812 and $543,609, respectively     44,480,938       44,247,141  
    Notes payable – 5.50% Unsecured Notes, net of deferred issuance costs of $1,381,619 and $1,768,219, respectively     79,118,381       78,731,781  
    Securities purchased, not settled     12,027,463       —  
    Base Fee and Net Investment Income Incentive Fee payable to affiliate     1,215,964       1,012,389  
    Accrued interest payable     1,204,487       1,204,487  
    Accrued expenses     1,018,261       1,163,349  
    Total liabilities     139,065,494       126,359,147  
                     
    NET ASSETS                
    Common stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 69,758,938 and 59,300,472 shares issued and outstanding, respectively     697,590       593,005  
    Capital in excess of par value     487,943,476       458,121,381  
    Total distributable earnings/(accumulated losses)     (327,975,586 )     (307,405,761 )
    Total net assets     160,665,480       151,308,625  
    Total liabilities and net assets   $ 299,730,974     $ 277,667,772  
    Net asset value per common share   $ 2.30     $ 2.55  
                 
    OXFORD SQUARE CAPITAL CORP.

    STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
        Year Ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year Ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year Ended
    December 31,
    2022
          (Unaudited)                  
    INVESTMENT INCOME                        
    From non-affiliated/non-control investments:                        
    Interest income – debt investments   $ 24,929,287     $ 33,592,166     $ 25,234,315  
    Income from securitization vehicles and investments     15,403,586       16,796,699       17,093,203  
    Other income     2,350,332       1,435,316       790,594  
    Total investment income from non-affiliated/non-control investments     42,683,205       51,824,181       43,118,112  
    Total investment income     42,683,205       51,824,181       43,118,112  
    EXPENSES                        
    Interest expense     7,847,320       10,825,877       12,354,392  
    Base Fee     4,310,484       4,613,664       5,903,986  
    Professional fees     1,537,434       1,426,098       1,393,116  
    Compensation expense     746,762       825,226       915,583  
    Director’s fees     417,500       429,500       417,500  
    Insurance expense     308,552       329,892       378,804  
    Transfer agent and custodian fees     260,330       246,562       231,241  
    Excise tax     216,528       1,423,686       252,172  
    General and administrative     597,883       638,350       583,740  
    Total expenses before incentive fees     16,242,793       20,758,855       22,430,534  
    Net Investment Income Incentive Fees     —       3,705,387       —  
    Capital gains incentive fees     —       —       —  
    Total incentive fees     —       3,705,387       —  
    Total expenses     16,242,793       24,464,242       22,430,534  
    Net investment income     26,440,412       27,359,939       20,687,578  
    NET UNREALIZED APPRECIATION/(DEPRECIATION) AND REALIZED LOSSES ON INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS                        
    Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments:                        
    Non-Affiliate/non-control investments     76,337,750       6,198,413       (109,479,985 )
    Affiliated investments     (661,992 )     926,274       3,577,327  
    Total net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments     75,675,758       7,124,687       (105,902,658 )
    Net realized losses:                        
    Non-affiliated/non-control investments     (96,236,489 )     (17,056,245 )     (339,819 )
    Extinguishment of debt     —       (190,353 )     —  
    Total net realized losses     (96,236,489 )     (17,246,598 )     (339,819 )
    Net unrealized and realized losses     (20,560,731 )     (10,121,911 )     (106,242,477 )
    Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations   $ 5,879,681     $ 17,238,028     $ (85,554,899 )
    Net increase in net assets resulting from net investment income per common share (Basic and Diluted):   $ 0.42     $ 0.51     $ 0.42  
    Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations per common share (Basic and Diluted):   $ 0.09     $ 0.32     $ (1.72 )
    Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding (Basic and Diluted):     63,465,255       53,919,104       49,757,122  
     
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
     
        Year Ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year Ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year Ended
    December 31,
    2022    		   Year Ended
    December 31,
    2021    		   Year Ended
    December 31,
    2020
        (Unaudited)                
    Per Share Data                                        
    Net asset value at beginning of year   $ 2.55     $ 2.78     $ 4.92     $ 4.55     $ 5.12  
    Net investment income(1)     0.42       0.51       0.42       0.32       0.40  
    Net realized and unrealized gains (losses)(2)     (0.33 )     (0.19 )     (2.14 )     0.47       (0.36 )
    Net change in net asset value from
    operations    		     0.09       0.32       (1.72 )     0.79       0.04  
    Distributions per share from net investment income     (0.42 )     (0.54)       (0.42)       (0.42)       (0.61 )
    Distributions based on weighted average share impact     —       (0.01 )     —       —       —  
    Tax return of capital distributions     —       —       —       —       —  
    Total distributions(3)     (0.42 )     (0.55 )     (0.42 )     (0.42 )     (0.61 )
    Effect of shares issued, net of offering expenses     0.08       —       —       —       —  
    Effect of shares issued/repurchased, gross     —       —       —       —       —  
    Net asset value at end of year   $ 2.30     $ 2.55     $ 2.78     $ 4.92     $ 4.55  
    Per share market value at beginning of year   $ 2.86     $ 3.12     $ 4.08     $ 3.05     $ 5.44  
    Per share market value at end of year   $ 2.44     $ 2.86     $ 3.12     $ 4.08     $ 3.05  
    Total return based on Market Value(4)     (1.64 )%     9.34 %     (14.11 )%     47.38 %     (31.75 )%
    Total return based on Net Asset Value(5)     6.67 %     11.15 %     (34.96 )%     17.36 %     0.82 %
    Shares outstanding at end of year     69,758,938       59,300,472       49,844,796       49,690,059       49,589,607  
    Ratios/Supplemental Data(7)                                        
    Net assets at end of year (000’s)   $ 160,665     $ 151,309     $ 138,672     $ 244,595     $ 225,427  
    Average net assets (000’s)   $ 152,362     $ 149,944     $ 192,785     $ 242,589     $ 192,137 %
    Ratio of expenses to average net assets     10.66 %     16.32 %     11.64 %     8.69 %     8.45 %
    Ratio of net investment income to average net assets     17.35 %     18.25 %     10.73 %     6.64 %     10.26 %
    Portfolio turnover rate(6)     33.66 %     3.85 %     17.09 %     11.09 %     23.72 %
                                             
    (1)      Represents per share net investment income for the period, based upon weighted average shares outstanding.
    (2)      Net realized and unrealized gains include rounding adjustments to reconcile change in net asset value per share.
    (3)      Management monitors available taxable earnings, including net investment income and realized capital gains, to determine if a tax return of capital may occur for the year. To the extent the Company’s taxable earnings fall below the total amount of the Company’s distributions for that fiscal year, a portion of those distributions may be deemed a tax return of capital to the Company’s stockholders. The ultimate tax character of the Company’s earnings cannot be determined until tax returns are prepared after the end of the fiscal year.
    (4)      Total return based on market value equals the increase or decrease of ending market value over beginning market value, plus distributions, assuming distribution reinvestment prices obtained under the Company’s distribution reinvestment plan, excluding any discounts divided by the beginning market value per share.
    (5)      Total return based on net asset value equals the increase or decrease of ending net asset value over beginning net asset value, plus distributions, divided by the beginning net asset value.
    (6)      Portfolio turnover rate is calculated using the lesser of the annual investment sales and repayments of principal or annual investment purchases over the average of the total investments at fair value.
    (7)      The following table provides supplemental performance ratios measured for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, and 2020:
                       
        Year Ended
    December 31,
    2024    		   Year Ended
    December 31,
    2023    		   Year Ended
    December 31,
    2022    		   Year Ended
    December 31,
    2021    		 Year Ended
    December 31,
    2020
        (Unaudited)              
    Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                                      
    Expenses before incentive
    fees    		   10.66 %     13.84 %     11.64 %     8.69 %     8.45 %
    Net Investment Income Incentive Fees   — %     2.47 %     — %     — %     — %
    Capital Gains Incentive
    Fees    		   — %     — %     — %     — %     — %
    Ratio of expenses, excluding interest expense, to average net assets   5.51 %     9.10 %     5.23 %     4.36 %     4.35 %
                                           

    About Oxford Square Capital Corp.

    Oxford Square Capital Corp. is a publicly-traded business development company principally investing in syndicated bank loans and, to a lesser extent, debt and equity tranches of collateralized loan obligation (“CLO”) vehicles. CLO investments may also include warehouse facilities, which are financing structures intended to aggregate loans that may be used to form the basis of a CLO vehicle.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates” and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Certain factors could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements. These factors are identified from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect subsequent events, except as may be required by law.

    Contact:
    Bruce Rubin
    203-983-5280

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: DIGITALIST GROUP’S FINANCIAL STATEMENT RELEASE, 1 JANUARY–31 DECEMBER 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DIGITALIST GROUP’S FINANCIAL STATEMENT RELEASE, 1 JANUARY–31 DECEMBER 2024 
    (Not audited)

    DIGITALIST 2024 

    SUMMARY

    October–December 2024 (comparable figures for 2023 in parentheses):

    • Turnover: EUR 4.7 million (EUR 4.2 million), change 12.9%. 
    • EBITDA: EUR -0.2 million (EUR -0.4 million*), -4.3% of turnover (-9.1%).
    • EBIT: EUR -0.3 million (EUR -0.6 million*), -7.1% of turnover (-14.4%). 
    • Net income: EUR -1.0 million (EUR -1.6 million*), -21.3% of turnover (-38.9%).
    • Earnings per share EUR -0.00 (EUR -0.00).

    January–December 2024 (comparable figures for 2023 in parentheses): 

    • Turnover: EUR 16.2 million (EUR 16.7 million), change -3.1%. 
    • EBITDA: EUR -1.5 million (EUR -0.9 million**), -9.4% of turnover (-5.2%). 
    • EBIT: EUR -2.0 million (EUR -1.7 million**), -12.3% of turnover (-10.2%). 
    • Net income: EUR -5.0 million (EUR -4.1 million**), -31.0% of turnover (-24.5%). 
    • Earnings per share: EUR -0.01 (EUR -0.01). 
    • Earnings per share (diluted): EUR -0.01 (EUR -0.01). 
    • Cash flow from operations EUR -1.4 million (EUR -2.9 million). 
    • Number of employees at the end of the review period: 122 (126), decrease of 3.2%.

    *) EBIT, EBITDA, and net income for the comparison period were affected by a recorded gain of EUR 0.3 million, resulting from the write-down of Turret accounts payable and an additional purchase price related to the Ticknovate divestment.

    **) EBIT, EBITDA, and net income for the period were affected by a one-time gain of EUR 1.0 million, which includes a recorded gain of EUR 0.6 million from the FutureLab Share transaction, EUR 0.3 million from the write-down of Turret accounts payable and an additional purchase price adjustment related to the Ticknovate divestment.

    CEO’s review 

    As we close the year 2024, Digitalist Group stands at the intersection of ongoing market challenges and promising opportunities. While the Finnish economy remained weak, causing clients to hesitate in initiating new projects, we observed steady growth in Sweden. We are committed to coping with the challenges in the Finnish market, but we have increased focus on exploiting opportunities in the Swedish market and have expanded our offering with new applied AI services.

    Despite the turnover growth in the last quarter, the Group’s turnover in 2024 slightly declined to EUR 16.2 million (from EUR 16.7 million in 2023) and EBITDA ended at EUR -1.5 million (EUR -0.9 million in 2023 including a one-time gain of EUR 1.0 million). This outcome mirrors both the current market conditions and the positive but not sufficient impact of the strategic measures we implemented throughout the year.

    A key driver of our performance has been the Swedish market, where demand remained robust enough to offset weaker activity in Finland. In 2024 Sweden contributed around 70% of our total turnover, up from 61% in the same period last year. We also intensified our cost-saving efforts, reducing personnel costs and streamlining our organizational structure to create a stronger foundation for future improvements.

    This year, we enhanced our service portfolio through the full launch of Digitalist Open Cloud AB and the introduction of Digitalist Private AI Hub, offering secure and GDPR-compliant AI capabilities. These new solutions cater to the rising demand for data privacy and advanced digital services, attracting clients who recognize the value of our approach.

    Looking ahead, we remain focused on driving operational efficiency, sharpening our service offerings, and capitalizing on growth opportunities. Although the market may remain challenging in the near term, our product innovation and constant focus on cost management, positions Digitalist Group for long-term success.

    I extend my sincere gratitude to our employees for their commitment and to our clients for their trust. Together, we have navigated a demanding year, and together we will seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

    Magnus Leijonborg
    CEO, Digitalist Group

    Future prospects

    In 2025, it is expected that turnover and EBITDA will improve in comparison with 2024.

    SEGMENT REPORTING

    Digitalist Group reports its business in a single segment.

    TURNOVER

    In the fourth quarter, the Group’s turnover was EUR 4.7 million (EUR 4.2 million), reflecting a 12.9% increase compared to the previous year. The increase was due to the strengthening of the Swedish business.

    The Group’s turnover for the period totalled EUR 16.2 million (EUR 16.7 million), which is 3.1% lower than the previous year, as a result of the weak market situation in Finland. The turnover for the whole year fell short of the targets, as the economic slowdown and uncertainty have made customers more cautious when starting new projects.

    Market conditions in Finland have been challenging. The share of turnover outside Finland rose to 70 percent (61 %), and the increase was mainly due to the strengthening of the Swedish business. The net impact on turnover from the divestment of FutureLab and the acquisition of Open Communications for the review period is EUR 0.1 million compared to the comparison period.

    RESULT

    In the fourth quarter, EBITDA was EUR -0.2 million (EUR -0.4 million), EBIT was EUR -0.3 million (EUR -0.6 million) and profit before taxes was EUR -0.9 million (EUR -1.6 million). EBITDA was positively affected by improved sales and a EUR 0.3 million reduction in personnel and operating expenses. Net income for the final quarter amounted to EUR -1.0 million (EUR -1.6 million), earnings per share were EUR -0.00 (EUR -0.00).

    EBITDA for the financial period amounted to EUR -1.5 million (EUR -0.9 million), EBIT was EUR -2.0 million (EUR -1.7 million) and profit before taxes was EUR -4.9 million (EUR -4.0 million). Expenses were EUR 0.7 million lower compared to the previous year, of which operating expenses were EUR 0.3 million lower and personnel expenses EUR 0.4 million lower. Cost savings improved EBITDA, but the decline in sales weakened the overall impact.

    The EBIT was influenced by the decrease of depreciations of balance sheet items by EUR 0.4 million. EBIT, EBITDA and net income of the comparison period were impacted by a booked gain of EUR 0.6 million from the FutureLab Share transaction and EUR 0.3 million is attributed to the write-down of Turret accounts payable and an additional purchase price related to the Ticknovate divestment.

    Net financial items amounted to EUR -3.0 million (EUR -2.3 million), mainly comprising external interest expenses related to loans from financial institutions and related parties. External interest expenses were EUR -2.2 million (EUR -2.1 million). Financial items in the comparison period were positively impacted by Business Finland’s non-collection decision on a EUR 0.3 million part of the product development loan and unrealized exchange gains. Net income for the financial period amounted to EUR -5.0 million (EUR -4.1 million), earnings per share totalled EUR -0.01 (EUR -0.01).

    RETURN ON EQUITY

    The Group’s shareholders’ equity amounted to EUR -37.7 million (EUR -32.7 million). The Group’s equity considering the capital loans was EUR -13.8 million (EUR -15.8 million). Return on equity (ROE) was negative. Return on investment (ROI) was -161.9% (-27.8%).

    BALANCE SHEET AND FINANCING

    The balance sheet total was EUR 10.1 million (EUR 11.4 million). The solvency ratio was -379.1% (-285.9%). 

    At the end of the period, the Group’s liquid assets totalled EUR 0.9 million (EUR 0.9 million).

    At the end of the financial period the Group’s interest-bearing liabilities amounted to EUR 38.2 million (EUR 35.7 million). The Group’s balance sheet recognised EUR 11.0 million (EUR 11.4 million) in loans from financial institutions, including the overdrafts in use. IFRS 16 leasing debts were EUR 0.6 million (EUR 1.0 million). 

    In addition, the company has loans from its main owners. The loans from related parties amount to EUR 26.6 million (EUR 23.4 million). EUR 23.9 million (EUR 16.9 million) related party loans were capital loans, EUR 0 million (EUR 5.8 million) were convertible bonds, EUR 2.8 million (EUR 0.8 million) were other related party loans, of which EUR 2.0 million were short term. The changes result from the conversion of convertible bonds into capital loans in accordance with Chapter 12 of the Limited Liability Companies Act and from the new loan installments from Turret. More information about the arrangements can be found in the section of the review: Related party transactions.

    CASH FLOW

    The Group’s cash flow from operating activities during the review period was EUR -1.4 million (EUR -2.9 million), a change of EUR 1.5 million. The development of the company’s liquid assets was influenced by improved working capital. In order to reduce the rate of turnover of trade receivables, the Group sells part of its trade receivables from Finnish customers. In addition, some Swedish trade receivables are financed through factoring arrangements.

    GOODWILL

    On 31 December 2024, the Group’s balance sheet included goodwill of EUR 5.2 million (EUR 5.4 million). The company tested goodwill in accordance with IAS 36 on 31 December 2024 and no need for an impairment charge was detected. 

    PERSONNEL

    During the financial period, the Group had an average of 123 employees (139). At the end of the financial period, the total number of employees was 122 (126), with 52 (52) working for the Group’s Finnish companies and 70 (74) employed by its foreign subsidiaries.

    SHARES AND SHARE CAPITAL

    Share turnover and price

    During the financial period, the company’s share price hit a high of EUR 0.02 (EUR 0.03) and a low of EUR 0.01 (EUR 0.01), and the closing price on 31 December 2024 was EUR 0.01 (EUR 0.02). The average price in the financial period was EUR 0.01 (EUR 0.02). During the financial period 78,321,067 (40,711,793) shares were traded, corresponding to 11.3% (6.0%) of the number of shares in circulation at the end of the period. The Group’s market capitalisation at the closing share price on 31 December 2024 was EUR 9,985,399 (EUR 10,236,341).
         
    Share capital

    At the beginning of the period under review, the company’s registered share capital was EUR 585,394.16, and there were 693,430,455 shares. At the end of the period, the share capital was EUR 585,394.16, and there were 693,430,455 shares. The company has one class of shares. At the end of the reporting period, the company held a total of 7,664,943 treasury shares corresponding to 1.1% of the total shares. 

    Option plan 2019 and 2021

    The option plan 2019 has expired.

    The option rights belonging to the company’s option program 2021 are marked as series 2021A1, 2021A2, 2021B1, 2021B2 and 2021C1. A maximum of 60,000,000 stock options can be issued and they entitle to subscribe for a maximum of 60,000,000 new shares of the Company. A total of 38,450,000 options belonging to the 2021A1 and 2021A2 series have been distributed among the options included in the option program. The last exercise date for the series 2021A1 was 31.12.2024. 28,650,000 of the distributed options have expired, so based on the terms of the option program, it is possible to subscribe for a maximum of 9,800,000 new shares of the Company.

    The theoretical market value of the options allocated by the end of the financial period is approximately EUR 0.8 million, which is recognised as an expense in accordance with IFRS 2 for the years 2021-2025. The expense recognition for 2024 is EUR 0.1 million. The expense recognition does not have cash flow impact.

    Terms and conditions of option programs can be found at the Company’s web site https://investor.digitalistgroup.com//investor

    Shareholders

    The number of shareholders on 31 December 2023 was 5,705 (5,578). Private individuals owned 11.8% (10.4%) of the shares, and institutions held 78.4% (79.5%). Foreign nationals or entities held 9.8% (10.0%) of the shares. Nominee-registered shares accounted for 12.6% (6.3%) of the total.

    AUTHORIZATIONS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    Annual General Meeting 25 April 2024

    The company held its Annual General Meeting on 25 April 2024. The minutes of the Annual General Meeting and the decisions made are on the company’s website at https://investor.digitalistgroup.com/investor/governance/annual-general-meeting

    The financial statements and consolidated financial statements for the financial year ended December 31, 2023, were approved as presented.

    The Annual General Meeting resolved that the loss EUR 4,575,895.22 indicated by the financial statements for 2023 be recorded in the Company’s profit and loss account, and that no dividend be paid to shareholders for the financial period 2023.

    The Annual General Meeting elected Johan Almquist, Paul Ehrnrooth, Peter Eriksson, Esa Matikainen, and Andreas Rosenlew as ordinary members of the Board of Directors, and Magnus Wetter as a new member of the Board of Directors. At the Board meeting held on 25 April 2024 after the Annual General Meeting, the Board of Directors elected Esa Matikainen as the Chair of the Board and Andreas Rosenlew as the Deputy Chair of the Board. The Board resolved to continue with the Audit Committee. Esa Matikainen was elected as a chairman and Peter Eriksson and Magnus Wetter as members of the Audit Committee.

    The Board of Directors evaluated on the date of the financial statement release the independence of the Committee members in compliance with the recommendations of the Finnish Corporate Governance Code 2020 as follows. Esa Matikainen and Magnus Wetter are independent of the company and independent of a significant shareholder. Peter Eriksson is independent of the company and dependent on a significant shareholder.

    Audit firm KPMG Oy Ab was appointed as the company’s auditor.

    Authorisation of the Board of Directors to decide on share issues and on granting special rights entitling to shares

    The Annual General Meeting authorised the Board to decide on a paid share issue and on granting option rights and other special rights entitling to shares that are set out in Chapter 10 Section 1 of the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act, or on the combination of all or some of the aforementioned instruments in one or more tranches on the following terms and conditions:

    The total number of the Company’s treasury shares and new shares to be issued under the authorisation may not exceed 346,715,227, which corresponds to approximately 50 per cent of all the Company’s shares at the time of convening the Annual General Meeting.

    Within the limits of the aforementioned authorisation, the Board of Directors may decide on all terms and conditions applied to the share issue and to the special rights entitling to shares, such as that the payment of the subscription price may take place not only by cash but also by setting off receivables that the subscriber has from the Company.

    The Board of Directors shall be entitled to decide on crediting the subscription price either to the Company’s share capital or, entirely or in part, to the invested unrestricted equity fund.

    The share issue and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares may also take place in a directed manner in deviation from the pre-emptive rights of shareholders if there is a weighty financial reason for the Company to do so, as set out in the Limited Liability Companies Act. In such a case, the authorisation may be used to finance corporate acquisitions or other investments related to the operations of the Company as well as to maintain and improve the solvency of the Group and to carry out an incentive scheme.

    The authorisation is proposed to be effective until the Annual General Meeting held in 2025, yet no further than until 30 June 2025.

    Authorising the Board of Directors to decide on the acquisition and/or on the acceptance as pledge of the Company’s treasury shares

    The Annual General Meeting authorised the Board to decide on acquiring or accepting as pledge, using the Company’s distributable funds, a maximum of 69,343,000 treasury shares, which corresponds to approximately 10 per cent of the Company’s total shares at the time of convening the Annual General Meeting. The acquisition may take place in one or more tranches. The acquisition price shall not exceed the highest market price of the share in public trading at the time of the acquisition.

    In executing the acquisition of treasury shares, the Company may enter into derivative, share lending or other contracts customary in the capital market, within the limits set out in laws and regulations. The authorisation entitles the Board to decide on an acquisition in a manner other than in a proportion to the shares held by the shareholders (directed acquisition).

    The Company may acquire the shares to execute corporate acquisitions or other business arrangements related to the Company’s operations, to improve its capital structure, or to otherwise further transfer the shares or cancel them.

    The authorisation is proposed to include the right for the Board of Directors to decide on all other matters related to the acquisition of shares. The authorisation is proposed to be effective until the Annual General Meeting held in 2025, yet no further than until 30 June 2025.

    The Annual General Meeting approved the Board’s proposals to change the terms of the Convertible Bonds 2021/1, 2021/3, and 2022/1 issued to Turret Oy Ab without modifications.

    The Annual General Meeting approved the Board’s proposals to change the terms of the Convertible Bonds 2021/2 and 2021/4 issued to Holdix Oy Ab without modifications.

    It was noted that the following measures have been taken in the Company after the end of the fiscal year on December 31, 2023:

    ●     Convertible bonds 2021/3 and 2021/4 were partially converted into capital loans as per Chapter 12 of the Companies Act, as announced on March 22, 2024; and
    ●     the General Meeting has decided, following the board’s proposals, to change the terms of the Convertible Bonds 2021/1, 2021/2, 2021/3, 2021/4, and 2022/1, including their maturity extensions until September 30, 2026.

    It was noted that these actions have supported and will support the Company’s balance sheet and solvency.

    It was resolved to accept the proposition of the Board of Directors of the Company not to implement immediate additional measures to rectify the Company’s financial position, but the Company will actively evaluate other possibilities and means to support the Company’s financial standing.

    The stock exchange releases are on the company’s website at https://investor.digitalistgroup.com/investor/releases

    CHANGES IN THE GROUP STRUCTURE

    Digitalist Open Tech AB sold part of its IT and SaaS business to the newly established Digitalist Open Cloud AB through an internal business transfer agreement 1 April 2024. Digitalist Open Cloud AB is now a subsidiary of Digitalist Open Tech AB, with a 15% minority stake held by the subsidiary management.

    Digitalist Group divested its fully-owned subsidiary Open Communications International AB 31 May 2024 to its subsidiary Grow AB, in which it holds a 90% ownership. Sales price was EUR 0.9 million.

    In addition, Digitalist Group has closed non-operative companies. Digitalist USA Ltd was formally dissolved in 2024. Grow Finland Oy and Ixonos Estonia have been removed from the trade register in 2024.

    EVENTS SINCE THE FINANCIAL PERIOD

    There have been no significant events since the end of the financial period.

    RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS 

    Financing arrangements with related parties:

    Strengthening Digital Group Plc’s equity, conversion of convertible bonds partly into capital loans

    In order to strengthen the Company’s equity, Digital Group decided on 22 March 2024 to utilize the right provided by Turret Oy Ab and Holdix Oy Ab to convert a total of 1,907,175.40+interest 334,513.29 euros of the principal and interest of the convertible bonds 2021/3 and 2021/4 subscribed by Turret and Holdix into a capital loan in accordance with Chapter 12 of the Limited Liability Companies Act.

    Amendment of the terms concerning Convertible Bonds 2021/1, 2021/2, 2021/3, 2021/4 and 2022/1 issued by Digitalist Group Plc

    Convertible Bonds 2021/1, 2021/3 and 2022/1 directed to Turret Oy Ab

    The Annual General Meeting of Digitalist Group 25 April 2024 resolved on the amendments to the Terms of the Convertible Bonds 2021/1, 2021/3, and 2022/1 issued to Turret.

    Digitalist Group Plc and Turret Oy Ab signed agreements April 26 2024 to amend the terms of the Convertible Bonds 2021/1, 2021/3, and 2022/1 and the option rights and other special rights pursuant to Chapter 10 section 1(2) of the Limited Liability Companies Act attached to them issued to Turret.

    The maturity of the Convertible Bonds was extended to 30 September 2026.

    Convertible Bonds 2021/2 and 2021/4 directed to Holdix Oy Ab

    The Annual General Meeting of Digitalist Group 25 April 2024 resolved on the amendments to the Terms of the Convertible Bonds 2021/2 and 2021/4 issued to Holdix.

    Digitalist Group and Holdix Oy Ab signed agreements April 26 2024 to amend the terms of the Convertible Bonds 2021/2 and 2021/4 and the option rights and other special rights pursuant to Chapter 10 section 1(2) of the Limited Liability Companies Act attached to them issued to Holdix.

    The maturity of the Convertible Bonds was extended to 30 September 2026.

    Digitalist Group structures its financing

    Digitalist Group Plc’s agreed 28.10.2024 with Turret Oy Ab on a loan amounting to EUR 1,000,000 in order to strengthen the Company’s working capital. The Company has the right to withdraw the Loan in instalments by 31 December 2025 at the latest. The Loan was granted on market terms and it will fall due on 31 December 2026.

    Strengthening Digitalist Group Plc’s balance sheet position and conversion of convertible bonds 2021/1, 2021/2, 2021/3 and 2021/4 into capital loans

    Digitalist Group Plc decided 30.12.2024, in order to strengthen the Company’s balance sheet position, to utilize the right offered by Turret Oy Ab and Holdix Oy Ab to convert a total of 3,860,763.40 + interest 861,271.93 euros of the principal and interest of the convertible bonds 2012/1, 2021/2, 2021/3 and 2021/4 subscribed by Turret and Holdix into a capital loan in accordance with Chapter 12 of the Limited Liability Companies Act.

    OTHER EVENTS DURING THE FINANCIAL PERIOD

    Digitalist Group decreased its earlier guidance regarding future prospects 17.10.2024. The new guidance was: In 2024, turnover and EBITDA are expected to decrease in comparison with 2023.

    Operationally, not including the impact of other operating income (EUR 1.0 million), the current financial year was expected to be stronger than the previous year.

    The stock exchange releases for the review period are on the company’s website at https://investor.digitalistgroup.com/investor/releases

    RISK MANAGEMENT AND SHORT-TERM UNCERTAINTIES

    The objectives of Digitalist Group Plc’s risk management are to ensure the undisrupted continuity and development of the company’s operations, support the achievement of the company’s business objectives and increase the company’s value. For more details about the organisation of risk management, processes and identified risks, see the company’s website at https://investor.digitalistgroup.com/investor

    The company has been making a loss despite the efficiency measures it has taken. The company’s loss-making performance directly affects its working capital and the sufficiency of its financing. This risk is managed by maintaining the capacity to use different financing solutions. The company aims to continuously assess and monitor the amount of necessary business financing to ensure that it has sufficient liquid assets to finance its operations and repay maturing loans. Any disruptions in the financial arrangements would weaken Digitalist Group’s financial position.

    The company is currently dependent on external financing, most of which has been obtained from related-party companies and financial institutions. Digitalist Group’s ability to finance its operations and reduce the amount of its debt depends on several factors, such as the cash flow from operations and the availability of debt and equity financing, and there is no certainty that such financing will be available in the future. Similarly, there can be no certainty in the long term that Digitalist Group will be able to obtain additional debt or refinance its current debt on acceptable terms, if at all.

    During 2024, negotiations regarding the restructuring of maturing convertible bonds held by related parties were concluded, and the maturity date was extended until autumn 2026. The convertible bonds were converted into capital loans in two tranches in accordance with Chapter 12 of the Limited Liability Companies Act in 2024, strengthening the company’s balance sheet.

    Any changes to key client accounts could have a substantial impact on Digitalist Group’s operations, earning potential and financial position. If one of Digitalist Group’s largest clients decided to switch to a competing company or drastically altered its operating model, the chances of finding client volumes to replace the shortfall in the near term would be limited.

    The Group’s business consists mainly of individual client agreements, which are often relatively short-term. Forecasting the start dates and scopes of new products is occasionally challenging, while the cost structure is largely fixed. The aforementioned aspects can lead to unpredictable fluctuations in turnover and, thereby, in profitability. The Group’s business consists of some fixed-price deliveries (65%). Fixed-price client deliveries carry risks related to timing and content. The company endeavours to manage these risks through contractual and project management measures.

    Irrespective of the market situation, there is a shortage of certain experts in the Group’s business sector. Although the aggressive recruitment policies that occasionally arise in the Group’s business sector have decreased significantly, there is still a risk of personnel moving to competitors. There are no guarantees that the company will be able to retain its current personnel and recruit new employees to enable growth. If Digitalist Group loses a significant number of its current personnel, it would be more difficult to complete existing projects and acquire new ones. This could have an adverse impact on Digitalist Group’s business, earnings and financial position.

    The cost inflation has decreased significantly but can still exert pressure to raise salaries, so the importance of cost monitoring is emphasised further. Variation in interest rates do not have a significant direct impact on financing costs because most of the company’s debts have fixed interest rates. If the interest rates on the company’s loans from financial institutions rose by 1 per cent, the company’s annual interest costs would rise by approximately EUR 0.1 million.

    Part of the Group’s turnover is invoiced in currencies other than the euro – mainly in the Swedish krona. The risk associated with changes in exchange rates can be managed in various ways, including net positioning and currency hedging contracts. In 2024 and 2023, the Group had no hedging contracts.

    The Group’s balance sheet contains goodwill that is subject to impairment risk in the event that the Group’s future yield expectations decrease due to internal or external factors. The goodwill is tested for impairment every six months and whenever the need arises.

    General economic uncertainty and low growth forecasts in the company’s key markets affected the Group’s business during the financial period, but the future impact is difficult to estimate. Geopolitical uncertainty may affect the business activities of some of the Group’s clients, thereby indirectly affecting the Group’s business. The Group has no business activities in Russia or Ukraine.

    LONG-TERM GOALS AND STRATEGY

    Digitalist Group aims to achieve a profit margin of at least 10% over the long term. In order to achieve its long-term goals, Digitalist Group strives for profitable, international growth by shaping new forms of thinking, services and technological solutions for a variety of sectors. These sectors include, among others, the technology industry, energy industry, transport and logistics, as well as consumer services in both the public and private sectors. Digitalist Group’s strategy focuses on enhancing its service and solution business and seamlessly integrating user and operational research, branding, design and technology.

    PROPOSAL BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TO THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

    The Board of Directors of Digitalist Group Plc proposes to the Annual General Meeting that the distributable funds be retained in shareholders’ equity and that no dividend be distributed to shareholders for the 2024 financial period. On 31 December 2024, the parent company’s distributable assets were negative.

    Digitalist Group Plc’s Annual General Meeting will be held on 29 April 2025. 
    Digitalist Group’s Financial Statements 2024 will be published and posted on the company’s website on 28 March 2025. Digitalist Group Plc’s Financial Statements will be published in Finnish and English and they are available on the Group’s website https://investor.digitalistgroup.com/investor immediately after publication.

    NEXT REVIEW

    The Business review for January–March 2025 will be published on Friday 25 April 2025.

    DIGITALIST GROUP PLC
    Board of Directors

    Further information:
    Digitalist Group Plc
    CEO Magnus Leijonborg, tel. +46 76 315 8422, magnus.leijonborg@digitalistgroup.com
    Chairman of the Board Esa Matikainen, tel. +358 40 506 0080, esa.matikainen@digitalistgroup.com

    Distribution:
    NASDAQ Helsinki

    Key media
    https://investor.digitalistgroup.com/investor

    DIGITALIST GROUP 

    SUMMARY OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND NOTES, 1 JANUARY–31 DECEMBER 2024

    CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT, EUR THOUSAND 

      1 Oct – 31 Dec 24 1 Oct – 31 Dec 23 Change (%) 1 Jan – 31 Dec 24 1 Jan – 31 Dec 23 Change (%)
    Turnover 4,698.85 4,160.22 12,9 % 16,164.54 16,680.74 -3,1 %
    Other operating income -41.02 280.21 -114,6 % 50.00 1,006.67 -95,0 %
                 
    Materials and services -932.52 -639.82 -45,7 % -3,102.99 -3,202.01 3,1 %
    Expenses from employee benefits -3,251.70 -3,331.27 2,4 % -11,874.22 -12,269.02 3,2 %
    Depreciation and impairment -132.28 -218.14 39,4 % -469.53 -834.41 43,7 %
    Other operating expenses -673.33 -848.57 20,7 % -2,750.27 -3,077.67 10,6 %
    Total expenses -4,989.83 -5,037.80 1,0 % -18,197.01 -19,383.11 6,1 %
                 
    EBIT -331.99 -597.37 44,4 % -1,982.47 -1,695.70 -16,9 %
                 
    Financial income 78.27 4.17 1779,2 % 155.41 752.50 -79,3 %
    Financial expenses -695.08 -1,021.72 32,0 % -3,103.37 -3,026.21 -2,5 %
    Total financial income and expenses -616.81 -1,017.55 39,4 % -2,947.96 -2,273.71 -29,7 %
                 
    Profit before taxes -948.80 -1,614.92 41,2 % -4,930.43 -3,969.41 -24,2 %
    Income taxes -50.82 -3.87 -1214,3 % -87.04 -115.46 24,6 %
    PROFIT/LOSS FOR FINANCIAL PERIOD -999.62 -1,618.78 38,2 % -5,017.47 -4,084.87 -22,8 %
                 
    Distribution:            
    Parent company shareholders -875.12 -1,557.64 43,8 % -4,707.38 -4,042.14 -16,5 %
    Non-controlling interests -124.50 -61.15 -103,6 % -310.09 -42.73 -625,8 %
    Earnings per share:            
    Undiluted (EUR) 0.00 0.00   -0.01 -0.01  
    Diluted (EUR) 0.00 0.00   -0.01 -0.01  

    COMPREHENSIVE INCOME STATEMENT, EUR THOUSAND

      1 Oct – 31 Dec 24 1 Oct – 31 Dec 23 Change (%) 1 Jan – 31 Dec 24 1 Jan – 31 Dec 23 Change (%)
    Profit/loss for the financial period -999.62 -1,618.78 38,2% -5,017.47 -4,084.87 -22,8%
    Other items of comprehensive income            
    Translation difference -140.67 663.20 -121,2% -67.99 229.71 -129,6%
    TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR -1,140.29 -955.58 -19,3% -5,085.47 -3,855.45 -31,9%
    Parent company shareholders -1,006.68 -869.23 -15,8% -4,759.00 -3,807.09 -25,0%
    Non-controlling interests -133.61 -86.35 -54,7% -327.00 -48.06 -580,4%

    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET, EUR THOUSAND

    ASSETS 31 December 2024 31 December 2023
    NON-CURRENT ASSETS    
    Intangible assets 313.78 422.06
    Goodwill 5,244.98 5,444.44
    Tangible assets 569.43 916.99
    Buildings and structures, rights-of-use 528.59 867.73
    Machinery and equipment 27.55 34.52
    Other tangible assets 13.29 14.74
    Investments 6.23 6.28
    Other non-current financial assets 88.02 24.35
    NON-CURRENT ASSETS 6,222.44 6,814.12
         
    CURRENT ASSETS    
    Trade and other receivables 2,612.34 3,508.10
    Income tax asset 320.88 228.46
    Cash and cash equivalents 943.53 893.65
    CURRENT ASSETS 3,876.75 4,630.21
    ASSETS 10,099.19 11,444.12
         
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND LIABILITIES    
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY    
    Parent company shareholders    
    Share capital 585.39 585.39
    Share premium account 218.73 218.73
    Invested non-restricted equity fund 73,916.78 73,916.78
    Retained earnings -107,368.76 -103,343.29
    Profit/loss for the financial period -4,707.38 -4,042.14
    Non-controlling interests -311.28 -53.08
    Parent company shareholders -37,355.24 -32,664.53
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY -37,666.53 -32,717.43
    NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 25,438.08 3,748.88
    CURRENT LIABILITIES 22,327.73 40,412.84
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 10,099.29 11,444.28

    CALCULATION OF CHANGES IN CONSOLIDATED SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY, EUR THOUSAND
    A:   Share capital
    B:   Share premium account
    C:  Invested unrestricted equity fund
    D:  Translation difference
    E:   Retained earnings
    F:   Total shareholders’ equity attributable to the parent company’s
    G: Non-controlling interests
    H:  Total shareholders’ equity

      A B C D E F G H
    Shareholders’ equity 1 Jan 2023 585.39 218.73 73,662.55 -1,197.92 -104,545.23 -31,276.47 503.13 -30,773.34
    Other changes                
    Profit/loss for the financial period         -4,042.14 -4,042.14 -42.73 -4,084.87
    Purchase of own shares       235.05   235.05 -5.33 229.72
    Other items of comprehensive income           -3,807.09    
    Paid in capital     253.98     253.98   253.98
    Translation difference         176.44 176.44   176.44
    Share-based remuneration         0.00 0.00   0.00
    Transactions with non-controlling interests             -508.15 1,480.52
    Shareholders’ equity 31 December 2023 585.00 219.00 73,916.78 -1,192.36 -106,192.89 -32,664.35 -53.08 -32,717.43
                     
      A B C D E F G H
    Shareholders’ equity 1 Jan 2024 585.00 219.00 73,916.78 -1,192.36 -106,192.89 -32,664.35 -53.08 -32,717.43
    Other changes       0.00 0.00      
    Profit/loss for the financial period         -4,707.38 -4,707.38 -310.09 -5,017.47
    Purchase of own shares       -51.33   -51.33 -16.66 -67.99
    Other items of comprehensive income           -4,758.71    
    Translation difference         54.23 54.23   54.23
    Share-based remuneration         -14.40 -14.40   -14.40
    Sale of subsidiary         13.81 13.81   13.81
    Transactions with non-controlling interests         14.18 14.18 68.55 82.73
    Shareholders’ equity 31 December 2024 585.00 219.00 73,916.78 -1,243.69 -110,832.45 -37,355.23 -311.29 -37,666.52

    CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT, EUR THOUSAND 

      1 Jan – 31 Dec 24 1 Jan – 31 Dec 23 1 Jul – 31 Dec 24 1 Jul – 31 Dec 23
    Cash flow from operations        
    Earnings before taxes in the period -5,017.47 -4,084.87 -2,461.65 -2,094.96
    Adjustments to cash flow from operations:        
    Other income and expenses with no payment -235.55 -76.63 -261.44 -174.25
    Depreciation, impairment 469.53 834.41 265.81 417.90
    Income taxes 87.04 115.46 42.16 31.37
    Unrealised foreign exchange gains and losses -85.26 -255.59 124.47 -296.11
    Financial income and expenses 3,057.58 2,273.71 1,655.67 1,704.54
    Other adjustments 4.81 -561.90 3.25 -576.30
    Cash flow financing before changes in working capital -1,719.32 -1,755.41 -631.73 -987.82
             
    Change in working capital 1,290.45 -262.04 936.75 -313.93
    Interest received 47.37 0.72 10.04 3.07
    Interest paid -883.89 -710.82 -395.39 -333.90
    Taxes paid -133.04 -149.35 -40.34 -46.81
    Net cash flow from operations -1,398.42 -2,876.89 -120.68 -1,679.39
             
    Cash flow from investments        
    Acquisition of shares in group companies 0.00   0.00  
    Proceeds from disposal of shares in group companies 0.00   0.00  
    Investments in tangible and intangible assets -15.42 -22.33 -6.49 -9.95
    Proceeds from repayment of loans 0.00      
    Interest received on investments 0.00      
    Taxes paid on investments 0.00      
    Cash flow from investments -15.42 2,447.66 -6.49 1,049.09
             
    Net cash flow before financial items -1,413.84 -429.23 -127.18 -630.30
             
    Cash flow from financing activities        
    Transactions with non-controlling interests 19.53 136.18 -6.25 -12.17
    Drawdown of long-term loans 2,025.00 750.00 1,275.00 750.00
    Drawdown of short-term loans 0.00 736.90 -212.58  
    Repayment of short-term loans -129.07   -105.31 -1.81
    Repayment of lease liabilities -429.40 -697.51 -184.02 -354.56
    Net cash flow from financing 1,486.06 423.76 766.83 441.83
             
    Change in cash and cash equivalents 72.22 -5.46 639.66 -188.47
    Liquid assets, beginning of period 893.44 898.55 308.06 1,041.04
    Impact of changes in exchange rates -22.14 0.36 -4.20 40.88
    Liquid assets, end of period 943.53 893.44 943.53 893.44

    Accounting principles

    This release has been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 – Interim Financial Reporting. The interim report release complies with the same accounting principles and calculation methods as the annual financial statements. The updates to the IFRS standards that entered into force on 1 January 2024 do not have a significant impact on the figures presented.

    The preparation of a financial statement release in accordance with IFRS requires the management to use certain estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts recognised in assets and liabilities when the balance sheet was prepared, as well as the amounts of income and expenses in the period. In addition, discretion must be used in applying the accounting policies. As the estimates and assumptions are based on outlooks on the balance sheet date, they contain risks and uncertainties. The realised values may deviate from the original assessments and assumptions.

    The original release is in Finnish. The English release is a translation of the original.

    Going concern

    The Group’s result has remained negative, and the financial situation has been challenging at times but the financial statement release has been prepared in accordance with the principle of the business as a going concern. The assumption of continuity is based management assumptions on several factors, including the following:

    • The cost-saving programs have improved the Group’s profitability in 2023 and 2024. Operating expenses and personnel expenses have decreased by EUR 0.7 million in comparison with the review period and the cost structure is now lighter.
    • Additional cost-saving programs started in 2024 will have nearly full effect in 2025.
    • The Group is finding new growth areas and reinforcing its market position in Sweden, which is expected to have a positive impact on sales trends.
    • Negotiations regarding the arrangements for related party convertible bonds maturing in 2024 were successfully completed in 2024, resulting in the extension of their maturity to the autumn 2026.

    EUR 2.0 million of the Group’s financial institution loans are set to begin repayment on April 30, 2025. As of the publication date of the financial statement release, negotiations to extend the loan’s maturity date are still ongoing. However, management is confident that the outcome will be favorable for the company.

    At the time of the financial statement release, the company expects its working capital to be sufficient to cover its requirements over the next 12 months based on the financing support provided by the main owner if needed. Negotiations with the main owner to secure financing for the next 12 months are ongoing and are expected to be completed before the publication of the financial statements and based on this the financial statement release has been prepared in accordance with the going concern principle.

    Goodwill impairment testing and recognised impairment

    Digitalist Group tested its goodwill for impairment on 30 June 2024 and 31 December 2024. The goodwill is allocated to one cash-generating unit. No need to write down goodwill was identified.

    The value in use of the tested property exceeded the tested amount by EUR 9.0 million. The tested amount of goodwill in the balance sheet at the end of the review period is EUR 4.9 million.

    The company tests its goodwill based on the utility value of the assets. In the testing conducted on 31 December 2024 in conjunction with the financial statements, the cash flow forecasting period was from 2025 to 2029. During the forecast period, average growth in revenue of 15% is expected to be achieved which is supported by the market growth of the group’s industries and the increasingly extensive impact of digitalization in business life. In addition, the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration into service offerings will accelerate growth by offering more efficient and innovative solutions to customers. The efficiency measures and strategic recruitment carried out provide a solid basis for growth. EBITDA is projected to rise to 7% in 2026 and to 12% by the end of the forecasting period, being 9% on average.

    The method involves comparing the tested assets with their cash flow over the selected period, taking into account the discount rate and the growth factor of the cash flows after the forecast period. The discount rate is 11.4% (11.4%). The growth factor used to calculate the cash flows after the forecast period is 2.35%.

    The average EBITDA margin for the forecast period was used to calculate the value of the terminal period. A significant negative change in individual assumptions used in the calculations can necessitate a goodwill impairment charge. The sensitivity analysis indicates that an impairment charge may be necessary if the average growth in turnover is below 14% in the forecasting period and the fixed cost structure does not change. If the EBITDA falls below 6% in the forecasting period or the WACC surpasses 28%, all else equal, impairment charges may become necessary.

    CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT BY QUARTER, EUR THOUSAND

      Q4/2024 Q3/2024 Q2/2024 Q1/2024 Q4/2023
      1.10.-31.12.24 1.7.-30.9.24 1.4.-30.6.24 1.1.-31.3.24 1.10.-31.12.21
    Turnover 4,698.85 3,585.61 4,021.60 3,858.48 4,160.22
    Other operating income and expenses -5,031.05 -3,898.35 -4,749.35 -4,468.49 -4,757.59
    EBIT -331.99 -312.54 -727.84 -610.10 -597.37
    Financial income and expenses -616.81 -1,158.14 -783.20 -389.80 -1,017.55
    Profit before taxes -948.80 -1,470.68 -1,511.03 -999.91 -1,614.92
    Income taxes -50.64 8.66 -1.20 -43.68 -3.87
    PROFIT/LOSS FOR COMPARISON PERIOD -999.62 -1,462.03 -1,512.24 -1,043.59 -1,618.78

    CHANGES IN INTANGIBLE AND TANGIBLE ASSETS, EUR THOUSAND
      

      Goodwill Intangible assets Tangible fixed assets Right-of-use assets Other investments Total
    Carrying value 1 Jan 2023 4,677.98 109.82 65.08 1,135.06 101.76 6,090.22
    Increases   462.69 26.56 416.91 4.70 2,059.07
    Decreases            
    Changes in exchange rates 43.80 6.30 -0.40 -5.85   43.85
    Depreciation for the review period   -156.59 -37.63 -640.18   -834.47
    Carrying value 31 Dec 2023 5,444.44 422.53 48.47 867.05 6.27 6,789.76
                 
                 
      Goodwill Intangible assets Tangible fixed assets Right-of-use assets Other investments Total
    Carrying value 1 Jan 2024 5,444.44 422.53 48.47 867.05 6.27 6,789.76
    Increases 0.00 0.42 15.97 482.60 0.00 498.99
    Decreases 0.00   0.00 -462.23 0.00 -462.23
    Changes in exchange rates -199.68 -22.70 -1.35 -12.90   -236.64
    Depreciation for the review period   -85.57 -22.18 -344.61   -452.36
    Carrying value 31 Dec 2024 5,244.75 314.67 40.91 529.90 6.27 6,137.51

    KEY INDICATORS

      1 Jan – 31 Dec 2024 1 Jan – 31 Dec 2023
    Earnings per share (EUR) diluted -0.01 0.00
    Earnings per share (EUR) -0.01 -0.01
    Shareholders’ equity per share (EUR) -0.05 -0.05
    Cash flow from operations per share (EUR) diluted 0.00 0.00
    Cash flow from operations per share (EUR) 0.00 0.00
    Return on capital employed (%) -161.86 -27.8
    Return on equity (%) neg. neg.
    Operating profit/turnover (%) -12.27 -10.2
    Gearing as a proportion of shareholders’ equity (%) -99.00 -106.5
    Equity ratio as a proportion of shareholders’ equity (%) -379.11 -285.9
    EBITDA (EUR thousand) -1,512.94 -861.30

    MATURITY OF FINANCIAL LIABILITIES AND INTEREST ON LOANS

    31 December 2023 Balance sheet value Cash flow Under 1 year 1-5 years Over 5 years
    Loans from financial institutions 2,865.85 3,067.25 340.83 2,726.43  
    Credit limits 8,525.07 8,525.07 8,525.07    
    Convertible bonds 5,767.94 6,849.62   0.00  
    Capital loans 16,865.42 19,265.00   0.00  
    Other related-party loans 750.00 876.00 0.00    
    Lease liabilities IFRS 16 973.00 961.00 701.00 260.00  
    Accounts payable 864.66 864.66 864.66    
               
    31 December 2024 Balance sheet value Cash flow Under 1 year 1-5 years Over 5 years
    Loans from financial institutions 2,783.19 2,828.47 2,362.78 465.69  
    Credit limits 8,258.19 8,258.19 8,258.19    
    Capital loans 23,867.82 29,233.30   29,233.30  
    Other related-party loans 2,775.00 3,191.33   907.67  
    Lease liabilities IFRS 16 555.71 562.27 298.30 264.32  
    Accounts payable 1,124.07 1,124.07 1,124.07 0.00  

    Credit limits are valid until further notice.

    OTHER INFORMATION

      1 Jan – 31 Dec 2024 1 Jan – 31 Dec 2023
    NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES, average 123 139
    Personnel at the end of the period 122 126
         
    LIABILITIES, EUR THOUSAND    
    Pledges made for own obligations    
    Corporate mortgages 13,300.00 13,300.00
         
    Total interest-bearing liabilities    
    Long-term loans from financial institutions 458.98 2,659.11
    Other long-term liabilities 24,902.02 1,007.67
    Short-term loans from financial institutions 2,221.92 414.39
    Other short-term interest-bearing liabilities 10,657.00 31,665.62
    Total 38,239.92 35,746.80
         

    CALCULATION OF KEY FINANCIAL FIGURES

    EBITDA = earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation

    Diluted earnings per share = Profit for the financial period / Average number of shares, adjusted for share issues and for the effect of dilution

    Earnings per share = Profit for the financial period / Average number of shares adjusted for share issues

    Shareholders’ equity per share = Shareholders’ equity / Number of undiluted shares on the balance sheet date

    Cash flow from operations per share (EUR) diluted = Net cash flow from operations / Average number of shares, adjusted for share issues and for the effect of dilution

    Return on investment (ROI) =
    (Profit before taxes + Interest expenses + Other financial expenses) /
    (Balance sheet total – non-interest-bearing liabilities (average)) x 100

    Return on equity (ROE) = Net income / Total shareholders’ equity (average) x 100

    Gearing = interest-bearing liabilities – liquid assets / total shareholders’ equity x 100

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: IDEX Biometrics ASA – Information about the first exercise period for warrants (Warrants A) issued in connection with the Private Placement and Subsequent Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, THE HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA OR JAPAN OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH THE DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. OTHER RESTRICTIONS ARE APPLICABLE. PLEASE SEE THE IMPORTANT NOTICE AT THE END OF THIS STOCK EXCHANGE ANNOUNCEMENT.

    Oslo, Norway – 28 February 2025 – Reference is made to the stock exchange announcements from IDEX Biometrics ASA (the “Company”) dated 17 September and 2 December 2024 regarding the commencement of the exercise period for Warrants A (ticker: IDEXJ), ISIN NO0013380048, issued in connection with the private placement in September 2024 and subsequent offering in December 2024.

    The exercise period for Warrants A will commence today, on 28 February 2025, and ends on 13 March 2025 at 16:30 CET. Each Warrant gives the holder a right to subscribe for one new share (“New Share”) in the Company at a subscription price of NOK 0.15. All Warrants A not exercised within this period will lapse without compensation to the holder. Warrants B may only be exercised from 31 March 2025 to 11 April 2025. Arctic Securities AS is acting as manager in connection with the exercise of Warrants A (the “Manager”).

    Exercise procedure 

    Warrants are exercised through the submission of a duly completed exercise form for the Warrants (the “Exercise Form”) to the Manager at the address or email address set out in the Prospectus and the Exercise Form and payment of the aggregate subscription price for the New Shares. The Exercise Form can be found at the websites of the Company (https://www.idexbiometrics.com/investors/), and Arctic Securities AS (www.arctic.com/secno/en/offerings). By completing and submitting an Exercise Form, the holder of the relevant Warrants irrevocably undertakes to acquire a number New Shares equal to the number of Warrants exercised at the relevant exercise price.

    For more information relating to the Warrants, please refer to the Prospectus approved and published by the Company on 13 November 2024.


    For further information contact:

    Marianne Bøe, Head of Investor Relations, +47 91800186
    Kristian Flaten, CFO, +47 95092322
    E-mail:ir@idexbiometrics.com

    For information about the Warrants please contact the Manager:
    Arctic Securities AS, tel.: + 47 21 01 30 40

     

    About IDEX Biometrics
    IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. The company’s solutions provide convenience, security, peace of mind, and seamless user experiences worldwide. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, IDEX Biometrics’ biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry enabler, the company partners with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring its solutions to market.

    For more information, please visit www.idexbiometrics.com.

        –  IMPORTANT INFORMATION – 

    This announcement does not constitute an offer of securities for sale or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities of the Company in the United States or any other jurisdiction. The securities of the Company may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”). The securities of the Company have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act. Any sale in the United States of the securities mentioned in this communication will be made solely to “qualified institutional buyers” as defined in Rule 144A under the U.S. Securities Act. No public offering of the securities will be made in the United States.

    This announcement has been prepared on the basis that any offer of securities in any Member State of the European Economic Area, other than Norway, which has implemented the Prospectus Regulation (EU) (2017/1129, as amended, the “Prospectus Regulation”) (each, a “Relevant Member State”) will be made pursuant to an exemption under the Prospectus Regulation, as implemented in that Relevant Member State, from the requirement to publish a prospectus for offers of securities. Accordingly any person making or intending to make any offer in that Relevant Member State of securities which are the subject of the offering contemplated in this announcement, may only do so in circumstances in which no obligation arises for the Company or any of the Managers to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation or supplement a prospectus pursuant to Article 16 of the Prospectus Regulation, in each case, in relation to such offer.

    In the United Kingdom, this announcement is only addressed to and is only directed at Qualified Investors who (i) are investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended) (the “Order”) or (ii) are persons falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (high net worth companies, unincorporated associations, etc.) (all such persons together being referred to as “Relevant Persons”). This announcement are directed only at Relevant Persons and must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not Relevant Persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this announcement relates is available only to Relevant Persons and will be engaged in only with Relevant Persons. Persons distributing this communication must satisfy themselves that it is lawful to do so.

    Matters discussed in this announcement may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and may be identified by words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intends”, “may”, “should”, “will” and similar expressions. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. Although the Company believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond its control. Such risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors could cause actual events to differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in this release by such forward-looking statements. The information, opinions and forward-looking statements contained in this announcement speak only as at its date, and are subject to change without notice.

    This announcement is made by and, and is the responsibility of, the Company. The Manager is acting exclusively for the Company and no one else and will not be responsible to anyone other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to its respective clients, or for advice in relation to the contents of this announcement or any of the matters referred to herein.

    Neither the Manager nor any of its affiliates makes any representation as to the accuracy or completeness of this announcement and none of them accepts any responsibility for the contents of this announcement or any matters referred to herein.

    This announcement is for information purposes only and is not to be relied upon in substitution for the exercise of independent judgment. It is not intended as investment advice and under no circumstances is it to be used or considered as an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities of the Company. Neither the Manager nor any of its affiliates accepts any liability arising from the use of this announcement. Any offering of the securities referred to in this announcement will be made by means of a prospectus.

    This announcement is an advertisement and is not a prospectus for the purposes of the Prospectus Regulation. Investors should not subscribe for any securities referred to in this announcement except on the basis of information contained in the Prospectus dated 13 November 2024 and stock exchange announcements published in connection with the private placement, subsequent offering  and the Warrants. Copies of the Prospectus is available from the Company’s registered office and, subject to certain exceptions, on the websites of the Company (www.idexbiometrics.com), Arctic Securities AS (www.arctic.com/secno/en/offerings).

    Each of the Company, the Manager and their respective affiliates expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update, review or revise any statement contained in this announcement whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    The distribution of this announcement and other information may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. Persons into whose possession this announcement or such other information should come are required to inform themselves about and to observe any such restrictions.

    This information is published in accordance with the requirements of the Continuing Obligations.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces the Saving Privacy Act for 119th Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee

    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Saving Privacy Act, a bill to end government abuse of Americans’ financial information. For years, federal agencies have been overreaching in their surveillance, collecting vast amounts of personal financial data from law-abiding citizens without just cause. Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) is an original co-sponsor of the bill.

    “The federal government has no business surveilling the financial activities of millions of innocent Americans,” said Senator Lee. “The current system erodes the privacy rights of citizens, while doing little to effectively catch true financial criminals. My Saving Privacy Act ensures that Americans’ personal information is protected and that government agencies operate within the bounds of the Constitution.” 

    “Big government has no place in law-abiding Americans’ personal finances. It is a massive overreach of the government and a gross violation of their privacy,” said Senator Rick Scott. “That is why I am teaming up with Senator Lee so that we can protect Americans’ personal financials for good. Our Saving Privacy Act will allow federal agencies to go after criminals while also protecting innocent Americans’ data. This is commonsense legislation, and I am urging my colleagues to support its immediate passage.”   

    “For decades, outdated banking regulations have subjected citizens to excessive financial surveillance, compelling institutions to enforce intrusive measures that directly led to the debanking of innocent Americans spending their own money. The Saving Privacy Act offers comprehensive reforms, striking a balance that restores consumer rights, establishes sensible standards for innovators while curbing illicit activities, and reinvigorates the commitment to sound consumer financial privacy. –Yaël Ossowski, Deputy Director at the Consumer Choice Center.

    “Senator Lee has been an indefatigable leader in the effort to end the federal government’s mass surveillance of Americans financial lives. A precondition of liberty is the ability to go about your business without the government tracking your every move, and the Saving Privacy Act is an important step in the right direction. The Taxpayers Protection Alliance thanks Senator Lee for his hard work and commitment to preserving liberty and privacy.” –David Williams, Taxpayers Protection Alliance President 

    “This kind of reform restores the proper balance—as provided by the Fourth Amendment—between Americans’ privacy rights and law enforcement’s ability to gather evidence to enforce laws. It would protect individuals’ financial privacy and improve federal agencies’ abilities to prosecute criminal activity rather than sift through millions of low-value reports. This kind of reform is long overdue.” – Norbert Michel, Jennifer Schulp, and Nicholas Anthony of the Cato Institute

    Government surveillance efforts have been largely ineffective, as demonstrated by the dismal success rate of suspicious activity reports (SARs) submitted to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). In FY2023, financial institutions submitted 25.4 million SARs and currency transaction reports (CTRs), yet less than 0.3% of these reports resulted in relevant IRS-CI and FBI cases.

    In recent years, FinCEN and the FBI surveilled the financial transactions of individuals and solicited banks for information on purchases related to “Trump,” “MAGA,” firearms, and even religious texts. Meanwhile, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has quietly been constructing a centralized database, the Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT), designed to track every single stock market transaction and the personal information of millions of Americans without any congressional approval.

    Senator Lee’s bill, the Saving Privacy Act, seeks to curb these abuses and restore Fourth Amendment protections for all Americans.

    Key Provisions of the Saving Privacy Act:

    • Repeals the Bank Secrecy Act’s SAR and CTR reporting requirements while maintaining recordkeeping provisions.
    • Repeals the Corporate Transparency Act.
    • Strengthens Fourth Amendment protections, bolstering warrant requirements in the Right to Financial Privacy Act of 1978.
    • Repeals the SEC’s Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT) database.
    • Requires congressional approval for any new databases that collect personally identifiable information of U.S. citizens.
    • Prohibits the creation of a Central Bank Digital Currency.
    • Requires congressional authorization for financial regulations deemed major rules.
    • Institutes penalties for federal employees who illegally seek constitutionally protected financial information.
    • Establishes a private right of action for Americans and financial institutions harmed by illicit government activity.

    For bill text, click HERE.
    For a two-pager, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer Questions Expert Witnesses on Grand Theft Cargo

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, questioned expert witnesses on the importance of giving the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) authority to enforce penalties against unauthorized brokers engaged in freight fraud.

    During the hearing, Fischer questioned Chief Special Agent of the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway Police Department Will Johnson about collaboration between local authorities and federal agencies on investigations that cross state lines.

    She also asked Principal and CEO of Tanger Logistics and Double Diamond Transport Adam Blanchard and Executive Vice President of Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association Lewie Pugh what additional tools and authorities could improve the enforcement of cargo freight fraud.

    Click the image above to watch a video of Senator Fischer’s questioning

    Click here to download audio

    Click here to download video

    Senator Fischer questions experts:

    Senator Fischer: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Mr. Pugh and Mr. Blanchard, for referencing my bill. I appreciate you doing that. I appreciate the support for the bill. I think it’s extremely important that we get that to move. It’s the Household Goods Shipping Consumer Protection Act that I’ve introduced with Senator Duckworth, and as you know, it would allow the FMCSA to impose those civil penalties against the unauthorized brokers, and it would require companies in the household goods sector to establish a principal place of business to prohibit fraudulent companies from skirting those existing regulations. I’d like to thank you also for bringing up suggestions on what else we can do to be able to combat this.

    It’s eye opening, the amount of money harm to companies, but also to consumers when we add all this together. So, thank you for that. Chief Johnson, in your testimony, you reference jurisdictional concerns that often arise when investigating cargo theft crimes, and I believe it’s particularly important that local and state law enforcement agencies have the support of the federal government when dealing with crimes that pertain to interstate commerce. In your experience, what is the relationship like between law enforcement and agencies like the FBI and the HSI when investigating cargo theft that crosses state lines?

    Will Johnson: Ma’am, the short answer is they are good relationships. The challenge is not necessarily with the relationships, but the capacity of organizations to be able to balance or juggle the myriad of threats that they’re faced with. Cargo theft, historically, has not risen to the same level of attention as maybe some other competing interests have for these federal entities.

    Also, it’s important to understand how those agencies prioritize the work within their AOR, or area of responsibility, and that’s largely a local decision by local executive leaderships for those agencies involved, absent some sort of national direction coming out of headquarters or the Attorney General’s office. I think for this topic, national direction either authorized by Congress for the task force that we’ve mentioned previously or prosecutorial direction coming out of the Attorney General’s Office directing all of the United States attorneys to prioritize this issue and focus resources on effective prosecutions will aid in the assistance of bringing these cases forward.

    Senator Fischer:     Thank you. You know, Mr. Blanchard, you spoke about your frustration in trying to just bring it to the attention of authorities—federal, state, I assume local as well that you were trying to work with. And when you mentioned some of your suggestions, I know Mr. Pugh wanted to chime in, so I’ll let you chime in now on what needs to be done. And it’s not, I don’t think it’s just throwing more money at being able to have more enforcement out there, necessarily. I think it’s also to be able to put some teeth in what we need to do here and just have more awareness.

    Adam Blanchard: I’d be happy to start, Senator. And again, thank you for your support of our industry and your introduction of the Household Goods Shipping Consumer Protection Act. I think that’s certainly a great first step. As I have come to understand, Senator, is currently, to piggyback off of Chief Johnson, the current threshold that’s established by the United States Sentencing Commission for the DOJ to interdict in cargo theft cases requires the instance to be at least $1.5 million in losses. So, the average loss in a cargo case is around $200,000 today. So therefore, to reach that threshold of $1.5 million is going to require law enforcement agencies to be directed to look into the continual criminal activity of these organizations to meet that threshold—or for Congress to otherwise change that and create a new directive in order for them to start pursuing these through a unified task force, which is something that we have included in the Safeguard Our Supply Chains Act, which has not been filed. But certainly, we would appreciate any member of this committee to review that bill, and the willingness to author that would be fantastic. And that would provide the coordination between agencies and law enforcement.

    And I think really, Senator, this begins with the FMCSA, and to further elaborate on Senator Young’s question earlier, in terms of the FMCSA, we have to start with them. I think to your point, Senator Fischer, throwing money at the problem, I would agree, is not the solution. I think first, we need Congress to direct FMCSA on the things that need to occur and the coordination necessary to address this very issue that we’re dealing with, they need to be able to distinguish between fraudulent businesses and legitimate businesses. DOT needs enhanced cyber capabilities and real time fraud detection tools and greater interagency collaboration with law enforcement to identify these frauds. FMCSA needs to be directed to remove fraudulent companies from the SAFER website. We rely on that heavily in order to vet companies that we work with. FMCSA needs to explicitly authorize to withhold registration from applicants who fail to provide verifications.

    Also Congress, we believe, should conduct rigorous oversight of FMCSA transition to a single USDOT number, which we believe they’re going to do in the future—or considering doing without placing undue burden on legitimate carriers. And DOT should expeditiously implement the 13 recommendations issued by the Government Accountability Office to strengthen FMCSA’s national consumer complaint database.

    And so those are things we believe that Congress could do without the necessity of additional funding in order to provide the coordinated effort necessary for law enforcement. Because we simply don’t have the tools, Senator, to be able to do the reverse IP searches to break through the cyber space in order to find who’s spoofing our emails. I have a very sophisticated IT director, and he’s great, but only law enforcement agencies have that capability.

    Lewie Pugh: I thank you, Senator Fisher, and you and Senator Duckworth on your bill. We very much appreciate that, and glad you’re trying to do something different and to help these things. It will pay dividends if we can get it across the finish line. A couple other things is this whole national consumer complaint database. It seems to be that FMCSA needs to be directed more to do something with that. From our experience and with our members—and we tell members to send these complaints, plus many other complaints that happen to them in trucking—it seems like this is where all complaints go to die at FMCSA. Usually, they hear nothing back. Or if they get anything, it’s just “Hey, thanks for letting us know.”

    Also, we’ve said for a long time, it would probably be helpful to have a different name. Most of our small business people and truckers, they don’t even realize that this is a place for them to go file a complaint because national consumer complaint database, who would think that’s a trucking complaint hotline? So that would be helpful.

    We feel FMCSA probably has enough funds to do some investigating on this. It’s just to reallocate where they’re putting, because they continually say that there’s not a safety effect to this. So that’s why they don’t have to do anything with this. But we know there is because it’s putting people out of business. It’s causing people not to be able to maintain their equipment. So there’s definitely a safety thing here. Plus, you know, who knows what happens to a trucker or something happens at gunpoint or something like that.

    And I would agree with my colleague here, FMCSA is the first line of defense on this—100 percent, they have all this information. They have everybody’s registrations and all that. And finally, I would say FMCSA needs to step back and take a long look of making the barrier of entry into being a motor carrier or a broker much harder, much stricter. We pretty much let people file for insurance, pay for it. We don’t know who these people are, have no idea if they even know what they’re doing—and maybe every 12 to 18 months, we audit them.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chang’e-6 samples provide evidence suggesting global ‘magma ocean’ on early moon

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    A researcher with the Institute of Geology, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, prepares the lunar samples collected by the Chang’e-6 mission at the institute in Beijing, capital of China, on Feb. 26, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A new study of the lunar samples collected by China’s Chang’e-6 mission has verified the hypothesis that the moon was entirely covered by a molten “magma ocean” in the early stages after its birth, providing critical evidence for understanding the moon’s origin and evolution.
    This study, led by a joint research team organized by the China National Space Administration (CNSA), has been published in the latest issue of the journal Science.
    The Chang’e-6 mission in 2024 accomplished humanity’s first-ever sampling from the far side of the moon, successfully retrieving 1,935.3 grams of lunar materials from the Apollo Basin within the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) Basin.
    The research team from the Institute of Geology, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, was granted two grams of these Chang’e-6 samples to conduct their research.
    The study revealed that the composition of basalt, a type of volcanic rock, from both the far and near sides of the moon proved similar. The basalt present in the Chang’e-6 samples is primarily 2.823 billion years old, and its characteristics support the lunar magma ocean model. The research also suggests that the impact event that created the SPA Basin may have altered the moon’s early mantle, according to Liu Dunyi, a senior researcher at the institute.
    The lunar magma ocean model was previously established based on samples from the moon’s near side. The model proposes that the newborn moon went through a global melting event, creating a vast magma ocean. As this ocean cooled and crystallized, less dense minerals floated to the surface to form the lunar crust, while denser minerals sank to form the mantle. The remaining melt, enriched with incompatible elements, formed the KREEP layer, with the name derived from the initials of the key components, namely potassium (K), rare earth elements (REE) and phosphorus (P), Liu explained.
    However, for decades, all lunar samples came from the moon’s near side, leaving the model incomplete. “Without samples from the far side, it was like solving a puzzle with half the pieces missing,” said Liu, while adding that the far-side samples collected by Chang’e-6 had changed this scenario.
    “Our analysis showed that the KREEP layer exists on the moon’s far side as well. The similarity in basalt composition between the far and near sides indicates that a global magma ocean may have spanned the entire moon,” said Che Xiaochao, an associate researcher at the institute.
    The SPA Basin, where Chang’e-6 landed, is no ordinary crater. Stretching 2,500 km, which is comparable to the distance from Beijing to south China’s Hainan, and plunging to a depth of 13 km, this colossal scar, formed by a cataclysmic asteroid impact 4.3 billion years ago, is the oldest and largest impact basin in the inner solar system, according to scientists.
    Notably, the new study also reveals that the lead isotope evolution paths in basalt from the far and near sides are different. This suggests that different regions of the moon evolved differently after the magma ocean crystallized. Giant impact events, especially the one that created the SPA Basin, likely changed the physical and chemical properties of the moon’s mantle, according to Long Tao, another senior researcher in the team.
    “In other words, the moon was once covered by a global magma ocean, but later bombardments of asteroids caused different evolution processes on the near and far sides,” Long explained.
    The research team plans to delve deeper into the moon’s early impact history. “The Chang’e-6 sampling site is in the largest and oldest impact basin in the inner solar system, so it may contain records useful for the study of early solar system impacts,” Che said. “We also hope to find materials from the moon’s mantle.”
    “Studying the moon’s impact history helps us understand Earth’s own past, which has been obscured by tectonic activities,” Long added.
    The CNSA emphasized its commitment to advancing lunar research and sharing scientific findings with the international community. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Announces 29 Wanted Defendants from Mexico Taken into U.S. Custody

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Today, the United States secured custody of 29 defendants from Mexico who are facing charges in districts around the country relating to racketeering, drug-trafficking, murder, illegal use of firearms, money laundering, and other crimes. The defendants taken into U.S. custody today include leaders and managers of drug cartels recently designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, such as the Sinaloa Cartel, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), Cártel del Noreste (formerly Los Zetas), La Nueva Familia Michoacana, and Cártel de Golfo (Gulf Cartel).  These defendants are collectively alleged to have been responsible for the importation into the United States of massive quantities of poison, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin, as well as associated acts of violence.

    “As President Trump has made clear, cartels are terrorist groups, and this Department of Justice is devoted to destroying cartels and transnational gangs,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will prosecute these criminals 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. We will not rest until we secure justice for the American people.”

    “The FBI and our partners will scour the ends of the earth to bring terrorists and cartel members to justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The era of harming Americans and walking free is over.”

    “Today’s actions are a consequence of a White House that negotiates from a position of strength, and an Attorney General who is willing to lead the Department with courage and ferocity,” said Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove. “By prosecuting these defendants to the maximum extent allowable under the law, we honor the memory of Special Agent Camarena, Deputy Sherrif Byrd, and other victims who are far too numerous, as well as decades of hard work in the trenches by our law enforcement partners.”

    “Today, 29 fugitive cartel members have arrived in the United States from Mexico, including one name that stands above the rest for the men and women of the DEA — Rafael Caro Quintero. Caro Quintero, a cartel kingpin who unleashed violence, destruction, and death across the United States and Mexico, has spent four decades atop DEA’s most wanted fugitives list, and today we can proudly say he has arrived in the United States where justice will be served,” said DEA Acting Administrator Derek S. Maltz. “This moment is extremely personal for the men and women of DEA who believe Caro Quintero is responsible for the brutal torture and murder of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. It is also a victory for the Camarena family. Today sends a message to every cartel leader, every trafficker, every criminal poisoning our communities: You will be held accountable. No matter how long it takes, no matter how far you run, justice will find you.”

    Many of the defendants were subject to longstanding U.S. extradition requests that were not honored during the prior Administration, but that the Mexican government elected to transfer to the current U.S. government in response to the Justice Department’s efforts pursuant to President Trump’s directive in Executive Order 14157, entitled Designating Cartels and Other Organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, to pursue total elimination of these Cartels. Federal prosecutors will evaluate whether additional terrorism and violence charges are appropriate based on the policy set forth in Executive Order 14157, and whether capital punishment is available based on Executive Order 14164, entitled Restoring the Death Penalty and Protecting Public Safety, as well as the Attorney General’s Feb. 5 guidance regarding the death penalty.

    • Rafael Caro Quintero, who is alleged to have been among those responsible for the 1985 murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena and others.
    • Martin Sotelo, who is alleged to have participated in the 2022 murder of Deputy Sheriff Ned Byrd.
    • Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, who allegedly helped lead CJNG and is reportedly the brother of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.”
    • Ramiro Perez Moreno and Lucio Hernandez Lechuga, who are alleged to be high-ranking members of Los Zetas.

    A complete list of defendants, as well as districts where they are charged and will appear in federal court in the coming days:

    Mexico Defendants

      Name

    Arraignment

    Jurisdiction

    		 Statutory Maximum
    1 CANOBBIO-INZUNZA, Jose Angel Northern District Illinois Up to life imprisonment
    2. VALENCIA GONZALEZ, Norberto Northern District of Illinois Up to life imprisonment
    3. MARTIN SOTELO, Alder, also known as “Alder Martin-Sotelo” and “Alder Alfonso Marin”

    Middle District of North Carolina

    North Carolina State Court

    Federal: Maximum 10 years imprisonment

    State: Maximum of life imprisonment or death
    4. CRUZ SANCHEZ, Evaristo Southern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    5. GARCIA VILLANO, also known as “La Kena,” “19,” and “Ciclone 19” Southern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    6. HERNANDEZ LECHUGA, Lucio Eastern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    7. PEREZ MORENO, Ramiro Eastern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    8. RODRIGUEZ DIAZ, Miguel Angel, also known as “Metro” Eastern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    9. VILLARREAL HERNANDEZ, Jose Rodolfo Northern District of Texas Death or life imprisonment
    10. CARO QUINTERO, Rafael Eastern District of New York Death or life imprisonment
    11. CARRILLO FUENTES, Vicente Eastern District of New York Death or life imprisonment
    12. CABRERA CABRERA, Jose Bibiano District of Arizona Up to life imprisonment
    13. CLARK, Andrew Central District of California Death or life imprisonment
    14. INFANTE, Hector Eduardo Central District of California Up to life imprisonment
    15. LIMON LOPEZ, Jesus Humberto District of Arizona Up to life imprisonment
    16. TAPIA QUINTERO, Jose Guadalupe District of Arizona Up to life imprisonment
    17. TORRES ACOSTA, Inez Enrique Southern District of California Up to life imprisonment
    18. GALAVIZ VEGA, Jesus Western District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    19. MENDEZ ESTEVANE, Luis Geraldo Western District of Texas Death or life imprisonment
    20. MONSIVAIS TREVINO, Carlos Alberto Western District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    21. ALGREDO VAZQUEZ, Carlos District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    22. LOPEZ IBARRA, Rodolfo District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    23. OSEGUERA CERVANTES, Antonio District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    24. RANGEL BUENDIA, Alfredo District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    25. TREVINO MORALES, Miguel Angel, also known as “Z-40” District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    26. TREVINO MORALES, Omar, also known as “Z-42”) District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    27. VALENCIA SALAZAR, Erick District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    28. MENDEZ VARGAS, Jesus Southern District of New York Up to life imprisonment
    29. PALACIOS GARCIA, Itiel Southern District of New York Up to life imprisonment

    Attorney General Pamela Bondi thanked the law enforcement officers of the Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshal’s Service, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, and Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office for their valuable contributions to these investigations.

    The Attorney General also thanked the Justice Department Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section and its Office of International Affairs, and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Southern District of California, the District of Columbia, Middle District of North Carolina, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Northern District of Texas, Eastern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, and Western District of Texas for handling the prosecutions of these cases.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alabama Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Violating Iran Sanctions

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

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Ray Hunt, also known as Abdolrahman Hantoosh, Rahman Hantoosh, and Rahman Natooshas, 71, of Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, has been sentenced for violating the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.  In July 2024, Hunt pleaded guilty to conspiring to export U.S.-origin goods to the Islamic Republic of Iran in violation of the U.S. trade sanctions.

    According to court documents, in May 2014, Hunt registered Vega Tools, LLC with the Alabama Secretary of State, listing the nature of the business as “the purchase/resale of equipment for the energy sector.” He operated Vega Tools, including purchasing, receiving, and shipping U.S.-origin goods, from locations in Madison County, Alabama. Beginning at least as early as 2015 and continuing to the time of his arrest in November 2022,  Hunt conspired with two Iranian companies located in Tehran, Iran, to illegally export U.S.-manufactured industrial equipment for use in Iran’s oil, gas, and petrochemical industries.

    Hunt engaged in a series of deceptive practices to avoid detection by U.S. authorities, including using third-party transshipment companies in Turkey and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), routing payments through UAE banks, and lying to shipping companies about the value of his exports to prevent the filing of Electronic Export Information to U.S. authorities. Hunt lied to suppliers and shippers by claiming the items he purchased on behalf of the Iranian co-conspirators were destined for end-users in Turkey and UAE, while knowing the exports were ultimately destined for Iran. Hunt lied also to U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers regarding the nature and existence of his business when questioned upon his return from a March 2020 trip to Iran.   

    Sue Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, Acting Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement John Sonderman of the Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security, and Assistant Director Kevin Vorndran of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division announced the sentence.

    BIS investigated the case with valuable assistance provided by the FBI.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan Cross and Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Emma Ellenrieder and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dangerous Firearms and Drugs the Focus of 2 Takedowns in Vallejo

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Two Vallejo Public Safety Partnership (PSP) investigations have resulted in arrests and federal charges for eight individuals for various gun and drug offenses. The PSP investigations are a part of a larger collaborative effort to address violent crime in the city of Vallejo. Making this announcement are Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith, Chief Jason Ta of the Vallejo Police Department, Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani.

    “The application process to join the U.S. Department of Justice’s Public Safety Partnership Program is competitive, and the United States Attorney’s Office is proud of the Vallejo Police Department’s selection as a participant,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith. “This program is focused on maximizing scarce resources to increase Vallejo’s ability to fight violent crime, especially crime related to gang activity involving gun violence and drug trafficking. Our office is honored to partner with Vallejo through this unique initiative to provide focused, data-driven, and evidence-based resources and expertise to promote public safety in this city. The prosecutions announced today show our commitment to that partnership, as we bring federal resources to bear in the fight make Vallejo safer for all its residents.”

    “Every community member deserves to feel safe and secure in their home,” stated Vallejo Police Chief Jason Ta. “We are overcoming our resource limitations through law enforcement and community partnerships. We must work together as a team to make Vallejo safer.”

    “Today’s announcement is yet another example of the FBI’s commitment to collaborative investigations, leveraging the skills and talents of local, state, and federal partners to disrupt violent criminal networks that threaten the success and safety of our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel. “Drug and weapons trafficking conducted by criminal networks exploits and slowly erodes communities unless law enforcement and the public stand together against it. Every family should have the opportunity to live, work, and thrive in a safe, crime-free community and the FBI remains firmly committed to disrupt and dismantle gangs and criminal networks that endanger neighborhoods and threaten the potential of all citizens.”

    “ATF is proud to be a part of a collective effort to prevent and reduce violent crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani, San Francisco Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “The city of Vallejo is a safer community today because of programs like the National Public Safety Partnership or PSP. This investigation serves as a great example of the effectiveness of this program. ATF continues to stay focused on the commitment that we made to the communities we serve, and we hope to continue to have more investigations like this one.”

    Super 8

    According to court documents, since July 2024 until the present, the ATF’s Oakland Field Office has been investigating members of a loosely affiliated group that was illegally selling dangerous, high-powered weapons in Vallejo using a Super 8 motel on Solano Avenue as the hub of their criminal activity. On Feb. 20, 2025, ATF arrested four Vallejo residents charged with federal firearms offenses. Zuryess Anthony Roberts, 24, was charged with possession and transfer of a machine gun. Taezon Laurece Sanderson, 23, was charged with being felon in possession of a firearm. Divaya James Talley, 18, was charged with transfer and possession of a machine gun. Anderson Thurston, 66, was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    Brown Brotherhood (BBH)

    According to court documents, the Brown Brotherhood gang is a subset of the Sureño gang and has been a frequent target of investigations of the Vallejo Police Department and the Solano County Violent Crime Task Force. The primary criminal activities of this gang have included murder, robbery, extortion, drug trafficking, firearms trafficking, burglary, and stolen vehicles. The current investigation began in February 2024 through today’s arrests and takedown. FBI arrested four people today on federal drug trafficking and firearms charges.

    Leo Alonso-Medina, 32, was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Carlos Higuera-Aldana, 23, was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. Jeremiah Salanoa, 22, was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Doroteo Suastegui, 47, was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

    These cases are the product of investigations by the ATF, the FBI, the Vallejo Police Department, and the Solano County Violent Crime Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Hitt, R. Alex Cardenas, Nicole Vanek, Douglas Harman, Charles Campbell, and Adrian Kinsella are prosecuting the eight federal cases arising out of this collaborative PSP effort.

    A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Announces 29 Wanted Defendants from Mexico Taken into U.S. Custody

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Today, the United States secured custody of 29 defendants from Mexico who are facing charges in districts around the country relating to racketeering, drug-trafficking, murder, illegal use of firearms, money laundering, and other crimes. The defendants taken into U.S. custody today include leaders and managers of drug cartels recently designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, such as the Sinaloa Cartel, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), Cártel del Noreste (formerly Los Zetas), La Nueva Familia Michoacana, and Cártel de Golfo (Gulf Cartel).  These defendants are collectively alleged to have been responsible for the importation into the United States of massive quantities of poison, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin, as well as associated acts of violence.

    “As President Trump has made clear, cartels are terrorist groups, and this Department of Justice is devoted to destroying cartels and transnational gangs,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will prosecute these criminals 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. We will not rest until we secure justice for the American people.”

    “The FBI and our partners will scour the ends of the earth to bring terrorists and cartel members to justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The era of harming Americans and walking free is over.”

    “Today’s actions are a consequence of a White House that negotiates from a position of strength, and an Attorney General who is willing to lead the Department with courage and ferocity,” said Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove. “By prosecuting these defendants to the maximum extent allowable under the law, we honor the memory of Special Agent Camarena, Deputy Sherrif Byrd, and other victims who are far too numerous, as well as decades of hard work in the trenches by our law enforcement partners.”

    “Today, 29 fugitive cartel members have arrived in the United States from Mexico, including one name that stands above the rest for the men and women of the DEA — Rafael Caro Quintero. Caro Quintero, a cartel kingpin who unleashed violence, destruction, and death across the United States and Mexico, has spent four decades atop DEA’s most wanted fugitives list, and today we can proudly say he has arrived in the United States where justice will be served,” said DEA Acting Administrator Derek S. Maltz. “This moment is extremely personal for the men and women of DEA who believe Caro Quintero is responsible for the brutal torture and murder of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. It is also a victory for the Camarena family. Today sends a message to every cartel leader, every trafficker, every criminal poisoning our communities: You will be held accountable. No matter how long it takes, no matter how far you run, justice will find you.”

    Many of the defendants were subject to longstanding U.S. extradition requests that were not honored during the prior Administration, but that the Mexican government elected to transfer to the current U.S. government in response to the Justice Department’s efforts pursuant to President Trump’s directive in Executive Order 14157, entitled Designating Cartels and Other Organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, to pursue total elimination of these Cartels. Federal prosecutors will evaluate whether additional terrorism and violence charges are appropriate based on the policy set forth in Executive Order 14157, and whether capital punishment is available based on Executive Order 14164, entitled Restoring the Death Penalty and Protecting Public Safety, as well as the Attorney General’s Feb. 5 guidance regarding the death penalty.

    • Rafael Caro Quintero, who is alleged to have been among those responsible for the 1985 murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena and others.
    • Martin Sotelo, who is alleged to have participated in the 2022 murder of Deputy Sheriff Ned Byrd.
    • Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, who allegedly helped lead CJNG and is reportedly the brother of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.”
    • Ramiro Perez Moreno and Lucio Hernandez Lechuga, who are alleged to be high-ranking members of Los Zetas.

    A complete list of defendants, as well as districts where they are charged and will appear in federal court in the coming days:

    Mexico Defendants

      Name

    Arraignment

    Jurisdiction

    		 Statutory Maximum
    1 CANOBBIO-INZUNZA, Jose Angel Northern District Illinois Up to life imprisonment
    2. VALENCIA GONZALEZ, Norberto Northern District of Illinois Up to life imprisonment
    3. MARTIN SOTELO, Alder, also known as “Alder Martin-Sotelo” and “Alder Alfonso Marin”

    Middle District of North Carolina

    North Carolina State Court

    Federal: Maximum 10 years imprisonment

    State: Maximum of life imprisonment or death
    4. CRUZ SANCHEZ, Evaristo Southern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    5. GARCIA VILLANO, also known as “La Kena,” “19,” and “Ciclone 19” Southern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    6. HERNANDEZ LECHUGA, Lucio Eastern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    7. PEREZ MORENO, Ramiro Eastern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    8. RODRIGUEZ DIAZ, Miguel Angel, also known as “Metro” Eastern District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    9. VILLARREAL HERNANDEZ, Jose Rodolfo Northern District of Texas Death or life imprisonment
    10. CARO QUINTERO, Rafael Eastern District of New York Death or life imprisonment
    11. CARRILLO FUENTES, Vicente Eastern District of New York Death or life imprisonment
    12. CABRERA CABRERA, Jose Bibiano District of Arizona Up to life imprisonment
    13. CLARK, Andrew Central District of California Death or life imprisonment
    14. INFANTE, Hector Eduardo Central District of California Up to life imprisonment
    15. LIMON LOPEZ, Jesus Humberto District of Arizona Up to life imprisonment
    16. TAPIA QUINTERO, Jose Guadalupe District of Arizona Up to life imprisonment
    17. TORRES ACOSTA, Inez Enrique Southern District of California Up to life imprisonment
    18. GALAVIZ VEGA, Jesus Western District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    19. MENDEZ ESTEVANE, Luis Geraldo Western District of Texas Death or life imprisonment
    20. MONSIVAIS TREVINO, Carlos Alberto Western District of Texas Up to life imprisonment
    21. ALGREDO VAZQUEZ, Carlos District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    22. LOPEZ IBARRA, Rodolfo District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    23. OSEGUERA CERVANTES, Antonio District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    24. RANGEL BUENDIA, Alfredo District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    25. TREVINO MORALES, Miguel Angel, also known as “Z-40” District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    26. TREVINO MORALES, Omar, also known as “Z-42”) District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    27. VALENCIA SALAZAR, Erick District of Columbia Up to life imprisonment
    28. MENDEZ VARGAS, Jesus Southern District of New York Up to life imprisonment
    29. PALACIOS GARCIA, Itiel Southern District of New York Up to life imprisonment

    Attorney General Pamela Bondi thanked the law enforcement officers of the Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshal’s Service, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, and Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office for their valuable contributions to these investigations.

    The Attorney General also thanked the Justice Department Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section and its Office of International Affairs, and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Southern District of California, the District of Columbia, Middle District of North Carolina, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Northern District of Texas, Eastern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, and Western District of Texas for handling the prosecutions of these cases.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Releases First Phase of Declassified Epstein Files

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Today, Attorney General Pamela Bondi, in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), declassified and publicly released files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his sexual exploitation of over 250 underage girls at his homes in New York and Florida, among other locations. The first phase of declassified files largely contains documents that have been previously leaked but never released in a formal capacity by the U.S. Government.

    “This Department of Justice is following through on President Trump’s commitment to transparency and lifting the veil on the disgusting actions of Jeffrey Epstein and his co-conspirators,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The first phase of files released today sheds light on Epstein’s extensive network and begins to provide the public with long overdue accountability.”  

    “The FBI is entering a new era—one that will be defined by integrity, accountability, and the unwavering pursuit of justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “There will be no cover-ups, no missing documents, and no stone left unturned — and anyone from the prior or current Bureau who undermines this will be swiftly pursued. If there are gaps, we will find them. If records have been hidden, we will uncover them. And we will bring everything we find to the DOJ to be fully assessed and transparently disseminated to the American people as it should be. The oath we take is to the Constitution, and under my leadership, that promise will be upheld without compromise.”

    Attorney General Bondi requested the full and complete files related to Jeffrey Epstein. In response, the Department received approximately 200 pages of documents, however, the Attorney General was later informed of thousands of pages of documents related to the investigation and indictment of Epstein that were not previously disclosed. The Attorney General has requested the FBI deliver the remaining documents to the Department by 8:00 AM on February 28 and has tasked FBI Director Kash Patel with investigating why the request for all documents was not followed.

    The Department remains committed to transparency and intends to release the remaining documents upon review and redaction to protect the identities of Epstein’s victims.

    A copy of Attorney General Bondi’s letter can be downloaded here.

    Links to released documents below:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Minneapolis Man Pleads Guilty in $250 Million Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has pleaded guilty to wire fraud for his role in the $250 million fraud scheme that exploited a federally funded child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to court documents, from April 2020 through January 2022, Abdikadir Ainashe Mohamud, a.k.a. “AK,” 33, claimed to be operating a child nutrition site in Willmar, Minnesota, a small town with a total population of approximately 21,000. Mohamud ran his food site, Stigma-Free Willmar, under the sponsorship of Feeding our Future. In October 2020, Mohamud approached the owner of FaaFan restaurant and offered to pay him monthly so that he could claim the small storefront restaurant as a Stigma-Free Willmar food site. By October 20, 2020, less than a month after registering the Stigma-Free Willmar site, Mohamud claimed to be serving meals to 3,000 children per day, seven days a week from FaaFan. Mohamud created a shell company, Tunyar Trading, and claimed it was a meal vendor for the Stigma-Free Willmar food site. Between November 2020 and December 2021, Mohamud and his co-conspirators claimed to have served approximately 1.6 million meals to children through Stigma-Free Willmar.

    To accomplish their scheme, Mohamud and his co-conspirators prepared and submitted fake meal counts, invoices, and attendance rosters. Mohamud ultimately transferred more than $2.5 million from Tunyar Trading to himself and other co-conspirators. He also created another shell company called Five A’s Projects LLC, where he transferred more than $1 million in Federal Child Nutrition Program funds. These proceeds were used to purchase the former location of Kelly’s 19th Hole, a bar and restaurant in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.

    According to court documents, Mohamud paid more than $225,000 in bribes and kickbacks from Tunyar Trading LLC to Abdikerm Eidleh, a Feeding Our Future employee who served as the site support manager for the Stigma-Free Willmar site, in exchange for sponsoring and facilitating Stigma-Free Willmar’s fraudulent participation in the Federal Child Nutrition Program. In exchange, Feeding Our Future received nearly $500,000 in administrative fees for sponsoring the Stigma-Free Willmar site’s participation in the program.  In December 2021, the defendant paid $5,750 to a GoFundMe account for Feeding Our Future created by Aimee Bock.

    In total, Stigma-Free Willmar received over $5.3 million in payments from Feeding Our Future based on fraudulent claims. As part of his sentence, Mohamud was ordered to forfeit the Kelly’s 19th Hole property, and $378,207.20 in fraudulent funds seized from his Tunyar Trading LLC bank account.

    Mohamud pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.

    The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph H. Thompson, Harry M. Jacobs, Matthew S. Ebert, and Daniel W. Bobier are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Southern California Men Arrested on Indictment Alleging Scheme Targeting Elderly Victims and Causing $10 Million in Losses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Two men living in Southern California were arrested today for allegedly leading a complex money laundering scheme that targeted more than 100 victims, many of whom were targeted because they were elderly, and caused victims more than $10 million in losses.

    Sylas Nyuydzene Verdzekov, 38, of Chino Hills, and Lovert Che, 44, of Lomita, were taken into federal custody today. A third defendant, Mustapha Nkachiwouo Selly Yamie, 29, of Inglewood, is being sought by law enforcement. Each defendant is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.

    Verdzekov and Che are expected to be arraigned this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    “As the indictment alleges, these defendants built a sophisticated fraud and money laundering scheme that targeted and preyed on our most vulnerable citizens.  They not only stole the victims’ money, but robbed them of their security and trust,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “Let this serve as a clear message: If you defraud members of our community, especially the elderly, we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “Financial fraud against our elder population has unfortunately lined the pockets of several transnational criminal organizations,” said HSI Los Angeles Acting Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco. “HSI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to protecting our most vulnerable and ensuring the public is informed of the red flag indicators of elder fraud.”

    According to the indictment, from at least November 2021 and continuing to the present, Verdzekov, Yamie, and Che, and their co-conspirators, created fake identification documents of fictitious people, including passports and driver’s licenses. Using these fake documents, the defendants and their co-conspirators created at least 36 shell companies in California, which conducted no legitimate business and were created solely to advance their crimes.

    Verdzekov, Yamie, and Che, and their co-conspirators, opened at least 145 bank accounts and at least 32 private mailboxes across Southern California using the fake identities and sham businesses.

    In one scheme specifically targeting elderly victims using phone calls and email pop-ups, the defendants and their co-conspirators posed as law enforcement personnel or employees with well-known companies attempting to help the victims maintain the security of their accounts. They then allegedly fabricated claims of victim bank accounts or payment accounts being compromised and needing to be resolved quickly.

    The defendants and their co-conspirators convinced the victims of their purported authority through pictures of fake badges and fake job titles, then requested the victims’ personally identifiable information (PII) and bank account information. Victims were told they needed to move money from their corrupted accounts quickly to ensure they kept all their money, and to move it into accounts that Verdzekov, Yamie, and Che, and their co-conspirators, fraudulently opened and controlled. Victims typically moved money via electronic bank transfers, money orders, cashier’s checks, or personal checks into these fraudulent bank accounts or mailboxes. 

    The defendants and their co-conspirators then deposited the ill-gotten gains into the bank accounts they controlled with the intent of disguising the ownership and control of the funds. Verdzekov, Yamie, Che, and their co-conspirators then withdrew large cash amounts to use the stolen funds on personal expenses, including rental payments.

    In a similar scam, the defendants and their co-conspirators allegedly posed as a real estate owner selling property. Using fake identification and credentials, the defendants deceived victims into believing that they were entering into a legitimate sale of the property and tricked the victims into wiring money or mailing a check to an account or mailbox the defendants and their co-conspirators controlled.

    In total, Verdzekov, Yamie, and Che, and their co-conspirators, laundered at least $10 million in funds taken from at least 100 victims. 

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

    If convicted, the defendants would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

    Homeland Security Investigations’ Document Benefit Fraud Task Force, the FBI’s Honolulu Field Office, the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), and the United States Postal Inspection Service are investigating this matter.  The investigation remains ongoing.

    If you think you have been a victim of a scam, immediately contact your bank or financial institution to request a recall or reversal as well as a Hold Harmless Letter or Letter of Indemnity and contact local law enforcement. Additionally, file a detailed complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. The Internet Crime Complaint Center is run by the FBI and serves as the country’s hub for reporting cybercrime. 

    Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah S. Lee and Gregg E. Marmaro of the Major Frauds Section are prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Releases First Phase of Declassified Epstein Files

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Today, Attorney General Pamela Bondi, in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), declassified and publicly released files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his sexual exploitation of over 250 underage girls at his homes in New York and Florida, among other locations. The first phase of declassified files largely contains documents that have been previously leaked but never released in a formal capacity by the U.S. Government.

    “This Department of Justice is following through on President Trump’s commitment to transparency and lifting the veil on the disgusting actions of Jeffrey Epstein and his co-conspirators,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The first phase of files released today sheds light on Epstein’s extensive network and begins to provide the public with long overdue accountability.”  

    “The FBI is entering a new era—one that will be defined by integrity, accountability, and the unwavering pursuit of justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “There will be no cover-ups, no missing documents, and no stone left unturned — and anyone from the prior or current Bureau who undermines this will be swiftly pursued. If there are gaps, we will find them. If records have been hidden, we will uncover them. And we will bring everything we find to the DOJ to be fully assessed and transparently disseminated to the American people as it should be. The oath we take is to the Constitution, and under my leadership, that promise will be upheld without compromise.”

    Attorney General Bondi requested the full and complete files related to Jeffrey Epstein. In response, the Department received approximately 200 pages of documents, however, the Attorney General was later informed of thousands of pages of documents related to the investigation and indictment of Epstein that were not previously disclosed. The Attorney General has requested the FBI deliver the remaining documents to the Department by 8:00 AM on February 28 and has tasked FBI Director Kash Patel with investigating why the request for all documents was not followed.

    The Department remains committed to transparency and intends to release the remaining documents upon review and redaction to protect the identities of Epstein’s victims.

    A copy of Attorney General Bondi’s letter can be downloaded here.

    Links to released documents below:

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pineville Man Sentenced to More than 27 Years in Prison for His Role in the Sexual Exploitation of Children and Production of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Daniel Perryman Collins, 34, of Pineville, Louisiana, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Dee D. Drell to 325 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, on child pornography charges.  

    This case is the result of an investigation into individuals using the dark web to communicate with others regarding exploiting children on the internet and causing them to produce child pornography. From January to November 2023, Collins and his co-defendant, Michael Bo Peacock, both together and individually, for their sexual gratification, caused minor children to produce child pornographic and sexually explicit images and videos of themselves by the use of threats and blackmail. Collins conducted all of this illegal activity in Pineville, Louisiana, while Peacock was located in the Dallas, Texas area. 

    According to information introduced in court, Collins and Peacock both participated in meeting children and coercing/blackmailing the children to engage in sexually explicit conduct and to produce videos of that conduct. Peacock would often contact a minor victim online and through various social media platforms, including SnapChat, and he and Collins would convince the minor victim to engage in sexually explicit activity and provide a video of that conduct. Collins and Peacock would then blackmail and threaten the victims to provide additional sexually explicit material. As part of the conspiracy, Collins utilized advanced security measures so that those images and materials could not be traced back to himself or Peacock. 

    Collins and Peacock gave each other access to all of the child pornography they had caused minor victims to produce by obtaining an account with an overseas cloud-based file hosting service, so they could post and share the child pornography images and videos that they had produced or obtained. Both defendants had an encryption key to use to access the material they had posted to the site. Through their investigation, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) Child Exploitation Operational Unit determined that Collins and Peacock exploited over 100 child victims and caused them to create child pornography. These images and videos were posted to their shared file hosting account.

    On November 16, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Collins’ residence in Pineville. During the search, law enforcement agents obtained access to the cloud-based file hosting account of Collins and Peacock and were able to download all of the child pornography images and videos which they had created and posted to the account. 

    Collins pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to produce child pornography and one count of enticing a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity on November 21, 2024. Peacock pleaded guilty to the same charges on December 23, 2024, and will be sentenced at a later date. 

    “The sexual exploitation of minor children and the activities that these men participated in is horrendous and sickening,” said Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “These types of cases are becoming more prevalent in the United States and internationally and can happen in your own neighborhood. We encourage parents to be vigilant in keeping an eye out for any suspicious activity that your children could potentially be exposed to. We will continue to work to uncover this type of illegal activity and protect our minor children from offenders like this.”

    “Through relentless investigations and cutting-edge technology, the FBI works every day to uncover hidden networks, identify victims and bring perpetrators to justice,” said FBI Criminal Investigative Division Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough. “Today’s sentencing sends the message that the FBI is committed to protecting vulnerable lives and ensuring no predator can thrive at the expense of our children.”

    The case was investigated by the FBI’s Headquarter-based Child Exploitation Operation Unit, with assistance from the FBI’s New Orleans and Dallas Field Offices, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Danny Siefker.

    To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt or production of child pornography: Child sexual abuse material – referred to in legal terms as “child pornography” – captures the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These images document victims’ exploitation and abuse, and they suffer revictimization every time the images are viewed. In 2023, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received 36 million reports of the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child sexual abuse materials. To file a report with NCMEC, go to https://report.cybertip.org or call 1-800-843-5678. 

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kentucky Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Scheme to Defraud Boone County Schools Out of $3.4 Million

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Jesse Marks, 65, of Rush, Kentucky, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit mail fraud. Marks admitted to conspiring with Michael David Barker to overbill the Boone County Schools system while Barker was its maintenance director.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Marks was the sole owner and operator of Rush Enterprises when Barker contacted him in November 2019 about Rush Enterprises selling custodial and janitorial supplies to Boone County Schools. Marks agreed and began supplying Boone County Schools with supplies including hand soap, trash can liners, facemasks, face shields, and hand sanitizer.

    Marks admitted that he and Barker entered into the overbilling scheme in November 2019. Barker submitted invoices to Boone County Schools on behalf of Rush Enterprises that significantly inflated the number of products that it was delivering. Boone County Schools relied on the fraudulent invoices and mailed checks to Rush Enterprises using the United States Postal Service.

    As part of the agreement with Barker, Marks deposited the checks from Boone County Schools into the business bank account for Rush Enterprises, wrote himself checks on that account that he cashed at various banks, and personally delivered some of that cash to Barker in manila envelopes. Marks admitted that he and Barker initially agreed to evenly split the proceeds of the overbilling scheme after deducting the cost of the products actually delivered to Boone County Schools. Marks further admitted that their agreement changed in October 2020, when Barker began receiving 55 percent of the fraudulent profits.

    Marks estimated that approximately 80 percent of the total payments received by Rush enterprises from Boone County Schools, or $3,448,571.85 out of $4,310,714.82, was for products never delivered.

    Marks is scheduled to be sentenced on June 16, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Marks also owes restitution in an amount to be determined by the Court.

    A federal grand jury returned an 18-count indictment on December 11, 2024, charging Barker, 47, of Foster, with mail fraud, conspiracy to commit mail fraud, theft concerning programs receiving federal funds, and money laundering. Barker’s trial is scheduled for April 15, 2025. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the West Virginia State Police, and the West Virginia State Auditor’s Office (WVSAO) Public Integrity and Fraud Unit (PIFU), and the assistance provided by the West Virginia Department of Education.

    United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Gabriel Price 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. 2:25-cr-6.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California Man Indicted for Production of Child Sexual Abuse Material and Coercion and Enticement of a Minor

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

    Tampa, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the  unsealing of an indictment charging Rigoberto Rios Gallardo (31, Los Angeles, California) with three counts of production of child sexual abuse material and one count of coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. If convicted on all counts, Rios Gallardo faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. 

    According to the indictment, on three dates in August and September 2024, Rios Gallardo used, persuaded, induced, enticed and coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction. Between August and December 2024, Rios Gallardo knowingly persuaded, induced, enticed and coerced a minor to engage in sexual activity.

    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 FBI and the North Port Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sanford Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Enticement of a Minor

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

    Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Matthew Reed Dione (37, Sanford) to 20 years in federal prison for enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Dione will also forfeit two hard drives and a cellphone, which were used to commit the offense. Dione entered a guilty plea on July 2, 2024.

    According to court documents, Dione met a child victim on a teen dating website when Dione was 32 years old. He engaged in inappropriate chats with the child victim prior to picking up the victim from the victim’s home late at night and taking the victim to his home. At his home, Dione sexually abused the child and recorded the activity. 

    In January 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Dione’s home and seized multiple electronic devices. During a forensic extraction of the seized devices, the FBI located numerous videos and images of child sexual abuse. In many of those videos and images, the minors had Dione’s name written on their bodies. The FBI was able to identify three additional child victims from the child sexual abuse material found on Dione’s devices. The evidence on the devices showed that Dione had been targeting teenage girls for more than a decade.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney D. Richardson-Jones.

    This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 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 victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc. 

    MIL Security OSI –