NewzIntel.com

Category: Intelligence Agencies

  • MIL-OSI China: Scientific payloads of China’s first reusable, returnable satellite delivered to users

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Scientific payloads of China’s first reusable, returnable satellite delivered to users

    BEIJING, Oct. 24 — The scientific payloads for space breeding and other sci-tech experiments carried by China’s first reusable and returnable satellite, Shijian-19, were delivered to Chinese and foreign users on Thursday.

    At the payloads handover ceremony held by the China National Space Administration (CNSA) in Beijing on Thursday, the CNSA and the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation signed payload delivery certificates with domestic and international users, including those from Thailand and Pakistan.

    Bian Zhigang, deputy head of CNSA, said the Shijian-19 mission fully leverages the advantages of the new generation retrievable space experiment platform, conducting space breeding experiments of about 1,000 species of germplasm resources, providing crucial support for the innovation of germplasm resources in China. The mission has also offered a valuable in-orbit validation opportunity for domestically produced components and raw materials.

    The Shijian-19 satellite was sent into orbit from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on Sept. 27, and was successfully retrieved at the Dongfeng landing site in north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on Oct. 11.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Announces Four Cases Brought by Election Threats Task Force

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The Justice Department’s Election Threats Task Force (ETTF) announced developments this week in four cases involving interstate transmissions of threats to election personnel and other victims.

    Teak Brockbank, 45, of Cortez, Colorado, pleaded guilty today to threatening a Colorado election official and making other threats to an Arizona election official, a Colorado state judge, and federal law enforcement agents between September 2021 and July 2024.

    Brian Jerry Ogstad, 60, of Cullman, Alabama, was sentenced on Monday to 30 months in prison for sending messages threatening violence to election workers with Maricopa County Elections in Phoenix from Aug. 2-4, 2022, during and immediately following the Arizona primary elections.

    Richard Glenn Kantwill, 61, of Tampa, Florida, was charged on Monday for allegedly sending a threat on Feb. 9 to an election official in addition to already pending charges for threats made to three other victims based on their political commentary in 2019 and 2020.

    John Pollard, 62, of Philadelphia, was charged on Monday for allegedly threatening on Sept. 6 to kill a representative of a Pennsylvania state political party who was recruiting official poll watchers.

    “As we approach Election Day, the Justice Department’s warning remains clear: anyone who illegally threatens an election worker, official, or volunteer will face the consequences,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Over the past three and a half years, the Justice Department has been aggressively investigating and prosecuting those who threaten the public servants who administer our elections, and we will continue to do so in the weeks ahead. For our democracy to function, Americans who serve the public must be able to do their jobs without fearing for their lives.”

    “Threats to election workers are threats to our democratic process,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “No one should face violence or threats of violence simply for doing their job. The actions announced today make clear that we will not tolerate those who use or threaten violence in an effort to undermine our democratic institutions. To carry out their essential work, election officials must be free from improper influence, physical threats, and others forms of intimidation.”

    “Our elections are made by possible by the hard work and patriotism of election workers in communities across the country who are also our neighbors, relatives and friends, and they deserve to do this important work without being subjected to threats,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The fact that election workers need to be worried about their security is incomprehensible and unacceptable. While these four cases are examples of the kinds of threats election workers are unfortunately facing, these cases also represent the FBI’s dedication in holding accountable those who undermine our democracy with this conduct. The FBI and our partners on the ETTF will work tirelessly to charge and arrest those callous enough to make these threats and make sure they are held accountable. Free, fair, and safe elections are critical to our country and our democratic ideals.”

    “These defendants made serious threats of violence against members of the election community. Threats like these strike at the very heart of our democracy,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The cases announced today underscore the Criminal Division’s commitment to defending our democracy, safeguarding our elections, and protecting all election workers. Through the ETTF, the Department will vigorously investigate and prosecute all criminal threats against members of the election community.”

    The four cases were all brought by the ETTF. Created by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in June 2021, the task force has led the Department’s efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers — whether elected, appointed, or volunteer — are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The task force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Three years after its formation, the task force is continuing this work and supporting U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide as they join the task force in its critical work.

    Under the leadership of the Attorney General and the Deputy Attorney General, the task force is led by the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) and includes several other entities within the Justice Department, including the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, Civil Rights Division, National Security Division, and FBI, as well as key interagency partners, such as the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. For more information regarding the Justice Department’s efforts to combat threats against election workers, read the Deputy Attorney General’s memo.

    United States v. Brockbank (District of Colorado)

    According to court documents, Brockbank admitted to using three social media accounts to post messages threatening Colorado and Arizona election officials between September 2021 and July 2024.

    On Sept. 22, 2021, Brockbank posted the following message on social media:

    “[Election Official-1] . . . needs to- No has to Hang she has to Hang by the neck till she is Dead Dead Dead. There will be accountability for these peoples actions in Communist Colorado and it won’t be judges and it won’t be weakmided cops that bring it!!! It will be Me it will be You it Will be every day people that understand that there life does not matter anymore with the future our country has laid out before it.”

    As part of his plea, Brockbank also admitted to posting a message on Aug. 4, 2022, referring to election officials in Arizona and Colorado, saying: “Once those people start getting put to death then the rest will melt like snowflakes and turn on each other. . . . This is the only way. So those of us that have the stomach for what has to be done should prepare our minds for what we all [a]re going to do!!!!!! It is time.”

    In addition, Brockbank admitted to posting a message threatening a Colorado state judge on Oct. 2, 2021, saying: “I could pick up my rifle and I could go put a bullet in this Mans head and send him to explain himself to our Creator right now. I would be Justified!!! Not only justified but obligated by those in my family who fought and died for the freedom in this country. . . . What can I do other than kill this man my self?”

    Brockbank further admitted to threatening federal law enforcement on July 13, posting: “I believe every single FBI agent deserves to go explain themselves to our creator right away!!!! I am more than willing to send any/All of you there.”

    Finally, Brockbank admitted to illegally possessing multiple firearms and ammunition.

    “The security and sanctity of the American election system is core to the foundation of our Democracy,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Matt Kirsch for the District of Colorado. “We will prosecute people who threaten elections, election officials, or election workers to the fullest extent of the law.”

    Brockbank pleaded guilty today to interstate transmission of a threat. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 3, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI Denver Field Office is investigating the case.

    Acting Deputy Director Jonathan E. Jacobson of PIN’s Election Crimes Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyrus Y. Chung for the District of Colorado are prosecuting the case.

    United States v. Ogstad (District of Arizona)

    According to court documents, on or about Aug. 2, 2022, Arizona held primary elections for federal and state officeholders, including a gubernatorial primary election that received nationwide media coverage. From the day of the election through on or about Aug. 4, 2022, Ogstad sent multiple threatening direct messages to a social media account maintained by Maricopa County Elections. For instance, on or about Aug. 3, 2022, Ogstad stated: (1) “You did it! Now you are f*****.. Dead. You will all be executed for your crimes”; (2) F*** you! You are caught! They have it all. You f****** are dead”; (3) “You are lying, cheating m****** f******* . . . you better not come in my church, my business or send your kids to my school. You are f****** stupid if you think your lives are safe”; and (4) “You f******  are so dead.” On or about Aug. 4, 2022, Ogstad also stated, “[Y]ou people are so ducking stupid. Everyone knows you are lots, cheats, frauds and in doing so in relation to elections have committed treason. You will all be executed. Bang f******!” In the course of his messages to the recipient, Ogstad transmitted an image of the character “Woody,” from the Toy Story film franchise, lying face down with an unidentified projectile in its back.

    “In this election season we honor and respect those public servants who enable Americans to exercise their constitutional right to vote,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino for the District of Arizona. “And we seek to protect all election workers from intimidation and harassment. Threats of violence, whether conveyed by words or deeds or pictures, will be met in this District with robust prosecution.”

    Ogstad was sentenced on Monday to 30 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000 fine, after pleading guilty on July 25 to one count of interstate transmission of a threat.

    The FBI Phoenix Field Office investigated the case, with substantial assistance from the FBI Birmingham Field Office.

    Trial Attorney Tanya Senanayake of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Sue Feldmeier for the District of Arizona prosecuted the case.

    United States v. Kantwill (Middle District of Florida)

    According to court documents, from September 2019 to July 2020, Kantwill, a dentist, sent over 100 threats to various public figures via Facebook and Instagram messages, email, and text. As charged in the superseding information filed on Monday, those threats included a threat sent via email to an author, a threat sent via text to a religious leader, and a threat sent via Instagram to a television personality. From April 2022 to April 2024, Kantwill also sent at least seven additional threats to four public figures via Facebook, including a threat to an election official in another state on Feb. 9, when Kantwill wrote: “You are a degenerate c***. and you are now the target of our own investigation. Take note because liberal t***s like you get raped in alleys, by really big black guys that serve our cause. So, you t*** are going to get raped by at least 5 n*****s, and do nothing. You are the number 1 target, you degenerate t***.”

    “If you threaten someone with violence, we will take you at your word,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg for the Middle District of Florida. “Law enforcement officers and members of my office will work together to hold accountable and federally prosecute individuals who threaten to injure or kill others.”

    Kantwill is charged with four counts of interstate transmission of a threat. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Aaron L. Jennen of PIN and Assistant U.S. Attorney Abigail K. King for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyrus Y. Chung for the District of Colorado.

    United States v. Pollard (Western District of Pennsylvania)

    According to the indictment, on Sept. 6, Pollard sent threatening text messages to Victim 1, a resident of the Western District of Pennsylvania. Victim 1 had previously posted online, in Victim 1’s capacity as an employee of a state political party, that Victim 1 was recruiting volunteers to “help[] observe at the polls on Election Day” and included Victim 1’s phone number. Pollard allegedly texted Victim 1 that he was “interested in being a poll watcher” and included Victim 1’s first name. Pollard then allegedly texted three threats to Victim 1: (1) “I will KILL YOU IF YOU DON’T ANSWER ME!”; (2) “Your days are numbered, B****!”; and (3) “GONNA F***ING FIND YOU AND SKIN YOU ALIVE AND USE YOUR SKIN FOR F***ING TOILET PAPER, YOU F***ING KKK**T!”

    “Threats of violence have no place in our society,” said U.S. Attorney Eric G. Olshan for the Western District of Pennsylvania. “This is no less true when those threats of violence are directed at individuals associated with our electoral process — in this case, someone seeking to organize poll watchers. This conduct will not be tolerated in our district, and we will continue to work with our partners at the FBI to prosecute these offenses with the full weight of the law.”

    Pollard was arrested on Monday and appeared in federal court in Philadelphia. He is charged with one count of interstate transmission of a threat. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI Pittsburgh Field Office is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Jacob R. Steiner of PIN and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole A. Stockey for the Western District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

    *****

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

    To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found at www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/. You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at tips.fbi.gov/home. Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Federal Employee Pleads Guilty to Mishandling Classified Materials

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Margaret Anne Ashby, 26, of Henderson, Nevada, pleaded guilty today for mishandling sensitive documents as a former employee of a Department of Defense component agency.

    As described in the plea agreement, starting in March 2020, Ashby was a civilian employee of a Department of Defense component agency located in the Southern District of Georgia, and during this time held a top secret security clearance as required for her employment.

    From February 2022 to May 2022, Ashby, without authority, knowingly removed documents and materials containing classified information “concerning the national defense or foreign relations of the United States . . . with the intent to retain them at unauthorized locations, including her residence in the Southern District of Georgia and in digital files saved via a personal computing device located in the Southern District of Georgia.”

    A sentencing date has not yet been set. Ashby faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and three years of supervised release for mishandling sensitive documents, along with substantial financial penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Jill E. Steinberg for the Southern District of Georgia, and Robert Wells of the FBI National Security Branch announced the case.

    The FBI investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys L. Alexander Hamner and Darron J. Hubbard for the Southern District of Georgia and Trial Attorney David J. Ryan of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Man Charged with Weapon of Mass Destruction Offense in Connection with Bomb Attack in Lobby of County Courthouse

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A three-count federal grand jury indictment was returned today charging Nathaniel James McGuire, 20, of Santa Maria, California, with committing a bomb attack at a courthouse in Santa Maria in which several people were injured. McGuire’s arraignment is scheduled for Oct. 25 in the Central District of California.

    According to the indictment and criminal complaint, on Sept. 25, McGuire entered a courthouse of Santa Barbara County Superior Court and threw a bag into the lobby. The bag exploded and McGuire left the courthouse on foot. The explosion injured at least five people who were near the bomb when it exploded.

    Shortly thereafter, McGuire was apprehended and detained by law enforcement officials as he was trying to access a red Ford Mustang car parked outside the building. McGuire allegedly yelled that the government had taken his guns and that everyone needed to fight, rise up, and rebel.

    Inside the car, a deputy saw ammunition, a flare gun, and a box of fireworks. A search of the car revealed a shotgun, a rifle, more ammunition, a suspected bomb, and 10 Molotov cocktails. Law enforcement later rendered the bomb safe. McGuire told law enforcement he intended to re-enter the courthouse with the firearms in order to kill a judge.

    A search of McGuire’s residence revealed an empty can with nails glued to the outside, a duffel bag containing matches, black powder, used and unused fireworks, and papers that appeared to be recipes for explosive material.

    McGuire was charged with one count of using a weapon of mass destruction, one count of maliciously damaging a building by means of explosive, and one count of possessing unregistered destructive devices. McGuire has been in custody since his arrest in September, shortly after the attack.

    If convicted of all charges, McGuire faces a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years in prison and a statutory maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California, and Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch announced the case.

    The FBI is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Takla and Kathrynne N. Seiden for the Central District of California are prosecuting this case with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: TRAINERS’ HOUSE GROUP INTERIM REPORT 1 JANUARY – 30 SEPTEMBER 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TRAINERS’ HOUSE GROUP, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 24 OCTOBER 2024 at 8:30
              
    January-September 2024 in brief

    • net sales EUR 5.9 million (EUR 6.5 million), change of -9.7 % compared to the corresponding period of the previous year
    • operating result EUR 0.1 million (EUR 0.1 million), 1.1 % of net sales (1.0 %)
    • cash flow from operations EUR 0.1 million (EUR 0.1 million)
    • earnings per share EUR 0.03 (EUR 0.04)

    July-September 2024 in brief

    • net sales EUR 1.6 million (EUR 1.6 million), change of -1.2 % compared to the corresponding period of the previous year
    • operating result EUR -0.1 million (EUR -0.1 million), -9.4 % of net sales (-6.7 %)
    • cash flow from operations EUR -0.3 million (EUR -0.2 million)
    • earnings per share EUR -0.07 (EUR -0.05)

    Key figures at the end of third quarter of 2024

    • cash and cash equivalents EUR 1.1 million (EUR 1.5 million)
    • interest-bearing liabilities of EUR 0.7 million (EUR 0.3 million) and interest-bearing net debt of EUR -0.4 million (EUR -1.3 million).
    • equity ratio 65.2 % (65.3 %)

    OUTLOOK FOR 2024

    The company estimates the operating profit for 2024 to be negative.

    CEO ARTO HEIMONEN

    Despite the challenging market conditions, the company’s year-to-date result is slightly profitable at the end of the third quarter.

    Due to the holiday season, the third quarter of Trainers’ House is actually two months long from the point of view of revenue accumulation.

    Customer activity and customer satisfaction remained at a high level. Acquiring new assignments succeeded moderately. The productivity of encounter marketing business increased.

    Healthy cash flow and profitability are the company’s most important business goals in 2024 as well.

    The purpose of Trainers’ House is to help people forward. This is possible by touching people, electrifying management and producing verifiable results.

    Thanks to customers, employees, and partners.

    More information:
    Arto Heimonen, CEO, +358 404 123 456
    Saku Keskitalo, CFO, +358 404 111 111

    OPERATIONAL REVIEW

    During the review period, the company focused on serving its customers.

    FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

    Net sales for the reporting period were EUR 5.9 million (EUR 6.5 million). Operating result was EUR 0.1 million, 1.1 % of net sales (EUR 0.1 million, 1.0 %). The result for the period was EUR 0.1 million, 1.1 % of net sales (EUR 0.1 million, 1.2 %).

    The breakdown of the Group’s figures (unit thousand euros) is presented in the following table:

    Group’s main figures (kEUR) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023
    Net sales 5 907 6 541
    Expenses:    
    Expenses arising from employee benefits -3 947 -4 339
    Other expenses -1 635 -1 729
    EBITDA 325 473
    Depreciation and impairment losses -259 -405
    EBIT 66 68
    EBIT, % of net sales 1.1 1.0
    Financial income and expenses -15 8
    Result before taxes 51 76
    Income taxes 14 4
    Result of the period 65 80
    Result, % of net sales 1.1 1.2

    LONG-TERM OBJECTIVES

    The company’s long-term goal is profitable growth.

    FINANCING, INVESTMENTS AND SOLVENCY

    Cash flow and key financing figures (unit million euros) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023
    Cash flow from operations before financial items 0.2 0.1
    Cash flow from operations 0.1 0.1
    Cash flow from investments 0.0 0.1
    Cash flow from financing -0.2 -0.9
    Total cash flow -0.1 -0.7
         
      9/2024 9/2023
    Cash 1.1 1.5
    Interest-bearing debt 0.7 0.3
    Equity ratio % 65.2 65.3

    MAJOR RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

    Trainers’ House’s business is sensitive to economic fluctuations.

    The general economic situation internationally and in Finland contains significant risks. The war in Europe and Middle East, the tense world political situation and the possible expansion of the crisis can cause rapid changes in the operating environment.

    Possible world trade restrictions and changes in the world political situation affect the exports of Finnish companies, which is reflected in the demand of the domestic market. The demand in domestic market will also diminish due to public cost-cuttings and tax increases. The change in domestic market demand directly affects Trainers’ House’s business.

    Compared to the level of the last decade, the high interest rate has a negative effect on economic activity. Inflation can also accelerate due to, for example, escalation of world political crises.

    The constant competition for the best employees affects recruitment and the commitment of key personnel. From the company’s point of view, the labor market situation has eased over the past year.

    The above-mentioned risks, when realized alone or together, have a significant impact on the company’s operations.

    The company divides the risk factors affecting business, earnings, and market capitalization into five main categories: market and business risks, personnel-related risks, technology and information security risks, financial risks, and legal risks.

    Trainers’ House has sought to hedge against the adverse effects of other risks with comprehensive insurance policies. These include statutory insurance, liability and property insurance and legal expenses insurance. Insurance coverage, insurance values and deductibles are reviewed annually together with the insurance company.

    The Management Team reports to the Board on a monthly basis on key business-related risks and, where necessary, risk management measures.

    The Group has the reporting systems required for effective business monitoring. Internal control is linked to the company’s vision, strategic goals and the business goals set on the basis of them.

    The realization of business objectives and the Group’s financial development are monitored on a monthly basis through the Group’s corporate governance system. As an essential part of the control system, actual data and up-to-date forecasts are reviewed monthly by the Group Management Team. The control system includes, among other things, sales reporting, an income statement, a rolling revenue and profit forecast, and key figures that are important to operations.

    Trainers’ House is an expert organization. The magnitude of market and business risks is difficult to determine. Typical risks in this area are related to, for example, general economic development, customer distribution, technology choices, the development of competition and the management of personnel costs.

    Risks are managed through the planning and regular monitoring of sales, human resources, and operating expenses, which enables rapid action when circumstances change. The risks of trade receivables have been taken into account by the recognition of expenses based on the age of the receivables and individual risk analyzes.

    The goal of Trainers’ House’s financial risk management is to secure the availability of equity and debt financing on competitive terms and to reduce the impact of adverse market movements on the company’s operations.

    Financial risks are divided into four categories, which are liquidity, interest rate risks, currency risks and credit risks. Each risk is monitored separately. Liquidity and interest rate risks are reduced with sufficient cash resources and efficient collection of receivables. Currency risks are low as Trainers’ House operates primarily in the euro market. In financial risk management, the focus is on liquidity.

    The success of Trainers’ House as an expert organization depends on its ability to attract and retain skilled staff. In addition to a competitive salary, personnel risks are managed through incentive schemes and investments in personnel training, career opportunities and general well-being.

    Technology is a key part of Trainers’ House’s business. Technology risks include, but are not limited to, supplier risk, risks related to internal systems, challenges posed by technological change, and security risks. Risks are protected against long-term cooperation with technology suppliers, appropriate security systems, staff training and regular security audits.

    Trainers’ House’s legal risks are mainly focused on the contractual relationship between the company and customers or service providers. At their most typical, they relate to delivery responsibility and the management of intellectual property rights. In order to manage the risks related to contracts and intellectual property rights, the company has internal guidelines for contractual procedures. In the company’s view, the contractual risks are not unusual.

    At the end of the review period, goodwill and other intangible assets recognized in the balance sheet have been tested in the normal way. The test did not reveal any need for impairment.

    The consolidated balance sheet of Trainers’ House has goodwill of EUR 2.1 million. The balance sheet value of other intangible assets is EUR 1.0 million. If the Group’s profitability does not develop as forecasted or other external factors independent of the Group’s operations, such as interest rates, change significantly, it is possible that goodwill and other intangible assets will have to be written off. Recognition of an impairment loss would have no effect on the Group’s cash flow.

    Due to the project nature of the operations, the order backlog is short, and predictability is therefore challenging.

    The description of potential risks is not comprehensive. Trainers’ House conducts continuous risk assessment in connection with its operations and strives to hedge against identified risks.

    Investors have also been informed about the risks in the company’s annual review and on the website at www.trainershouse.fi.

    PERSONNEL

    At the end of the review period, the Group had 107 (111) employees. As before, the company reports the number of employees converted to full-time employees.

    DECISIONS REACHED AT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

    The annual general meeting of Trainers’ House Plc was held on 27 March 2024 in Helsinki.

    The annual general meeting confirmed the financial statements and discharged CEO and the members of the Board of Directors from liability for the fiscal year 1 January – 31 December 2023. The annual general meeting also decided to adopt the remuneration policy of the governing bodies.

    The annual general meeting decided, in accordance with the board’s proposal, that the company does not distribute a dividend from 2023.

    Aarne Aktan, Jari Sarasvuo, Jarmo Hyökyvaara, Elma Palsila and Emilia Tauriainen were re-elected as members of the Board of Directors. In the board meeting held after the annual general meeting, the Board of Directors elected Jari Sarasvuo as the chairperson of the board.

    The annual general meeting decided that the board member’s remuneration shall be EUR 1,500 per month and the chairperson’s remuneration will be EUR 3,500 per month.

    Grant Thornton Oy was elected as the company’s auditor. The remuneration to the auditor is paid according to the auditor’s reasonable invoice.

    SHARES AND SHARE CAPITAL

    The company’s share is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd under the name Trainers’ House Plc (TRH1V).

    At the end of the reporting period, Trainers’ House Plc had 2,147,826 shares and a registered share capital of EUR 880,743.59. The company does not hold any of its own shares. There have been no changes in the share capital during the period.

    Share performance and trading

      1-9/2024 1-9/2023
    Traded shares, pcs 203 608 213 827
    Average number of all company shares, % 9.5 10.0
    Traded shares, EUR 576 890 1 013 869
    Highest share quotation 4.88 6.12
    Lowest share quotation 2.07 3.38
    Closing price 2.27 3.73
    Weighted average price 2.83 4.74
    Market capitalization 4.9 mil. 8.0 mil.

    SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND NOTES

    The report has been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 standard. The report has been prepared in accordance with IFRS standards and interpretations that have been approved for application in the EU and are in force on 1 January 2024.

    In this interim report Trainers’ House has followed the same accounting policies and calculation methods as in the 2023 annual financial statements.

    The figures given in the interim report are unaudited.

    INCOME STATEMENT IFRS (kEUR) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 1-12/2023
    NET SALES 5 907 6 541 8 437
    Expenses:      
    Materials and services -286 -308 -391
    Personnel-related expenses -3 947 -4 339 -5 691
    Depreciation and impairment losses -259 -405 -531
    Other operating expenses -1 348 -1 420 -1 925
    Total expenses -5 841 -6 473 -8 538
    Operating result 66 68 -101
    Financial income and expenses -15 8 6
    Result before taxes 51 76 -95
    Income taxes 14 4 4
    RESULT OF THE PERIOD 65 80 -91
    Result attributable to owners of the parent company 65 80 -91
    Earnings per share, EUR 0.03 0.04 -0.04
    Earnings per share attributable to owners of the parent company, EUR 0.03 0.04 -0.04
    BALANCE SHEET IFRS (kEUR) 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    ASSETS      
    Non-current assets      
    Tangible assets 704 430 961
    Goodwill 2 129 2 129 2 129
    Other intangible assets 1 013 1 025 1 013
    Long-term receivables      
    Other receivables, long-term 105 138 138
    Deferred tax receivables 218 204 202
    Total long-term receivables 324 342 341
    Total non-current assets 4 170 3 926 4 443
           
    Current assets      
    Account receivables and other receivables 1 002 942 783
    Cash and cash equivalents 1 120 1 533 1 175
    Total current assets 2 122 2 475 1 958
    TOTAL ASSETS 6 292 6 400 6 401
           
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    Equity attributable to the owners of the parent company      
    Share capital 881 881 881
    Distributable non-restricted equity fund 37 37 37
    Retained earnings 3 021 3 111 3 111
    Result of the period 65 80 -91
    Total shareholders’ equity 4 004 4 109 3 939
    Long-term liabilities      
    Deferred tax liabilities 203 205 203
    Long-term financial liabilities 420 58 631
    Total long-term liabilities 622 263 833
    Short-term liabilities      
    Short-term financial liabilities 280 216 197
    Accounts payable and other liabilities 1 386 1 812 1 432
    Total short-term liabilities 1 666 2 028 1 629
    Total liabilities 2 288 2 291 2 462
    TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 6 292 6 400 6 401
    CASH FLOW STATEMENT IFRS (kEUR) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 1-12/2023
    CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS      
    Result of the period 65 80 -91
    Adjustments 263 435 570
    Changes in working capital -169 -398 -257
    Cash flow from operations before financial items and taxes 158 117 222
    Financial items and taxes paid -22 -13 -16
    CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS 137 104 206
    CASH FLOW FROM INVESTMENTS      
    Investments in tangible and intangible assets -3 -12 -12
    Repayment of loan receivables 17 42 42
    Interests received 5 21 21
    CASH FLOW FROM INVESTMENTS 18 51 51
    CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING      
    Repayment of lease liabilities -128 -272 -363
    Dividends paid -82 -597 -966
    CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING -210 -869 -1 329
    TOTAL CASH FLOW -55 -714 -1 072
    CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS      
    Opening balance of cash and cash equivalents 1 175 2 247 2 247
    Closing balance of cash and cash equivalents 1 120 1 533 1 175
    CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS -55 -714 -1 072

    CHANGE IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (kEUR)
    Equity attributable to owners of the parent company

    CHANGE IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (kEUR) Share capital Distributable non-restricted equity fund Retained earnings Total
    Equity 1 January 2023 881 37 4 121 5 039
    Other comprehensive income     80 80
    Dividends     -1 009 -1 009
    Equity 30 September 2023 881 37 3 191 4 109
             
    Equity 1 January 2024 881 37 3 021 3 939
    Other comprehensive income     65 65
    Dividends     0 0
    Equity 30 September 2024 881 37 3 086 4 004

    RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

    During the period under review, Trainers’ House had transactions with Causa Prima Ltd, a company controlled by Jari Sarasvuo, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, and Pro Vividus Ltd and Anorin Liekki Ltd, which are related to the company.

    The following transactions took place with related parties:

    RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (kEUR) 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 1-12/2023
    Purchases during the period 272 131 168
    Liabilities at the end of the period 95 31 39
    PERSONNEL 1-9/2024 1-9/2023 1-12/2023
    Average number of personnel 108 115 113
    Personnel at the end of the period 107 111 96
    COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    Collaterals and contingent liabilities given for own commitments(kEUR) 120 120 120
    OTHER KEY FIGURES 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    Equity ratio (%) 65.2 65.3 63.5
    Shareholders’ equity/share (EUR) 1.86 1.91 1.83

    Calculation formulas for key figures

    Earnings per share        = Result of the period attributable to owners of the parent company
                                          Average number of shares adjusted for share issue in financial period

    Interest-bearing net debt = Interest-bearing liabilities – cash and cash equivalents

    Equity ratio (%)          = Equity x 100
                                        Balance sheet total – advances received

    Equity / share            = Equity                                              
                                        Number of shares adjusted for share issue at the
                                        end of financial period

    Items affecting the calculation of key figures 9/2024 9/2023 12/2023
    Advances received (kEUR) 154 107 198
    Interest-bearing liabilities (kEUR) 700 274 828
    Average number of shares adjusted for share issue in financial period (unit thousand shares) 2 148 2 148 2 148
    Number of shares adjusted for share issue at the end of the financial period (unit thousand shares) 2 148 2 148 2 148

    In Helsinki 24 October 2024

    TRAINERS’ HOUSE PLC

    BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    Information:
    Arto Heimonen, CEO, +358 404 123 456
    Saku Keskitalo, CFO, +358 404 111 111

    DISTRIBUTION
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Main media
    www.trainershouse.fi – For investors

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Decisive new step in the completion of the financial restructuring: Atos’ accelerated safeguard plan approved by the specialized Commercial Court of Nanterre

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Paris, France – October 24, 2024 – Atos SE (“Atos” or the “Company”) announces today that, by judgment dated October 24, 2024, the specialized Commercial Court of Nanterre (the “Court”), after having acknowledged, pursuant to the provisions of article L. 626-31 of the French Code de commerce, that all legal conditions had been satisfied, has approved the accelerated safeguard plan of Atos (the “Plan”), presented at the hearing of October 15, 2024.

    Philippe Salle, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Atos, said: “The approval of Atos’ accelerated safeguard plan by the Nanterre Specialized Commercial Court is a decisive step in our financial restructuring process and I would like to thank the entire management team for the remarkable work they have accomplished over the last few months. This important step guarantees the continuity of Atos’ activities in the best interests of our employees and customers, and allows us to project the Group confidently towards a new page in its history.”

    Jean Pierre Mustier, Chief Executive Officer of Atos, said: “Our Group has reached a decisive step, providing sufficient financial resources to successfully complete a new period of industrial development under the leadership of Philippe Salle, with a strong focus of all our teams to provide the best possible service to our customers through innovation and quality of service.”

    The Court has appointed, as practitioner in charge of supervising the implementation of the Plan (commissaire à l’exécution du plan), SELARL AJRS, represented by Maître Thibaut Martinat, for the duration of the Plan.

    In the absence of a suspensory appeal against the judgment approving the Plan, it is envisaged that all the financial restructuring transactions provided for in the Plan will be executed between November 2024 and December 2024/January 20251, subject in particular to the approval by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) of the prospectuses relating to the various securities issues provided for in the Plan.

    As a reminder, the transactions provided under the Plan should lead to, in particular:

    • the equitization of €2.9 billion of financial debt; and
    • the provision to Atos of €1.5 to €1.675 billion of new money debt and the new money equity resulting from the rights issue (up to €233 million) already backstopped in cash by participating bondholders for €75 million and by the creditors participating in the new financings by set off against a portion of their debts for €100 million, as previously communicated and, as the case may be, from the potential voluntary additional subscription in cash by the participating creditors of up to €75 million as part of the Potential Capital Increase as provided in the Plan.

    The main characteristics of the share capital transactions to be implemented as part of the Plan are described in the document entitled “Main terms and conditions of the share capital transactions carried out as part of the Company’s financial restructuring plan” (Principales modalités des opérations sur le capital mises en œuvre dans le cadre du plan de restructuration financière de la Société) published on the Company’s website (section “Financial Restructuring”) on September 6, 2024 and updated on September 16, 2024. These share capital transactions will be covered by prospectuses submitted to the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) for approval.

    The Company will continue to inform the market in due course of the next steps of its financial restructuring.

    ***

    Disclaimer

    This document contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including references, concerning the Group’s expected growth and profitability in the future which may significantly impact the expected performance indicated in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are linked to factors out of the control of the Company and not precisely estimated, such as market conditions or competitors’ behaviors. Any forward-looking statements made in this document are statements about Atos’s beliefs and expectations and should be evaluated as such. Forward-looking statements include statements that may relate to Atos’s plans, objectives, strategies, goals, future events, future revenues or synergies, or performance, and other information that is not historical information. Actual events or results may differ from those described in this document due to a number of risks and uncertainties that are described within the 2023 Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on May 24, 2024 under the registration number D.24-0429 and the half-year report filed with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) on August 6, 2024. Atos does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation or responsibility to update or amend any of the information above except as otherwise required by law.
    This document does not contain or constitute an offer of Atos’s shares for sale or an invitation or inducement to invest in Atos’s shares in France, the United States of America or any other jurisdiction. This document includes information on specific transactions that shall be considered as projects only. In particular, any decision relating to the information or projects mentioned in this document and their terms and conditions will only be made after the ongoing in-depth analysis considering tax, legal, operational, finance, HR and all other relevant aspects have been completed and will be subject to general market conditions and other customary conditions, including governance bodies and shareholders’ approval as well as appropriate processes with the relevant employee representative bodies in accordance with applicable laws .

    About Atos

    Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with circa 82,000 employees and annual revenue of circa €10 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 69 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Contacts

    Investor relations:
    David Pierre-Kahn | investors@atos.net | +33 6 28 51 45 96
    Sofiane El Amri      | investors@atos.net | +33 6 29 34 85 67

    Individual shareholders: 0805 65 00 75

    Press contact: globalprteam@atos.net

    1 Subject to the required regulatory approvals.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BE Semiconductor Industries N.V. Announces Q3-24 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Q3-24 Revenue of € 156.6 Million and Net Income of € 46.8 Million Up 27.0% and 33.7%, Respectively, vs. Q3-23
    Orders of € 151.8 Million Up 19.2% vs. Q3-23. Hybrid Bonding Adoption Continues

    YTD-24 Revenue of € 454.1 Million and Net Income of € 122.7 Million
    Orders of € 464.8 Million Up 21.7% vs. YTD-23

    DUIVEN, the Netherlands, Oct. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BE Semiconductor Industries N.V. (the “Company” or “Besi”) (Euronext Amsterdam: BESI; OTC markets: BESIY), a leading manufacturer of assembly equipment for the semiconductor industry, today announced its results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2024.

    Key Highlights Q3-24

    • Revenue of € 156.6 million up 3.6% vs. Q2-24 and 27.0% vs. Q3-23 due to increased demand by computing end user markets for hybrid bonding, photonics and other AI applications partially offset by ongoing weakness in automotive and Chinese end user markets
    • Orders of € 151.8 million up 19.2% vs. Q3-23 due to increased hybrid bonding orders. Down 18.0% vs. Q2-24 due primarily to fluctuations in hybrid bonding order patterns by customers
    • Gross margin of 64.7% decreased by 0.3 points vs. Q2-24 but was up 0.1 point vs. Q3-23. Gross margin development in the comparable periods was adversely affected by net forex influences
    • Net income of € 46.8 million increased 11.7% vs. Q2-24 and 33.7% vs. Q3-23 primarily due to higher revenue levels and cost control efforts which limited baseline operating expense growth. Q3-24 net margin rose to 29.9% vs. 27.7% in Q2-24 and 28.4% reported in Q3-23
    • Net cash of € 110.7 million at quarter-end increased by € 36.3 million (48.8%) vs. Q2-24 and € 20.5 million (22.7%) vs. Q3-23

    Key Highlights YTD-24

    • Revenue of € 454.1 million increased 8.3% vs. YTD-23 principally due to higher demand by computing end user markets, particularly for hybrid bonding and photonics applications and by Taiwanese and Korean subcontractors partially offset by weakness in mobile and automotive markets
    • Orders of € 464.8 million increased 21.7% vs. YTD-23 due to increased demand for hybrid bonding and photonics applications partially offset by lower bookings for automotive and, to a lesser extent, mobile applications and ongoing weakness in Chinese end user markets
    • Gross margin of 65.6% increased by 0.8 points vs. YTD-23 due to more favorable AI advanced packaging product mix
    • Net income of € 122.7 million was approximately equal to YTD-23 as higher revenue and gross margins were offset by higher R&D spending and share-based compensation expense. Besi’s net margin decreased to 27.0% vs. 29.1% in YTD-23

    Q4-24 Outlook

    • Revenue expected to be flat plus or minus 10% vs. the € 156.6 million reported in Q3-24 partially due to shipment delays by a customer for certain hybrid bonding systems scheduled for delivery in Q4-24
    • Gross margin expected to range between 63-65% vs. the 64.7% realized in Q3-24
    • Operating expenses expected to be flat to up 5% vs. the € 46.2 million reported in Q3-24
    (€ millions, except EPS) Q3-
    2024    		 Q2-
    2024    		 Δ Q3-
    2023    		 Δ YTD-
    2024    		 YTD-
    2023    		 Δ
    Revenue 156.6 151.2 +3.6% 123.3 +27.0% 454.1 419.2 +8.3%
    Orders 151.8 185.2 -18.0% 127.3 +19.2% 464.8 381.9 +21.7%
    Gross Margin 64.7% 65.0% -0.3 64.6% +0.1 65.6% 64.8% +0.8
    Operating Income 55.1 49.3 +11.8% 42.7 +29.0% 145.0 147.3 -1.6%
    EBITDA 62.4 56.2 +11.0% 48.9 +27.6% 166.2 166.4 -0.1%
    Net Income* 46.8 41.9 +11.7% 35.0 +33.7% 122.7 122.2 +0.4%
    Net Margin* 29.9% 27.7% +2.2 28.4% +1.5 27.0% 29.1% -2.1
    EPS (basic) 0.59 0.53 +11.3% 0.45 +31.1% 1.56 1.57 -0.6%
    EPS (diluted) 0.59 0.53 +11.3% 0.45 +31.1% 1.55 1.54 +0.6%
    Net Cash and Deposits 110.7 74.4 +48.8% 90.2 +22.7% 110.7 90.2 +22.7%

    * Excluding share-based compensation expense, net income (net margin) would have been € 50.2 million (32.1%), € 48.5 million (32.1%) and € 36.6 million (29.7%) in Q3-24, Q2-24 and Q3-23, respectively and € 148.8 million (32.8%) in YTD-24 vs. € 137.6 million (32.8%) in YTD-23

    Richard W. Blickman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Besi, commented:

    “Besi reported significant growth in revenue, orders and net income in Q3-24 versus the comparable quarter of last year as we continue to benefit from strength in our advanced packaging product portfolio for AI applications despite continued headwinds in mainstream and Chinese assembly equipment markets. For the quarter, revenue of € 156.6 million and orders of € 151.8 million grew by 27.0% and 19.2%, respectively, versus Q3-23 due primarily to strong growth by computing end user markets including hybrid bonding, photonics and other AI applications. Such growth was partially offset by weakness in automotive and Chinese end user markets continuing trends we have experienced this year. Net income of € 46.8 million grew by € 11.8 million, or 33.7%, reflecting a number of favorable trends including increased advanced packaging system revenue, increased gross margins related thereto and better than forecast operating expense levels despite continued growth in R&D spending for next generation hybrid bonding and TCB systems.

    For the first nine months of 2024, revenue of € 454.1 million and orders of € 464.8 million increased by 8.3% and 21.7%, respectively. Growth was due to significantly higher demand by computing end user markets, particularly for AI-related hybrid bonding and photonics applications and from Taiwanese and Korean subcontractors. Net income of € 122.7 million was approximately equal to YTD-23 as higher revenue and gross margins this year were offset by higher R&D spending in support of wafer level assembly development and share-based compensation expense.

    Our financial position improved as well in Q3-24 with net cash increasing to € 110.7 million at quarter-end, an improvement of € 36.3 million (+48.8%) versus Q2-24 and € 20.5 million (+22.7%) versus Q3-23 despite increased share buy-back activity. Total cash and deposits at quarter end grew to € 637.4 million including net proceeds from our Senior Note offering in July 2024 which positions us favorably for anticipated growth in the next market upcycle.

    During Q3-24, Besi continued to receive substantial orders for hybrid bonding systems from existing and new customers. At quarter-end, total revenue producing hybrid bonding orders since 2021 exceeded 100 systems highlighting the importance of this new technology for 3-D AI-related assembly applications. We anticipate additional orders in Q4-24 from a variety of customers as adoption continues to expand globally. We have also received increased interest for Besi’s TCB Next system from leading logic and memory customers which positions us favorably for anticipated growth in next generation 2.5D and HBM applications.

    As such, we have taken steps recently to expand our advanced packaging production capacity in anticipation of future growth. In 2025, we intend to approximately double the cleanroom capacity of our Malaysian production facilities and increase R&D and process development for our hybrid bonding and thermo compression bonding capabilities and customer support at our Singapore facility.

    Looking forward to Q4-24, we expect expanded adoption for hybrid bonding applications to be mitigated by ongoing weakness in mainstream assembly markets. For Q4-24, we forecast that revenue will be flat plus or minus 10% versus Q3-24 partially due to shipment delays by a customer for certain hybrid bonding systems scheduled for delivery in Q4-24. In addition, gross margins are anticipated to range between 63-65% based on our projected product mix. Aggregate operating expenses are forecast to be flat to up 5% versus Q3-24.”

    Share Repurchase Activity

    During the quarter, Besi repurchased approximately 230,000 of its ordinary shares at an average price of € 120.45 per share or a total of € 27.8 million. In August 2024, Besi completed its prior € 60 million share repurchase program and initiated a new € 100 million share repurchase program with an anticipated completion date of October 2025. Cumulatively, as of September 30, 2024, a total of € 7.0 million has been purchased under the new share repurchase program at an average price of € 110.55 per share. As of September 30, 2024, Besi held approximately 1.6 million shares in treasury equal to 2.0% of its shares outstanding.

    Investor and media conference call
    A conference call and webcast for investors and media will be held today at 4:00 pm CET (10:00 am EDT). To register for the conference call and/or to access the audio webcast and webinar slides, please visit www.besi.com.
       
    Important Dates  
    •  Publication Q4/Full year 2024 results February 20, 2025
    •  Publication Q1-2025 results April 23, 2025
    •  Besi’s 2025 AGM April 23, 2025
       

    Basis of Presentation

    The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as adopted by the European Union. Reference is made to the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements as included in our 2023 Annual Report, which is available on www.besi.com.

    Contacts:

    Richard W. Blickman, President & CEO
    Andrea Kopp-Battaglia, Senior Vice President Finance        
    Claudia Vissers, Executive Secretary/IR coordinator
    Edmond Franco, VP Corporate Development/US IR coordinator

    Tel. (31) 26 319 4500                
    investor.relations@besi.com   

    About Besi

    Besi is a leading supplier of semiconductor assembly equipment for the global semiconductor and electronics industries offering high levels of accuracy, productivity and reliability at a low cost of ownership. The Company develops leading edge assembly processes and equipment for leadframe, substrate and wafer level packaging applications in a wide range of end-user markets including electronics, mobile internet, cloud server, computing, automotive, industrial, LED and solar energy. Customers are primarily leading semiconductor manufacturers, assembly subcontractors and electronics and industrial companies. Besi’s ordinary shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (symbol: BESI). Its Level 1 ADRs are listed on the OTC markets (symbol: BESIY) and its headquarters are located in Duiven, the Netherlands. For more information, please visit our website at www.besi.com.

    Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements about management’s future expectations, plans and prospects of our business that constitute forward-looking statements, which are found in various places throughout the press release, including, but not limited to, statements relating to expectations of orders, net sales, product shipments, expenses, timing of purchases of assembly equipment by customers, gross margins, operating results and capital expenditures. The use of words such as “anticipate”, “estimate”, “expect”, “can”, “intend”, “believes”, “may”, “plan”, “predict”, “project”, “forecast”, “will”, “would”, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. The financial guidance set forth under the heading “Outlook” contains such forward-looking statements. While these forward-looking statements represent our judgments and expectations concerning the development of our business, a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors could cause actual developments and results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, including any inability to maintain continued demand for our products; failure of anticipated orders to materialize or postponement or cancellation of orders, generally without charges; the volatility in the demand for semiconductors and our products and services; the extent and duration of the COVID-19 and other global pandemics and the associated adverse impacts on the global economy, financial markets, global supply chains and our operations as well as those of our customers and suppliers; failure to develop new and enhanced products and introduce them at competitive price levels; failure to adequately decrease costs and expenses as revenues decline; loss of significant customers, including through industry consolidation or the emergence of industry alliances; lengthening of the sales cycle; acts of terrorism and violence; disruption or failure of our information technology systems; consolidation activity and industry alliances in the semiconductor industry that may result in further increased customer concentration, inability to forecast demand and inventory levels for our products; the integrity of product pricing and protection of our intellectual property in foreign jurisdictions; risks, such as changes in trade regulations, conflict minerals regulations, currency fluctuations, political instability and war, associated with substantial foreign customers, suppliers and foreign manufacturing operations, particularly to the extent occurring in the Asia Pacific region where we have a substantial portion of our production facilities; potential instability in foreign capital markets; the risk of failure to successfully manage our diverse operations; any inability to attract and retain skilled personnel, including as a result of restrictions on immigration, travel or the availability of visas for skilled technology workers; those additional risk factors set forth in Besi’s annual report for the year ended December 31, 2023 and other key factors that could adversely affect our businesses and financial performance contained in our filings and reports, including our statutory consolidated statements. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update or alter our forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Consolidated Statements of Operations

    (€ thousands, except share and per share data) Three Months Ended
    September 30,
    (unaudited)    		 Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    (unaudited)
      2024 2023 2024 2023
             
    Revenue 156,570 123,320 454,060 419,227
    Cost of sales 55,325 43,709 156,276 147,374
             
    Gross profit 101,245 79,611 297,784 271,853
             
    Selling, general and administrative expenses 27,318 23,310 97,473 81,679
    Research and development expenses 18,874 13,614 55,296 42,907
             
    Total operating expenses 46,192 36,924 152,769 124,586
             
    Operating income 55,053 42,687 145,015 147,267
             
    Financial expense, net 1,560 1,758 3,194 4,974
             
    Income before taxes 53,493 40,929 141,821 142,293
             
    Income tax expense 6,719 5,889 19,123 20,104
             
    Net income 46,774 35,040 122,698 122,189
             
    Net income per share – basic 0.59 0.45 1.56 1.57
    Net income per share – diluted 0.59 0.45 1.55 1.54
             
    Number of shares used in computing per share amounts:        
    – basic 79,630,787 77,374,933 78,701,287 77,656,542
    – diluted1 81,876,505 82,444,358 81,978,112 83,038,212

    ______________________
    1) The calculation of diluted income per share assumes the exercise of equity settled share based payments and the conversion of all Convertible Notes outstanding

    Consolidated Balance Sheets

    (€ thousands) September
    30, 2024
    (unaudited)    		 June
    30, 2024
    (unaudited)    		 March
    31, 2024
    (unaudited)    		 December
    31, 2023
    (audited)
    ASSETS        
             
    Cash and cash equivalents 307,448 127,234 232,053 188,477
    Deposits 330,000 130,000 215,000 225,000
    Trade receivables 169,266 174,601 150,192 143,218
    Inventories 104,103 99,291 99,384 92,505
    Other current assets 44,731 36,346 34,756 39,092
             
    Total current assets 955,548 567,472 731,385 688,292
             
    Property, plant and equipment 44,220 43,571 41,328 37,516
    Right of use assets 16,419 16,821 16,901 18,242
    Goodwill 45,278 45,710 45,613 45,402
    Other intangible assets 94,855 92,627 90,241 93,668
    Deferred tax assets 8,610 9,517 11,444 12,217
    Other non-current assets 1,316 1,239 1,252 1,216
             
    Total non-current assets 210,698 209,485 206,779 208,261
             
    Total assets 1,166,246 776,957 938,164 896,553
             
             
    Current portion of long-term debt 2,241 3,033 984 3,144
    Trade payables 49,211 51,620 52,382 46,889
    Other current liabilities 87,739 73,023 100,606 87,200
             
    Total current liabilities 139,191 127,676 153,972 137,233
             
    Long-term debt 524,527 179,801 265,142 297,353
    Lease liabilities 13,033 13,448 13,625 14,924
    Deferred tax liabilities 11,619 10,396 12,136 12,959
    Other non-current liabilities 12,449 11,352 12,914 12,671
             
    Total non-current liabilities 561,628 214,997 303,817 337,907
             
    Total equity 465,427 434,284 480,375 421,413
             
    Total liabilities and equity 1,166,246 776,957 938,164 896,553

     

    Consolidated Cash Flow Statements

    (€ thousands) Three Months Ended
    September 30,
    (unaudited)    		 Nine Months Ended
    September 30,
    (unaudited)
      2024 2023 2024 2023
             
    Cash flows from operating activities:        
    Income before income tax 53,493 40,929 141,821 142,293
             
    Depreciation and amortization 7,388 6,248 21,181 19,155
    Share based payment expense 3,400 1,575 27,216 16,300
    Financial expense, net 1,560 1,758 3,194 4,974
             
    Changes in working capital 6,031 15,697 (43,914) (2,581)
    Interest (paid) received (1,996) (2,649) (19,513) (27,948)
    Income tax paid 2,156 1,582 7,218 3,075
             
    Net cash provided by operating activities 72,032 65,140 137,203 155,268
             
    Cash flows from investing activities:        
    Capital expenditures (2,099) (1,990) (10,965) (5,448)
    Capitalized development expenses (4,415) (4,700) (13,990) (15,341)
    Repayments of (investments in) deposits (200,000) – (105,000) (5,268)
             
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (206,514) (6,690) (129,955) (26,057)
             
    Cash flows from financing activities:        
    Proceeds from notes 350,000 – 350,000 –
    Transaction costs related to notes (6,395) – (6,395) –
    Payments of lease liabilities (1,080) (995) (3,186) (3,207)
    Purchase of treasury shares (27,829) (45,537) (57,418) (190,264)
    Dividends paid to shareholders – – (171,534) (222,109)
             
    Net cash used in financing activities 314,696 (46,532) 111,467 (415,580)
             
    Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 180,214 11,918 118,715 (286,369)
    Effect of changes in exchange rates on cash and
    cash equivalents    		 – 130 256 (292)
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the
    period    		 127,234 192,977 188,477 491,686
             
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period 307,448 205,025 307,448 205,025

      

    Supplemental Information (unaudited)
    (€ millions, unless stated otherwise)

    REVENUE Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024 Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q2-2023 Q1-2023
                                 
    Per geography:                            
    China 45.5 29% 57.5 38% 58.5 40% 62.0 39% 40.8 33% 64.9 40% 37.6 28%
    Asia Pacific (excl. China) 51.6 33% 54.1 36% 43.6 30% 57.9 36% 42.3 34% 59.2 36% 58.2 44%
    EU / USA / Other 59.5 38% 39.6 26% 44.2 30% 39.7 25% 40.2 33% 38.4 24% 37.6 28%
                                 
    Total 156.6 100% 151.2 100% 146.3 100% 159.6 100% 123.3 100% 162.5 100% 133.4 100%
                                 
    ORDERS Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024 Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q2-2023 Q1-2023
                                 
    Per geography:                            
    China 45.4 30% 43.3 23% 51.1 40% 71.1 43% 46.0 36% 51.4 46% 35.5 25%
    Asia Pacific (excl. China) 69.3 46% 72.0 39% 45.0 35% 36.6 22% 40.9 32% 33.2 29% 71.3 50%
    EU / USA / Other 37.1 24% 69.9 38% 31.6 25% 58.7 35% 40.4 32% 28.0 25% 35.2 25%
                                 
    Total 151.8 100% 185.2 100% 127.7 100% 166.4 100% 127.3 100% 112.6 100% 142.0 100%
                                 
    Per customer type:                            
    IDM 84.5 56% 122.4 66% 53.5 42% 82.7 50% 70.5 55% 60.5 54% 74.0 52%
    Subcontractors 67.3 44% 62.8 34% 74.2 58% 83.7 50% 56.8 45% 52.1 46% 68.0 48%
                                 
    Total 151.8 100% 185.2 100% 127.7 100% 166.4 100% 127.3 100% 112.6 100% 142.0 100%
                                 
    HEADCOUNT Sep 30, 2024 Jun 30, 2024 Mar 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Sep 30, 2023 Jun 30, 2023 Mar 31, 2023
                                 
    Fixed staff (FTE) 1,807 87% 1,783 86% 1,760 88% 1,736 93% 1,725 87% 1,689 86% 1,682 84%
    Temporary staff (FTE) 271 13% 279 14% 236 12% 134 7% 248 13% 279 14% 312 16%
                                 
    Total 2,078 100% 2,062 100% 1,996 100% 1,870 100% 1,973 100% 1,968 100% 1,994 100%
                                 
    OTHER FINANCIAL DATA Q3-2024 Q2-2024 Q1-2024 Q4-2023 Q3-2023 Q2-2023 Q1-2023
                                 
    Gross profit 101.2 64.7% 98.3 65.0% 98.3 67.2% 103.9 65.1% 79.6 64.6% 106.6 65.6% 85.7 64.2%
                                 
                                 
    Selling, general and admin expenses:                            
    As reported 27.3 17.4% 30.5 20.2% 39.6 27.1% 24.3 15.2% 23.3 18.9% 29.4 18.1% 29.0 21.7%
    Share-based compensation expense (3.4) -2.1% (6.9) -4.6% (16.9) -11.6% (2.8) -1.7% (1.6) -1.3% (5.5) -3.4% (9.3) -7.0%
                                 
    SG&A expenses as adjusted 23.9 15.3% 23.6 15.6% 22.7 15.5% 21.5 13.5% 21.7 17.6% 23.9 14.7% 19.7 14.8%
                                 
                                 
    Research and development expenses:                            
    As reported 18.9 12.1% 18.5 12.2% 17.9 12.2% 13.5 8.5% 13.6 11.0% 14.3 8.8% 15.0 11.2%
    Capitalization of R&D charges 4.4 2.8% 4.9 3.2% 4.7 3.2% 5.7 3.6% 4.7 3.8% 5.3 3.3% 5.4 4.0%
    Amortization of intangibles (3.9) -2.5% (3.6) -2.3% (3.6) -2.4% (3.3) -2.1% (3.3) -2.6% (3.5) -2.2% (3.5) -2.6%
                                 
    R&D expenses as adjusted 19.4 12.4% 19.8 13.1% 19.0 13.0% 15.9 10.0% 15.0 12.2% 16.1 9.9% 16.9 12.7%
                                 
                                 
    Financial expense (income), net:                            
    Interest income (5.2)   (3.0)   (4.0)   (3.6)   (2.9)   (3.1)   (2.6)  
    Interest expense 5.7   2.1   2.8   3.0   2.8   2.9   2.9  
    Net cost of hedging 1.9   1.4   1.6   1.7   1.7   2.0   1.6  
    Foreign exchange effects, net (0.8)   0.5   0.2   (0.4)   0.2   (0.1)   (0.4)  
                                 
    Total 1.6   1.0   0.6   0.7   1.8   1.7   1.5  
                                 
    Gross cash 637.4   257.2   447.1   413.5   391.2   378.3   644.9  
                                 
                                 
    Operating income (as % of net sales) 55.1 35.2% 49.3 32.6% 40.7 27.8% 66.1 41.4% 42.7 34.6% 62.9 38.7% 41.7 31.3%
                                 
    EBITDA (as % of net sales) 62.4 39.8% 56.2 37.2% 47.5 32.5% 72.7 45.6% 48.9 39.7% 69.3 42.6% 48.2 36.1%
                                 
    Net income (as % of net sales) 46.8 29.9% 41.9 27.7% 34.0 23.2% 54.9 34.4% 35.0 28.4% 52.6 32.4% 34.5 25.9%
                                 
    Effective tax rate 12.6%   13.0%   15.3%   16.1%   14.4%   14.0%   14.0%  
                                 
                                 
    Income per share                            
    Basic 0.59   0.53   0.44   0.71   0.45   0.68   0.44  
    Diluted 0.59   0.53   0.44   0.68   0.45   0.66   0.44  
                                 
    Average shares outstanding (basic) 79,630,787 79,281,533 77,181,326 77,070,082 77,374,933 77,634,197 77,946,873
                                 
    Shares repurchased                            
    Amount 27.8   14.8   14.8   23.1   45.5   66.9   77.7  
    Number of shares 230,807 105,042 101,049 226,572 447,829 761,937 1,120,327
                                 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: “Operation Bond Watch” Seeks to Prevent Those Charged with Violent Crimes from Illegally Possessing Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NASHVILLE – Thomas J. Jaworski, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee, today announced a new initiative aimed at prosecuting unlawful firearm possession by individuals previously charged with murder and attempted murder. “Operation Bond Watch” seeks to deter defendants who are out on bond for serious violent crimes from illegally possessing firearms and potentially putting the community at risk. The program seeks to deter those released on bond for First Degree Murder, Felony Murder, Second Degree Murder, Attempted First Degree Murder, and Attempted Second Degree murder from unlawfully possessing firearms.

    Under this new program, if an individual on bond for a serious violent crime is found to have unlawfully possessed a firearm, federal prosecutors will, where the evidence supports it, swiftly seek appropriate federal charges against those individuals. “The goal is to keep the community safe from gun violence,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski, “and to prevent those on bond while charged with murder and attempted murder from illegally carrying guns while awaiting their day in court.”

    “Breaking cycles of violent gun crime by repeat offenders is essential to the safety of the Nashville community,” said Metro Police Chief John Drake. “Operation Bond Watch is an important tool in a system of checks and balances between a defendant’s arrest and ultimate adjudication of the case.  I am grateful to Acting U.S. Attorney Jaworski and our strong partners in the ATF and FBI for their commitment in helping us hold violent criminals accountable.”

    “Protecting the public is at the core of our ATF mission,” said Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson of the ATF Nashville Field Division. “We, along with our law enforcement partners, stand ready to work tirelessly to prevent those who choose to illegally possess firearms from wreaking havoc on law abiding citizens.”

    “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners on Operation Bond Watch,” said Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “Here in Tennessee, the FBI will continue to use all the tools at our disposal to deter defendants who are out on bond for serious violent crimes from illegally possessing firearms. Everyone deserves to live in a community free of gun violence.”

    In April 2024, a Nashville man out on bond for a 2021 murder was arrested on suspicion of committing another murder; both cases are still pending. “We believe in the presumption of innocence and a right to a fair trial,” Jaworski said, “but we also believe that the community should be protected from individuals unlawfully possessing firearms when there is the potential to cause destructive violence.”

    Prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Nashville have previously charged individuals on bond for murder with unlawful weapons possession offenses. For example, Mark Ellis, 30, of Clarksville was on bond for First Degree Murder when he was arrested with a 9mm pistol and a pound of fentanyl during a drug deal. In March of 2024, Ellis was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for his crimes.

    This new effort will bring more federal resources to bear against individuals who unlawfully possess firearms while on bond for serious violent crimes. “Our commitment to the safety of our community has been steadfast,” Jaworski said, “this new initiative will hopefully deter those awaiting a trial on serious charges from illegally carrying a gun, which is better for everyone.”

    This initiative 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: Washington State Defense Attorney Facing Federal Charges for Smuggling Drugs into Correctional Facility

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SEATTLE—A Washington State defense attorney was arraigned in federal court Monday after he was indicted for joining a criminal conspiracy to smuggle drugs into the King County Correctional Facility (KCCF), a jail located in Seattle, during client visits.

    John M. Sheeran, 60, of Pierce County, Washington has been charged with conspiring to distribute controlled substances, possessing and distributing methamphetamine, distributing buprenorphine, and illegally using a communication facility.

    According to the indictment, Sheeran used his status as an attorney to smuggle controlled substances, including methamphetamine, ketamine, buprenorphine, and THC, to two of his then- clients and inmates at KCCF during legal visits. During the conspiracy, Sheeran distributed, or possessed with an intent to distribute, sheets of paper that had been soaked in drugs, chewing tobacco cans that swapped out the tobacco with drugs, and trial clothes that had drugs concealed in the soles of the shoes. After Sheeran successfully smuggled the drugs into KCCF, Sheeran’s co-conspirators sold the drugs to other inmates for significant sums.

    On October 16, 2024, a federal grand jury in Seattle returned an indictment charging Sheeran and four co-conspirators. Sheeran was arrested Monday without incident in Washington Place, Washington.

    Sheeran made his initial appearance in federal court Monday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Seattle. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered released pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on December 20, 2024.

    If convicted, Sheeran faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, a minimum of three years’ supervised release, and a fine up to $1 million.

    The case was investigated by the FBI and King County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Robert S. Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, acting as Special Attorney for the Western District of Washington.

    An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Announces Office’s District Election Officers for November 2024 General Election

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Jeffrey R. Bengel and Nicole A. Stockey will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSAs Bengel and Stockey have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and, in that capacity, are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    United States Attorney Olshan said: “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).

    United States Attorney Olshan stated: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs Bengel and Stockey will be on duty in this District while the polls are open and can be reached by the public by calling (412) 644-3500.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (412) 432-4000.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C., by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    United States Attorney Olshan said: “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    In the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Craft Appoints Technology and Supply Chain Luminaries to Advisory Board

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Craft, the supply chain resilience company, is proud to announce the launch of its Advisory Board with appointments of senior leaders and industry luminaries with deep technology, procurement, and supply chain experience across key global market sectors. Craft’s advisory board will provide strategic guidance and support to enhance Craft’s supply chain resilience offerings, advance its market position and help drive continued growth and innovation.

    Craft’s Advisory Board members include:

    • Chris Caine: President of the Center for Global Enterprise and former vice president at IBM
    • Karen Evans: Managing director at the Cyber Readiness Institute and former chief information officer at Department of Homeland Security
    • Mike Corbo: Former chief supply chain officer at Colgate-Palmolive, member of the board of directors at WK Kellogg Co
    • Roger Goulart: Executive vice president of alliances and business development at Coupa, former vice president of alliances at SuccessFactors, Salesforce and Okta
    • Sasha Pailet Koff: Former senior vice president, supply chain data analytics and automation at Dell Technologies and serves as co-chair of the Digital Supply Chain Institute (DSCI). Former vice president, supply chain technology at Johnson & Johnson
    • Elvire Régnier-Lussier: Former global vice president at Unilever, former chief purchasing officer at L’OCCITANE Group, and serves as ambassador of the UNESCO chair towards a culture of economic peace

    “Today marks a significant milestone for Craft — it underscores our dedication to leadership in supply chain resilience and to our commitment in helping customers address key challenges across a wide spectrum of risk domains including foreign influence, cybersecurity vulnerability, financial stability, ESG, and regulatory compliance,” said Ilya Levtov, CEO of Craft. “The advisory board’s extensive leadership and global management experience will serve as a valuable resource as Craft moves into its next phase of growth. We are honored to welcome such a distinguished group of industry leaders and look forward to advancing the industry together.”

    “Advanced technologies like AI are reshaping supply chain operations. With this comes tremendous opportunity to impact procurement strategies and resilience. Craft is well positioned to lead the future of supplier risk management by providing advanced technologies that deliver the strongest data foundation, risk monitoring, and collaborative workspace to gain greater visibility into supplier risk and optimize value chain strategies across teams,” said Sasha Pailet Koff, newly appointed Craft advisory board member. “With Craft’s insight and emerging solutions, procurement and supply chain teams will have the potential to evolve into strategic partners, enhancing resilience across the entire enterprise. I’m thrilled to work with Craft and my fellow advisory board members to help shape this new era of modern supplier risk management.”

    Craft is the intelligent supply chain resilience platform that enables organizations to know your suppliers, protect against disruptions; and optimize supply chain strategies. With Craft organizations can confidently navigate regulatory environments, uphold ethics, and drive business continuity and growth.

    For more information about Craft.co and its new Advisory Board, please visit www.craft.co or contact press@craft.co .

    About Craft.co
    Craft illuminates the path to global supply chain resilience. It empowers businesses to strengthen their supplier networks and supply chains with the industry’s most reliable and comprehensive data fabric and advanced risk mitigation engine. Craft’s user-friendly platform offers 360-degree visibility to explore and evaluate supplier networks, AI-driven insights to detect and mitigate disruptions, and collaborative tools to enhance supply chain strategies. Procurement and supply chain professionals can confidently navigate regulatory environments, adhere to ethical standards, and ensure business continuity. Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, Craft assists commercial and governmental organizations worldwide in creating more resilient supply chains. For more information about Craft, visit www.craft.co.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Finds Little Rock Man Guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and Marijuana

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

          LITTLE ROCK—A Little Rock man has been convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana at the conclusion of a three-day trial. On Thursday, a federal jury found Marquis Hunt, 42, guilty of four federal narcotics violations: and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.

          The jury returned their verdict after deliberating for approximately 2.5 hours. United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr. presided over the trial and will sentence Hunt at a later date. Hunt faces a minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, with a maximum of life imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.

          Hunt was indicted by a federal grand jury on third superseding indictment on August 6, 2024. An investigation revealed that on July 8, 2022, a special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) made contact with Hunt at a residence in southwest Little Rock. Hunt was detained while a search warrant was obtained and executed. During a search, agents located more than 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine and more than 16 pounds of fentanyl throughout the residence, as well as distributable amounts of cocaine and marijuana. Through further investigation, it was discovered that the fentanyl was distributed or sprayed on a shredded vegetable material with a mixture of tramadol, which made it appear to be a form of synthetic marijuana or “K2.” During the jury trial, Hunt acknowledged selling drugs, but then denied selling the drugs located at the residence.

          The methamphetamine and fentanyl convictions carry minimum statutory sentences of not less than 10 years and not more than life in prison, not less than five years supervised release, and a fine of not more than $10,000,000. The cocaine conviction carries a maximum sentence of 20 years, not less than four years supervised release, and a fine of not more than $1,000,000. The marijuana conviction carries a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, not less than two years supervised release, and a fine of not more than $250,000.

          The investigation was conducted by the FBI with assistance from the Arkansas State Police and Arkansas State Crime Laboratory. The and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda Fields and Reese Lancaster.

    # # #

    Additional information about the office of the

    United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    X (formerly known as Twitter):

    @USAO_EDAR 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Cloud Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Attempting to Entice a Child to Engage in Sexual Activity

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

    Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

    Welcome to Ahead of the Threat, the FBI’s new podcast miniseries that brings together an FBI cyber executive and a private sector chief information security officer. Join Bryan Vorndran, assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division, and Jamil Farshchi, a strategic engagement advisor for the FBI who also works as an executive vice president and CISO of Equifax, as they discuss emerging cyber threats and the enduring importance of cybersecurity fundamentals. Featuring distinguished guests from the business world and government, Ahead of the Threat will confront some of the biggest questions in cyber: How will emerging technology impact corporate America? How can corporate boards be structured for cyber resilience? What does the FBI think about generative artificial intelligence? Listen to new episodes biweekly and stay Ahead of the Threat.

    Charity and Disaster Fraud

    Charity fraud scams can come in many forms: emails, social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, cold calls, etc. They are especially common after high-profile disasters. Always use caution and do your research when you’re looking to donate to charitable causes.

    RYAN JAMES WEDDING

    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Export Cocaine; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; Murder in Connection with a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Drug Crime; Attempt to Commit…

    Capitol Violence

    The FBI is seeking to identify individuals involved in the violent activities that occurred at the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas on January 6, 2021. View photos and related information here. If you have any information to provide, visit tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Arrested for Exposing Himself on an Aircraft

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

    BOSTON – A man was arrested and charged yesterday for allegedly masturbating and exposing himself within the view of two other passengers seated near him on board a flight from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates to Boston, Mass. yesterday.

    Krishna Kunapuli, 39, of India, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of lewd, indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. Kunapuli was arrested yesterday and will appear in federal court in Boston later today.

    According to the charging documents, Kunapuli allegedly made unwanted sexual advances toward a female passenger on board an Etihad Airlines flight, including touching her hair and taking pictures of her without her permission. After a crew member intervened, Kunapuli returned to his seat.

    It is alleged that, later in the flight, two male passengers seated near Kunapuli noticed Kunapuli masturbating under a blanket and, at times, with his penis fully exposed. One of the passengers reported this conduct to a flight attendant who intervened and alerted law enforcement.

    The charge of lewd, indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States provides for a sentence of up to 90 days in prison, up to one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $5,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ‘Operation Not Forgotten’ Shines New Light on Indian Country Cases

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

    Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

    Welcome to Ahead of the Threat, the FBI’s new podcast miniseries that brings together an FBI cyber executive and a private sector chief information security officer. Join Bryan Vorndran, assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division, and Jamil Farshchi, a strategic engagement advisor for the FBI who also works as an executive vice president and CISO of Equifax, as they discuss emerging cyber threats and the enduring importance of cybersecurity fundamentals. Featuring distinguished guests from the business world and government, Ahead of the Threat will confront some of the biggest questions in cyber: How will emerging technology impact corporate America? How can corporate boards be structured for cyber resilience? What does the FBI think about generative artificial intelligence? Listen to new episodes biweekly and stay Ahead of the Threat.

    Charity and Disaster Fraud

    Charity fraud scams can come in many forms: emails, social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, cold calls, etc. They are especially common after high-profile disasters. Always use caution and do your research when you’re looking to donate to charitable causes.

    RYAN JAMES WEDDING

    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Export Cocaine; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; Murder in Connection with a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Drug Crime; Attempt to Commit…

    Capitol Violence

    The FBI is seeking to identify individuals involved in the violent activities that occurred at the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas on January 6, 2021. View photos and related information here. If you have any information to provide, visit tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kyle Man Sentenced to 50 Years in Federal Prison

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

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of four counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor, one count of Abusive Sexual Contact, and one count of Witness Tampering. The sentencing took place on October 17, 2024.

    Lloyd Emerson Elk, 48, was sentenced to a total of 50 years in federal prison on each count of Aggravated Sexual Abuse, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $600 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. He was also sentenced to five years in prison for Abusive Sexual Contact and 25 years in prison on the Witness Tampering conviction.  The sentences were ordered to run concurrently. 

    Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2024. He was found guilty following a two-day jury trial in July of 2024.  At the sentencing hearing, Judge Theeler reflected Elk’s long pattern of violence was very concerning to her. She noted, “Crimes against children are some of the most heinous crimes . . .  Adults in positions of power can abuse that position, take away the innocence of a child and hurt them.”   

    Elk, a former tribal law enforcement officer, sexually abused his stepdaughter multiple times when she was between the ages of five and seven years old.  Elk employed years of domestic violence to control the victim and her family, including physical and emotional abuse.  Elk told the victim if she ever told anyone about the sexual abuse, that he would kill her, her mother, and her brother.  When the victim finally disclosed the abuse in late 2023, the investigation revealed Elk had sexually abused another seven-year-old girl in 1998—while employed as a police officer in Idaho—and made similar threats to her to keep her quiet.

    “Every instance of child sexual abuse is simultaneously shocking and heartbreaking,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “But it is unthinkable that such victimization would happen at the hands of a law enforcement officer. It took great courage for the victims in this case to come forward with the truth, and we are grateful to our partners at the FBI who expertly investigated the matter so that our prosecutors could bring this violent defendant to justice, once and for all. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will never yield in our steadfast commitment to protecting women and children from violence.”

    This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Lindrooth and Megan Poppen prosecuted the case. Elk was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of Multi-State Gas Pump Skimming Device and Fuel Theft Ring Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity Theft and Fraud Charges

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

    Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Deonelky Tabares Cid (36, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy, four counts of wire fraud, six counts of access device fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft. Cid faces a minimum penalty of 2 years in federal prison on the count of aggravated identity theft, up to 20 years in federal prison on each count of wire fraud, up to 10 years in federal prison on each count of access device fraud, up to 5 years in federal prison on the conspiracy count, and payment of restitution to the victims he and his co-defendants defrauded. No sentencing date has been set.

    According to court documents, Cid and his co-conspirators worked together to install skimmers on gas pumps to include gas stations in Alabama, Louisiana, and Northern Florida, including the Florida Panhandle. The conspirators used the skimmers to illegally obtain credit and debit card account numbers involved with the purchase of fuel by customers at the gas pump. Using the account numbers stolen by the skimmers, they subsequently made counterfeit credit and debit cards and then, used them to purchase large amount of diesel fuel.

    During the conspiracy, Cid and others drove vehicles that contained a fuel bladder system. This system allowed the conspirators to fake pumping gas into the vehicle’s gas tank when in fact the diesel fuel was being pumped into the fuel bladder system. Analysis by law enforcement of fuel purchases, vehicle tracker data, gas station video surveillance, and real time surveillance of the conspirators determined that Cid and other conspirators drove to multiple case stations throughout Northern Florida. After obtaining the gas, the conspirators offloaded the stolen fuel into 9,500-gallon tanker trucks at a fuel yard. The stolen fuel was then sold to a gas station associated with one of the co-conspirators.

    The co-defendants, Luis Edel Trujillo Pena (29, Miami), Deyvis Hernandez (37, Miami), Luis Ernesto Vigil Ochoa (32, Miami), and Isvaldo Guerra Perdomo (38, Jacksonville) are set for trial in January 2025.   

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. General Services Administration – Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Secret Service – Jacksonville Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Man Indicted for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity and Receipt of Child Sex Abuse Material

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

    Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging James Anthony Davila (20, Cleburne, TX) with coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and receipt of child sex abuse material. If convicted, Davila faces a mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison for the coercion and enticement count, and a mandatory 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison for receiving child sex abuse material. 

    According to court documents, Davila met a 12-year-old girl online while playing a video game. The two continued to communicate and exchanged sexually explicit photos. Davila later drove from Texas to Florida to pick up the child and engage in sexual acts with her. 

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

    This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Midway (Florida) Police Department and the Johnson County (Texas) Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ross Roberts.

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman Names District Election Officer

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

    Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

    Welcome to Ahead of the Threat, the FBI’s new podcast miniseries that brings together an FBI cyber executive and a private sector chief information security officer. Join Bryan Vorndran, assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division, and Jamil Farshchi, a strategic engagement advisor for the FBI who also works as an executive vice president and CISO of Equifax, as they discuss emerging cyber threats and the enduring importance of cybersecurity fundamentals. Featuring distinguished guests from the business world and government, Ahead of the Threat will confront some of the biggest questions in cyber: How will emerging technology impact corporate America? How can corporate boards be structured for cyber resilience? What does the FBI think about generative artificial intelligence? Listen to new episodes biweekly and stay Ahead of the Threat.

    Charity and Disaster Fraud

    Charity fraud scams can come in many forms: emails, social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, cold calls, etc. They are especially common after high-profile disasters. Always use caution and do your research when you’re looking to donate to charitable causes.

    RYAN JAMES WEDDING

    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Export Cocaine; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; Murder in Connection with a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Drug Crime; Attempt to Commit…

    Capitol Violence

    The FBI is seeking to identify individuals involved in the violent activities that occurred at the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas on January 6, 2021. View photos and related information here. If you have any information to provide, visit tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Belgian National Charged with Attempting to Breach Cockpit and Assaulting Flight Crew Members on March 2024 Flight

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

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Belgian national was arrested today for attempting to breach the cockpit and assaulting flight attendants aboard flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to Zurich, Switzerland, in March 2024, U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger announced.

    Jan Daeninck, 43, of Belgium, is charged by complaint with one count of interference with flight crew members and attendants by assault and intimidation, one count of assault, and one count of abusive sexual contact on an airplane. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge U.S. Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre in Newark federal court and was released on $100,000 unsecured bond.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    On March 31, 2024, Daeninck was a passenger aboard a Swiss International Airlines flight from Newark to Zurich. Shortly after takeoff, Daeninck walked up to a female flight attendant, grabbed both of her breasts with his hands, shook her, and began yelling at her. After the flight attendant was able to wrest herself away from Daeninck, he then approached and attempted to enter the cockpit, repeatedly striking, kicking and beating the cockpit door. While Daeninck was attempting to gain entrance to the cockpit, a male flight attendant approached Daeninck. After repeatedly striking, punching, and kicking the cockpit door and failing to gain entry to the cockpit, Daeninck assaulted the male flight attendant by repeatedly punching and kicking the flight attendant, striking him in head and upper body with a closed fist. Flight crew members were able to intervene and assist with restraining Daeninck on the floor in the vicinity of the cockpit door for the remainder of the flight. As a result of Daeninck’s actions, the flight turned around and landed back at Newark Liberty International Airport.

    The charge of interfering with flight crew members and attendants carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. The charge of assault by beating or striking carries a maximum punishment of one year in prison and a maximum fine of $100,000. The charge of abusive sexual contact carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.

    U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, with the investigation leading to the charge. He also thanked the Port Authority Police Department, under the direction of Edward T. Cetnar, for its assistance.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle L. Goldman of the Office’s General Crimes Unit in Newark.

    The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Orange County Supervisor Agrees to Plead Guilty to Bribery Conspiracy Involving $10 Million in COVID Relief Funds

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

    OC Supervisor Andrew Do Admits Receiving More Than $550,000 in Bribe Payments from Funds Meant to Be Used to Provide Meals to Elderly

    SANTA ANA, California – The District One Supervisor on the Orange County Board of Supervisors has agreed to plead guilty to a felony federal charge for accepting more than $550,000 in bribes for directing and voting in favor of more than $10 million in COVID funds to a charity affiliated with one of his daughters, Rhiannon Do, the Justice Department announced today. 

    Andrew Hoang Do, 62, agreed to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. His plea agreement and information were filed today. He is expected to make his initial appearance in United States District Court in Santa Ana later this month.

    Do is one of five supervisors on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, which is responsible for the county’s $9 billion annual budget. As a county supervisor, Do represents the cities of Cypress, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Midway City, Rossmoor, Seal Beach, and Westminster. He has served as a county supervisor since February 2015.

    As part of his plea agreement, Do admitted that in exchange for more than $550,000 in bribes, beginning in 2020, he voted in favor of and directed millions of dollars in COVID-related funds to Viet America Society (VAS), a charity affiliated with his daughter. Do directed and worked together with other county employees to approve contracts with – and payments to – VAS. Do further admitted he acted corruptly and abused his position of trust as a county supervisor.

    “By putting his own interests over those of his constituents, the defendant sold his high office and betrayed the public’s trust,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada.  “Even worse, the money he misappropriated and accepted as bribe payments was taken from those most in need – older adults and disabled residents. Our community deserved much better. Corruption has no place in our politics and my office will continue to hold accountable officials who cheat the public.”

    “While millions of Americans were dying from COVID-19, Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do was the fox in the hen house personified, raiding millions in federal pandemic relief funds and orchestrating the money intended to feed elderly and ailing residents to instead fill the pockets of insiders, himself and his loved ones all while portraying a public persona of a hometown hero guiding his constituents through the uncertainty and fear of a global pandemic,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “No one is above the law in Orange County and these charges should serve as a powerful warning to elected officials everywhere that actions have consequences and justice will be swift and it will be decisive.”  

    “Elected officials have a responsibility to implement programs and policy that will benefit all the people they serve.  Their role is not to squander money, solicit bribes, or to steer funds to organizations or persons, wherein a coordinated effort allows those funds to make their way to family members or friends,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “Today’s plea is another exclamation point to the FBI’s commitment to ensuring that all local, state, or federal elected and appointed public officials perform their duties with honesty, integrity, and commitment to all the constituents they serve.”

    Shortly after receiving the COVID-related public funds from the county government – funds that were intended to provide meals to the elderly – VAS from April 2021 to February 2024 paid a business identified in court documents as “Company #1” $100,000 or more per month, which totaled approximately $3,804,000. In September 2021, VAS increased its payments to Company #1 from $100,000 to $108,000 per month. Company #1 then began paying Rhiannon Do – Do’s daughter – $8,000 per month, totaling by February 2024 approximately $224,000.

    In his plea agreement, Do admitted that in addition to the $8,000 monthly payments that Company #1 had made to Do’s daughter, in July 2023, Company #1 also transferred a total of $381,500 from the funds it had received from VAS to an escrow company. In July 2023, Do’s daughter used the escrow account funds to purchase a home, in her name, in Tustin for $1,035,000. As part of that transaction, a mortgage for more than $600,000 was obtained by a loan application that contained false information and with fabricated documents. In her related diversion agreement attached as an exhibit to Do’s plea agreement, Do’s daughter admitted her conduct was criminal and violated federal and state law.

    Do also admitted that the $381,500 from Company #1 that his daughter had used to purchase the Tustin house in 2023 was a disguised bribe to him. He also admitted that an additional $100,000 in payments sent to his other daughter, including three $25,000 checks from Company #2 – an air conditioning company that had been paid by VAS – also were bribes to him.

    Some of the bribe funds that had been funneled to his daughters were spent for his direct benefit. For example, during 2022, a total of $14,849 of funds that had been funneled to Do’s daughters was used to make property tax payments for properties in Orange County owned by Do and his wife. Approximately $15,000 was used to pay for one of Do’s credit card bills.

    Do knew that VAS was not providing all the meals for which the county had paid VAS. Instead, much of the funds were used for the benefit of insiders, including to buy real estate in the name of both Do’s daughter and Company #1, bribe payments to both of Do’s daughters, payments to other conspirators, payments to other companies affiliated with VAS’s listed officers, and through hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash withdrawals.

    “Mr. Do had a duty to act in the best interest of the citizens of Orange County. He neglected that duty and misused the financial system to enrich himself,” said Special Agent in Charge Ryan Korner with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Office of Inspector General. “Public corruption degrades the public’s confidence in our political system, and FDIC OIG is proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable individuals who abuse public service for private gain.”

    “Andrew Do was entrusted to ensure taxpayer dollars were used responsibly and for the purposes intended,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “Instead, when his constituents depended on COVID relief programs, Mr. Do exploited his position on the Orange County Board of Supervisors not only to influence channeling of funds to the Viet America Society, but also to accept bribes that were used to purchase a home, pay property taxes, and even to pay fictitious incomes to family members. Combating public corruption is one of the most important roles federal law enforcement agencies play in our local communities, and we are proud to be a partner during this investigation.” 

    “Today’s actions shows that this elected official used his position of trust for personal gain. He didn’t think he would get caught. He was wrong,” said Adam Shanedling, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General’s Western Regional Office. “The OIG is proud to have been a part of the task force that investigated this matter and we’ll continue to work with our law enforcement partners to help safeguard the integrity of federal funds.” 

    The plea agreement requires Do to forfeit any assets connected to the bribery scheme, including the Tustin property his daughter purchased in 2023. As part of his daughter’s related diversion agreement, she also agreed to forfeit the Tustin property. The plea agreement requires Do to pay full restitution by paying back the bribe money he and his daughters received, which he has agreed to pay in full before he is sentenced. In August 2022, the government seized more than $2.4 million from VAS’s and Company #1’s bank accounts.

    In a related agreement with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office (OCDA), attached as an exhibit to Do’s plea agreement, Do has agreed to immediately resign from the Orange County Board of Supervisors and to forfeit any pension credit for the time where he participated in the bribery conspiracy.

    Once Do enters his guilty plea, he will face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.

    The FBI; the Orange County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation; the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Office of the Inspector General; IRS Criminal Investigation; and the United States Department of Education Office of the Inspector General investigated this matter.

    This matter is being jointly prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office and OCDA. The prosecution is being led by Assistant United States Attorneys Charles E. Pell, Bradley E. Marrett, and Tara Vavere of the United States Attorney’s Office and Senior Deputy District Attorney Avery T. Harrison and Deputy District Attorneys Anthony J. Schlehner and L.J. Berger of the OCDA.  

    Any member of the public who has information related to this or any other public corruption matter in Orange County is encouraged to send information to the FBI’s email tip line at https://tips.fbi.gov and/or to contact the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office at (310) 477-6565.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs Appoints District Election Officer

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

    COLUMBIA, S.C. — United States Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) John Potterfield will lead the efforts of her office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming Nov. 5 general election. AUSA Potterfield has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of South Carolina, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the district’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    United States Attorney Boroughs said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).   

    United States Attorney Boroughs stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Potterfield will be on duty in this district while the polls are open.  He can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: 803-919-3092.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The FBI Columbia field office can be reached by the public at 803-551-4200.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C. by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    United States Attorney Boroughs said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.  It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ALDI Executive and Southern Illinois Contractor Sentenced for Rigging Construction Project Bids, Ordered to Pay More Than $2.8 Million

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

    Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

    Welcome to Ahead of the Threat, the FBI’s new podcast miniseries that brings together an FBI cyber executive and a private sector chief information security officer. Join Bryan Vorndran, assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division, and Jamil Farshchi, a strategic engagement advisor for the FBI who also works as an executive vice president and CISO of Equifax, as they discuss emerging cyber threats and the enduring importance of cybersecurity fundamentals. Featuring distinguished guests from the business world and government, Ahead of the Threat will confront some of the biggest questions in cyber: How will emerging technology impact corporate America? How can corporate boards be structured for cyber resilience? What does the FBI think about generative artificial intelligence? Listen to new episodes biweekly and stay Ahead of the Threat.

    Charity and Disaster Fraud

    Charity fraud scams can come in many forms: emails, social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, cold calls, etc. They are especially common after high-profile disasters. Always use caution and do your research when you’re looking to donate to charitable causes.

    RYAN JAMES WEDDING

    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Export Cocaine; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; Murder in Connection with a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Drug Crime; Attempt to Commit…

    Capitol Violence

    The FBI is seeking to identify individuals involved in the violent activities that occurred at the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas on January 6, 2021. View photos and related information here. If you have any information to provide, visit tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney Sayler Fleming Announces District Election Officers Responsible for Handling Election Day Complaints

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

    ST. LOUIS – United States Attorney Sayler A. Fleming announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSA) Hal Goldsmith and Jennifer Roy will lead the efforts of her office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the Nov. 5, 2024, general election.  AUSAs Goldsmith and Roy have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEO) for the Eastern District of Missouri, and are responsible for overseeing the district’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    United States Attorney Fleming said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election.  Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence.  The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud.  The Department will address these violations wherever they occur.  The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).  

    United States Attorney Fleming said, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.  In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, DEOs Goldsmith and Roy will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.  They can be reached by the public at 314-539-7733.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  You can reach the FBI online at tips.fbi.gov or by dialing 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    United States Attorney Fleming said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.  It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Election Day Program for 2024 General Election

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – United States Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Jeremy Peña and Sean Sullivan will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSAs Peña and Sullivan have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers for the District of New Mexico, and in that capacity are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    “Our vote is our voice. That is why the Department of Justice will ensure every citizen can vote without interference or discrimination and have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Uballez. “Similarly, elections do not run themselves. We will protect our election officials and staff from interference and unlawful threats of violence. The Department will ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English). 

    “The vote is the cornerstone of American democracy,” continued U.S. Attorney Uballez. “And ensuring free and fair elections depends on you. If you have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud, call us.”

    Members of the public can reach AUSA Peña at (505) 269-2038 and AUSA Sullivan at (505) 350-3153 any time the polls are open in New Mexico.

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The FBI can be reached by the public at 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov.

    Finally, complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Philadelphia Seeking Information in Arson and Sabotage

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

    FBI Philadelphia is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying an unknown individual in the arson and sabotage of the side of a United States Department of Defense contractor building in State College, Pennsylvania.

    On June 4, 2024, an unknown individual spray painted pro-Palestinian graffiti on the side of a United States Department of Defense contractor building located on Science Park Road in State College, Pennsylvania. The graffiti stated, “FOR THE MARTYRS”, “ESCALATE 4 RAFAH”, and “FREE PALESTINE”. The suspect then tried to enter the secure facility but fled on foot after being confronted by security.

    In the early morning hours of June 9, 2024, the same individual returned to the location and spray-painted the building with “INTIFADA IS HERE” as well as an inverted red triangle indicting the “rising” is here. The individual also doused the area in a flammable liquid. The area included a compressed natural gas pipeline, a natural gas generator, and a nearby transformer, all of which are in close proximity to the building. The suspect set fire to the liquid and fled on foot in the same direction as the previous incident.

    The suspect is described as being White, between 5’9” and 6’0” tall, with longer blond or light brown hair, and with a shoe size between a men’s 10 and 11 or a women’s 12 and 13.

    The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for the arrest and conviction of the individual responsible.

    If you have any information concerning this person, please contact your local FBI field office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.

    FBI Philadelphia can be reached at (215) 418-4000.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Philadelphia Men Sentenced to Almost a Decade in Prison for Separate Gunpoint Carjackings in the City

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

    Marc Anthony Targeted a Woman in Fairmount in 2022; Asiem Brooking Carjacked a Man in Olney in 2023

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that two Philadelphia men have each been sentenced to almost 10 years in prison for carrying out separate carjackings in the city.

    Asiem Brooking, 21, was sentenced on October 17, 2024, by United States District Court Judge R. Barclay Surrick to 117 months in prison and three years of supervised release for committing an armed carjacking in the city’s Olney section in January 2023.

    At around 8:15 p.m. on January 28, 2023, as a 54-year-old man was about to get out of his Nissan Altima on the 5400 block of North 6th Street, Brooking opened the passenger side front door, pointed a gun at the victim, and threatened to kill him. After the victim complied with Brooking’s demand to hand over his wallet and keys, the defendant fled the scene in the Altima.

    In May of 2023, Brooking was charged by indictment with one count of carjacking and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He pleaded guilty to both counts in July of this year.

    Marc Anthony, also known as Nasir Johnson, 22, was sentenced on October 18, 2024, by United States District Court Judge Karen S. Marston to 115 months in prison and five years of supervised release for carjacking a woman at gunpoint in the city’s Fairmount section in January 2022.

    At about 1:15 p.m. on January 6, 2022, Anthony and an unknown accomplice, both masked and armed with handguns, approached a 40-year-old woman who had just parked her Hyundai Sonata on the 800 block of North 28th Street. As they ordered the victim out of the car at gunpoint, she asked to retrieve her dog from the back seat, struggling to do so as they yelled for her phone and passcode. Once the victim and her dog were clear, the carjackers fled the scene in the Sonata.

    Anthony was charged by indictment in May 2022 with one count of carjacking and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He pleaded guilty to both charges in May of this year.

    “These criminals who think nothing of terrorizing our community at gunpoint are a true priority for my office, the FBI, and our partners on Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “By ensuring that people like Brookings and Anthony are prosecuted and held accountable for their violent and disturbing crimes, we’re making the city safer — one offender, one block, one neighborhood at a time.”

    These cases were investigated by the FBI Philadelphia Violent Crimes Task Force and the Philadelphia Police Department and are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. Zaleski.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Press Release by the United States Attorney Relating to the November 2024 General Election

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

    United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced today that two District Election Officers will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. The District Election Officers (DEOs) for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” U.S. Attorney Romero said. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English). 

    “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy,” U.S. Attorney Romero said. “We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, the DEOs will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. The public can reach them by calling 215-861-8200 and asking for the District Election Officers.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public by calling 215-418-4000.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can also be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C., by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 1-800-253-3931.

    “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate,” U.S. Attorney Romero said. “It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, call 911 immediately before then contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney’s Office Activates Election Day Program to Stop Fraud and Protect Voting Rights

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

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Will Thompson announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Erik S. Goes will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election.

    AUSA Goes has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Southern District of West Virginia, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said Thompson “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).

    “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy,” Thompson said. “We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Goes will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: (304) 340-2395 or (304) 345-2200.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (304) 346-2300.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at (800) 253-3931.

    “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate,” Thompson said. “It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: 72 Year Old Tahlequah Resident Sentenced To 17 Years For Child Sex Abuse Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Phillip Dale Wilson, age 72, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 204 months each on two counts of Abusive Sexual Contact in Indian Country.  The terms are to be served concurrently for a total prison term of 17 years.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.

    On December 18, 2023, Phillip Dale Wilson pleaded guilty to the charges.  According to investigators, beginning in December of 1999 and continuing until November of 2005, Wilson sexually abused a child he knew to be under the age of 12.  Investigators also established that between April 2004 and March 2011, Wilson sexually abused a second child he knew to be under the age of 12.  The investigation further revealed that between September 2001 and December 2015 Wilson sexually abused three other children under the age of 12 and another child under the age of 16.

    The crimes occurred in Cherokee County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    “This case demonstrates the commitment of the FBI to investigate anyone who would harm the most vulnerable members of the community, our children,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater.  “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to relentlessly pursue child sex offenders and send them to federal prison where they belong.”

    “Due in large part to the bravery of the victims and the exceptional investigative work of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI, the defendant will likely spend the rest of his life behind bars,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson.  “No prison sentence can undo the physical and emotional damage the defendant inflicted on his victims, but I hope they can have some measure of peace in knowing the defendant no longer poses a threat to them or other children.”

    The Honorable Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach, Chief District Judge in the United States District Court for Puerto Rico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma.  Wilson will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Paladino represented the United States.

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