MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Harry M. Jacobs 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 Jacobs has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Minnesota, 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 Luger 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 Luger 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 Jacobs will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (612) 253-0948.”
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 (763) 569-8000.
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 Luger 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.
MINNEAPOLIS – The last remaining defendant in the November 4, 2024, trial in the Haji’s Kitchen indictment has pleaded guilty to her role in the $250 million Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, in February 2020, Farhiya Mohamud, 65, of Bloomington, created Dua Supplies & Distribution Inc. (“Dua Supplies”), a business that purported to supply food to paying customers. Mohamud’s customers participated as vendors in the Federal Child Nutrition Program, including co-defendants Haji Osman Salad and Fahad Nur. The money from Salad and Nur, which purported to be for “food supply” or “food services,” accounted for most of the funds that Mohamud deposited into her business bank accounts. In reality, Mohamud knew that she purchased relatively minimal amounts of food and thus supplied little, if any, food to Salad and Nur. Instead, she used the funds to purchase real estate, which she did at the direction of her son, Sharmarke Issa, and for his benefit.
Mohamud, who is the 23rd defendant to plead guilty to charges relating to the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, appeared today in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel and pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew S. Ebert, Joseph H. Thompson, and Harry M. Jacobs are prosecuting the case.
SAN FRANCISCO – Lin Chen pleaded guilty in federal court today to illegally exporting U.S. technology to a prohibited end user in China, in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). The plea was accepted by the Hon. William Alsup, Senior U.S. District Judge.
In pleading guilty, Chen, 65, a citizen of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), admitted to acting on behalf of Jiangsu Hantang International Trade Group Corp., Ltd. (JHI), a company headquartered in Nanjing, PRC, to procure a wafer cutting machine on behalf of Chengdu GaStone Technology Co., Ltd. (GaStone), an entity located in Chengdu, PRC. Chen admitted to knowing that GaStone was designated on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Entity List on Aug. 1, 2014. Federal regulations restrict the export of certain items to companies, research institutions, and other entities identified on the Department of Commerce’s Entity List. Under applicable Department of Commerce regulations, wafer cutting machines, which are used to cut thin semiconductors used in electronics (also known as silicon wafers), require a license for export to end-users such as GaStone.
According to the plea agreement, by no later than Dec. 4, 2015, Chen knew that GaStone was prohibited from receiving restricted exports without a license, including a DTX-150 Scribe and Break Machine, a machine for processing silicon wafer microchips. On approximately Dec. 10, 2015, Chen worked with a co-defendant to arrange the sale of a DTX-150 to GaStone by shipping it to the PRC in the name of JHI without an export license from Commerce. Chen used JHI’s status as an intermediary to conceal GaStone as the true end-user of the technology.
A federal grand jury indicted Chen on Dec. 1, 2020, charging him with conspiracy to violate IEEPA; submitting false electronic export information; smuggling; and IEEPA violations. Under the plea agreement, Chen pleaded guilty to count four, causing an unlawful export in violation of IEEPA. Defendant currently is released on bond.
Chen’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 28, 2025, before the Judge Alsup. The maximum statutory penalty for an IEEPA violation is up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. However, any sentence will be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Robert K. Tripp, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Tatum King, and Brent Burmester, U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) Special Agent in Charge, San Jose Field Office, made the announcement today.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Sampson and Brett Reynolds of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Claudia Hyslop and Nina Burney. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by FBI, HSI, and BIS.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A citizen of the Republic of India was sentenced to prison today for stealing more than $20 million from hundreds of victims through the use of fake or “spoofed” websites mimicking the cryptocurrency exchange website Coinbase, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell ordered Chirag Tomar, 31, to serve 60 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release.
Jason Byrnes, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, Charlotte Field Office, joins U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
According to filed court documents and today’s sentencing hearing, from as early as June 2021, Tomar and his co-conspirators engaged in a spoofing scheme to steal millions in cryptocurrency from hundreds of victims located worldwide and in the United States, including in the Western District of North Carolina. Spoofing, as it pertains to cybercrime, is when a malicious cyber actor disguises an email address, sender name, or website URL to convince victims they are interacting with a trusted source. Court documents show that Tomar and his co-conspirators executed the fraud by spoofing Coinbase, one of the largest virtual currency exchanges in the world, that allows customers to buy, sell or trade cryptocurrencies.
Coinbase operated a “Pro” version of its exchange, which was found at the URL “Pro.Coinbase.Com.” According to court documents, Tomar and his co-conspirators spoofed the Coinbase Pro website by using a similar fake URL, CoinbasePro.Com, and created a fraudulent website to mimic the authentic website. Once victims entered their login credentials into the fake website, an authentication process was triggered. In some instances, victims were tricked into providing their login and authentication information of the real Coinbase website to fraudsters. Other times, victims were tricked into allowing fake Coinbase representatives to execute remote desktop software, which enabled fraudsters to gain control of victims’ computers and access their legitimate Coinbase accounts. The fraudsters also impersonated Coinbase customer service representatives and tricked the users into providing their two-factor authentication codes to the fraudsters over the phone. Once the fraudsters gained access to the victims’ Coinbase accounts, the fraudsters quickly transferred the victims’ Coinbase cryptocurrency holdings to cryptocurrency wallets under the fraudsters’ control.
Court documents show that, in February 2022, a victim located in the Western District of North Carolina attempted to log into his Coinbase account through the fraudulent website. The spoof website immediately notified the victim that his account was locked and prompted the victim to use a number provided to call a fake Coinbase representative. The fake representative tricked the victim into providing his two-factor authentication information, ultimately gaining access into the victim’s real Coinbase account. Using the information, fraudsters stole cryptocurrency from the victim’s Coinbase wallet worth over $240,000.
According to court records, Tomar used the victims’ stolen log-in credentials to access the victim accounts and transfer the victims’ cryptocurrency holdings to wallets controlled by Tomar. After Tomar received the stolen cryptocurrency, he would convert it to other forms of cryptocurrency and move the funds amongst many wallets controlled by Tomar. Ultimately, the cryptocurrency was converted into cash which was then distributed to Tomar and his co-conspirators.
Tomar used the victims’ funds to pay for his lavish lifestyle, including to purchase Audemars Piguet and other expensive watches, to buy luxury vehicles like Lamborghinis and Porsches, and to make trips to Dubai, Thailand and elsewhere.
On December 20, 2023, Tomar was arrested at the Atlanta airport upon entering the United States. On May 20, 2024, Tomar pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy. Tomar remains in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
U.S. Attorney King commended the U.S. Secret Service for their investigation of the case and thanked the FBI in Nashville for their invaluable assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Warren of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte is prosecuting the case.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell sentenced Frank Lynold Mercado, 27, of Charlotte, to 41 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for defrauding over 100 victims of more than $700,000 through a fraudulent investment scheme, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Mercado was also ordered to pay $709,690 in restitution.
Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, joins U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
According to court documents and court proceedings, from July 2019 to December 2022, Mercado executed an investment fraud scheme in which he caused more than 100 investors to sustain nearly $700,000 in losses. Mercado induced the victims – many of whom were his friends, former co-workers, and other social acquaintances – to invest their money by holding himself out to be an expert in options trading with years of experience and a successful track record. As part of the scheme, Mercado falsely represented to victim investors that he would use their money for options trading and similar investments through his hedge fund, Tiger-Wolf Capital, LLC (Tiger-Wolf Capital). Instead of investing the funds as promised, Mercado used a portion of the money to make Ponzi-style payments to investors, and to fund his personal lifestyle, including to make large credit card payments and pay for personal expenditures such as Airbnb rentals, restaurants, and bars.
Court documents show that with the money that he did invest, Mercado suffered trading losses and then lied to investors about the performance of their investments. For example, Mercado periodically sent updates to victim investors through emails, text messages, or screenshots of purported account portals that reflected fictitious trading gains. He also made false and fraudulent statements to investors about substantial returns on their investments in order to induce his victims to invest additional money with him and/or to leave their current investments with him. According to court documents, as a result of the scheme, Mercado caused victims to suffer losses, with some victims experiencing significant financial hardship.
On June 12, 2022, Mercado pleaded guilty to wire fraud. He will be ordered to report to the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
On May 30, 2024, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission announced the filing of a complaint against Mercado in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, charging Mercado and Tiger-Wolf Capital with securities violations. On July 2, 2024, the court, pursuant to consents signed by Mercado and Tiger-Wolf, enjoined them from violating the charged provisions and ordered them to pay disgorgement, prejudgment interest, and civil money penalties in amounts to be determined at a later date. The court also barred Mercado from serving as officer or director of a public company and enjoined him from participating in the issuance, purchase, offer, or sale of securities, except in his personal account.
U.S. Attorney King commended the FBI for their investigation of the case and thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for their coordination and assistance.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Frick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Thomas Lagene Franklin, 56, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 15 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for the armed robbery of two local convenience stores, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
According to court documents and court proceedings, on August 7, 2022, at approximately 3:30 a.m., a black vehicle pulled up alongside a male victim who was walking toward his hotel room in Charlotte. The driver of the vehicle, later identified as Franklin, demanded money from the victim. When the victim replied that he did not have any money, Franklin fired multiple shots at the victim striking him in the leg before driving away.
According to filed court documents, on August 9, 2022, Franklin robbed at gunpoint the Circle K convenience store located at 2833 Freedom Drive, in Charlotte. Court records show that, at approximately 1:45 a.m., Franklin entered the store wearing a bucket-style fishing hat with clear safety glasses and a black surgical mask. Upon entering the store, Franklin posed as a customer, brought items to the counter, and gave the clerk money to pay for those items. When the clerk opened the register, Franklin pulled a small silver semiautomatic handgun from his pocket, pointed it at the clerk, and demanded money in the register. The clerk complied and Franklin fled the scene.
According to court records, later the same day, the 7-Eleven convenience store located at 8315 Steele Creek Road, in Charlotte, was robbed at gunpoint in a similar fashion as the Circle K
robbery. At approximately 6:50 a.m., Franklin entered the store dressed identical to the robber from the Circle K robbery. Once again, Franklin acted as a customer and pretended to buy and pay for his items. When the store clerk opened the register, Franklin pulled out a small silver semi-automatic handgun and demanded money. The store clerk gave Franklin money and Franklin fled the scene. CMPD officers arrested Franklin the following day. A firearm recovered over the course of the arrest was identified as the gun used in the shooting and the two robberies.
On February 7, 2024, Franklin pleaded guilty to two counts of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is currently in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
U.S. Attorney King commended the FBI and CMPD for their investigation of the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dana Washington of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.
SAN DIEGO – Escondido resident Katherine Lu Acquista, the former director of operations and accounting for the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation, was sentenced in federal court today to 12 months and 1 day in custody for stealing approximately $433,275.89 from her then-employer. She was also ordered to pay a fine of $50,000.
According to court documents, while employed at the non-profit organization known as EDC, Acquista used her access and authority to put personal expenses on EDC credit cards and pay those expenses using EDC funds. She also directed other employees to issue checks to her from the EDC company bank account. She then caused false entries about these transactions to be made in the EDC’s accounting system to disguise her ongoing theft. In addition, she stole from EDC’s flexible spending and payroll system. All told, she exploited her position of trust to steal more than $430,000 over at least a five-year period, between August 2017 and August 2022.
The EDC is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization that works to grow San Diego’s economy and regional prosperity. The EDC’s mission is to maximize the region’s economic competitiveness and global competitiveness. It is funded by individual and corporate donations, grants and investments from nearly 200 companies, public agencies, and private organizations.
Explaining the impact of her crimes, the Chief Operating Officer of EDC stated, “[San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation] is a nonprofit organization with a mission to maximize the region’s economic prosperity and raise our global competitiveness. Acquista’sactions defied two of our closely held values – accountability and integrity.”
“Members of our community who donate to local non-profits depend on the integrity and stewardship of those entrusted with such funds,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “This sentence serves to remind those engaged in crime for profit that whether your victim is the taxpayer, government, or a local non-profit, you will be held accountable.”
“Those who seek to misappropriate non-profit donations are acting contrary to the interest of the public good. The FBI stands ready to investigate those who violate the trust of the donors and diminish the efforts of non-profit organizations such as the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation,” said San Diego FBI Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Valerie H. Chu. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Wasserman assisted in the case.
DEFENDANT Case Number 24CR0765-AJB
Katherine Lu Acquista Age: 47 Escondido, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Wire Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1343
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
Jointly organized by the NATO Defense College (NDC) and the National Defence University of Ukraine (NDUU), the conference addressed the Alliance’s role in a new era of collective defence. The Deputy Chair of the NATO Military Committee and the Director of the International Military Staff provided keynote speeches. Discussions also took place on the topics of a changing security environment, partner engagement, resilience building and deterrence and defence ten years from now.
The Director of the International Military Staff (DGIMS), Lieutenant General Adamczak virtually opened the 2024 International Week alongside Colonel General Koval and Lieutenant General Nielsen, Commandants of the NDUU and the NDC.
“Today is the 965th day of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. During this time, President Putin launched various devastating attacks over Ukrainian territory. What he didn’t expect was the will and determination of the Ukrainian Armed Forces to protect and defend their country”, Lieutenant General Adamczak stated.
In his speech, DGIMS outlined what the Alliance is doing to support Ukraine, having mentioned projects such as the Joint Analysis, Training and Education Centre (JATEC), the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) and the Pledge of Long-Term Security Assistance for Ukraine, among others.
Closing remarks were given by the Deputy Chair of the NATO Military Committee (DCMC), Lieutenant General Andrew Rohling, on the topic of strategic imperatives for NATO post Washington Summit.
“In July, Allies restated the commitment to collective security, enshrined in Article 5 of the Washington Treaty, the condemnation to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the bond to shared values such as individual liberty, human rights, democracy and the rule of law”, Lieutenant General Rohling underscored. “Nations reaffirmed their unwavering solidarity with the people of Ukraine and stated that a strong, independent, and democratic Ukraine is vital for the security and stability of the Euro-Atlantic area”.
During their interventions, DGIMS and DCMC expressed that Ukraine’s path to NATO membership is irreversible. “Ukraine’s future is in NATO. We have witnessed concrete progress at democratic, economic and security aspects. And as Ukraine continues this vital reform work, we will continue to support its path to full NATO membership”, Lieutenant General Adamczak emphasized.
“We need to ensure that Ukraine can win this war, by keeping you in the fight, by training your soldiers. We will help you with the capabilities, and with ammunition. But looking into the future of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, as NATO and Ukraine are closer than ever, we are increasingly focusing on developing interoperability and standardization aspects for seamless transition in Ukraine’s eventual path to NATO membership”, Lieutenant General Rohling said.
The International Week contributes to a deeper understanding of NATO’s mission, organization, operations, partnerships, cooperation and future priorities by NDUU students and senior military and civilian officers.
The award ceremony will take place at 18.00, on Wednesday 23 October 2024, at the European Parliament in Strasbourg (Daphne Caruana Galizia Press Room).
Accredited journalists are cordially invited to join the award ceremony, which will be opened by the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola. The finalists are also invited to join the ceremony, with one of them having been chosen by the Jury members as the winner of the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism 2024.
The winner will be officially announced by a representative of last year’s laureates, a Greek, German and British consortium, who won for an investigation on the Adriana shipwreck, which left over 600 migrants dead off Pylos in Greece.
Programme
18.00 Welcome by Vice-President Pina Picierno followed by opening speech by President Roberta Metsola
18.15 Speech by the President of the Berlin Press Club and representative of the jury, Juliane Hielscher
18.30 Announcement of 2024 winner by 2023 laureates, followed by speech by the 2024 winner
18.45 Closing of ceremony by Vice-President Pina Picierno
18.50 Photo opportunity
19.00 Reception at the private salon C0.1 (opposite the press bar)
Press seminaron “Safeguarding Media Freedom: the role of the European Union”
Just before the award ceremony, a press seminar is being organised on “Safeguarding Media Freedom: the role of the European Union”. The seminar begins at 15:00 in room Weiss S2.2, with an introduction by EP Vice-President Pina Picierno. A panel of journalists will then discuss the continued threats to media and press freedom, through their personal experience. The seminar will be closed by the speeches of Matthew Caruana Galizia, son of Daphne Caruana Galizia, and Vice-President Picierno.
Journalists who would like to join the seminar online, please write a mail to European Parliament Media Seminars media-seminars@europarl.europa.eu to get the link.
Background
The Prize, with the support of the European Parliament, is a tribute to the Maltese investigative journalist and blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was assassinated in October 2017. It rewards, on a yearly basis, outstanding journalism that promotes or defends the core principles and values of the European Union, such as human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights.
The Prize is open to professional journalists and teams of professional journalists of any nationality to submit in-depth stories that have been published or broadcast by a media outlet based in one of the 27 European Union member states. From 3 May to 31 July 2024, more than 300 applications were submitted by journalists from the 27 EU countries for this fourth edition of the Prize.
The Prize itself, and the €20,000 prize money, demonstrate the European Parliament’s strong support for investigative journalism and the protection of journalists around the world.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A federal jury found Derrick John Thompson guilty of illegal possession of a firearm and fentanyl following a deadly vehicle crash that killed five victims, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
Following a five-day trial in U.S. District Court before Judge Jeffrey M. Bryan, Thompson, 28, was found guilty of one count of possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, one count of possessing a firearm as a felon, and one count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
According to evidence presented at trial, on June 16, 2023, a trooper with the Minnesota State Patrol observed a black Cadillac Escalade speeding north on I-35W, traveling at 95 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour speed zone. The trooper observed the driver, later identified as Thompson, abruptly cut across four lanes of traffic to exit the freeway at the Lake Street exit. The trooper began following the SUV but did not activate the emergency lights or sirens because the trooper did not want to attempt a traffic stop on city streets given the Escalade’s dangerous driving. At the intersection of 2nd Avenue South and East Lake Street, Thompson sped through a red light at the intersection without stopping or slowing. The SUV struck at full speed the driver’s side of a Honda Civic that was traveling lawfully through the intersection. All five occupants of the Honda Civic, four adult females and one juvenile female, were killed. When law enforcement responded to the scene of the crash, witnesses told officers where Thompson fled. Officers found Thompson, wearing clothing that matched the description given by witnesses, sitting on the curb outside of a nearby restaurant. Officers detained Thompson, who was later transported to Hennepin County Medical Center for evaluation.
According to evidence presented at trial, an officer found at the scene a Hertz rental record for the Cadillac Escalade indicating that Thompson rented the vehicle from a Hertz located at the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport approximately 30 minutes before the crash. After obtaining a warrant to search the vehicle, officers found a black leather bag on the front passenger side floor that contained a loaded Glock pistol with an extended magazine, as well as three baggies containing more than 2,000 blue “M-Box 30” fentanyl pills, a baggie containing an additional 14 grams of fentanyl powder, a baggie containing 35 grams of cocaine, and a digital scale. Subsequent testing determined that Thompson’s DNA was present on the firearm, the fentanyl powder, and the cocaine. A search of Thompson’s phone found dozens of texts indicating fentanyl deals.
Because Thompson has multiple prior felony convictions, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Minnesota State Patrol, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Minneapolis–St. Paul Airport Police Department, in coordination with the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Calhoun-Lopez and Ruth S. Shnider tried the case.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
Fargo – United States Attorney Mac Schneider announced that on October 16, 2024, Tierra Lynn Scott, age 30 from Tokio, ND, made her initial appearance and was arraigned in federal court. The United States District Court for the District of North Dakota unsealed an Indictment revealing that a federal grand jury indicted Scott for Involuntary Manslaughter and three counts of Child Neglect in Indian country. Scott was detained and trial has been scheduled for December 10, 2024.
The Indictment in this case is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
On August 17, 2024, law enforcement responded to a residence in Fort Totten, North Dakota, where an adult male was later pronounced dead. The investigation revealed the man had been struck and run over by a motor vehicle driven by Scott. The indictment alleges Scott was under the influence of intoxicating liquor and in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia and Scott was backing and otherwise driving recklessly, and without due care for the rights and safety of others. The investigation further revealed Scott had three minor children in the vehicle with her at the time.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lori H. Conroy.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
MINNEAPOLIS – A Maryland man has been indicted for his role in a $35 million bank fraud conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, from September 2020 through October 2021, Karl Reid Selle, 38, of Bowie, Maryland, conspired with Matthew Thomas Onofrio to devise and execute a scheme to defraud federally-insured banks and credit unions in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and elsewhere. As part of the scheme, Onofrio, who operated a business entity called Northwoods Management LLC, marketed a program for investors to acquire commercial real estate located in various states. Onofrio, or his business entity, would cause false information to be submitted to lenders financing investors’ real estate purchases and in some cases altered purchase agreements to support higher appraisals of the properties. The indictment also alleges that part of the scheme was to withhold information from the lenders, including the fact that Onofrio made loans to investors to help them purchase the properties and that the loans constituted liabilities that should be disclosed in a loan application.
The indictment charges Selle with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. He made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court on October 8, 2024, before Magistrate Judge Douglas L. Micko.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Lewis is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
MINNEAPOLIS – The first defendant in the $250 million Feeding Our Future fraud scheme to be sentenced received 144 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. Ismail was also ordered to pay $47,920,514 in restitution.
On June 7, 2024, following a six-week trial in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel, a Mohamed Jama Ismail, 51, of Savage, Minnesota, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and one count of money laundering. Ismail was an owner and operator of Empire Cuisine and Market LLC, a for-profit restaurant that participated in the scheme as a site, as a vendor for other sites, and as an entity to launder fraudulent proceeds. Based on their fraudulent claims, Ismail and his co-defendants received more than $40 million in fraudulent Federal Child Nutrition Program funds.
As proven at trial, Ismail and his co-defendants obtained, misappropriated, and laundered millions of dollars in program funds that were intended as reimbursements for the cost of serving meals to children. Ismail and his co-defendants exploited changes in the program intended to ensure underserved children received adequate nutrition during the COVID-19 pandemic. The convicted defendants created and submitted false documentation. They submitted fraudulent meal count sheets purporting to document the number of children and meals served at each site and false invoices purporting to document the purchase of food to be served to children at the sites. Ismail and his co-defendants also submitted fake attendance rosters purporting to list the names and ages of the children receiving meals at the sites each day. These rosters were fabricated and created using fake names.
Ismail was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Judge Nancy E. Brasel. When handing down the sentence, Judge Brasel commented that “The taxpayers in Minnesota are rightfully outraged by the brazenness and the scope of [Ismail’s] crime. The evidence at trial was frankly breathtaking.” Judge Brasel also emphasized that during a disaster, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, “many of us were taught to look for the helpers . . . when the world was at its most vulnerable [Ismail] decided not to be a helper, but to be a thief.”
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph H. Thompson, Harry M. Jacobs, Matthew S. Ebert, and Daniel W. Bobier tried the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
Defendant Pled Guilty to Assaulting Officers with Insecticide and Members of the News Media
WASHINGTON – A New York man pleaded guilty today to two assault charges – one felony and one misdemeanor – related to his conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
Peter G. Moloney, 60, of Bayport, New York, pleaded guilty to a felony charge of assaulting, resisting, and impeding certain officers and a misdemeanor charge of assault by striking before U.S. District Judge Carl J. Nichols. Judge Nichols will sentence Moloney on Feb. 11, 2025.
According to court documents, Moloney attended the “Stop the Steal” rally on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C., on the Ellipse. Moloney traveled from his home in Bayport, New York, and brought with him certain items, including a bicycle helmet, protective eyewear, hard-knuckled gloves, a face mask, and a can of “Black Flag Wasp, Hornet, & Yellow Jacket Killer” aerosol spray.
After the rally, Moloney walked toward the U.S. Capitol building via the Maryland Walkway, put on his gear, and was part of the first group to enter the restricted permitter. Moloney was one of the first to line up against a line of U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) Officers on the West Plaza. Court documents say that as tensions rose, Moloney pulled the can of wasp spray from his backpack and kept it in close proximity.
According to the court records, on multiple occasions, Moloney held the can of wasp spray in his hands, aimed it at police, and sprayed the officers—causing the spray to make contact with the officer’s hands, arms, bodies, and heads.
In addition to the assault on police officers, on two separate occasions, Moloney admitted to assaulting two individuals that he believed were members of the news media. On one occasion, Moloney walked up behind the victim while the victim’s back was turned and holding a camera. Moloney then swung his arm down onto the victim’s hand, grabbed the camera, and yanked it back in an attempt to pull the camera out of the victim’s hands. This act caused the victim to stumble on a flight of stairs.
The FBI arrested Moloney on June 7, 2023, in New York.
As a result of the plea, Moloney has agreed to pay restitution both to the victim for the repairs to his camera and to the Architect of the Capitol for the damage to the U.S. Capitol that day.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s New York Field Office (Long Island Resident Agency) and the FBI’s Washington Field Office, which identified Moloney as #199 on its seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division.
In the 45 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,532 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 571 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
SIOUX FALLS – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced four individuals convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
Nathan Johnson, age 39, from Denver, Colorado, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments on June 17, 2024. He was sentenced to 36 years and eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. Johnson was sentenced in September of 2024.
Michele Johnson, age 48, from Steen, Minnesota, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments on July 29, 2024. She was sentenced to 31 years and eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. She was sentenced in October of 2024.
Jesse Richmond, age 51, from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments on June 18, 2024. He was sentenced to 24 years and four months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200. Richmond was sentenced in September of 2024.
Tony Hunter, age 53, from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance on May 29, 2024. He was sentenced to 27 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Hunter was sentenced in September of 2024.
Nathan Johnson, Michele Johnson, Matthew Thomas, Jesse Richmond, and Tony Hunter were originally indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2023. A third superseding indictment was filed in May of 2024 adding defendant, Alfred Siani.
From December of 2022 to July of 2023, the above-mentioned defendants alongside numerous other co-conspirators transported large loads of methamphetamine from California to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Nathan Johnson, acting as the leader of the conspiracy, would travel from his home in Denver, Colorado to meet with his source of supply in Southern California. While there, Nathan Johnson would receive approximately 150-pounds worth of methamphetamine which would go on to be further distributed in Denver, Colorado, as well as South Dakota.
While in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Nathan Johnson would distribute bulk amounts of methamphetamine to his co-conspirators: Jesse Richmond, Tony Hunter, and Michele Johnson. Richmond, Hunter, and Michele Johnson would go on to further distribute the methamphetamine throughout the Sioux Falls community and into southwest Minnesota.
The amount of methamphetamine involved was in excess of 300 pounds and over $450,000 in drug proceeds were laundered during the existence of this conspiracy.
“The multi-decade sentences obtained thus far illustrate the seriousness of the crimes and the dogged commitment of every agency involved to focus our resources on those criminals who choose to distribute dangerous substances in our state,” said United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “We are grateful for the collaboration of more than a dozen federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and joint task forces, as well as out-of-state agencies, which resulted in the takedown of a network of drug dealers responsible for bringing hundreds of pounds of illegal narcotics into South Dakota. We are fortunate to have such dedicated men and women doing the difficult investigative and prosecutorial work required to keep our communities safe.”
“These sentences should serve as a wake-up call to anyone transporting or distributing methamphetamine into South Dakota communities,” Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Steve Bell said. “These four people are facing a combined 119 years in federal prison. Each sentence should provide the offender with ample time to reflect on the damage and destruction they’ve inflicted on so many lives.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (including the Rocky Mountain Field Division, Omaha Field Division, Mexico City Country Office, Los Angeles Field Division, Special Operations Division), as well as South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, FBI, South Dakota Highway Patrol, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, IRS Criminal Investigation team, El Paso Intelligence Center, and collaboration received from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Marshals Service, Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, Sioux Falls Police Department, Mitchell Police Department, Denver Police Department, Las Vegas Metro Police Department, Worthington Police Department, Brookings Police Department, Rock County Sheriff’s Office, Lake Superior Violent Offender Task Force, Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force, Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Forde, and the Colorado Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Petersen prosecuted the case.
All four defendants were immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On October 16, 2024, Glenn Fred Glatz, 68, currently of Dandridge, Tennessee, was sentenced to life in prison by the Honorable Thomas A. Varlan, United States District Judge, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Knoxville.
On July 28, 2023, a federal jury found Glatz guilty of four counts of production of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2251(a) and (e); one count of receiving child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(2)(A); three counts of transferring obscene matter to a minor under 16 years of age in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1470; and one count of possession of child pornography in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(5)(B).
According to court filed documents, this is the third conviction of Glatz for sexual crimes against children. The evidence presented at trial showed that Glatz used DeviantArt.com, a social media platform, to befriend young girls which he then groomed and sexually exploited. Witnesses testified that Glatz was on the sex offender registry for prior convictions involving the molestation of a young girl. The evidence further demonstrated that he enticed at least two girls, ages 13 and 14, to produce live sexually explicit videos and images of themselves for Glatz to view over social media. Additionally, Glatz sent the victims nude images to other young females in hopes of enticing other minors to send him sexual images of themselves.
U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton, III of the Eastern District of Tennessee; and Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The criminal indictment was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This investigation was led by FBI Special Agent Bianca L. Pearson.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Kolman and Suzanne H. Sullivan represented the United States at trial.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), 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 Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC 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 PSC, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
NASHVILLE – Barron M. Poole, 50, of Ripley, Ohio, was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison after having pled guilty to attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, announced Thomas J. Jaworski, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.
According to court documents, on February 2, 2023, a user with the profile of “Barron read bio,” who was later identified as Barron M. Poole, contacted an FBI online covert employee (“OCE”) on an online dating application that is frequented by minors and those who seek to exploit them. The OCE was conducting an online covert investigation utilizing a profile of an 18-year-old female, which contained a photo of a female’s face. Above the photo was a status block, which contained the text, “hi im really 13.” Poole messaged and texted with the OCE, who he believed to be a 13-year-old girl, asked her to send him nude photographs, sent her photos of nude adult females in the poses he wanted the OCE to recreate, and sent her photographs of his penis and abdomen which had distinctive tattoos. The communications continued for a week. When he was arrested at his home in Ohio, Poole admitted to using the online dating application, and admitted that “Barron read bio” was his profile with his photograph.
After serving his sentence, Poole will be on supervised release for 5 years.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Clarksville Resident Agency, Nashville Field Office, and assisted by the FBI’s Cincinnati Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica R. Morrison prosecuted the case.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Mac D. Heavener, III will lead the efforts of the Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, election. AUSA Heavener has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Eastern District of Tennessee, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the Office’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.
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).
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 (865) 544-0751.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said United States Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III. “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. AUSA/DEO Mac Heavener will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: (423) 823-5009 or (423) 218-6652.”
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.
Stunning light projections created by international visual artists, a spectacular starscape and a giant glitterball are among the dazzling lighting installations visitors can enjoy when Sunderland Festival of Light opens next Friday.
New lighting features introduced for 2024 include ‘The Mirror’ created by Poland based award-winning visual artist Ari Dykier and ‘Hypha’ by French award-winning multidisciplinary artist Sebastien Labrunie.
Other new features for 2024 include Starscape which will create the illusion of a brilliant white starfield, Cosmic Oasis which will see trees lit up with UV light, a laser garden and a giant glitter ball in the park’s historic Victorian bandstand which will act as the focal point of the nightly silent disco.
The sparkling light tunnel over the bridge linking the two sections of the park also make a return after proving popular with visitors last year.
Councillor Beth Jones, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism, said: “I’m really excited about this year’s Festival of Light.
“It’s always a really popular event and we’ve got some fantastic new light installations this year together with favourites like selfie lane, the sparkling light tunnel over the bridge and our famous Sunderland sign.
“I can’t wait to see the two new light projections created especially for the festival. I think they’ll be real showstoppers and I’m also really looking forward to seeing the giant glitterball in the bandstand and the Starscape star field.”
Visitors to this year’s festival can also take advantage of 20 per cent off tickets for select performances of this year’s Jack and the Beanstalk panto at the Sunderland Empire.
The offer will apply to price bands A – C for the following performances only: Fri 13 Dec – 7pm, Sat 14 Dec – 5.30pm, Sun 15 Dec – 5.30pm, Tue 17 Dec – 7pm & Thu 19 Dec – 7pm. To redeem the offer, make sure to opt in to hear from Sunderland City Council events when buying your tickets.
Sunderland City Council has also partnered with Nation Radio North East as media partner for this year’s Festival of Light.
Nation Radio North East’s Simon Grundy said: “As a partner this year, I’m so pleased Sunderland City Council are doing the Festival of Light again in Mowbray Park. It brings some brightness into our lives on these dark, cold evenings. There’s something for everyone, and seeing the bairns face’s light up, always brings a smile to my face.”
For all those planning a visit to this year’s Festival of Light, here’s everything you need to know before you go:
When and where is the Festival of Light?
The Festival of Light begins on Friday 25 October and will then take place from 4.30pm – 10pm every day during half term Friday 25 October to Sunday 3 November and then 4.40 to 10pm every Thursday to Sunday until Sunday 24 November with the exception of Remembrance Sunday on 10 November. Last admission will be at 8.30pm, and the event will close at 10pm each night. This year’s event is being held in Mowbray Park, Burdon Road, SR1 1PP in Sunderland city centre.
What can I expect?
A sparkling mix of new lighting installations including two new stunning light projections, Starscape, Cosmic Oasis, a giant glitter ball in the Victorian Bandstand as well as a ‘selfie lane’ and a twinkling tunnel over the bridge connecting the two sections of the park.
Do I need to buy a ticket to visit and how much are they?
All visitors must have a ticket to enter the Festival of Light. Tickets cost £5 each and must be bought online in advance. They can’t be bought at the gate. Children under two are free.
Do I have to attend at the time shown on my tickets?
Yes. When buying your ticket online, you will be asked to select an entry time. All visitors must attend at the time shown on their ticket.
Can I change the date and/or time or cancel my ticket once purchased?
No. Festival of Light tickets are strictly non-transferable and non-refundable. Changes cannot be made to your booking once it is confirmed.
Can I leave the Festival of Light and return the same evening with my ticket?
No. Your ticket is only valid for the entry time stated on the ticket. If you leave you will be unable to return at a later time that evening. Once you have entered the Festival of Light there is no limit on how long you can stay at the event.
Is the Festival of Light accessible to pushchairs and wheelchairs?
Yes. The Festival of Light is fully accessible to pushchair and wheelchair users.
Will there be new lighting features and activities at this year’s Festival of Light?
Yes there will be brand new lighting features combined with some classic favourites. You can expect some very exciting special additions this year.
Will there be food and drinks available on site?
Yes. There’ll be a great range of food and drinks available to buy in Mowbray Park. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own food and drinks however alcohol is strictly prohibited.
Will there be toilets and baby changing facilities available at the event?
Yes. Toilets and baby changing facilities will be available.
Will Mowbray Park be free to access during the day?
Yes. Access to the park will remain as usual until approximately 3pm every event day at which point the park will be closed for preparation of event visitors entering at 4pm.
Which roads will be closed during the event?
Due to Mowbray Park’s city centre location, no roads will be closed during the event.
Where can visitors to the event park?
Parking is free Monday – Friday after 3pm at the following car parks:
Gorse Road
West Wear Street
Charles Street
Tatham Street
Nile Street
On street pay and display parking bays are chargeable all days between 8am-6pm at the hourly tariff including Sundays Riverside, St Marys and Sunniside car parks are chargeable at all times. All City Centre car parks are chargeable all day on a Sunday at a flat rate of £3 You can find out more about where to park and parking fees by clicking the links below: Car parks – Sunderland City Council On street parking places – Sunderland City Council
Who do I contact if I have a question about the Festival of Light?
Please email events@sunderland.gov.uk and a member of our team will be happy to help.
Quiet Hour
A ‘quiet hour’ is available to book on selected dates for visitors looking for a quieter or calmer experience. During this time, music in the park will be turned down. Quiet hours are on from 4.30pm – 5.30pm every Thursday.
United States Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Jessica Thornhill 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 Thornhill has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Middle District of Louisiana, 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 Gathe 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 Gathe further 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, AUSA/DEO Thornhill will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 225-389-0443.”
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 225-291-5159.
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 Gathe 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.
The founder of the Mafia criminal street gang who has a lengthy criminal history in the Middle Georgia community was sentenced to the maximum prison term allowed by law for illegally possessing a firearm.
Alphonzo Clyde, 45, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 180 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Oct. 17. Clyde pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on April 10. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Alphonzo Clyde and the Mafia wreaked havoc in Macon and beyond for years,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “This significant sentence should directly result in reduced violence, and it would not have been possible without our strong federal and local law enforcement connection.”
“Despite a lengthy criminal history, Clyde continued to break the law,” said Robert Gibbs, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Macon office. “This sentencing demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to work thoroughly with our local and federal partners to investigate and remove the leaders of drug trafficking organizations from our streets by whatever means necessary.”
“Alfonso Clyde is a notorious criminal whose career of mayhem has spanned nearly thirty years,” said Bibb County Sheriff David J. Davis. “This investigative and prosecution result is a testament to the importance of local agencies working together with our federal partners. Macon and the entire Middle Georgia community is better off having this gangster off our streets for many years to come.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, Clyde is the founder of the Macon Mafia, a criminal street gang operating in Middle Georgia and West Virginia. Clyde was wanted on an outstanding probation violation warrant when officers from the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the Jones County Sheriff’s Office took him into custody on Oct. 8, 2023. At the time of his arrest, officers spotted a digital scale with a white powdery substance located on the front passenger seat of the SUV that Clyde was driving. Officers also detected a marijuana odor emanating from his vehicle. Officers found a Taurus G2S 9-millimeter handgun inside the glovebox. Clyde has multiple prior felony convictions; it is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the FBI, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the Jones County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom prosecuted the case for the Government.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – United States Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys Lena Busscher and Ronald Huber 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 Busscher and Huber have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEO) for the Western District of Virginia, 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.
“The right to vote is the cornerstone of our Republic,” United States Attorney Kavanaugh said today. “The Department of Justice will always work to protect the integrity of the election process and to ensure that every citizen has the ability to vote without interference or discrimination. In addition, election officials, staff, and others working to ensure a free and fair election is carried out will be protected from unlawful threats of violence this and every election season.”
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).
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/DEOs Busscher and Huber will be on duty in the Western District while the polls are open. AUSA Busscher can be reached at 276-739-2954. AUSA Huber can be reached at 434-296-3912.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available 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 tips.fbi.gov.
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,” United States Attorney Kavanagh added. “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.
The fifth anniversary of the first all-female spacewalk by NASA astronauts Christina H. Koch and Jessica U. Meir seems like a good time to tell the story of women spacewalkers. Since the first woman stepped outside a spacecraft in 1984, 23 women from four nationalities have participated in 61 spacewalks. These women made significant contributions to their national and international programs, conducting pioneering work during their spacewalks. Their accomplishments include servicing of satellites, assembly and maintenance of space stations, conducting research, and testing new spacesuits. Since the first spacewalk performed by a woman in 1984, women have displayed their contributions in performing extravehicular activities and there has even been four all women spacewalks since then. Table listing women with spacewalk experience. As of Oct. 18, 2024, 79 women have flown in space, and 23 of them have donned spacesuits of different designs and stepped outside the relative comfort of their spacecraft to work in the harsh environment of open space. The various spacesuits, Russian Orlan, American Extravehicular Mobility Unit, Chinese Feitian-2, and SpaceX’s new design, all provide protection from the harsh environment, essentially turning the astronauts into individual spaceships. They all provide the crew members with the ability to carry out complicated tasks in open space. Left: Soviet cosmonaut Svetlana Y. Savitskaya during her historic spacewalk outside the Salyut 7 space station. Middle: NASA astronaut Kathryn D. Sullivan during her historic spacewalk during STS-41G. Right: NASA astronaut Kathryn C. Thornton on her second spacewalk on STS-61. Soviet cosmonaut Svetlana Y. Savitskaya made history on July 17, 1984, as the first woman to make a second trip into space, on her second visit to the Salyut 7 space station. Savitskaya made history again on July 25 as the first woman to participate in a spacewalk. During the 3-hour 35-minute excursion, Savitskaya tested a multipurpose tool for electron beam cutting, welding, soldering, and brazing. Less than three months later, on Oct. 11, NASA astronaut Kathryn D. Sullivan completed the first spacewalk by an American woman from space shuttle Challenger during the STS-41G mission. Sullivan helped test the in-orbit transfer of hydrazine using the Orbital Refueling System. With Sally K. Ride as one of Sullivan’s crewmates, the flight marked the first time a space crew included two women. NASA astronaut Kathryn C. Thornton completed her first spacewalk in 1992 during STS-49, the second American woman to walk in space. During this excursion, Thornton tested assembly techniques for the future space station. Thornton earned the recognition as the first woman to make more than one spacewalk when she completed two spacewalks on STS-61, the first mission to service the Hubble Space Telescope. Left: NASA astronaut Linda M. Godwin, the first woman to conduct a spacewalk at Mir during STS-76. Middle left: NASA astronaut Tamara E. Jernigan, the first woman to perform a spacewalk at the International Space Station during STS-96. Middle right: Expedition 2 NASA astronaut Susan J. Helms, the first female long-duration crew member to conduct a spacewalk during the STS-102 docked phase. Right: Godwin during STS-108, the first woman to complete spacewalks at Mir and the space station. NASA astronaut Linda M. Godwin has the distinction as the first woman of any nationality to conduct a spacewalk at Mir. As a member of the STS-76 crew, on March 27, 1996, she took part in a 6-hour 2-minute spacewalk to install handrails and four space exposure experiments onto Mir’s Docking Module. Godwin returned to space on STS-108, and on Dec. 10, 2001, took part in a spacewalk lasting 4 hours 12 minutes to install insulation blankets on the space station, earning the title as the first woman to conduct spacewalks at both Mir and the space station. NASA astronaut Tamara E. Jernigan conducted the first spacewalk by a woman at the embryonic International Space Station. On May 29, 1999, during STS-96, the second space station assembly flight, Jernigan participated in a 7-hour 55-minute spacewalk to install U.S. and Russian cargo cranes, foot restraints, and tool bags. Expedition 2 NASA astronaut Susan J. Helms performed a spacewalk on March 11, 2001, during the STS-102 docked phase to relocate the Pressurized Mating Adaptor-3 (PMA-3) from Node 1’s nadir port to a berth on its port side, to enable the berthing of the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module. This marked the first time a woman long-duration crew member performed a spacewalk. Its 8-hour 56-minute duration makes it the longest spacewalk in history. A collage of NASA astronaut Peggy A. Whitson’s 10 spacewalks during space station Expeditions 5, 16, and 50/51. As an Expedition 5 flight engineer, NASA astronaut Peggy A. Whitson participated in her first spacewalk on Aug. 16, 2002. Clad in an Orlan spacesuit and using the Pirs module airlock, she assisted in the installation of six debris shield panels on the Zvezda Service Module. Whitson completed her next five spacewalks, wearing Extravehicular Mobility Units and using the Quest airlock, as commander of Expedition 16, one of the busiest assembly and reconfiguration periods at the space station. The primary objectives for the first three of these spacewalks, conducted on Nov. 9, Nov. 20, and Nov. 24, involved relocating the Harmony Node 2 module and PMA-2 to the front of Destiny and preparing Harmony for the arrival of the Columbus module. Work during the fourth and fifth excursions on Dec. 18 and Jan. 30, 2008, had Whitson conduct inspections and maintenance on the station’s solar array joints. During her next mission to the space station, a 289-day stay that set a new record as the longest single flight by a woman, she completed a further four spacewalks. During Expedition 50, on Jan. 6, 2017, she upgraded the station’s power system by installing three new lithium-ion batteries, and on March 30 installed electrical connections to the PMA-3 recently relocated to Harmony’s top-facing port. During Expedition 51, as station commander once again, Whitson stepped outside on May 12 to replace an avionics package on an external logistics carrier and installed a protective shield on PMA-3. Her 10th and final excursion involved a contingency spacewalk to replace a backup data converter unit that failed three days earlier. With her 10 excursions, Whitson shares a seven-way second place tie for most spacewalks; only one person has conducted more. And with regard to total spacewalk time, she places sixth overall, having spent a total of 60 hours, 21 minutes outside the station. Left: During STS-115, NASA astronaut Heidemarie M. Stefanyshyn-Piper conducts the first of her five career spacewalks. Middle: During STS-116, NASA astronaut Sunita L. Williams after the conclusion of the first of her seven career spacewalks. Right: Expedition 20 NASA astronaut Nicole P. Stott during her STS-128 spacewalk. During STS-115, NASA astronaut Heidemarie M. Stefanyshyn-Piper participated in two of the mission’s three spacewalks. The primary tasks of the excursions on Sept. 12 and 15, 2006, involved the addition of the P3/P4 truss segment including a pair of solar arrays to the station. During her second visit to the space station on STS-126, Stefanyshyn-Piper completed three more spacewalks on Nov. 18, 20, and 22, 2008. Tasks accomplished during these excursions included performing maintenance on one of the solar array joints, replacing a nitrogen tank, and relocating two equipment carts. During Expedition 14, NASA astronaut Sunita L. Williams completed four spacewalks. During the first excursion during the STS-116 docked phase on Dec. 16, 2006, the primary task involved the reconfiguration of the station’s power system. The primary tasks for Williams’ three Expedition 14 spacewalks on Jan. 31, Feb. 4, and Feb. 8, 2007, involved completing the reconfiguration of the station’s cooling system. As a flight engineer during Expedition 32, Williams conducted spacewalks on Aug. 30, 2012, to replace a faulty power routing unit and prepare the station for the arrival of the Nauka module, and on Sept. 5, 2012, to install a spare power unit. During Expedition 33, Williams assumed command of the station, only the second woman to do so, and during a spacewalk on Nov. 1, 2012, repaired an ammonia leak. Across her seven spacewalks, Williams spent 50 hours 40 minutes outside the station. Expedition 20 NASA astronaut Nicole P. Stott completed her one and only spacewalk on Sept. 1, 2009, during the STS-128 docked phase. The objectives of the 6-hour 35-minute excursion involved preparing for the replacement of an empty ammonia tank and retrieving American and European experiments from the Columbus module. Left: NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson during Expedition 24, at the conclusion of the first of her four career spacewalks. Middle: During Expedition 48, NASA astronaut Kathleen H. Rubins takes the first of her four career spacewalks. Right: Expedition 59 NASA astronaut Anne C. McClain on the first of her two spacewalks. On July 24, 2010, during Expedition 24, one of the station’s ammonia pump modules failed. The loss of coolant forced controllers to shut down several critical station systems although neither the vehicle nor the crew were ever in danger. The failure resulted in two of the Expedition crew members including NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson performing three contingency spacewalks on Aug. 7, 11, and 16, 2010, to replace the pump module. The repairs took nearly 23 hours of spacewalking time. During her next mission, Expedition 71, Dyson began a spacewalk on June 24, 2024, but a leak in her suit forced the cancellation of the excursion after 31 minutes. NASA astronaut Kathleen H. Rubins completed two spacewalks during Expedition 48. During the first, on Aug. 19, 2016, she helped to install the first of two international docking adapters (IDA) to PMA-2 located at the forward end of Harmony. The IDA allows commercial spacecraft to dock autonomously to the space station. During the second excursion on Sept. 1, she retracted a thermal radiator, tightened struts on a solar array joint, and installed high-definition cameras on the outside of the station. Rubins conducted two more spacewalks during her second mission, Expedition 64. On Feb. 28, 2021, she began to assemble and install modification kits for upcoming solar array upgrades, completing the tasks during the next spacewalk on March 5. During her first spacewalk on March 22, 2019, Expedition 59 NASA astronaut Anne C. McClain replaced older nickel hydrogen batteries with newer and more efficient lithium-ion batteries. McClain ventured out for her second spacewalk on April 8 to install a redundant power circuit for the station’s Canadarm robotic arm and cables for more expansive wireless coverage outside the station. Left: Expedition 59 NASA astronaut Christina H. Koch during the first of her six career spacewalks. Right: NASA astronauts Jessica U. Meir, left, and Koch, assisted by their Expedition 61 crewmates, prepare for the first all-woman spacewalk. During Expedition 59, Koch conducted her first spacewalk on March 29. She helped to install three newer lithium-ion batteries to replace six older nickel hydrogen batteries. The Expedition 61 crew conducted a record nine spacewalks between October 2019 and January 2020, and women participated in five of them. Koch’s second and third spacewalks on Oct 6 and 11 continued the work of replacing the station’s batteries. Koch and fellow NASA astronaut Jessica U. Meir made history on Oct. 18 when they floated outside the space station to carry out the first all-woman spacewalk, one of several excursions to replace the station’s batteries. The capsule communicator (capcom), the person in the Mission Control Center at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston who communicates with the astronauts in space, for this historic spacewalk was three-time space shuttle veteran Stephanie D. Wilson. “As much as it’s worth celebrating the first spacewalk with an all-female team, I think many of us are looking forward to it just being normal,” astronaut Dyson said during live coverage of the spacewalk. Koch and Meir conducted two more all-woman spacewalks on Jan. 15 and 20, 2020, continuing the battery replacement tasks. During her six spacewalks, Koch spent 44 hours 15 minutes outside. In addition to her spacewalk accomplishments, Koch set a new record of 328 days for a single spaceflight by a woman. Left: Wang Yaping during the first spacewalk by a Chinese woman astronaut from the Tiangong space station. Image credit: courtesy of CNSA. Middle: NASA astronaut Kayla S. Barron during the first of two spacewalks during Expedition 66. Right: During Expedition 67, Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti conducts the first spacewalk by a woman from the European Space Agency. During her second trip into space, People’s Republic of China astronaut Wang Yaping launched aboard the Shenzhou 13 spacecraft as part of the second resident crew to live aboard China’s Tiangong space station. On Nov. 7, 2021, she stepped outside the space station, the first Chinese woman to do so, wearing a Feitian-2 spacesuit. She spent 6 hours 25 minutes installing a grapple fixture for the facility’s robotic arm. During Expedition 66, NASA astronaut Kayla S. Barron completed two spacewalks. During the first one, on Dec. 2, 2021, Barron replaced a faulty communications antenna. On March 15, 2022, during the second spacewalk, she assembled and installed modification kits required for future solar array upgrades. Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti conducted the first spacewalk by a female European Space Agency astronaut. For the excursion on July 21, 2022, she wore an Orlan spacesuit and used the Poisk module airlock. Objectives of the spacewalk included deploying 10 nanosatellites, working to install the European robotic arm on the Nauka module, and reconfiguring cargo booms. Left: Chinese astronaut Liu Yang, left, during her spacewalk from the Tiangong space station. Image credit: courtesy of CNSA. Right. NASA astronaut Nicole A. Mann at the conclusion of her first spacewalk during Expedition 68. As a member of the third expedition aboard the Tiangong space station, Chinese astronaut Liu Yang participated in a spacewalk on Sept. 1, 2022. This marked the first use of the airlock in the Wentian module. Activities during the excursion included installing work stations and an additional cooling pump for the Wentian module. Expedition 68 NASA astronaut Nicole A. Mann participated in two spacewalks, on Jan. 20, and Feb. 2, 2023. Objectives of the excursions included assembling and installing brackets for upcoming solar array upgrades. Left: Laurel A. O’Hara, left, and Jasmin Moghbeli, right, prepare for their spacewalk during Expedition 70. Right: SpaceX astronaut Sarah L. Gillis performs the first commercial spacewalk by a woman during the Polaris Dawn mission. During Expedition 70, NASA astronauts Jasmin Moghbeli and Loral A. O’Hara performed the fourth all-woman spacewalk. The primary activity during the excursion involved replacement of bearings in a solar array joint. SpaceX employee Sarah L. Gillis performed the first female commercial spacewalk during the Polaris Dawn mission on Sept. 12, 2024. During the 1 hour 46 minute excursion, Gillis tested the flexibility of the SpaceX designed spacesuit.
PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)
1.KEY INFORMATION
(a)Full name of discloser:
VELAY FINANCIAL SERVICES LTD
(b)Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
Not applicable
(c)Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
MUSICMAGPIE PLC
(d)If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
Not applicable
(e)Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
15/10/2024
(f)In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
N/A
2.POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.
(a)Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)
Class of relevant security:
1p ordinary
Interests
Short positions
Number
%
Number
%
(1)Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:
(2)Cash-settled derivatives:
1 650 000
1.53
(3)Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL:
1 650 000
1.53
All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.
Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).
(b)Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)
Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:
Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:
3.DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.
The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.
(a)Purchases and sales
Class of relevant security
Purchase/sale
Number of securities
Price per unit
(b)Cash-settled derivative transactions
Class of relevant security
Product description e.g. CFD
Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
(d)Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)
Class of relevant security
Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion
Details
Price per unit (if applicable)
4.OTHER INFORMATION
(a)Indemnity and other dealing arrangements
Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer: Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
None
(b)Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives
Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to: (i)the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or (ii)the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced: If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
None
(c)Attachments
Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?
NO
Date of disclosure:
16/10/2024
Contact name:
Arnaud STEPHANN
Telephone number*:
00 41 22 707 42 70
Additional dealing in this security:
DATE
Buy/Sell
QTY
Price
Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
*If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.
No Proof of Committed Financing and/or Information to Validate Its Claims that a Transaction Could Receive Regulatory Approval and Be Completed
Hope Bancorp Merger Is the Only Opportunity that Provides Tangible Value, has a Clear Path to Close and Creates a Stronger Territorial
Territorial Urges Shareholders to Vote FOR Hope Bancorp Merger in Advance of Special Meeting on November 6, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. Hawai‘i Time
HONOLULU, Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Territorial Bancorp Inc. (NASDAQ: TBNK) (“Territorial” or the “Company”) is mailing the following letter to Territorial shareholders in connection with the Company’s upcoming Special Meeting of Stockholders (the “Special Meeting”) to vote on the proposed merger with Hope Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOPE) (“Hope Bancorp”) and related proposals. The Special Meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2024 at 8:30 a.m., Hawai‘i Time. Territorial shareholders of record as of August 14, 2024 are entitled to vote at or before the meeting. Other important information related to the Special Meeting can be found at http://www.TerritorialandHopeCombination.com.
Dear Fellow Territorial Bancorp Shareholders,
On November 6, 2024, Territorial Bancorp is holding a Special Meeting of Stockholders (the “Special Meeting”) to vote on our pending merger with Hope Bancorp. Failure to approve the merger could have significant negative consequences for the value of your investment and Territorial’s continued success.
Don’t be misled: Blue Hill Advisors LLC (“Blue Hill”) has only issued press releases and presentations. Blue Hill has warned that its indication of interest is “non-binding” and has provided no evidence that it would – or could – actually pay for the Company. Moreover, there are very real concerns that Blue Hill could complete a transaction at all.
Protect your investment: The Territorial Bancorp Board of Directors strongly recommends that all Territorial shareholders vote “FOR” the Hope Bancorp merger and related proposals TODAY. Your vote is important, no matter how many, or few, shares you own.
The Territorial Board of Directors is Committed to Doing What is in the Best Interest of Territorial Shareholders and Pursuing the Most Value Creating Path
Blue Hill Has Provided No Information that Would Enable the Territorial Board to Deem Its Preliminary Indication of Interest Superior or Likely to Lead to a Superior Proposal
In negotiating the Hope Bancorp merger agreement, the Territorial Board obtained important protections for our shareholders – namely a superior proposal provision. This provision enables the Board to have discussions with parties who present an alternative to the Hope Bancorp merger so long as the alternative proposal is real, fully financed and actually or likely “superior” to the Hope transaction. To meet this standard, the alternative proposal must, among other things, be more favorable to our shareholders from a financial point of view and be reasonably likely to close. Blue Hill has not met these and other thresholds.
No verifiable evidence Blue Hill can actually pay for your shares and fund the likely additional capital infusion into Territorial Savings Bank required with its acquisition. Blue Hill has only referenced “capital support” and pointed to its assets under management (“AUM”), neither of which are committed financing. Proving committed financing is easy so long as you have it, but Blue Hill has not provided any such evidence, which compounds doubts about its credibility and the credibility of its preliminary indication of interest. Assets under management are assets that belong to other people and Blue Hill has not shown it has any authority to access those funds to pay for Territorial.
No confidence that its proposed transaction is reasonably likely to close.
Lack of M&A and regulatory experience: Blue Hill has made vague references to having M&A experience. However, Territorial has found no information to prove that Blue Hill has previously applied for – or secured – regulatory approvals for any transaction of this size and complexity. If Blue Hill has such a track record, where is it?
Evasive about obtaining required regulatory approvals or simply ignoring them: The takeover of an entire bank, as Blue Hill is seeking, is likely a controlled acquisition under banking law. The coordinated efforts of six “discrete” investors per Blue Hill’s proposal would likely be viewed as a group that is “acting in concert,” increasing regulatory scrutiny and requirements – none of which Blue Hill has acknowledged or addressed. Nor have they offered even a guess as to how long these approvals will take.
Rejected by regulators: Blue Hill has refused to disclose the identity of its “discrete investors” and replacement Board and management. What is Blue Hill hiding? In addition, no information has been provided on how it would address safety and soundness issues regarding interest rate risk, liquidity, capital and earnings, which are paramount to regulators. Blue Hill’s lack of information all but ensures that regulatory applications would be rejected as soon as they were submitted.
Failed tender offer: Territorial has an approximately 50% retail shareholder base and a fragmented institutional investor base. Given these facts, it is highly unlikely that Blue Hill would be able to complete the 70% tender offer it has proposed.
No assurances that Blue Hill will stand by its price and not reduce it if the Hope Bancorp merger agreement was terminated or following its unspecified “due diligence.” Keep in mind – Hope Bancorp reduced its proposal for Territorial after conducting due diligence, and Blue Hill has explicitly stated that its indication of interest is conditioned on due diligence and is non-binding.
No assurances that Blue Hill won’t put its interests before your own: Blue Hill has entered into secret side agreements with its “discrete” investors. The terms of these agreements have not been disclosed and Blue Hill has not offered any governance structure, much less one that protects your interests.
On four occasions we have publicly provided Blue Hill with a roadmap of the basic elements that need to be addressed before we would be able to engage in discussions with them under the terms of the Hope Bancorp merger agreement. Despite this, Blue Hill has repeatedly failed to provide credible and verifiable information as to these basic elements.
Given these and other factors, the Territorial Board has not concluded that the Blue Hill proposal constitutes or is reasonably likely to lead to a superior proposal, as defined by the Hope Bancorp merger agreement. As a result, the only way to unilaterally engage in discussions with Blue Hill would be to break our obligations under the Hope Bancorp merger agreement, which would expose Territorial and our shareholders to substantial, costly litigation risk and the possibility of no transaction at all.
Territorial Shareholders Are at Great Risk If the Hope Bancorp Merger is Terminated and the Only Strategic Alternative is Blue Hill
The Value of Your Shares Could Decline Substantially
Hope Bancorp addresses Territorial’s business challenges. Blue Hill does not: While the overall market may have changed, Territorial’s business fundamentals have not. As a standalone, monoline, one- to four-family loan focused bank, Territorial faces substantial business and regulatory risks – even in a declining interest rate environment. The Company has been operating at a loss over multiple quarters; loan growth is flat; and revenues are declining.
These and other factors led to the Board’s decision to cut Territorial’s dividend to essentially $0 and enter into the Hope Bancorp merger agreement. While our challenges would be addressed by Hope Bancorp’s larger, stronger, more diversified platform, Blue Hill offers nothing to benefit the business if the Hope Bancorp agreement is terminated. Indeed, with Blue Hill, Territorial would have the same standalone hurdles that it does today and potentially much worse.
With Blue Hill, the value of your shares and protection of your rights could be substantially diminished: If Blue Hill is unable to complete a 100% tender, the remaining Territorial shareholders would be left with an illiquid, stub minority investment in a controlled company and with limited rights. Stub stocks generally trade at a lower price and valuation and can be highly volatile.
A Blue Hill transaction would be taxable; the Hope Bancorp merger is not. Blue Hill’s tax consequences could potentially leave shareholders with less – in some cases substantially less – than the per share value Blue Hill has proposed.
Territorial shareholders will not immediately receive any payment for their shares while any transaction with Blue Hill is sitting in regulatory limbo. Given the time-value-of-money, delays mean that the net value of Blue Hill’s preliminary indication of interest, if completed, would be substantially less than what it has proposed. Meanwhile, your stock would remain tied up during the Blue Hill tender and could not be sold.
The Hope Bancorp Merger Is the Best, Most Value-Creating Opportunity for Territorial Shareholders at Close and Over the Long-term
Unlike the illusion that Blue Hill is promoting, the value creation and other benefits from the Hope Bancorp merger are real and achievable.
100% tax free, stock-for-stock transaction: 0.8048 shares of Hope Bancorp for each Territorial share owned
~25% premium to Territorial’s closing stock price just prior to merger announcementi
1,000%+ increase to Territorial’s standalone dividend (from $0.01 to $0.11 per share)ii
Upside value opportunity by being invested in larger, more diversified company with a strong capital position and larger investment platform that is better positioned to navigate varying market environments
$10.5M of incremental value from annual merger enabled cost savings and synergies
Proven management team with strong record of superior value creation – total shareholder returns (“TSR”) outperforming peers
Choice as shareholders could also choose liquidity now if they prefer not to stay invested in the combined organization
The merger will also create significant benefits for our customers, employees and local Hawai‘i communities. Hope Bancorp values the relationships we have established and wants to build on them.
We will continue to operate under the Territorial name.
Our local branches and operations will be led by local teams – Territorial’s customers can benefit from additional choices and rely on the same people they know and respect.
Employees will continue to receive competitive compensation and benefits and will have additional career opportunities.
We will continue to support and invest in our local communities.
The Territorial Board Continues to Recommend that Shareholders Vote FOR the Hope Bancorp Merger
The Territorial Board takes its fiduciary responsibilities seriously. Absent more information from Blue Hill, there is no basis to engage with Blue Hill or reach a determination that their illusory, non-binding, highly conditional preliminary indication of interest is superior, likely to lead to a superior proposal, or is in Territorial shareholders’ best interests.
In contrast, with Hope Bancorp, we will become part of a larger, more diversified regional bank, unlocking new value creation opportunities for shareholders while building on our more than 100-year legacy of serving and supporting our local Hawai‘i communities.
We are on a path to complete the Hope Bancorp transaction by the end of this year, subject to the condition that a majority of our shares are voted in favor of it. Your vote is important – no matter how many, or how few, shares you own. Every vote counts.
So please, join me and the entire Territorial Board and management team by voting FOR the Hope Bancorp merger by internet, phone or mail today.
Sincerely
Allan S. Kitagawa Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer
Your Vote Is Important, No Matter How Many or How Few Shares You Own!
Please take a moment to vote FOR the proposals set forth on the enclosed proxy card — by Internet, telephone toll-free or by signing, dating and returning the enclosed proxy card or voting instruction form. Vote well in advance of the Special Meeting on November 6, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. Hawaiʻi Time.
If you have questions about how to vote your shares, please contact:
Laurel Hill Advisory Group
Call toll-free: (888) 742-1305 Banks and brokers should call: (516) 933-3100 Email: info@laurelhill.com
About Us
Territorial Bancorp Inc., headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, is the stock holding company for Territorial Savings Bank. Territorial Savings Bank is a state-chartered savings bank which was originally chartered in 1921 by the Territory of Hawaiʻi. Territorial Savings Bank conducts business from its headquarters in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, and has 28 branch offices in the state of Hawaiʻi. For additional information, please visit https://www.tsbhawaii.bank/.
Additional Information about the Hope Merger and Where to Find It
In connection with the proposed Hope Merger, Hope has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a Registration Statement on Form S-4, containing the Proxy Prospectus, which has been mailed or otherwise delivered to Territorial’s stockholders on or about August 29, 2024, as supplemented September 12, 2024. Hope and Territorial may file additional relevant materials with the SEC. INVESTORS AND STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY PROSPECTUS, AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT ARE FILED OR FURNISHED OR WILL BE FILED OR FURNISHED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THOSE DOCUMENTS, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN OR WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS. You may obtain any of the documents filed with or furnished to the SEC by Hope or Territorial at no cost from the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.
Forward-Looking Statements
Some statements in this news release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, expectations regarding the low-cost core deposit base, diversification of the loan portfolio, expansion of market share, capital to support growth, strengthened opportunities, enhanced value, geographic expansion, and statements about the proposed transaction being immediately accretive. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words “will,” “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates” or similar expressions. With respect to any such forward-looking statements, Territorial Bancorp claims the protection provided for in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks and uncertainties. Hope Bancorp’s actual results, performance or achievements may differ significantly from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. The closing of the proposed transaction is subject to regulatory approvals, the approval of Territorial Bancorp stockholders, and other customary closing conditions. There is no assurance that such conditions will be met or that the proposed merger will be consummated within the expected time frame, or at all. If the transaction is consummated, factors that may cause actual outcomes to differ from what is expressed or forecasted in these forward-looking statements include, among things: difficulties and delays in integrating Hope Bancorp and Territorial Bancorp and achieving anticipated synergies, cost savings and other benefits from the transaction; higher than anticipated transaction costs; deposit attrition, operating costs, customer loss and business disruption following the merger, including difficulties in maintaining relationships with employees and customers, may be greater than expected; and required governmental approvals of the merger may not be obtained on its proposed terms and schedule, or without regulatory constraints that may limit growth. Other risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: possible further deterioration in economic conditions in Hope Bancorp’s or Territorial Bancorp’s areas of operation or elsewhere; interest rate risk associated with volatile interest rates and related asset-liability matching risk; liquidity risks; risk of significant non-earning assets, and net credit losses that could occur, particularly in times of weak economic conditions or times of rising interest rates; the failure of or changes to assumptions and estimates underlying Hope Bancorp’s or Territorial Bancorp’s allowances for credit losses; potential increases in deposit insurance assessments and regulatory risks associated with current and future regulations; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Hope Bancorp or Territorial Bancorp; the risk that any announcements relating to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of the common stock of either or both parties to the proposed transaction; and diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities. For additional information concerning these and other risk factors, see Hope Bancorp’s and Territorial Bancorp’s most recent Annual Reports on Form 10-K. Hope Bancorp and Territorial Bancorp do not undertake, and specifically disclaim any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of events or circumstances after the date of such statements except as required by law.
i Based on Territorial and Hope Bancorp’s closing prices as of 4/26/24 (day before merger announcement) ii Based on 0.8048 fixed exchange ratio and Hope Bancorp’s $0.14 current per share dividend
Heads of Governments and Non-Government Organizations,
Members of the National Mental Health Committee
Congregation,
Ladies and gentlemen,
I am humbled to stand before you today to address a topic that touches the very core of our society – mental health in Samoa. As we gather here today, we are united by a shared commitment to addressing one of the most pressing issues facing our people.
In Samoa, our culture and sense of community – our ‘Fa’asamoa’ – are our greatest strengths. Our traditions of togetherness, family, and spirituality have sustained us through many challenges. Yet, mental health is a challenge that requires us to confront uncomfortable truths and break the silence that surrounds it.
Starting today until the 10th of October is the Commemoration of the Mental Health Week in Samoa, with the main objective of raising awareness on mental health issues and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. This week’s celebration is parallel with the World Mental Health Day that is commemorated every year globally.
The theme for this year’s Mental Health Week is– ‘Healthy Minds, Healthy Workplaces’. It is an issue that is often overlooked but is increasingly essential in today’s world. We all know that our work plays a significant role in our lives. It is not only a source of income, but also a place where we spend much of our time, contribute to society, and build our identities. However, while we talk a lot about productivity, performance, and success in our workspaces, we don’t talk enough about something just as important, our mental health.
In Samoa, mental health is often misunderstood or hidden. Many of our people suffer in silence, believing that mental illness is a sign of weakness or a curse. But mental health issues, like depression, anxiety, and stress, are not signs of personal failure – they are illnesses that require care and compassion. These mental health issues have become increasingly common in the workplace, yet many still go unaddressed. In fact, globally it is estimated that one in five employees will experience a mental health challenge in any given year. And yet, many people are hesitant to talk about their mental health at work for fear of being judged, overlooked, or even discriminated against.
When workplaces neglect mental health, the consequences can be costly, not just in human terms, but financially as well. When an employee is struggling with mental health, their performance may suffer, leading to missed deadlines, errors, or conflicts with colleagues.
Beyond the economic cost, the personal toll is immense. Employees who face mental health challenges in silence can feel isolated, stressed, and burnt out.
Our country has seen rising rates of mental health issues, particularly among our youth. The pressures of modern life, unemployment, academic stress, and family conflicts contribute to feelings of hopelessness and isolation. Suicide has tragically become a reality for too many of our young people. The fact that Samoa has one of the highest youth suicide rates in the Pacific should give us all pause. The recent reports stated that majority of people at risk of developing mental disorders are middle aged men living in urban areas and working. Other recent studies indicate that males of less that 30years who were unemployed and living in Apia urban area, were more likely to experience psychological distress due to contributing factors such as alcohol use. Young adults aged 18-29 years living in Apia urban area were more likely to report symptoms of psychological distress than those in other areas. Women were more likely to report symptoms of psychological distress compared to men. Therefore, most of us working and employed are at risk of developing mental disorders and psychological stress.
Behind these statistics are real stories of our sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, whose lives could have been saved with better mental health support.
We cannot talk about mental health in Samoa without addressing the stigma. Mental illness is often perceived through a lens of shame, leading many to avoid seeking help. In many cases, mental health conditions are seen as a spiritual or supernatural issue, which delays access to proper care. This stigma prevents open conversations, leaving people feeling alone in their suffering.
Samoa has made significant strides in addressing mental health, recognizing it as a crucial component of public health. Mental health has been integrated into its national health strategy, reflecting a commitment to addressing mental health as a public health priority. One of the key efforts is the integration of mental health services into primary health care in ensuring that mental health is treated alongside physical health, allowing people to seek help within their local health facilities. The Samoa government and various NGOs launched public awareness campaigns to combat stigma and encourage open discussions about mental health.
Samoa works closely with international organizations such as the World Health Organization to enhance its mental health services. Some of the local organizations have launched suicide prevention programs, particularly focused on vulnerable groups such as youth. Treatment and care are provided through the Mental Unit at the main hospital in Apia which offers inpatient and outpatient care for those with severe mental health conditions. With extensive care of these patients, service is supported and provided by the GOSHEN Trust. Churches and other organizations such as the Salvation Army have played a pivotal role in promoting mental health particularly programs that focus on building resilience, emotional intelligence, and coping mechanisms. These programs aim to empower our people especially the youth to manage stress, anxiety and reducing the risk of more severe outcomes such as suicide.
Despite these combined efforts, Samoa still faces several challenges in addressing mental health. These include the resource limitations including shortage of trained mental health professionals in Samoa. Mental Health services are often concentrated in urban areas. There are also geographical barriers and cultural stigma, making it hard for individuals to seek help openly.
There is still much work to be done, particularly in expanding access to services and reducing stigma. Continued collaboration, investment, and community engagement will be essential to ensure that every Samoan can receive the mental health care they need.
I would like to reiterate that there is no health without mental health. Therefore, I would like to invite everyone who is present here today, to show your support by joining the National Mental Health Committee and the Health Sector, to the Mental Health Parade. This will be held on Thursday 10th October, which starts from the Fire and Emergency Station and ends in-front of the government building, to end the activities of this important event.
I acknowledge the support of all our development partners, churches, NGOs, civil society and the wider community towards the work of mental health in Samoa.
SOIFUA MA IA MANUIA.
SAUNOAGA AUTU ALE AFIOGA TUALA TEVAGA IOSEFO PONIFASIO
AFIOGA ILE SUI PALEMIA / SUI MINISITA OLE SOIFUA MALOLOINA
O LE POLOKALAME O LE “FA’ATAUAINA O LE SOIFUA MALOLOINA O LE MAFAUFAU”
(EFKS, AAI-O-NIUE I LE 3:30 ILE AOAULI)
Lau Susuga le Ta’ita’i o le Sauniga,
Lau Susuga i le Faifeau Toeaina, Susuga i le Fa’afeagaiga
o le EFKS i Aai-o-Niue nei, Rev. Efu Efu,
Sui Mamalu o le Kapeneta,
Le paia o Sui o Malo Aufaatasi,
Ta’ita’i o Matagaluega ma Faalapotopotoga Eseese,
Paaga uma a le Soifua Maloloina,
Le mamalu o le Ekalesia nei i Aai-o-Niue, i ona tupu ma e’e faapea ma le potopotoga,
O paia ma mamalu, o lā le Atua ia, aua o Samoa ua uma ona fa’ataotooto ana tofiga. Nu’unu’u atu ia fa’atini o tausala.
Ua tala mai le lagi le mamalu o le Atua, o lē e ou vi’iga na sa’afi ma talatala i ai le susuga i le fa’afeagaiga toeaina. Mua ia le fa’apolo i le taliuta, aua o le Atua o Samoa ma lona vi’iga.
E fia momoli le agaga fa’afetai i lau susuga i le toeaina, mo le taulaga osi o lenei aso, ma fa’anōnōmanū ai aua lenei fa’amoemoe taua. O le Atua pulepule tetele na te fa’afo’i le mau e tele i lau Susuga aua faiva o tapuaiga mo si o tatou atunu’u.
O tausaga ta’itasi i le aso 10 Oketopa e fa’amanatuina ai e le lalolagi e aofia ai ma Samoa, le Aso Faapitoa o le “Fa’atauaina o le Soifua Maloloina o le Mafaufau”.
Ua tolu ai nei o tausaga, ua fa’amanatuina ai e Samoa lenei aso fa’apitoa i le vaiaso atoa. E amata atu nei e tau le Aso Tofi, 10 Oketopa, ua fa’ailogaina ai e Samoa lenei vaiaso taua. O le sini autu o lenei fa’amoemoe, ina ia fa’aauau ona tapisa ma talanoaina le taua o le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau.
O le anavatau po’o le sini autū o lenei tausaga, ua ave le fa’amamafa i le ‘Soifua Maloloina o le Mafaufau i Totonu o Fale-faigaluega’. O le fale-faigaluega, o se nofoaga po’o se vaipanoa lea o lo’o tele ina mafuta ai tagata faigaluega i aso uma. E ave ai lana fa’amuamua ona o lo’o maua mai ai le alagātupe mo le tausiga o lona aiga. O lo’o mafai ona fa’aauauina ai le maua o tomai ma agava’a, ma toe si’itia ai le malamalama. E mafuta ma feiloa’i ai le tele o tagata eseese. O le nofoaga e tausi ina ia mamā lona si’osi’omaga, ma ia mautinoa o lo’o fa’atino galuega a le aufaigaluega ina ia si’itia tupe maua a le fale faigaluega.
Ae pe’ita’i e tele ina galo ona talatala ma tali le fesili – “O a mai oe?” O tua atu o lenei fesili o lo’o afīfī ai i totonu le ‘anofale o le fale-faigaluega, o le mafaufau manuia o le tagata faigaluega. Po’o le a le lelei o le totogi, mautū ta’iala ma faigafa’avae, lelei le tino-i-fale o le fale-faigaluega, ae a a’afia le mafaufau o le tagata faigaluega, e faia fua le galuega. A la’ititi fo’i le totogi e le tusa ai ma le galuega fa’atino, e ono o’o ai ina a’afia le mafaufau, ona ua tele mea fai ae le lava le fa’asoa. Ona fa’asolo ai lava lea i le li’o lea, ma ono o’o ai ina le faigaluega le isi tagata, ona o a’afiaga o le mafaufau. O se fa’afitauli fa’amata e le o iloa atu, ae se’iloga ua talanoa ma fa’asoa ai, ona fa’atoa lagona lea e le tagata o le mea moni o lo’o tupu.
Ua to’atele tagata ua a’afia le mafaufau ona o le tele o mafua’aga. O se mataupu e tele ina lē amana’ia ma leai se fa’amamafa. O le to’atele o tagata ua a’afia le mafaufau, fa’atoa iloa lava ona ua i ai foliga va’aia, ma ua o’o i o’oo’oga. Ae o le to’atele o lo’o a’afia, e le o mafai ona iloa ona o mafua’aga e pei o le; leai o se malamalama i āuga o le a’afia o le mafaufau, o le māasiasi ona o le tusitusilima ua le mafai ona alu e saili ai se fesoasoani, ua fai ma vaisū tu ma aga o lo’o mafua ai e pei o le tagofia o le ava malosi ma laau faasaina, ua leai se lagolago a aiga, matua, nu’u ma le ekalesia. I totonu o le fale-faigaluega ua leai se lagolago a le pule, o tagata faigaluega, faapea isi tagata.
O le to’atele o lo’o noanoatia ma tutupu ai fa’afitauli e pei o le sauāina i totonu o aiga, nu’u po’o le fale-faigaluega. Ona tupu ai lea o le musuā e talanoa ma fa’asoa e saili fesoasoani. Ua sili atu le mā ma fefe e talanoa atu ona o le popole i le tusitusi lima, ma ua leai se fa’atuatuaga o nisi tagata e ono maua ai le fesoasoani. O nisi o āuga o le mafaufau ua a’afia, a tele galuega ona saili lea o le mea e mapu i ai e pei o le tagofia o le ava po’o laau fa’asaina e tua iai. Ae peita’i, o ī tonu o lo’o amata ai lava le vaisu ma le masani lea ma ono o’o ai i se tulaga ua le mafai ona tu’u, ma i’u ina a’afia ai le mafaufau.
O fa’amaumauga lata mai i totonu o Samoa, o le toatele lava ua a’afia mafaufau e mafuli aga’i i tupulaga talavou. Ona o le tele o fesuiaiga o tu ma aga, o fa’alavelave i totonu o ā’oga, o āiga, fa’apea ma fale-faigaluega, o lo’o mafua ai le tele o a’afiaga o le mafaufau. O le to’atele o i latou ua maualuga le tulaga o le ono a’afia ai o le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau e mafuli i le itupa o ali’i mai le vai-tausaga 30 aga’i luga le matutua. O le to’atele foi, e nonofo i nofoaga tu taulaga.
O nisi o tupulaga talavou e i lalo ifo o le 30 tausaga le matutua o lo’o faamauina le a’afia o le mafaufau ona o le tagofia o le ava malosi, ma e le faigaluega. E tusa ai ma fa’amaumauga, o le to’atele o tinā ma tama’ita’i ua o’o le tulaga o le a’afia o le mafaufau pe a fa’atusa i ali’i. O le popolega, ona o nisi ua a’afia le mafaufau ua o’o ina a’afia ai le soifua, aemaise lava i le tulaga o le pule i le soifua.
O nei fa’amaumauga, e fa’amausalīina ai le tatau ona una’ia ma ave le fa’amuamua i le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau. E le gata i ona a’afiaga, ae o mafua’aga fa’avae e ala ai ona fa’atino e tagata soifua tu ma aga ma o’o ai ina a’afia.
Ua tele taumafaiga a le Malo o Samoa e tauala atu i le tatou Matagaluega o le Soifua Maloloina ma ana pa’aga galulue, ina ia una’ia le soifua maloloina o le mafaufau. E ui ua i ai ta’iala ma faigafa’avae e ta’ita’itama ai le galuega, o auaunaga e pei ona iai togafitiga ma fa’atalatalanoga, o fa’alauiloa ma polokalame i nu’u ma afio’aga. Ae peita’i, e le o mafai ona fa’aitiitia ai le tele o fa’afitauli.
O le agaga maualuga, e manuia a tatou taumafaiga, pe afai e lalago fa’atasi tagata uma. O se mafaufau manuia e afua mai totonu o aiga, ekalesia, nu’u, fale-faigaluega ma le Malo. Ia tatou opogi fa’atasi ma fa’asoa, ia taofi le tusitusilima ma le fa’alumaluma, ia saili avanoa e lagolago ai so’o se tagata soifua. Ae aua le sili musa ia tatou ona toso i lalo le isi uso a tagata ma ana taumafaiga. Po’o totonu o le fale-faigaluega, o ekalesia, totonu o le aiga, e taua le galuega a ta’ita’i, o matua, o matai, fa’apea ma le lagolago a tagata ta’ito’atasi, ina ia manuia tagata uma, ma ia sapaia mea uma i le alofa. O le alofa lea o le Atua e lē fa’atuāoia.
E momoli le fa’amālō i le lagolago a tatou pa’aga galulue, o ekalesia, o so’o se fa’alapotopotoga fa’apea nu’u ma alalafaga aua lenei fa’amoemoe taua.
E tatalo atu ai i le paia ma le mamalu o le auvala’aulia, ina ia fa’ailoa lau lagolago e ala i lou auai i le “Savali mo le Mafaufau Manuia”, Aso Tofi, 10 Oketopa 2024, e amata atu luma o le Ofisa o Tinei Mu fa’asolo atu luma o le Maota o le Malo i Matagialalua i le 7.30 i le taeao.
Manuia tele toe taimi o le Aso Sapati Paia o le Atua soifua. Faafetai
New York, N.Y., Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing portable, clean energy solutions, is proud to announce today that it has appointed The Honorable John G. Vonglis, former Chief Financial Officer of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Acting Director of DOE’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy, as the Chairman of NANO Nuclear’s Executive Advisory Board for Strategic Initiatives.
Mr. Vonglis joins a growing, world-class, bipartisan Executive Advisory Board comprised of high ranking and distinguished military, political and scientific leaders which is assisting NANO Nuclear by leveraging their professional networks and relationships to connect the Company with key industry stakeholders, potential partners, clients and other valuable contacts.
“It is a pleasure to join NANO Nuclear’s advisory team and leverage my expertise in navigating a myriad of DOE and private energy-related projects to advance the development of the Company’s microreactor and other nuclear technology solutions,” said John G. Vonglis, Chairman of the Executive Advisory Board for Strategic Initiatives of NANO Nuclear Energy. “During my time with the Department of Energy, I was exposed to numerous high-impact inventions, and I believe that technologies such as NANO Nuclear’s ‘ZEUS’ and ‘ODIN’ microreactors represent the innovative spirit of the United States at an important moment for nuclear energy.”
Mr. Vonglis served as the Senate-confirmed Chief Financial Officer and Chief Risk Officer of the DOE from 2017 to 2019. As Chief Financia Officer, Mr. Vonglis oversaw all financial matters for the DOE. He was also appointed by the President as Acting Director of the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E), a federal agency focused on advancing early-stage, high-potential, high-impact energy technologies while minimizing risk to taxpayers.
Prior to his tenure at the DOE, Mr. Vonglis held several key roles at the U.S. Department of Defense from 2002 to 2009, initially as Director of Management Initiatives for the Under Secretary for Personnel and Readiness (P&R) and lastly as Acting Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Air Force, where he also served as the first Chief Management Officer, performing the duties of the Under Secretary.
Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Appoints Former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Department of Energy (DOE) John G. Vonglis as its Chairman of its Executive Advisory Board for Strategic Initiatives.
Mr. Vonglis’ private sector experience includes senior financial and operational roles at prominent advisory, aerospace/defense, financial services, and high-technology firms. Mr. Vonglis is a retired U.S. Army Reserve Colonel with 34 years’ experience in Army and Joint special operations, where he also advised ‘SOFWERX’ and the Army Cyber Institute at West Point. He holds a B.S. and M.B.A. from Fordham University and a Master’s in International Public Policy from The Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS).
“Attracting an exemplary leader like John to serve on our Executive Advisory Board, with his years of experience on the inside of complex government processes and working on cutting edge innovations, is a validation of our vision and mission for NANO Nuclear,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear Energy. “John’s addition brings credibility, valuable insight and a multitude of important contacts to NANO Nuclear and allows us to better position our company to fully capitalize on the significant momentum within the nuclear energy industry. We are honored to welcome him to the team.”
“We are confident that John’s contribution as an Executive Advisory Board member for NANO Nuclear will be invaluable as we continue to progress our microreactor and other technology solutions through design, testing, regulatory processes and ultimately to market,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Reactor Development of NANO Nuclear Energy. “Recent natural disaster events, such as the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, highlight the critical need for reliable and portable energy solutions. Our portable nuclear microreactors, ‘ZEUS’ and ‘ODIN,’ are designed to provide power for rescue operations and shelters in the aftermath of such natural disasters. We are committed to advancing these technologies to market and delivering cutting-edge solutions to those who need them most.”
About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.
NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across four business lines: (i) cutting edge portable microreactor technology, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation and (iv) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.
Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s products in technical development are “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.
Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.
HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.
NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.
This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release or related events contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements (including statements related to the anticipated benefits of Mr. Vonglis joining the Company’ Executive Advisory Board) related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of government regulation and policies including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the business of a start-up business operating a highly regulated industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and the NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at http://www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.
A former Louisiana sheriff’s office deputy was sentenced yesterday to 37 months in prison for assaulting a pretrial detainee.
Javarrea Pouncy, 31, a former sergeant with the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO), previously pleaded guilty to one count of using excessive force against the detainee. During his plea, Pouncy admitted that, in September 2019, he and another DPSO deputy conducted a strip search of a detainee in the DeSoto Parish jail, as part of the detainee’s booking. Pouncy admitted further that, during the search, the deputies repeatedly punched the detainee in his head, face and body, even though the detainee did not pose a threat to either officer. As a result of the assault, the detainee was hospitalized and sustained a broken eye socket and broken nose, among other injuries.
“The defendant pledged to protect and serve his community, but instead, he repeatedly punched a detainee without justification, leaving him bloodied and broken,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “People in detention have the right to be treated humanely and not to be brutalized by excessive force. This sentence sends a clear message that we will not tolerate such abuses behind bars. The Justice Department will hold accountable officials who violate detainees’ civil rights.”
“Pouncy took advantage of his position, the power that it yields and the prestige of the badge in committing this criminal act,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown for the Western District of Louisiana. “Decency and order can co-exist with the preservation of an offender’s civil rights. Prosecutions such as these are critical to ensure that the good work of law enforcement officers is not hampered by the heinous acts of bad law enforcement officers.”
“Yesterday, Pouncy faced the consequences of his unnecessary and violent actions toward someone he was supposed to protect,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “It’s a sad day when we have to investigate someone who took an oath to uphold the law. His actions undermine the integrity of the criminal justice system, and I want the public to know we will not tolerate it. The FBI is committed to investigating criminal misconduct, no matter who the subject is or what position they hold in their community.”
The other deputy involved in the assault, DeMarkes Grant, previously pleaded guilty to one count of obstructing justice in connection with the assault. He was sentenced to 10 months in prison.
The FBI New Orleans Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Reeg for the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Erin Monju of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.
TRCSG is a multiplatform team of ships, aircraft, and more than 6,000 Sailors, capable of carrying out a wide variety of missions around the globe. Deploying units of the strike group include Theodore Roosevelt, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 23, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70). While the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Russell (DDG 59), USS Halsey (DDG 97) and USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118) also returned to their respective home ports, Lake Erie and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) remain deployed in the 7th Fleet area of operations supporting global maritime security operations.
TRCSG deployed to the Indo-Pacific region to support regional security and stability, keep sea lanes open, and to reassure our allies and partners of the U.S. Navy’s unwavering commitment to the region. The strike group was later ordered to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to strengthen U.S. military force posture and capabilities throughout the Middle East in light of escalating regional tensions.
“The strike group’s ability to quickly adjust from operations in 7th Fleet to 5th Fleet is a testament to both the flexibility of our naval forces as well as the strength and training of our Navy Sailors,” said Commander, Carrier Strike Group 9, Rear Adm. Christopher Alexander. “We had the distinct honor to strengthen our skills and relationships with 10 allied and partner nations, demonstrating our nation’s commitment to the freedom of navigation.”
The TRCSG strengthened interoperability through dual carrier operations with the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, participation in exercise Valiant Shield 2024, and numerous bilateral and multilateral maritime exercises in the Philippine and South China seas as well as in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.
Notable key leader engagements and visits aboard Theodore Roosevelt included the president of the Republic of Korea, chief of naval operations for the Republic of Korea Navy, lieutenant governor of Guam, U.S. Pacific Fleet commander, U.S. 7th Fleet commander, Republic of Singapore Navy fleet commander, U.S. ambassadors to the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand and Qatar, and senior officers from the armed forces of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea and Royal Thai Navy, among others.
The deployed Sailors from the TRCSG demonstrated their proficiency in enhanced maritime security operations through more than 9,000 sorties including 21,000 flight hours, 28 replenishments-at-sea, and more than 71,000 nautical miles traveled.
Ships of the TRCSG conducted routine port visits to Bahrain, Diego Garcia, Guam, the Republic of Korea, Singapore and Thailand.
“The crew worked incredibly hard and maintained mission focus this entire deployment,” said Capt. Brian Schrum, commanding officer, Theodore Roosevelt. “I am extremely proud of our Sailors and the work accomplished across the world’s oceans to keep our nation safe at home.”
CVW 11 consisted of nine squadrons: the “Blue Blasters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34, the “Fist of the Fleet” of VFA-25, the “Flying Checkmates” of VFA-211, the “Black Knights” of VFA-154, the “Liberty Bells” of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 115, the “Rooks” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137, the “Wolf Pack” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 75, the “Eightballers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 and the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40.
As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic and relevant training necessary to execute the U.S. Navy’s timeless role across the full spectrum of military operations—from combat missions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready forces to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict.
Source: The White House
Corruption poses a grave and enduring threat to U.S. national interests and those of our partners. When officials abuse their entrusted power for personal or political gain, the interests of authoritarians and corrupt actors win – at the expense of citizens, honest businesses, and healthy societies. As the Biden-Harris Administration took office, this longstanding challenge had metastasized. In some countries, oligarchs were teaming up with foreign kleptocrats to warp policy and procurement decisions in exchange for kickbacks – with no accountability. Corrupt officials were laundering stolen assets through the U.S. and global financial systems, while local investigators were ill-equipped to follow the money. Reformers in countries saddled with corruption had scarce public resources to actually address development needs. The Biden-Harris Administration tacked these challenges starting Day One, to ensure democracy delivers and corrupt actors are held to account.
The first National Security Study Memorandum of the Biden-Harris Administration established countering corruption as a “core U.S. national security interest,” leading to the issuance in December 2021 of the first United States Strategy on Countering Corruption. Since then, the United States has taken action at home and around the world to curb illicit finance, hold corrupt actors accountable, forge multilateral partnerships, and equip frontline leaders to take on transnational corruption. The result has been historic progress in protecting the U.S. financial system from money-laundering, including in the residential real estate sector, while enhancing corporate transparency. This Administration has mobilized record levels of foreign assistance dedicated to anti-corruption, including $339 million in Fiscal Year 2023 alone – almost double the yearly average during the previous four years. This new assistance has unlocked support for anti-corruption institutions, leveled the playing field for law-abiding businesses, enabled journalists to team up across borders, and more. Expanded law enforcement cooperation and capacity-building have generated convictions of corrupt actors as well as the seizure, forfeiture, and return of criminal proceeds, while new anti-corruption offices at the Department of State (State) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) energized diplomatic and stakeholder engagement. The United States imposed sanctions on more than 500 individuals and entities for corruption and related activities, and established – for the first time in any jurisdiction globally – a new visa restriction for those who enable corrupt activity.
U.S. progress on anti-corruption has produced concrete benefits for the American people and stakeholders around the world – enhancing prosperity, economic security, safety, and democracy, as outlined below. To bolster and sustain this work, the U.S. government has also modernized its approach to addressing corruption as a cross-cutting priority. Today, Deputy National Security Advisor for International Economics Daleep Singh will highlight the benefits of this work to American businesses and workers at a White House anti-corruption roundtable with leaders from 15 major U.S. companies.
Advancing economic opportunity abroad
Improving the business enabling environment: U.S. assistance advanced governments’ capacity to prevent, detect, investigate, and prosecute corruption, while encouraging anti-bribery compliance. State expanded its Fiscal Transparency Innovation Fund – to help willing partners improve budget transparency – while holding countries to account for progress in its Fiscal Transparency Report. In the past two years alone, a newly expanded State-Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) program facilitated U.S. collaboration with foreign counterparts on more than 50 transnational corruption and money laundering cases with a U.S. nexus. In coordination with State, experienced legal advisors from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) assisted foreign justice partners around the world in investigating and prosecuting corruption and money laundering cases, and recovering assets. And DOJ’s Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative, in partnership with the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, has recovered more than $1.7 billion and returned or assisted in returning more than $1.6 billion for the benefit of the people harmed by the corruption.
Enforcing our bans on foreign bribery and money-laundering – and pressing other countries to do the same: To enable honest companies to compete overseas, the United States upheld its commitments under the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention by enforcing its foreign bribery and related laws and working with partners to monitor other countries’ progress in implementing the Convention, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024. Since the start of the Administration, DOJ has imposed more than $3.5 billion in total monetary sanctions under the Foreign Corruption Practices Act (FCPA) in 16 corporate resolutions, and announced charges against more than 70 individuals. For instance, this April the former Comptroller General of Ecuador was convicted of money laundering relating to his receipt of over $10 million in bribes from, among others, the Brazil-based construction conglomerate Odebrecht S.A. The Securities and Exchange Commission continued civil enforcement of the FCPA, with approximately $1 billion in total monetary sanctions in 22 corporate resolutions, spanning conduct in 24 countries, since the start of the Administration. DOJ is also enforcing the recently enacted Foreign Extortion Prevention Act, which criminalizes demands for bribes by foreign officials from U.S. companies and others. In addition, this August DOJ announced a new Corporate Whistleblower Awards Pilot Program to uncover and prosecute corporate crime – with a particular focus on foreign and domestic corruption, as well as violations by financial institutions of their obligations to take steps to detect and deter money laundering.
Seizing windows of opportunity: U.S. assistance has become more agile via the establishment of USAID’s Anti-Corruption Response Fund (providing flexible support to countries experiencing new opportunities or backsliding), the State-DOJ Global Anti-Corruption Rapid Response Fund (providing assistance and case mentoring to foreign partners on short notice), and USAID’s Democracy Delivers initiative (which has marshalled $500 million in funding from the United States and others to help reformers deliver, including on their anti-corruption commitments). These innovations, informed by USAID’s Dekleptification Guide, are enabling the U.S. government to more nimbly pivot toward environments where local momentum can be bolstered by outside assistance.
Bolstering integrity in high-risk sectors: In April 2024, the United States and its partners launched the Blue Dot Network – a mechanism to certify infrastructure projects that have met global standards for quality and sustainability, including transparency in procurement and provisions to limit opportunities for corruption. The United States also supported the launch of PROTECT, a collective action project to address corruption risk in the supply chain for critical minerals.
Strengthening corruption safeguards in the Indo-Pacific: In June, the United States and thirteen other partners held a signing ceremony, after concluding eight rounds of negotiations in record time, for the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) Fair Economy Agreement. The Agreement aims to create a more transparent, predictable trade and investment environment across IPEF partners’ markets, including through binding obligations to prevent and combat corruption. The Department of Commerce (Commerce) and State are accelerating implementation by offering new anti-corruption technical assistance to IPEF partners, including workshops on procurement corruption.
Dialoguing with the private sector: In 2021, State launched the Galvanizing the Private Sector as Partners in Combatting Corruption initiative, which connects companies and governments to strengthen business integrity and encourage governance reform. Commerce’s International Trade Administration organized the 2024 forum of the Business Ethics for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Small and Medium Enterprises Initiative – the world’s largest public-private partnership on ethical business conduct – at which stakeholders formalized policy recommendations on business integrity in public procurement.
Protecting the U.S. financial system from abuse
Expanding corporate transparency: To deter kleptocrats and criminals from laundering money through anonymous shell companies, the Department of the Treasury (Treasury) operationalized a new filing system for certain companies operating in the United States to report their beneficial owners – the real people who own or control them – pursuant to the bipartisan Corporate Transparency Act. Treasury held hundreds of outreach events across all states and territories, reaching thousands of stakeholders, to enable companies to quickly and easily comply with this reporting requirement.
Closing loopholes for money-laundering: Treasury finalized rules to close two major loopholes in the U.S. financial system: (1) to increase transparency in the U.S. residential real estate sector, to ensure that law-abiding homebuyers are not disadvantaged by individuals laundering their ill-gotten gains, and (2) to safeguard the investment adviser industry from illicit finance. Treasury also proposed a rule to modernize financial institutions’ anti-money-laundering/countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) programs, to make them more effective and risk-based. Together, these rulemakings represent historic advances for the U.S. AML/CFT regime, in line with international standards, that will help the United States urge other countries to undertake similar reforms to curb illicit finance. The Biden-Harris Administration has also called on Congress to close even more loopholes that facilitate money-laundering by passing the ENABLERS Act.
Blocking assets and denying entry to corrupt actors: Since the start of the Administration, Treasury has designated more than 500 individuals and entities for corruption and related activities, across six continents. That includes blocking the assets of 20 individuals and 48 companies in Fiscal Year 2024 for corruption in Afghanistan, Guatemala, Guyana, Paraguay, Western Balkans, and Zimbabwe. In tandem, State publicly issued corruption-related visa restrictions for 76 foreign officials and family members in Fiscal Year 2024, and 292 over the course of the Administration. These actions have protected the U.S. financial system from corrupt actors and promoted accountability in domestic jurisdictions. For example, just one week after the U.S. issuance of a public visa restriction on former Director of Bosnia-Herzegovina (BiH) Intelligence Services Osman Mehmedagic for significant corruption, he was arrested by BiH authorities for abuse of office.
Taking aim at enablers of corruption: In December 2023, President Biden issued an historic Presidential Proclamation establishing a visa restriction for those who facilitate and enable significant corruption and their immediate family members. This new visa restriction complements existing commitments to use sanction and law enforcement capabilities to target private enablers of public corruption. Earlier this year, the FBI and DOJ secured a guilty plea and a criminal penalty of $661 million from Gunvor – one of the largest commodities trading firms in the world – for facilitating bribery of Ecuadorian officials and laundering those bribes through U.S. banks. In addition, USAID launched new activities to incentivize integrity within professions that serve as gatekeepers to the international financial system.
Upholding international standards: The United States has helped lead efforts to expand anti-corruption work at the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), including improving assessment tools, mitigating risks associated with “golden passport” programs, and highlighting how non-financial sectors can be abused by corrupt actors.
Keeping America and our partners safe
Addressing corruption risk in the security sector: Security sector corruption can divert essential supplies, empower malign actors, threaten the safety of U.S. service members, and undermine U.S. military missions writ large. In the past year, the Department of Defense (DOD) incorporated corruption risk into its security cooperation planning – subjecting certain proposals to further scrutiny and identifying risk mitigation measures as needed. State also created new resources to weigh corruption risk as part of security sector assistance decision-making. In addition, State’s Global Defense Reform Program and DOD’s institutional capacity building programs advanced more transparent, accountable, and professional defense institutions. DOD continued running a training course on combatting corruption for partner military commanders and civilian leaders.
Tackling organized crime and corruption: Transnational criminal organizations often rely on corruption to enable their criminal activities and evade accountability – which fuels narcotrafficking into the United States, human smuggling, cybercrimes, and more. The U.S. government is deploying anti-corruption tools to target criminal networks and their financial enablers, in line with the 2023 White House Strategy to Combat Transnational Organized Crime.
Standing up to Russia’s aggression: The United States has adapted to address the wartime needs of Ukraine’s anti-corruption stakeholders, as they close off a key vector for Russian dominance and advance Ukraine’s democratic future. In 2023, Ukrainian anti-corruption investigators and prosecutors achieved an 80 percent increase in prosecutions and a 50 percent increase in convictions, plus opened cases against high-ranking officials including the former head of the Ukrainian Supreme Court. With U.S. support, Ukraine has advanced significant reforms on asset disclosure, launched a whistleblower portal, strengthened the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, and enhanced transparency and integrity in reconstruction.
Securing a greener future: The United States has integrated an anti-corruption lens across sectors, with particular emphasis on addressing corruption vulnerabilities that threaten a secure, just energy transition for all. This includes USAID support to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), increased mining transparency in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, and innovations that address transnational corruption in green energy mineral supply chains across 15 countries.
Protecting global health: Corruption curtails the ability of states to respond to pandemics and undercuts access to basic healthcare. USAID is tackling this challenge by releasing cutting-edge guidance on anti-corruption in the health sector and launching integrated programming. For example, in Liberia the United States is working with the government to curb theft of pharmaceuticals through civil society monitoring, law enforcement trainings, and public awareness campaigns.
Addressing the root causes of migration: Combating corruption is a core component of improving conditions in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras – so people do not feel compelled to leave their homes, in line with the U.S. Strategy for Addressing the Root Causes of Migration in Central America. Recent U.S. actions have included training up to 27,000 justice sector stakeholders in those countries to more effectively address corruption.
Defending democracy by rooting out corruption
Tackling electoral corruption: When candidates can be bankrolled by foreign adversaries and institutions captured by kleptocrats, citizens lose faith in their governments—or even in democracy itself. In response, USAID has launched new programs to bolster electoral integrity, strengthen independent media, and increase the transparency of political finance in high-risk locations.
Lifting up civil society and independent media: The U.S. government has substantially expanded support to frontline activists and journalists, including through the Global Anti-Corruption Consortium. In addition, a new State Department initiative is training hundreds of journalists in transnational corruption investigations, while USAID’s new investigative journalist networks in Asia and Southern Africa are building capacity to track corruption across sectors and across borders. The Secretary of State established a new award for Anti-Corruption Champions, which has honored dozens of courageous civil society leaders and embattled reformers. In 2022, the United States also hosted the largest regular gathering of civil society activists fighting corruption – the International Anti-Corruption Conference – in Washington, DC, with keynote remarks from APNSA Jake Sullivan.
Protecting sovereignty: Authoritarian actors like Russia and the PRC use bribery to interfere in the policy, procurement, debt, and electoral processes of other countries – undermining both sovereignty and democracy. The United States is standing up to this tactic by building the resilience of frontline actors to detect and deflect foreign-backed strategic corruption, educating partners about the kleptocrats’ playbook, harnessing sanction tools to deter threats, and increasing collaboration between practitioners working on anti-corruption and those addressing foreign malign influence – both within the USG and with likeminded partners. For example, in June the United States joined with Canada and the UK to expose Russia’s use of corruption and covert financing, among other tactics, to undermine democratic processes in Moldova.
Restoring trust in American democracy: The Biden-Harris Administration has established the strongest ethics standards of any U.S. presidency. On his first day in office, the President signed an Executive Order requiring administration officials to take a stringent ethics pledge, which extends lobbying bans, limits shadow lobbying, and makes ethics waivers more transparent. The Administration also restored longstanding democratic norms by protecting DOJ cases from political interference, releasing the President’s and Vice-President’s taxes, and voluntarily disclosing White House visitor logs. And in the last year, the Office of Government Ethics finalized rules updating the standards for ethical conduct and legal expense funds for executive branch employees.
Protecting American democracy from malign finance: Just as we defend democracy around the world, the U.S. government is working to keep American democracy safe from foreign adversaries. Actions to curb money laundering in the United States can help reduce the ability of foreign and domestic actors to make illegal campaign contributions and evade U.S. election laws. President Biden has called on Congress to go even further by passing the DISCLOSE Act, which would curb the ability of foreign entities and special interests to use dark money loopholes to influence our elections.
Revitalizing participation in the Open Government Partnership (OGP): The United States rejoined the Steering Committee of OGP – a platform for civil society and governments to forge joint commitments and learn from each other– and provided assistance for OGP’s work on anti-corruption. Domestically, the United States has turbocharged OGP implementation by creating the U.S. Open Government Secretariat at the General Services Administration, an Open Government Federal Advisory Committee, an Interagency Community of Practice – spanning federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial governments, and engaged with hundreds of stakeholders to exchange lessons and expand transparency, accountability, and public participation. The United States also launched the first-ever Request for Information to feed into the 6th U.S. OGP National Action Plan and announced development of a toolkit to help federal agencies more meaningfully engage with the public.
Modernizing and coordinating U.S. government efforts to fight corruption
Institutionalizing anti-corruption as an enduring priority: Over the past four years, Departments and Agencies have made substantial organizational improvements to elevate corruption concerns. For example:
The State Department’s new Office of the Coordinator on Global Anti-Corruption leads the integration of anti-corruption priorities into bilateral and other policy processes, conducts targeted diplomatic engagements, and drives strategic planning, including through the Department’s senior-level Anti-Corruption Policy Board. In the past year, the Office jumpstarted implementation of the Combating Global Corruption Act and completed an analysis of anti-corruption assistance to inform future State Department decision-making.
USAID’s new Anti-Corruption Center, within the newly established Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance, serves as a hub of technical expertise and thought leadership – driving the integration of corruption considerations across USAID’s portfolio, supporting USAID Missions in developing localized approaches, managing a suite of programming focused on transnational corruption, and using its convening power and policy insights to forge strategic partnerships. Since 2022, USAID has released its first-ever Anti-Corruption Policy, which outlines a cross-sectoral approach to constraining opportunities for corruption, raising the costs of corruption, and incentivizing integrity – plus a host of tools to drive uptake across USAID.
FBI’s International Corruption Unit expanded an agreement with the State Department to deploy six regional anti-corruption advisors to strategic locations around the world, where they organize regional working groups with local law enforcement officials, provide case-base mentorship, and facilitate coordination with the International Anti-Corruption Coordination Centre.
Expanded interagency capacity has been complemented by the National Security Council’s establishment of a dedicated Director for Anti-Corruption position, for the first time, to ensure whole-of-government coordination and advance anti-corruption within key policy processes.
Leading in multilateral fora: The United States has regained its leadership role in the international bodies that shape anti-corruption norms globally and can sustain momentum across time. In particular, the United States stepped into the presidency of the UN Convention against Corruption Conference of States Parties (UNCAC COSP), proudly hosting in December 2023 thousands of stakeholders in Atlanta, Georgia, led by the U.S. Representative to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield. As part of its commitment to championing the role of non-governmental actors in the fight against corruption, the United States facilitated record civil society participation in UNCAC working group meetings, hosted the first UNCAC Private Sector Forum, and supported inclusive implementation of UNCAC commitments in Latin America, East Africa, and Southeast Asia. The United States also participated in several peer reviews of our own anti-corruption practices over the last three years, and proudly made these results public. Alongside these multilateral fora, we convened the Global Forum on Asset Recovery action series to accelerate practitioner cooperation across the United States, Algeria, Honduras, Iraq, Moldova, Nigeria, Seychelles, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and Zambia.
Understanding corruption dynamics: The Intelligence Community developed and disseminated new resources to bolster intelligence prioritization, collection and analysis on corrupt actors and their networks. USAID commissioned research on topics like countering corruption through social and behavioral change and State initiated an interagency anti-corruption learning agenda and a small grants program to support it.
Deepening external partnerships: The United States convened a series of coordination meetings with other bilateral donors and philanthropies in order to harmonize our anti-corruption approaches and galvanized anti-corruption resources across the donor community through the Integrity for Development campaign. USAID’s Countering Transnational Corruption Grand Challenge for Development brought together technologists, businesses, activists, and others to collaboratively address concrete corruption challenges.
