NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Albans, Vermont Man Sentenced to 42 Months for Unlawful Possession of Stolen Firearms

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

    Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on June 20, 2025, Shane Hardy, 46, originally of Bedford-Stuyvesant, New York, but more recently residing in St. Albans, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford to a term of 42 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 2-year term of supervised release.

    According to court records, Hardy has a serious criminal history that includes a conviction for manslaughter in New York State for which he was incarcerated for over a decade. Despite knowing that he was prohibited from possessing firearms, Hardy expressed interest in firearms and then accepted four stolen firearms as payment for a drug debt and a quantity of cocaine in October 2023. After receiving the stolen firearms, Hardy then facilitated transportation of the guns by carrying them into an SUV that had New Jersey license plates.

    Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Arra. Hardy was represented by Emily Kenyon and Barclay Johnson of the Office of the Federal Public Defender.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Hampshire Couple Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges for 2024 Crime Spree

    Source: US FBI

    Burlington, Vermont – A New Hampshire couple pleaded guilty in federal court last week to robbery charges stemming from a crime spree in August of 2024.

    On June 10, 2025, Christopher Boisvert entered a plea of guilty to the charge of armed bank robbery during a plea hearing before Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss.

    On June 12, 2025, Meghan Cox entered a plea of guilty to the charge of conspiring with her accomplice to interfere with commerce by robbery during a plea hearing before Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss.

    At sentencing, if the District Court accepts the plea agreements Boisvert and Cox each face up to 20 years’imprisonment. The actual sentence, however, will be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors. Both defendants are scheduled for sentencing in September of this year.

    According to court records, on August 26, 2024, around 2:06 PM, the Vermont State Police were notified of an attempted robbery at Rolling Twenties, a Cannabis Dispensary located at 440 Rockingham Road in the Town of Rockingham, Vermont. Investigation revealed that in the minutes before the robbery, exterior surveillance video captured a blue Chevrolet Silverado truck parked in front of the business, with its rear license plate obscured by a dark covering.

    Two subjects, a male and a female – later confirmed to be Boisvert and Cox – exited the Silverado truck and approached the business on foot. The male was white, with a medium build, and was wearing a grey long-sleeved “Henley” style shirt, gray sweatpants, brown leather boots, a black ball cap, a black face mask, sunglasses, and was carrying one or two dark colored backpacks or duffel bags.

    The female, also white, with a medium build, red hair, was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, tight-fitting blue jeans, brown leather boots, wearing a black ball cap, a black face mask, and dark “aviator” style sunglasses. She was also carrying a dark colored bag. Both subjects were wearing blue colored latex gloves. Once inside the business’s lobby, they attempted to enter the retail floor and demanded money and marijuana. An attendant denied entry and both subjects left the business in the blue Silverado truck, traveling south bound on VT Route 5/Rockingham Road towards Bellows Falls, Vermont.

    At approximately 2:47 PM, the Bellows Falls Police Department was called to a bank robbery at the TD Bank, 2 Church Street, Bellows Falls, Vermont. Officers determined the bank robbery suspect fit the description of the male subject from the Rolling Twenties attempted robbery minutes earlier. TD Bank surveillance video showed the male wearing the same clothing and disguise as described in the Rolling Twenties attempted robbery and was carrying a black and gray backpack. The male approached an employee and produced a note indicating he wanted 100s (one-hundred-dollar bills) and other large denominations placed into the bag. The male lifted his shirt revealing what appeared to be a wooden handle/grip of an object tucked into his pants. The teller placed money onto the counter and the male subject retrieved the money, placing it into his backpack. An image of the male, who turned out to be Christopher Boisvert, displaying the weapon in his waist band is below:

    Boisvert told the employees he had done research, and he knew where their families live – if they try anything, he was going to come back and hurt or kill them. He also said he had a gun inside his backpack and that his girlfriend or wife was waiting in the vehicle outside with a “45[.]” As he was leaving, Boisvert told the employees to wait two minutes before calling the police. In total, Boisvert received approximately $2,500 of U.S. Currency from TD Bank.

    About an hour after the Bellows Falls bank robbery, around 3:45 PM, the Brattleboro Police were called to a robbery of the Brattleboro Savings and Loan, located at 972 Putney Road, Brattleboro, Vermont (“Brattleboro Savings and Loan”). Law enforcement investigation revealed a blue Chevrolet Silverado truck with New Hampshire registration plates parked on Black Mountain Road, next to the Putney Road Plaza where the bank is located. Boisvert was wearing the same clothing, hat, mask, footwear, blue gloves, and was carrying a black and gray backpack.

    Inside the bank, he approached a teller and told her to put money into the bag. He stated to the teller that he knew the employee’s families and their addresses, and to give him all the money. He also said he had a gun. The teller observed that he possessed an orange handled knife. Several tellers provided him with U.S. Currency; in total the amount was approximately $5,000. Surveillance video  showed Boisvert return to the blue Silverado truck. Using a cellular phone, a teller captured photographs of the Silverado fleeing the area. The photographs revealed the rear license plate number of the truck. Law enforcement then confirmed the vehicle was registered to Christopher Boisvert of New Hampshire.

    At approximately 4:00 PM, the Cheshire County, New Hampshire Sheriff’s Department located the blue Silverado on Route 9 near the Chesterfield/Keene, New Hampshire town line. Deputies attempted to stop the truck, but it fled, and a pursuit began. Sheriff Deputies and New Hampshire State Police, among other agencies, pursued the truck, ultimately ending the pursuit when the truck entered Massachusetts. The truck was later located abandoned in the parking lot of Athol Memorial Hospital in Athol, Massachusetts.

    Law enforcement examined a social media account associated with Boisvert and Cox, and compared known photos of the defendants to the surveillance footage obtained during the investigation. Investigators saw Boisvert was wearing an identical shirt to the one he wore during the robberies. In addition, Meghan Cox  had a distinctive tattoo on her neck. A close-up review of the surveillance footage from the Rolling Twenties dispensary shows an object covering the tattoo that appeared to be peeling off her neck.

    When they searched the Silverado truck, investigators recovered a 14-inch bowie knife with a wooden handle consistent in appearance with the weapon displayed in the TD Bank surveillance footage, black KN95-style facemasks consistent in appearance with what the defendants were wearing, a small spiral bound notebook containing a handwritten note that matched the same threats articulated to the various robbery victims, a grey “Henley” style shirt, and blue medical gloves. These clothing and disguise items were subsequently tested for DNA that matched Boisvert and Cox.

    Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Vermont State Police, Brattleboro Police Department, Bellows Falls Police Department, Keene, New Hampshire Police Department, Swanzey, New Hampshire Police Department, Cheshire County, New Hampshire Sheriff’s Department, New Hampshire State Police, Athol, Massachusetts Police Department, and the Winchendon, Massachusetts Police Department.

    The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Thomas J. Aliberti. Federal Defender Michael Desautels represents Christopher Boisvert and Meghan Cox is represented by Richard C. Bothfeld, Esq.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Grand Island Man Charged with Attempting to Damage Federal Property with Molotov Cocktail

    Source: US FBI

    United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Eulisis P. Martin, 20, of Grand Island, Nebraska, was charged on June 16, 2025, by criminal complaint with one count of attempting malicious damage to federal property using explosive materials. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and not more than 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of not more than 3 years, and a special assessment of $100. Martin was arrested on June 16, 2025.

    Martin is alleged to have utilized a Molotov cocktail near a federal building housing Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Grand Island on June 9, 2025. Martin is also linked to a spray-painted sign on the federal building stating, “Kill ICE” on June 9.

    Aware of the vandalism at the HSI building, a Grand Island Police officer, while on patrol, observed an individual wearing dark clothing running along the fence of the HSI building on June 14. Upon further investigation, Grand Island Police officers located government vehicles with slashed tires.

    Law enforcement identified a vehicle belonging to Martin in the area of the building at the time of vandalisms and Molotov cocktail event. Law enforcement located Martin’s vehicle and observed in plain view inside the vehicle a dark brown coat, several gloves, a protest-style sign, a scarf, and two bags under the scarf resembling a tactical-style bag. Open-source information revealed a phone number assigned to Martin. Law enforcement was able to place Martin’s cellphone in the area of the HSI building on June 9 and June 14.  Surveillance of Martin’s vehicle and his residence revealed that Martin was showing signs that he was a target of an investigation and took measures to dispose of his vehicle by relocating it to a rural property.

    Martin appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Jacqueline M. DeLuca in Lincoln, Nebraska on June 18, 2025, for his initial appearance.

    “The FBI and our partners will aggressively pursue, identify, and apprehend anyone who maliciously attempts to damage federal property,” said Eugene Kowel, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Omaha Field Office. He added, “Many members of our community work in federal buildings and serve the public, and they deserve to do so free from the threat of harm and violence. We respect and protect the right of individuals to peacefully exercise their First Amendment freedoms but will not tolerate individuals inciting violence or engaging in criminal activity and violating federal law. We appreciate the support of the Nebraska State Patrol, Grand Island Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and Federal Protective Service in bringing Martin to justice.”

    United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods said, “The United States Attorney’s Office vows that violence, intimidation, and threats of violence against federal law enforcement officers, federal investigative agencies, other federal employees who are just doing their jobs and enforcing the laws will not be tolerated in Nebraska.  Federal law enforcement officers do not make the laws, but they are tasked with enforcing them, and they must be able to do so safely. Anyone who chooses to target law enforcement officers and agencies will be held accountable.”

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Protective Service, the Nebraska State Patrol, and the Grand Island Police Department.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On 3rd Anniversary of Roe Being Overturned, Baldwin, Blumenthal, and Murray Lead Senate Dems in a Bill to Restore Abortion Access Nationwide

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On the third anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Patty Murray (D-WA) led the entire Senate Democratic caucus in introducing the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2025, legislation to guarantee access to abortion everywhere across the country and restore the right to comprehensive reproductive health care for millions of Americans. The bill’s introduction comes as the Trump Administration further attacks a woman’s right to choose and Congressional Republicans barrel ahead with a bill that defunds Planned Parenthood. Put together, Trump and Congressional Republicans’ assault on Americans’ reproductive rights is a backdoor national abortion ban, ripping away millions of women’s access to abortion care and right to control their bodies.   

    “First, Donald Trump and Republicans overturned Roe v Wade. Now, they are continuing their crusade for a national abortion ban, stripping away a woman’s right to choose and control her body, healthcare, and future. Republicans continue to show that they will stop at nothing in their pursuit to stop a woman from having the right to choose,” said Senator Baldwin. “In Wisconsin, we’ve seen how these attacks on women’s reproductive rights and freedoms have hurt our neighbors, friends, and families – and we won’t stand for it. The Women’s Health Protection Act is a necessary step to restore Americans’ constitutional right to choose what’s best for their families, stop Congressional and state-level Republicans from further putting themselves between a doctor and a woman, and once and for all, give women their rights and freedoms back.”

    “This issue is about more than health care; it is about women’s rights, individual rights, and human rights. The foundation of the Women’s Health Protection Act is simply the right to make your own health care decisions. Three years after Dobbs, American women don’t have that right. Today, thanks to Republican lawmakers and conservative courts, a woman in America might walk into an ER and faint, bleeding, and be refused treatment. That woman might die,” said Senator Blumenthal. “By restoring abortion access and implementing basic protections against medically unnecessary restrictions on health care, the Women’s Health Protection Act overturns the death sentence handed down by Dobbs.”

    “Three years ago, Donald Trump and Republicans succeeded in overturning Roe, ripping away a Constitutional right for the first time in American history, and causing a full-blown health care crisis in our nation. Since then, we have seen with painful clarity how Republican abortion bans are putting women’s lives in danger, forcing providers to close their doors, decimating access to maternal health care, and forcing women to remain pregnant—no matter their circumstances,” said Senator Murray. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing the Women’s Health Protection Act to restore the right to abortion and end the national nightmare Republicans created by overturning Roe. Democrats will never stop fighting to restore abortion access nationwide—nothing less.”

    President Trump appointed the Supreme Court Justices who ruled in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case to overturn Roe v. Wade and nearly 50 years of precedent. Since the Dobbs decision, 19 states have banned abortion or severely restricted women from being able to access the procedure, leaving one in three American women without access to safe, legal abortion care. Additionally, state legislatures across the country have introduced hundreds of bills to include medically unnecessary restrictions that limit access to abortion care.

    In his second term, President Trump has continued to relentlessly attack reproductive rights, including freezing Title X funding for clinics that offer reproductive care, cutting Biden-era emergency abortion protections, pardoning anti-abortion extremists, and fighting to defund Planned Parenthood. Additionally, the House-passed Republican budget bill kicks 16 million people off their health insurance and defunds Planned Parenthood – threatening the closure of 200 health centers across the country and putting access to vital reproductive care for millions of families at risk.

    The Women’s Health Protection Act creates federal rights for patients and providers to protect abortion access. Specifically, the Women’s Health Protection Act would:

    • Prohibit states from imposing restrictions that jeopardize access to abortion earlier in pregnancy, including many of the state-level restrictions in place prior to Dobbs, such as arbitrary waiting periods, medically unnecessary mandatory ultrasounds, or requirements to provide medically inaccurate information.
    • Ensure that later in pregnancy, states cannot limit access to abortion if it would jeopardize the life or health of the mother.
    • Protect the ability to travel out of state for an abortion, which has become increasingly common in recent years.

    The legislation is sponsored by the entire Democratic caucus, including Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D- DE) Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    Full text of the bill is available here. A one-pager on the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Fraser to join Atlantic Indigenous leaders at news conference on advancing economic reconciliation through Indigenous-led research 

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Millbrook First Nation, Nova Scotia · June 24, 2025 · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

    The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), will attend and speak at a news conference organized by the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat and the Atlantic Indigenous Economic Development Integrated Research Program.

    Date: June 25, 2025

    Time:  11:00 a.m.                      

    Location: Millbrook Cultural and Heritage Centre,
    65 Treaty Trail,
    Millbrook First Nation, Nova Scotia

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1860, Women Veterans Cancer Care Coordination Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Bill Summary

    H.R. 1860 would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to designate care coordinators for veterans with breast or gynecologic cancer. The bill also would extend a temporary limitation on certain pension payments through September 2032.

    Estimated Federal Cost

    The estimated budgetary effects of H.R. 1860 are shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 550 (health) and 700 (veterans benefits and services).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of H.R. 1860
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035
     

    Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending

    		    

    Estimated Budget Authority

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    -39

    1

    1

    1

    5

    -30

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    -39

    1

    1

    1

    5

    -30
     

    Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation

    		    

    Estimated Authorization

    *

    2

    2

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    13

    28

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    2

    2

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    13

    28

    Basis of Estimate

    For this estimate, CBO assumes that H.R. 1860 will be enacted in fiscal year 2025 and that outlays will follow historical spending patterns for similar VA programs.

    Provisions that Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending

    Section 2 would require VA to designate or hire a care coordinator for breast and gynecologic cancer in each of the department’s 18 Veterans Integrated Services Networks (VISN) within one year of enactment. The coordinators would monitor and integrate care for those cancers that veterans receive from the department directly and through the VA-funded Community Care program. The coordinators also would collect and report information on the outcomes of veterans’ cancer treatment.

    Under section 2, VA would need one full-time employee in each VISN. CBO estimates that annual compensation and operating expenses would amount to $215,000 per person, on average. Implementing section 2 would therefore cost $38 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    CBO expects that some of the costs of implementing the bill would be paid from the Toxic Exposures Fund (TEF) established by Public Law 117-168, the Honoring our PACT Act. The TEF is a mandatory appropriation that VA uses to pay for health care, disability claims processing, medical research, and IT modernization that benefit veterans who were exposed to environmental hazards.

    Additional spending from the TEF would occur if legislation increases the costs of similar activities that benefit veterans with such exposure. Thus, in addition to increasing spending subject to appropriation, enacting section 2 would increase amounts paid from the TEF, which are classified as direct spending. CBO projects that the proportion of costs paid by the TEF will grow over time based on the amount of formerly discretionary appropriations that CBO expects will be provided through the mandatory appropriation as specified in the Honoring our PACT Act.

    CBO estimates that over the 2025-2035 period, implementing section 2 would increase spending subject to appropriation by $28 million and direct spending by $10 million.

    Direct Spending

    In addition to expanding benefits that would partly be covered by the TEF, enacting H.R. 1860 would affect direct spending by extending a statutory limitation on VA pension payments. In total, enacting the bill would decrease net direct spending by $30 million over the 2025-2035 period (see Table 2).

    Under current law, VA reduces pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes to $90 per month. That required reduction expires November 30, 2031. Section 3 would extend that reduction for 10 months, through September 30, 2032. CBO estimates that extending that requirement would reduce VA benefits by $10 million per month. (Those benefits are paid from mandatory appropriations and are therefore considered direct spending.) As a result of that reduction in beneficiaries’ income, Medicaid would pay more of the cost of their care, increasing spending for that program by $6 million per month. Thus, enacting section 3 would reduce net direct spending by $40 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    Table 2.

    Estimated Changes in Direct Spending Under H.R. 1860
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035

    Cancer Care Coordinators

    		                      

    Estimated Budget Authority

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    5

    10

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    5

    10

    Pensions

    		                      

    Estimated Budget Authority

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    Total Changes

    		                        

    Estimated Budget Authority

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    -39

    1

    1

    1

    5

    -30

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    1

    -39

    1

    1

    1

    5

    -30

    Spending Subject to Appropriation

    The discussion above in “Provisions That Affect Spending Subject to Appropriation and Direct Spending” describes the costs of implementing the care coordination program for veterans with breast or gynecologic cancer. CBO estimates that establishing the program would increase spending subject to appropriation by $28 million over the 2025‑2035 period.

    Section 2 also would require VA to submit a report comparing health outcomes of veterans who receive care for breast and gynecologic cancer through VA facilities and community care providers. Based on the costs of similar reporting requirements, CBO estimates that preparing the report would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025‑2035 period. Any such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    Pay-As-You-Go Considerations

    The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 establishes budget-reporting and enforcement procedures for legislation affecting direct spending or revenues. The net changes in outlays that are subject to those pay-as-you-go procedures are shown in Table 1.

    Increase in Long-Term Net Direct Spending and Deficits

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1860 would not increase net direct spending by more than $2.5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1860 would not increase on‑budget deficits by more than $5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    Mandates

    The bill contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

    Mandates: Grace Watson

    Estimate Reviewed By

    David Newman
    Chief, Defense, International Affairs, and Veterans’ Affairs Cost Estimates Unit

    Kathleen FitzGerald 
    Chief, Public and Private Mandates Unit

    Christina Hawley Anthony
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Sues Top Trump Officials over Illegal Termination of Tens of Billions in Grant Funding

    Source: US State of California

    Since January, the Trump Administration has baselessly relied on a single subclause buried deep in federal regulations to slash tens of billions in previously awarded grant funding

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today sued the Trump Administration over its improper use of a single subclause buried in federal regulations promulgated by the Office of Management of Budget (OMB) to terminate tens of billions of dollars in grant funding to the states. Since taking office, the Trump Administration has engaged in a nationwide slash-and-burn campaign, unlawfully invoking 2 C.F.R. § 200.340(a)(4) (“the Clause”) to justify the termination of tens of billions of dollars in critical federal funding appropriated by Congress and awarded to the states. The Trump Administration has claimed that five words in the Clause — “no longer effectuates . . . agency priorities” — provide federal agencies with virtually unfettered authority to withhold funding any time they no longer wish to support the programs for which Congress has appropriated funding. In today’s lawsuit, Attorney General Bonta and a multistate coalition argue that the Administration is misconstruing the Clause and that the Clause, properly read, does not allow for grant terminations based on agency priorities that were set or changed only after a grant was originally awarded. 

    “The Trump Administration has recklessly and chaotically slashed federal grant funding that is intended to prevent crime, rebuild our roads, develop technology for the future, and everything in between,” said Attorney General Bonta. “This hack job has been done under the flimsy premise of ‘changed agency priorities’ — even when this funding has been previously appropriated by Congress and awarded to the states. For federal funding to work, the states that receive that funding need to be able to plan ahead, make investments, and be confident that this funding will not be terminated on a whim. We’re asking the court to block the Trump Administration’s unlawful invocation of this clause as a sweeping justification for the termination of grant funding.”

    With the stroke of a pen, federal agencies ranging from the U.S. Department of Justice to the Environmental Protection Agency to the Department of Labor have deprived California and other states of essential funding they rely on to combat violent crime, prevent terrorist attacks, educate students with special needs, respond to natural disasters, protect clean drinking water, conduct life-saving medical and scientific research, upgrade crumbling transportation infrastructure, and much more. Federal agencies have done all of this without advance notice, without explanation to the state recipients, and in direct contravention of the will of Congress.    

    In the lawsuit, Attorney General Bonta and the coalition argue that federal agencies’ invocation of the Clause to terminate grant funding runs counter to OMB’s own interpretation of its own regulations. When OMB first promulgated the Clause in 2020, it made clear that the language granted federal agencies only limited authority to terminate grants. Indeed, the coalition is not aware of a single instance prior to January 2025 in which a federal agency relied on the Clause to terminate a grant on the grounds that agency priorities had changed after the award of the grant. Since January 2025, however, federal agencies across the Trump Administration have asserted that the Clause provides them with a blank check to terminate grants already awarded to states based on newly identified agency priorities — even when those priorities conflict with the priorities identified by Congress or by the agency at the time of the grant award. Attorney General Bonta and the coalition today ask the District Court to declare that the Clause and the Trump Administration’s regulations implementing the Clause do not on their own provide sufficient grounds to terminate awards; vacate the Trump Administration’s decision to invoke the Clause as grounds for terminating grants based on a change in agency priorities; and permanently bar the Trump Administration from invoking the Clause in the future.   

    Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of New Jersey, Massachusetts, New York, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin, as well as the state of Pennsylvania, in filing the lawsuit. 

    A copy of the lawsuit is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Budget 2025–26: investing in public health

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The 2025-26 ACT Budget is investing in a variety of initiatives that will improve access to high-quality public health care.

    They will also address the growing demand for, and rising cost of public hospital services.

    This investment includes support to:

    • address the growing demand in outpatient services, emergency department presentations and admitted patient care
    • enable the delivery of the ACT Government’s commitment of 70,000 elective surgeries over four years
    • deliver ongoing chronic disease services and expanded endoscopy services
    • meet the needs of long-stay patients and optimise patient flow through public hospitals.

    Investing in health infrastructure and services

    The 2025–26 Budget also funds:

    • early and enabling works for the design and construction of the new northside hospital
    • continued work on the Canberra Hospital Master Plan. This includes progressing planning and design for the new Pathology and Clinical Services Building and a feasibility plan for a mental health precinct at the Canberra Hospital campus
    • construction of the Inner South Health Centre
    • new imaging and x-ray services at the Belconnen Community Health Centre
    • improved palliative and end-of-life care services in the community to support people’s end-of-life choices
    • continuation of community-led youth mental health programs to provide mental health care that is accessible, timely and effective
    • more support for perinatal mental health services for birth parents and families through the Perinatal Wellbeing Centre and Perinatal Mental Health Alliance
    • continued operations at the Eating Disorders Residential Treatment Centre.

    Improving affordability and access for patients

    The Budget supports more affordable local access to primary health care.

    It will support GPs and the community through bulk billing incentives.

    From 1 July 2025, payroll tax changes for medical practices will exempt income from bulk billed GP services. This will reduce:

    • out-of-pocket costs for patients
    • administrative burden on practices.

    A grants program will also be piloted over two years. It will support general practices that commit to bulk billing all children under 16.

    This will make a trip to the doctor more affordable for families.

    The investment complements the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Medicare.

    Professional development and wellbeing support for staff

    Budget investment will boost professional development and wellbeing support for general practice staff.

    This includes investment in the Drs4Drs mental health support program.

    The ACT Government will also expand Junior Medical Officer (JMO) placements into general practice settings.

    This will promote early consideration of a GP career pathway.

    More support for the ACT’s First Nations health workforce

    The Budget will include support to:

    • grow the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce in the ACT
    • address systemic barriers to participation.

    This includes investment in:

    • new workforce governance structures
    • culturally safe supervision
    • support for local implementation of the National First Nations Workforce Plan.

    There will be new dedicated roles, better training and supervision, and action on systemic racism in the health system.

    This will help build a stronger First Nations workforce to deliver culturally safe care in the ACT.

    A stronger primary care system

    Primary care is the foundation of a strong health system.

    This support for the GP workforce will help them continue providing high-quality, accessible care.

    Expanding community-based, person-centred health care will:

    • help Canberrans get the care they need
    • reduce pressure on the hospital system.

    The investments are part of a coordinated approach to grow and support the health workforce. They are key actions in the ACT Health Workforce Strategy: Action Plan 2024–2026.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: US attack on Iran lacks legal justification and could lead to more nuclear proliferation

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Hastings Dunn, Professor of International Politics in the Department of Political Science and International Studies, University of Birmingham

    After a stern warning from Donald Trump, Israel and Iran appear finally to be observing a US-brokered ceasefire announced by Donald Trump overnight on June 23. But just as it remains unclear what the state of the conflict is, many other uncertainties remain when it comes to the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

    We still don’t know the extent to which Iran’s stock of enriched uranium and the capability to use it have been destroyed. But leaving aside such practical considerations, the US bombing raid also constituted an attack on the prevailing international legal order.

    In some ways, the US actions echo the 1981 Israeli strike on Osirak when the Israeli Air Force attacked and partially destroyed Iraq’s Osirak nuclear reactor, killing ten Iraqi soldiers and one French technician.

    However, the US attack can be seen as more serious because it has been launched in a far more fragile and geopolitical environment. Moreover, the state violating the legal rules is the erstwhile guardian of the legal order –– the USA.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    The attacks appear to be the logical follow through of Trump’s withdrawal from the joint comprehensive plan of action (JCPOA) in 2018. This was the Obama-era agreement that significantly limited Iran’s enrichment of nuclear material. For Trump, that negotiated deal was imperfect, as it relied on ongoing Iranian restraint. His decision to unleash US bombers was designed to end the nascent Iranian nuclear threat once and for all.

    But such unilateral actions rarely result in such black and white results. And this situation shows every indication of being no different. It is for this reason that negotiated solutions and agreed legal frameworks are generally regarded as better long-term solutions than military force.

    A significant inhibition on the use of force to remove nuclear threats has been its lack of justification under international law. When the administration of George W Bush decided to launch its invasion of Iraq in 2003, the US, UK and Australian governments that spearheaded the invasion relied on the express legal justification that Iraq was already in breach of existing UN security council resolutions that required it to be disarmed of all weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

    For his part, Trump relied on the argument that Iran’s nuclear facilities already posed an imminent threat to US security. This argument had been undermined by none other than Trump’s director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, just weeks previously.

    Gabbard testified before Congress in March that the US “continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorised the nuclear weapons programme he suspended in 2003”.

    Tulsi Gabbard delivers the annual threat assessment in March 2025.

    Trump, who has a habit of ignoring his intelligence community, dismissed Gabbard’s assessment saying, “I don’t care what she said. I think they’re very close to having it”.

    No legal justification

    One thing that is striking about the June 22 US bombing campaign is the cursory attention given to any substantive legal justification. It’s a distinct contrast to Bush’s attempts – however much this strained the law to breaking point – to justify his 2003 use of force.

    The US ambassador to the United Nations, Dorothy Camille Shea, made only the most limited of references to the legality of the action in her speech to the UN security council a day after the US strikes.

    George W Bush’s ‘Mission accomplished’ speech.

    In our book Drones, Force, and Law we demonstrate how the defining mark of an international society is that states recognise the need to give an account of their behaviour in terms of the accepted legal rules.

    Even when policymakers know that they are breaking established interpretations of the law, they rarely admit this publicly. They seek to offer a legal justification – however strained and implausible – that is in conformity with the rules.

    If a state openly admitted that it was violating the law, giving a justification for its conduct only in terms of that state’s values and beliefs, then it would be treating others with contempt. It would, to quote the respected Australian international relations theorist, Hedley Bull, “place in jeopardy all the settled expectations that states have about one another’s behaviour”.

    This is exactly what Trump is doing by not seeking to expressly justify the US’ use of force in legal terms. This invites others to mount a broader assault on international law itself as something that is both fragile and hypocritical in the hands of the powerful.

    Unintended consequences

    The US has justified its attack as aimed at preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. But a perverse consequence of the attack is that it is likely to further erode the norm against proliferation. There are two key arguments here.

    The first is that all three Iranian facilities attacked were, before Israel initially attacked Iran on June 12, under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards. So, by attacking these installations, the US – like Israel four decades ago with its attack against Osirak – was signalling that it had no confidence in the multilateral mechanisms of non-proliferation. It was essentially saying that it has to rely on unilateral action.

    The second consequence is that a strike aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons may instead push it – and others – to accelerate weaponisation efforts. These US attacks may confirm for many the earlier lessons from Iraq, as well as subsequently in Libya and Ukraine. States without nuclear weapons are vulnerable to regime change or military action.

    If this is the lesson that is drawn by those who live in dangerous neighbourhoods and who are increasingly worried about their security, then the US action could serve as a further spur to nuclear proliferation.

    Trump has shown a worrying propensity to ignore legal constraints on his power both domestically and internationally. This action, less than six months into his administration, is an alarming harbinger of his contempt for the internationally agreed legal rules restricting the use of force.

    David Hastings Dunn has previously received funding from the ESRC, the Gerda Henkel Foundation, the Open Democracy Foundation and has previously been both a NATO and a Fulbright Fellow.

    Nicholas Wheeler has formally received funding from the Economic and Social Research Council and the Open Society Foundations.

    – ref. US attack on Iran lacks legal justification and could lead to more nuclear proliferation – https://theconversation.com/us-attack-on-iran-lacks-legal-justification-and-could-lead-to-more-nuclear-proliferation-259638

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: In Delaware Bar Journal, Senator Coons urges First State lawyers to uphold rule of law in the face of administration attacks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WILMINGTON, Del. – In case you missed it, The Journal of the Delaware State Bar Association published a piece from U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) where he thanked Delaware lawyers for upholding their commitment to the rule of law and urged them to continue fighting for their clients and our judicial system. Senator Coons is a member of the Delaware Bar and a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

    As Senator Coons noted, the Trump administration has launched a series of attacks on the rule of law since returning to the White House in January. President Trump has signed executive orders against law firms who have taken cases and hired lawyers he opposes. He has launched broadsides against judges who have ruled against him. His Justice Department has fired lawyers for adhering to their duty of candor to the court. 

    Senator Coons outlined steps he’s taking in Washington to push back on this assault by ensuring judicial nominees will uphold the law and demanding answers from the administration when they overstep their legal authority. He also reminded lawyers in Delaware and across the country, however, that they too have a part to play: “When a client comes to you, think about the merits of their case, not their political opinions,” he wrote. “If your client is targeted because of their political beliefs, stand with them.”

    From The Delaware Bar Journal: In response to “The Rally for the Rule of Law” article

    As members of the Delaware Bar, we swore an oath to “support the Constitution of the United States” and to behave with “all good fidelity” to the courts and our clients. Today, the Constitution, the courts, and the rule of law on which our clients depend are under attack. Upholding our oath means doing whatever we can to come to their defense.

    …

    There are people reading this right now, members of the Delaware Bar, colleagues, who are part of those firms or work at companies they represent. Maybe it will be a Wilmington judge who next issues an order with which the president disagrees. Maybe it will be a Newark company who hopes to fight against a new Executive Order or enters into a contract the government won’t enforce.

    I ask that you think about your own practices.

    My job in Washington is to advocate for you and try to protect you in the face of these challenges. It’s to confirm judges who will look to the law to make their decisions rather than the president, to reassure lawyers and non-lawyers alike that they can have confidence in our system of ordered liberty.

    …

    I ask that you join in whatever ways you can.

    When a client comes to you, think about the merits of their case, not their political opinions. If your client is targeted because of their political beliefs, stand with them. If your company or firm finds itself on the wrong side of the next executive order, don’t give in to the threats.

    The arc of history does not bend itself. It bends through the work of our hands.

    READ MORE HERE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Billings Doctor Pleads Guilty to Charge Related to Prostitution

    Source: US FBI

    BILLINGS – A Billings man accused of using a cell phone to arrange for commercial sex admitted to a charge today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    The defendant, Usman Hanif Khan, 52, pleaded guilty to use of a facility of interstate commerce to aid in racketeering. He faces up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided, and District Court Judge Susan P. Watters will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing will be set at a later time. Khan was released pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that prior to April 9, 2023, Khan met a woman on a social media website for those interested in a commercial sex relationship. Then, on or about April 9, 2023, Khan communicated with the woman for the purpose of arranging a commercial sex date with Jane Doe, a minor. Khan and the woman communicated via text messenger and utilized cell phones to arrange the date and discussed, among other items, the particulars of the commercial sex date. On the evening of April 9, 2023, the woman transported Jane Doe to Khan’s residence for the purpose of a commercial sex date. Khan and Jane Doe engaged in a sex act, after which Khan contacted the woman to arrange transportation of Jane Doe and provided Jane Doe with money for the encounter.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.

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

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Billings Doctor Pleads Guilty to Charge Related to Prostitution

    Source: US FBI

    BILLINGS – A Billings man accused of using a cell phone to arrange for commercial sex admitted to a charge today, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    The defendant, Usman Hanif Khan, 52, pleaded guilty to use of a facility of interstate commerce to aid in racketeering. He faces up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided, and District Court Judge Susan P. Watters will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing will be set at a later time. Khan was released pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that prior to April 9, 2023, Khan met a woman on a social media website for those interested in a commercial sex relationship. Then, on or about April 9, 2023, Khan communicated with the woman for the purpose of arranging a commercial sex date with Jane Doe, a minor. Khan and the woman communicated via text messenger and utilized cell phones to arrange the date and discussed, among other items, the particulars of the commercial sex date. On the evening of April 9, 2023, the woman transported Jane Doe to Khan’s residence for the purpose of a commercial sex date. Khan and Jane Doe engaged in a sex act, after which Khan contacted the woman to arrange transportation of Jane Doe and provided Jane Doe with money for the encounter.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation.

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

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seven charged following protest for Palestine Action

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Seven people have been charged following a protest in support of Palestine Action on Monday.

    Protesters gathered in Trafalgar Square after the Met imposed conditions preventing the protest taking place in the original proposed location in Parliament Square.

    While it began peacefully, there were a number of clashes between officers and people in the crowd, with 13 arrests made overall.

    Of those 13, seven have now been charged with one cautioned and the remainder either bailed or released under investigation to allow further enquiries to take place.

    The details of those charged are as follows:

    · Liam Mizrahi, 25 (12.02.2000) of no fixed address, was charged with a racially aggravated public order offence (Section 4a Public Order Act). He was remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 24 June.

    · Eleanor Simmonds, 31 (03.10.93) of no fixed address, was charged with assaulting an emergency worker and was bailed to appear at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 25 July.

    · Lavina Richards, 37 (15.07.87) of Elsdale Street, Hackney was charged with two counts of assaulting an emergency worker. She has been remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 25 June.

    · Bipasha Tahsin, 21 (03.11.03) of Pinchin Street, Tower Hamlets was charged with assaulting an emergency worker. She was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 8 July.

    · Matthew Holbrook, 59 (06.08.65) of Somerhill Road, Hove was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · Tom Jubert, 40 (18.09.84) of Chippendale Street, Hackney was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · Hafeza Choudhury, 28 (15.05.97) of Berkeley Path, Luton was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · A 31-year-old woman received a caution for assaulting an emergency worker.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seven charged following protest for Palestine Action

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Seven people have been charged following a protest in support of Palestine Action on Monday.

    Protesters gathered in Trafalgar Square after the Met imposed conditions preventing the protest taking place in the original proposed location in Parliament Square.

    While it began peacefully, there were a number of clashes between officers and people in the crowd, with 13 arrests made overall.

    Of those 13, seven have now been charged with one cautioned and the remainder either bailed or released under investigation to allow further enquiries to take place.

    The details of those charged are as follows:

    · Liam Mizrahi, 25 (12.02.2000) of no fixed address, was charged with a racially aggravated public order offence (Section 4a Public Order Act). He was remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 24 June.

    · Eleanor Simmonds, 31 (03.10.93) of no fixed address, was charged with assaulting an emergency worker and was bailed to appear at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 25 July.

    · Lavina Richards, 37 (15.07.87) of Elsdale Street, Hackney was charged with two counts of assaulting an emergency worker. She has been remanded to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 25 June.

    · Bipasha Tahsin, 21 (03.11.03) of Pinchin Street, Tower Hamlets was charged with assaulting an emergency worker. She was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 8 July.

    · Matthew Holbrook, 59 (06.08.65) of Somerhill Road, Hove was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · Tom Jubert, 40 (18.09.84) of Chippendale Street, Hackney was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · Hafeza Choudhury, 28 (15.05.97) of Berkeley Path, Luton was charged with breaching conditions imposed under Section 14 of the Public Order Act. He was bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 July.

    · A 31-year-old woman received a caution for assaulting an emergency worker.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The first plenary session of the 16th session of the Standing Committee of the 14th NPC was held in Beijing

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — The first plenary meeting of the 16th session of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) of China was held in the Chinese capital on Tuesday, where various bills and reports were reviewed.

    The meeting was chaired by Zhao Leji, Chairman of the 14th NPC Standing Committee.

    The deputies reviewed draft laws on social assistance, on medical care, on responding to public health emergencies, and on propaganda and education in the area of the rule of law.

    In addition, draft amendments to the Law on Punishment for Disorderly Conduct, the Law on Combating Unfair Competition, the Law on Maritime Commerce, the Law on Fisheries, the Law on Civil Aviation, and the Law on Food Security were considered.

    Legislators considered a proposal to ratify the Convention on the Establishment of the International Mediation Organization.

    The financial report on the execution of the central government budget for 2024, the audit report on the execution of the central government budget and other budget revenues and expenditures for 2024, reports on the development of productive forces of a new quality, on the powers of individual deputies and on personnel changes were also reviewed. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: El Salvadoran Man Convicted of Fentanyl Trafficking, Firearms Offenses, and Illegal Entry

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

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – An El Salvadoran national has been found guilty in federal court of trafficking fentanyl, illegally possessing firearms, and unlawful entry to the United States.

    Jose Navarrete-Hernandez, 42, was found guilty of one count each of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute, possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, possessing a firearm as an illegal alien, possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, and illegal entry into the United States. United States District Judge M. Douglas Harpool issued a verdict Monday, June 23, 2025, following a one-day bench trial on May 12, 2025.

    On May 11, 2023, officers with the Carthage, Mo., Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a gray Ford F-250 with an expired Texas license plate driven by Navarrete-Hernandez. After confirming that Navarrete-Hernandez did not have a valid driver’s license, the officers searched Navarrete-Hernandez and the F-250.

    Officers found in the truck a black backpack containing two drug scales, two glass pipes with white powdery residue, approximately 145 fentanyl pills, a Heritage Rough Rider revolver, ammunition, and a forged social security card. Officers also found a Raven P-25 pistol with an obliterated serial number in the truck.  At the time, Navarrete-Hernandez was not a citizen or national of the United States and had entered the United States at a place other than a designated port of entry.

    Under federal statutes, Navarrete-Hernandez is subject to a sentence of up to Life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey Clark and Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Missouri State Highway Patrol; and the Carthage, Mo., Police Department.

    Operation Take Back America

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Second Sentencing in the Burglary of Dozens of Firearms from a Maryland Pawn Shop

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

                WASHINGTON – Niquan Odumn, 23, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 48 months in federal prison for his role in the December 2023 burglary of a Maryland pawn shop that netted dozens of firearms.

                The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department

                Odumn, aka “Stickz,” pleaded guilty on March 6 to conspiracy to commit theft from a firearms licensee and to possession of stolen firearms. In addition to the sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge Amy Berman Jackson ordered three years of supervised release.

                According to the court documents, on Dec. 13, 2023, Odumn and at least four co-conspirators drove in two vehicles from the District to the A&D Pawn Shop, a Federal Firearms Licensee, in Glen Burnie, Maryland.

                At the pawn shop, Odumn used a portable saw to cut the locks on a pull-down security gate. Another co-conspirator then used a crowbar-type tool to pry open the main door. Once inside, the quintet grabbed an array of rifles, shotguns, and pistols from the shelves and display racks. They fled with at least 34 firearms.

                Odumn was arrested on March 25, 2024, and has been detained since.

                Juwon Markel Anderson, 22, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced June 20 to 84 months in prison for his role in the burglary and for his subsequent attempt to sell several of the stolen guns.

                Co-defendant Tyjuan McNeal, 27, is scheduled to be sentenced July 1 for conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking. Co-defendant Vincent Lee Alston, 23, pleaded guilty March 6, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking. And co-defendant Cy’juan Hemsley, who pleaded guilty on May 7, 2025, to conspiracy to commit theft from a firearms licensee and to possession of stolen firearms.

                This case is being investigated by the ATF Washington Field Division and the Metropolitan Police Department, with assistance from the ATF Baltimore Field Division. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shehzad Akhtar with valuable assistance from former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Lipes.     

    23cr452 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Southern Ute Tribal Member Sentenced to 18 Years in Prison for Abusive Sexual Contact with Children

    Source: US FBI

    DURANGO – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announced that Kalin Burton Goodtracks, age 36, of Ignacio, Colorado, was sentenced to 18 years in federal prison, followed by 25 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a Justice of Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) assessment of $10,000, after pleading guilty to two charges of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child in Indian Country.

    According to the plea agreement, on separate incidents in 2019, Goodtracks sexually abused two minors under the age of 12 who were under his supervision. He committed the offenses at his home on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. Both children were related to Goodtracks.

    “Mr. Goodtracks deserves to spend a long time in federal prison because he preyed upon children he was supposed to protect,” said United States Attorney Peter McNeilly. “Pursuing justice for the most vulnerable in Colorado—and especially our children—remains one of our top priorities.”

    “This case is a clear reminder that those who exploit children — including those on tribal lands—will find no safe haven from justice, no matter where they are,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek. “These predators pose a serious threat to the safety of our communities and the FBI will aggressively pursue anyone who targets children.”

    United States District Court Judge Gordon P. Gallagher sentenced the defendant on June 16, 2025.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Southern Ute Investigations Division within the Southern Ute Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey K. Graves and Lisa Franceware handled the prosecution of the case.

    Case Number: 1:23-cr-00491-GPG-JMC

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Men Who Robbed Postal Employee Sentenced to Prison

    Source: US FBI

    TOLEDO, Ohio – Three Lima, Ohio, men who robbed a federal worker while serving on official duty as a postal carrier have been sentenced to prison by U.S. District Court Judge James R. Knepp.

    According to the indictment, the robbery occurred on Nov. 30, 2023, while a United States Postal Service letter carrier was on a routine delivery route in Lima. Specially suited keys which unlock postal service bags, drawers, and other authorized receptacles for the deposit of mail were stolen under threat of force and violence to the postal carrier. As a result of this robbery, U.S. mail was stolen on several occasions.

    The following sentences were imposed June 20, 2025:

    • Ahmir Curtis, 24, was sentenced to 24 months in prison after pleading guilty to robbery of mail, money, or other property of the United States, stealing keys adopted by the post office, and theft of mail. He was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release, and pay $650 in restitution for damage to federal property.
    • Zenesto Martin, Jr., 26,  was sentenced to 30 months in prison after pleading guilty to robbery of mail, money, or other property of the United States, stealing keys adopted by the post office, and theft of mail. He was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release.
    • Christian Proby, 26, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison after pleading guilty to robbery of mail, money, or other property of the United States and stealing keys adopted by the post office. He was also ordered to serve two years of supervised release.

    The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Safe Streets Task Force, and the Lima Police Department.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank H. Spryszak for the Northern District of Ohio.

    The USPIS is the federal agency with jurisdiction for investigating crimes against postal carriers and crimes involving the U.S. Mail. Anyone having information about blue collection box thefts, or thefts or attempted thefts of mail carriers or mail, should contact USPIS at 1-877-876-2455. All information will be kept confidential.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Mann, Schmidt, Sens. Marshall, Moran, Mullin Introduce Landmark Legislation to Reform Haskell University

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    Legislation would transfer governance from Bureau of Indian Education to Haskell Board of Regents

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Derek Schmidt (KS-02), alongside U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), introduced legislation that would federally charter Haskell Indian Nations University, transferring governance from the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) to the Haskell Board of Regents, while maintaining federal funding and assistance for the university.

    In December, Rep. Mann and Sen. Moran released an initial draft of the legislation. Throughout the last five months, the Members solicited and reviewed feedback from the Native American, Lawrence, and higher education communities to make certain the legislation would effectively address issues at Haskell and best serve Native students and staff.

    “As a one-of-a-kind, historic institution established to meet the educational needs of students of federally recognized tribes, Haskell Indian Nations University should be a crown jewel for both Native Americans and Kansas,” said Rep. Mann. “For far too long, the U.S. Department of Interior and the Bureau of Indian Education have mismanaged the university, turned a blind eye to misconduct to the detriment of its students, and failed to comply with federal oversight. Our legislation offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to protect Haskell’s rich heritage and culture by transferring its governance to a Board of Regents nominated by Tribal communities and removing BIE from its governing structure. I am grateful for the tribal members, Haskell students, staff, and alumni, and the Haskell Board of Regents who weighed in to help us get this bill right. Today begins a new chapter that empowers Haskell to thrive and serve tribal communities in the way it was always meant to serve.”

    “Haskell University once provided Native American students the opportunity to receive a high-quality, tuition-free education in an environment that understood and prioritized indigenous heritage and culture,” said Sen. Moran. “Over the last few years, the university has been neglected and mismanaged by the Bureau of Indian Education. The bureau has failed to protect students, respond to my congressional inquiries or meet the basic infrastructure needs of the university. It is clear that the best path forward is for the university to be led by an independent Board of Regents nominated by the Tribal community and no longer obstructed by the BIE. I am grateful for the input I have received from the Haskell Board of Regents, tribal members and Haskell University students and staff to make certain Haskell, as the sole Tribal Nations University in the country, receives the reforms necessary to best serve the Native American community in Kansas and across the country.”

    “For over 140 years, Haskell University has provided Native American students with an educational setting rooted in Tribal heritage,” said Sen. Marshall. “However, for too long, the Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Indian Education have failed Haskell students through chronic mismanagement, lack of oversight, and ignoring instances of serious misconduct. To protect and preserve Haskell’s mission and future, governance of the university should shift to an independent Board of Regents nominated by the Tribal community.”

    “Haskell Indian Nations University is a Kansas gem that has yet to reach its full potential,” said Rep. Schmidt. “By transferring control of the university to the Haskell Board of Regents, our legislation would strengthen accountability by entrusting management of the university to those closest to it. I’m proud to join my colleagues in this critical effort.”

    “The BIE has failed the students of Haskell University and improvements are long overdue,” said Sen. Mullin. “With Oklahomans leading the way in highest attendance for first-time and first-year students, and as a Cherokee myself, I am proud to join my colleagues on this critical legislation.”

    “I am thankful that Sen. Moran and Rep. Mann have introduced this legislation to strengthen Haskell as a federally chartered university to further the federal government’s treaty and trust responsibility to Indian people,” said Joseph Rupnick, Chairman of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. “I look forward to discussions in the new year with Tribal leaders and Haskell alums, faculty and students so that this bill can safeguard Haskell’s future and its funding.”

    “For decades, Haskell Indian Nations University has served as a unique institution dedicated to advancing Native students and strengthening Tribal nations,” said Dalton Henry, President of the National Haskell Board of Regents. “Yet, persistent challenges under federal oversight have limited its potential. Shifting oversight from the Bureau of Indian Education to a Native-led Board of Trustees affirms that Tribal Nations are best positioned to guide Haskell’s future. This is how we secure Haskell’s legacy, not just for today’s students, but for the next seven generations. We thank Senator Moran and Congressman Mann who have taken on this effort.”

    “NIEA’s top priority is always Education Sovereignty. When Tribes, students, and communities say that something needs to change, and that the leaders and the community are ready to take charge, we will always support that initiative,” said Jason Dropik, NIEA Executive Director. “We applaud Senator Moran and Congressman Mann for undertaking this effort in support of Native students across the country.”

    “We support the efforts to establish Haskell Indian Nations University as a federally chartered education institution independent of federal agencies,” said Bonnie S. Lowe, President & CEO of The Chamber of Lawrence, Kansas. “The students, faculty and staff deserve the opportunity to study, live and work in a university that is supported to meet its astounding potential. These efforts are important steps toward ensuring the University’s success for generations of students to come.”

    “NCAI supports the independence of the HINU Board of Trustees in governing HINU, we feel this legislation aligns with the broader goals of Tribal self-determination by empowering Tribal representatives to have a direct role in the success of HINU,” said National Congress of American Indians Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “We are committed to working with Congress to unlock educational opportunities and career pathways that will empower the next generation to thrive.”

    “The American Indian Higher Education Consortium is proud to support the Haskell Indian Nations University Improvement Act because this legislation honors the priorities of the Haskell Board of Regents and respects Tribal self-determination,” said Moriah O’Brien, Vice President of Congressional & Federal Relations of American Indian Higher Education Consortium. “Specifically, the legislation reaffirms the federal government’s trust and treaty responsibility for post-secondary education; reaffirms that high quality, culturally relevant education is essential for the survival and strengthening of Tribal Nations; provides a charter to the University; and rightfully empowers the Haskell Board of Regents with decision-making authority in lieu of their current advisory-only capacity. Thank you to Senator Moran and Representative Mann for their leadership on this important issue.”

    “I am proud to support the Haskell Indian Nation University Improvement Act,” said Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben, Mississippi Band of Choctaw of Indians. “Haskell holds a special place in the hearts of many of our Tribal students—past, present, and future—who attend with deep pride and commitment. This Act will strengthen the University by establishing a federally charted corporation with an independent Board of Trustees. These changes will provide Haskell with the stability, autonomy, and leadership it needs to thrive. Thank you, Senator Moran and Congressman Mann for introducing this much needed legislation.”  

    “As a proud Haskell alumna, I’ve witnessed the strength of our students and the chronic neglect Haskell has faced for far too long. This bill is a vital step toward restoring dignity and sovereignty,” said Brittany Kathleen Hall, Former President, Haskell Board of Regents. “By placing leadership with an independent, Tribal-nominated board, we honor our ancestors’ vision for Indigenous education. Our students deserve more than broken promises—they deserve action and let’s work together to create that and build a stronger community for Indian Country and Lawrence, KS.”

    Haskell University is the only four-year, postsecondary institution under the governance of the BIE and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Over the last several years, the agencies have failed to respond to congressional inquiries and address concerns raised by the Tribal community—including delays and redactions in a report on a sexual harassment investigation. Additionally, Haskell University’s infrastructure is outdated, non-ADA compliant, and contains obsolete technology. Haskell University faces high dropout rates and a lack of resources for essential programs.

    Text for the legislation can be found here, and a section-by-section summary of the legislation can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Mann, Schmidt, Sens. Marshall, Moran, Mullin Introduce Landmark Legislation to Reform Haskell University

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    Legislation would transfer governance from Bureau of Indian Education to Haskell Board of Regents

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Derek Schmidt (KS-02), alongside U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), introduced legislation that would federally charter Haskell Indian Nations University, transferring governance from the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) to the Haskell Board of Regents, while maintaining federal funding and assistance for the university.

    In December, Rep. Mann and Sen. Moran released an initial draft of the legislation. Throughout the last five months, the Members solicited and reviewed feedback from the Native American, Lawrence, and higher education communities to make certain the legislation would effectively address issues at Haskell and best serve Native students and staff.

    “As a one-of-a-kind, historic institution established to meet the educational needs of students of federally recognized tribes, Haskell Indian Nations University should be a crown jewel for both Native Americans and Kansas,” said Rep. Mann. “For far too long, the U.S. Department of Interior and the Bureau of Indian Education have mismanaged the university, turned a blind eye to misconduct to the detriment of its students, and failed to comply with federal oversight. Our legislation offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to protect Haskell’s rich heritage and culture by transferring its governance to a Board of Regents nominated by Tribal communities and removing BIE from its governing structure. I am grateful for the tribal members, Haskell students, staff, and alumni, and the Haskell Board of Regents who weighed in to help us get this bill right. Today begins a new chapter that empowers Haskell to thrive and serve tribal communities in the way it was always meant to serve.”

    “Haskell University once provided Native American students the opportunity to receive a high-quality, tuition-free education in an environment that understood and prioritized indigenous heritage and culture,” said Sen. Moran. “Over the last few years, the university has been neglected and mismanaged by the Bureau of Indian Education. The bureau has failed to protect students, respond to my congressional inquiries or meet the basic infrastructure needs of the university. It is clear that the best path forward is for the university to be led by an independent Board of Regents nominated by the Tribal community and no longer obstructed by the BIE. I am grateful for the input I have received from the Haskell Board of Regents, tribal members and Haskell University students and staff to make certain Haskell, as the sole Tribal Nations University in the country, receives the reforms necessary to best serve the Native American community in Kansas and across the country.”

    “For over 140 years, Haskell University has provided Native American students with an educational setting rooted in Tribal heritage,” said Sen. Marshall. “However, for too long, the Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Indian Education have failed Haskell students through chronic mismanagement, lack of oversight, and ignoring instances of serious misconduct. To protect and preserve Haskell’s mission and future, governance of the university should shift to an independent Board of Regents nominated by the Tribal community.”

    “Haskell Indian Nations University is a Kansas gem that has yet to reach its full potential,” said Rep. Schmidt. “By transferring control of the university to the Haskell Board of Regents, our legislation would strengthen accountability by entrusting management of the university to those closest to it. I’m proud to join my colleagues in this critical effort.”

    “The BIE has failed the students of Haskell University and improvements are long overdue,” said Sen. Mullin. “With Oklahomans leading the way in highest attendance for first-time and first-year students, and as a Cherokee myself, I am proud to join my colleagues on this critical legislation.”

    “I am thankful that Sen. Moran and Rep. Mann have introduced this legislation to strengthen Haskell as a federally chartered university to further the federal government’s treaty and trust responsibility to Indian people,” said Joseph Rupnick, Chairman of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. “I look forward to discussions in the new year with Tribal leaders and Haskell alums, faculty and students so that this bill can safeguard Haskell’s future and its funding.”

    “For decades, Haskell Indian Nations University has served as a unique institution dedicated to advancing Native students and strengthening Tribal nations,” said Dalton Henry, President of the National Haskell Board of Regents. “Yet, persistent challenges under federal oversight have limited its potential. Shifting oversight from the Bureau of Indian Education to a Native-led Board of Trustees affirms that Tribal Nations are best positioned to guide Haskell’s future. This is how we secure Haskell’s legacy, not just for today’s students, but for the next seven generations. We thank Senator Moran and Congressman Mann who have taken on this effort.”

    “NIEA’s top priority is always Education Sovereignty. When Tribes, students, and communities say that something needs to change, and that the leaders and the community are ready to take charge, we will always support that initiative,” said Jason Dropik, NIEA Executive Director. “We applaud Senator Moran and Congressman Mann for undertaking this effort in support of Native students across the country.”

    “We support the efforts to establish Haskell Indian Nations University as a federally chartered education institution independent of federal agencies,” said Bonnie S. Lowe, President & CEO of The Chamber of Lawrence, Kansas. “The students, faculty and staff deserve the opportunity to study, live and work in a university that is supported to meet its astounding potential. These efforts are important steps toward ensuring the University’s success for generations of students to come.”

    “NCAI supports the independence of the HINU Board of Trustees in governing HINU, we feel this legislation aligns with the broader goals of Tribal self-determination by empowering Tribal representatives to have a direct role in the success of HINU,” said National Congress of American Indians Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “We are committed to working with Congress to unlock educational opportunities and career pathways that will empower the next generation to thrive.”

    “The American Indian Higher Education Consortium is proud to support the Haskell Indian Nations University Improvement Act because this legislation honors the priorities of the Haskell Board of Regents and respects Tribal self-determination,” said Moriah O’Brien, Vice President of Congressional & Federal Relations of American Indian Higher Education Consortium. “Specifically, the legislation reaffirms the federal government’s trust and treaty responsibility for post-secondary education; reaffirms that high quality, culturally relevant education is essential for the survival and strengthening of Tribal Nations; provides a charter to the University; and rightfully empowers the Haskell Board of Regents with decision-making authority in lieu of their current advisory-only capacity. Thank you to Senator Moran and Representative Mann for their leadership on this important issue.”

    “I am proud to support the Haskell Indian Nation University Improvement Act,” said Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben, Mississippi Band of Choctaw of Indians. “Haskell holds a special place in the hearts of many of our Tribal students—past, present, and future—who attend with deep pride and commitment. This Act will strengthen the University by establishing a federally charted corporation with an independent Board of Trustees. These changes will provide Haskell with the stability, autonomy, and leadership it needs to thrive. Thank you, Senator Moran and Congressman Mann for introducing this much needed legislation.”  

    “As a proud Haskell alumna, I’ve witnessed the strength of our students and the chronic neglect Haskell has faced for far too long. This bill is a vital step toward restoring dignity and sovereignty,” said Brittany Kathleen Hall, Former President, Haskell Board of Regents. “By placing leadership with an independent, Tribal-nominated board, we honor our ancestors’ vision for Indigenous education. Our students deserve more than broken promises—they deserve action and let’s work together to create that and build a stronger community for Indian Country and Lawrence, KS.”

    Haskell University is the only four-year, postsecondary institution under the governance of the BIE and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Over the last several years, the agencies have failed to respond to congressional inquiries and address concerns raised by the Tribal community—including delays and redactions in a report on a sexual harassment investigation. Additionally, Haskell University’s infrastructure is outdated, non-ADA compliant, and contains obsolete technology. Haskell University faces high dropout rates and a lack of resources for essential programs.

    Text for the legislation can be found here, and a section-by-section summary of the legislation can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Holds Skilled Nursing Facility Chain Accountable for Misrepresenting its Quality of Care and Putting Patients at Risk

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit against Sweetwater Care (Sweetwater), a San Diego-based operator of skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). The lawsuit, which pertains to Sweetwater’s 19 California skilled nursing facilities, alleges that Sweetwater violated California law, specifically the Unfair Competition Law, due to their failure to meet statutory minimum staffing levels and to protect California residents under its care. This failure led to delayed care and critical oversights, resulting in severe harm to patients who depended on timely medical attention. The lawsuit also highlights that while Sweetwater received significant payments from Medi-Cal, the chain engaged in a pattern of violations of California law and regulations related to minimum skilled nursing facility staffing.  

    “Sweetwater and its skilled nursing facilities violated the law and betrayed the trust of communities by failing to safeguard the health and safety of its residents. This is simply unacceptable,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The California Department of Justice will step in whenever the well-being of patients is at stake. With today’s lawsuit, we are holding Sweetwater accountable for breaking the law by understaffing its facilities and leaving residents vulnerable to serious neglect and injuries. No one is above the law, and our vulnerable patients deserve nothing less than dignity, safety, and high-quality care.” 

    The California Department of Justice (DOJ)’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA)’s investigation found that Sweetwater was engaging in a pattern of unlawful conduct leading to associated patient harm, preventable neglect, abuse, and injuries. From 2020 through 2024, Sweetwater SNFs were staffed below California minimum staffing levels in over 14,126 instances. This unlawful level of understaffing led to patients at Sweetwater’s SNFs being exposed to preventable neglect, abuse, and injuries including fractured bones that went days without assessment or medical care, patients with head trauma leaving the facility unbeknownst to staff, unwitnessed falls, pressure injuries so severe that a patient’s hip bone was visible, medical emergencies that were not timely assessed or responded to, and patients being left for hours and overnight in soiled diapers because staff were too few or unwilling to provide care. The investigation also revealed that Sweetwater extracted over $31 million as “profit” or “management fees” instead of using those dollars to provide the legally required staffing to meet minimum nursing staff levels.

    The California Department of Justice is alleging Sweetwater violated California’s Unfair Competition Law in its lawsuit. The DOJ is also seeking remedies including civil monetary penalties, injunctive relief to prevent violations of California laws and regulations, the installation of a receiver or compliance monitor, and costs of suit.  

    Pursuant to California’s Unfair Competition Law, Defendants are potentially liable for a civil penalty of up to $2,500 for each violation. That penalty may be doubled for each violation perpetrated against a senior citizen or disabled person. 

    DMFEA works to protect Californians by investigating and prosecuting those responsible for abuse, neglect, and fraud committed against elderly and dependent adults in the state, and those who perpetrate fraud on the Medi-Cal program.

    The Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $69,244,976 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2025. The remaining 25 percent is funded by the State of California. FY 2025 is from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025. 

    A link to a copy of the complaint as filed with the court will be provided once available.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AI Data Drop: What happens when you give 20,000 people Copilot

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: AI Data Drop: What happens when you give 20,000 people Copilot

    This story is featured in the WorkLab newsletter. Sign up for it here.

    Every leader wants to know: how do you turn AI into real results at scale?  

    In a first-of-its-kind study, the UK government gave Microsoft 365 Copilot to 20,000 employees for three months. The findings, based on participant feedback and usage data, offer a rare look at how AI performs at scale in a complex public sector environment. While the results reflect self-reported experiences, they suggest that with the right support, AI can help even the largest organizations operate more like Frontier Firms. 
     
    What they did
    The UK’s Government Digital Services office gave Copilot to participants across 12 departments—including the Home Office, Ministry of Justice, and Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. Employees received onboarding support in the form of FAQs, tip sheets, videos, community sessions, and workshops. To evaluate the impact, government researchers collected both usage data and direct feedback from employees.

    Government workers report saving time with Copilot

    In a UK user perception study, 20,000 government workers who used Copilot for three months reported saving time across all roles.

    What they found
    On average, employees who took part in the user perception study reported saving more than 25 minutes a day using Copilot—nearly two weeks per year. Over 70% said Copilot helped them spend less time on routine tasks and more time on strategic work.

    Beyond productivity, the study surfaced strong positive sentiment: More than 80% said they wouldn’t want to give up Copilot. And many didn’t have to—nine of the 12 departments opted to continue their licenses, and the UK government has since expanded to 31,000 Copilot seats. 

    These results were realized in just three months, in keeping with our previous research that shows it can take up to 11 weeks to start building the AI habit. The UK government’s report also notes that “there was strong positive feedback surrounding Microsoft 365 Copilot agents, with many departments eager to explore the tool further.” 

    What it means 
    The UK government’s study shows that large-scale AI adoption doesn’t have to be slow-going. With careful planning and thoughtful guidance, organizations can unlock meaningful impact in just a few months. The reported time savings are equivalent to giving 1,130 civil servants a full year back—every year—to focus on higher-value work.  

    For leaders, the message is clear: AI can deliver measurable ROI, fast. But success depends on more than just access—it requires intentional rollout and a culture ready to embrace change. The UK government’s approach offers a blueprint for how large, complex organizations can move toward becoming Frontier Firms. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Service Receives Emmy Award

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Washington, DC – The U.S. Marshals Service, Office of Public Affairs (OPA), received recognition during the 67th Capital Emmy Awards on Friday, Jun. 21.

    The OPA video production team received the Emmy for best Crime/Justice Short Form Content for the short film Family Since 1789. The film features the challenging work/life dynamics of federal law enforcement and the sacrifices that come with being a deputy U.S. Marshal.

    The recipients of the Emmy were Bennie Davis, director/photographer; Shane McCoy, photographer and Andrew Breese, producer. A full list of the award winners can be found here.

    The National Capital Emmys were hosted by the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter and were held in Maryland at the North Bethesda Marriott Hotel and Conference Center.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Service Receives Emmy Award

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Washington, DC – The U.S. Marshals Service, Office of Public Affairs (OPA), received recognition during the 67th Capital Emmy Awards on Friday, Jun. 21.

    The OPA video production team received the Emmy for best Crime/Justice Short Form Content for the short film Family Since 1789. The film features the challenging work/life dynamics of federal law enforcement and the sacrifices that come with being a deputy U.S. Marshal.

    The recipients of the Emmy were Bennie Davis, director/photographer; Shane McCoy, photographer and Andrew Breese, producer. A full list of the award winners can be found here.

    The National Capital Emmys were hosted by the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter and were held in Maryland at the North Bethesda Marriott Hotel and Conference Center.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Families in Princeton will benefit from more child care spaces

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Families in Princeton will now have access to 80 new child care spaces at the Riverside Learning Centre.

    “Access to more high-quality, affordable child care spaces will make a real difference for the women, and working and single parents in the Princeton community,” said Rohini Arora, parliamentary secretary for child care. “We know that having access to high-quality, affordable child care allows parents, especially women, to stay in the workforce or return to school, directly helping families and the local economy thrive, while their children are growing and learning.”

    The Province partnered with School District 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) on this project, which was supported by more than $10.2 million from the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund. This fund is jointly supported by provincial investments and federal funding under the 2021-22 to 2030-31 Canada-British Columbia Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. British Columbia and the federal government signed an extension to the agreement for 2026-27 to 2030-31.

    This child care centre will provide a total of 122 child care spaces, including 42 existing spaces and 80 new spaces. This includes 24 spaces for infant-toddlers, 50 spaces for children 2.5 years old to kindergarten, and 48 spaces for school-age care. These new child care spaces bring the total number of child care spaces funded through the ChildCareBC space-creation programs in Princeton and surrounding areas to 206.

    “As a district, we are exceptionally grateful the ministry has invested in rural British Columbia to provide a state-of-the-art child care centre in Princeton,” said Courtney Lawrance, superintendent of schools, SD58 (Nicola-Similkameen). “Children truly are our future and a solid foundation of early learning supports the long-term vitality of the community. We dreamed big with the vision for the project and with this opening, our dream has come true.”

    Since 2018, ChildCareBC’s space-creation programs have helped fund more than 40,900 new licensed child care spaces in B.C. and 24,900 of those are now open. Expanding access to affordable, high-quality child care spaces is part of the Province’s ChildCareBC plan.

    Learn More:

    For information about ChildCareBC, visit:
    https://www.gov.bc.ca/childcare/newspacesfund

    For information about the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund, visit:
    https://www.gov.bc.ca/childcare/newspacesfund

    For information about how to connect to services and help save money, visit the BC Benefits Connector:
    https://gov.bc.ca/BCBenefitsConnector

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NREL Welcomes 30 Participants To Join Energy to Communities Peer-Learning Cohorts on Utility Engagement and Load Growth

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    30 Local Leaders Join Two New Energy to Communities (E2C) Peer-Learning Cohorts on Electricity Load Growth and Utility Engagement

    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is excited to announce the 30 local participants across 25 states, territories, and Tribes selected for two new Energy to Communities (E2C) peer-learning cohorts, managed on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

    These cohorts will bring together local leaders, energy experts, and community organizations to tackle critical challenges related to electricity load growth, grid impacts, and electric utility partnerships. From July to December, the 15 participants in each cohort will convene monthly to learn from energy experts—and each other—about best practices, strategies, and tools for addressing these energy topics.

    The “Navigating Electricity Load Growth and Associated Utility Grid Impacts” cohort will focus on strategies for adapting to increasing electricity demand driven by emerging industries such as artificial intelligence and data centers. Participants will explore how grid infrastructure can evolve to meet new economic opportunities while maintaining reliability and resilience.

    The “Engaging With Electric Utilities for Successful Local Partnerships” cohort will equip local leaders with knowledge on electric utility regulation, core functions, and business models. Participants will gain insights into collaborative approaches for working effectively with electric utilities, fostering innovation, and advancing policies that support local energy needs.

    Participants from more than 200 communities have already participated in E2C peer-learning cohorts for educational resources, case studies, analysis and modeling tools, templates, trainings, and facilitated collaboration.

    Learn more about E2C’s three different technical assistance offerings, and apply for short-term expert match support today.

    “These peer-learning cohorts represent an exciting opportunity for communities to deepen their understanding of the evolving energy landscape while building strong partnerships to navigate these challenges,” said Jenny Sumner, the E2C program lead at NREL. “We look forward to facilitating these cohorts and providing participants with the tools and expertise needed to shape their energy futures.”

    The cohort topics and participants in the July 2025 cycle are:

    Navigating Electricity Load Growth and Associated Utility Grid Impacts

    • Bennett, Colorado
    • Blaine County, Idaho
    • Cherokee Nation (Tahlequah, Oklahoma)
    • Chester, Pennsylvania
    • Columbus Municipal Division of Power, Ohio
    • Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise Inc. (EDGE), Nebraska
    • Frisco, Texas
    • Guam Power Authority, Guam
    • Madelia Municipal Light and Power, Minnesota
    • Middle Tennessee Electric, Tennessee
    • Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, Indiana
    • Prince William County, Virginia
    • Redmond, Washington
    • Somerville, Massachusetts

    Engaging With Electric Utilities for Successful Local Partnerships

    • Athens-Clarke County, Georgia
    • Blaine County, Idaho
    • Boston, Massachusetts
    • Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission, Vermont
    • Delray Beach, Florida
    • Douglas County, Kansas
    • Greater Portland Council of Governments, Maine
    • Johnstown, Colorado
    • Las Cruces, New Mexico
    • Lucas County, Ohio, with Toledo, Ohio
    • Missoula, Montana
    • Sedona, Arizona
    • Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments, Alabama
    • Washoe County, Nevada
    • Windsor, Colorado

    Peer-learning cohorts are one of three technical assistance offerings from the E2C program, ranging from short-term technical assistance to address near-term energy challenges to more in-depth technical partnerships that support communities in developing abundant, reliable, affordable, and secure energy systems.

    E2C is funded by DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and managed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory with support from Argonne National Laboratory, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

    Learn more about E2C.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE investigation leads to 6 charged in connection with interstate commercial burglaries

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEWARK, N.J. — Following an ICE Homeland Security Investigations Newark investigation, six people were charged for conspiring to transport stolen property derived from burglarized consignment shops across multiple states.

    The subjects were charged by complaint with one count of conspiracy to sell and receive stolen property that had crossed state lines. Marco Honesty, 28, Richard Francis, 35, Dominique Hayes, 29, Deandre Dudley, 32, Ilon Coles-Melson, 21, and Marcus Gallmon, 21, residents of Washington, D.C. and Maryland, were charged at the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey in Newark.

    “Our law enforcement partnerships across the East Coast in this investigation led to the successful apprehension of six suspects and dismantled an interstate burglary ring behind a string of consignment store thefts across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania Maryland and Delaware,” said ICE HSI Newark Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel. “The criminals hoping to line their own pockets by selling millions of dollars in stolen merchandise will now face the consequences of their illicit schemes.”  

    According to the investigation, the defendants are part of a commercial burglary ring that committed at least 18 burglaries in multiple states between March 2024 and November 2024, including in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. On several dates, the defendants broke into the consignment shops in the middle of the night using sledgehammers and other objects, stole dozens of designer handbags and other items from each shop, and transported the stolen goods across state lines.

    HSI Newark led the investigation with the assistance of HSI Baltimore, HSI Malta, HSI Washington D.C. and HSI Wilmington. Many law enforcement partners from five states also supported the investigation.

    HSI Newark’s law enforcement partners in New Jersey who assisted in the investigation include the New Jersey State Police, Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Cape May Police Department, Cherry Hill Police Department, Colts Neck Police Department, Englewood Police Department, Haddonfield Police Department, Livingston Police Department, Manalapan Police Department, Margate Police Department, Millburn Police Department, Montclair Police Department, Roxbury Township Police Department, Springfield Police Department, Tenafly Police Department, Warren Police Department, and Watchung Police Department for their assistance.

    New York partners include Guilderland Police Department, North Castle Police Department and Saratoga Springs Police Department. Pennsylvania partners include Philadelphia Police Department. Delaware partners include Delaware State Police. Maryland partners include Prince George’s County Police Department and Baltimore County Police Department.

    Honesty appeared in Newark federal court June 13 and was detained. Hayes appeared in Newark federal court May 22 and was detained. Coles-Melson appeared n Newark federal court April 11 and was detained. Gallmon, Dudley and Francis also appeared in court earlier this year but were later released on a $100,000 unsecured bond. The charge of conspiracy to sell or receive stolen property carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of up to a $250,000 fine, or twice the amount of money involved in the offense, whichever is greater.

    Anyone who believes they may be a victim, or has information about the theft group or burglaries, is asked to call 1-866-DHS-2-ICE, or call a local field office.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Op-Ed: New York Will Always Support Reproductive Rights

    Source: US State of New York

    oday, on the third anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs ruling, which ended the constitutional right to an abortion in the United States, Governor Hochul authored an op-ed in Empire Report reaffirming her commitment to keeping abortion safe and accessible in New York. Since taking office, Governor Hochul has made nation-leading investments in expanding reproductive freedom rights for New Yorkers including: increasing funding to support abortion care providers, passing historic legislation protecting both patients and New York doctors and today announced nearly $25 million to organizations in New York that support abortion care. Text of the op-ed can be viewed online and is available below:

    Three years ago today was the last day that every woman in the United States had a constitutionally-protected right to access abortion.

    With the stroke of a pen the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, and our nation erupted in grief, anger and fear. This was a right that my mother’s generation fought for – a right we expected would be here to stay for my daughter and granddaughters’ generations.

    Over the past three years, anti-choice politicians have done everything in their power to restrict reproductive freedom. Nineteen states have passed total or near-total abortion bans, and women have literally died because they couldn’t get the care they needed.

    But here’s the thing about New Yorkers: when you try to take away our rights, we fight like hell to protect our people. New York will always stand as a safe harbor for women who need abortion care.

    So what did New York do when they tried to strip away our freedoms? We got to work.

    Immediately following the leaked release of the Dobbs decision, we invested a nation-leading $35 million to support abortion providers statewide. This funding is helping New York doctors address financial challenges and make much-needed investments in security. And in 2022, I signed New York’s “Shield Law” to protect the rights of patients and prevent other states from prosecuting New York’s doctors.

    This year, we went a step further by offering additional protections for those prescribing abortion medication via telemedicine by protecting their personal information.

    These issues aren’t hypothetical. Consider this: a warrant was issued in Louisiana to arrest a New York-based doctor who, for decades, performed her duties as a health care provider. She assisted women exercising control of their own bodies and helped them access the basic health care they needed. Because of our “Shield Law,” we protected that New York doctor.

    Even as other states continue to target, harass and scare doctors and patients, we’ll continue to stand up for what’s right. In this year’s budget, we’ve invested over $60 million to protect New Yorkers’ right to reproductive health care and the brave providers who ensure care is provided to those who need it most. Today, I’m proud to announce nearly $25 million in State grants from the New York State Abortion Access Program, which will go directly to organizations in New York that support abortion care.

    People across the nation look to us for leadership. My promise to them – and to all New Yorkers – is that we will continue to stand as a safe harbor for anyone who needs abortion care.

    And to anyone who dares threaten these fundamental freedoms, my message is simple: Not here. Not now. Not ever.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Man Sentenced to 168 Months in Federal Prison for Coercion and Enticement of a Child

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON – Jason Hanif Rehman, 40, of Rockville, Md., was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 168 months federal in prison in connection with coercing a minor victim to send him sexually explicit images of herself over the internet.  

                The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

                Rehman pleaded guilty on Nov. 21, 2024, to one count of coercion and enticement of a minor. In addition to the 14-year prison term, Judge Carl J. Nichols ordered Rehman to serve 10 years of supervised release and to register as a sex offender.

                According to court documents, in October and November of 2018, Rehman communicated with a 15-year-old girl on Snapchat. Rehman directed her to produce and send him child sexual abuse material. He also sent her explicit photographs of himself. Over the course of five weeks, Rehman continued to coerce the victim into sending him child sexual abuse material and, on at least two separate dates, traveled from Maryland and Washington, D.C. to Virginia where he had sex with her.

                A fellow student notified school officials of the minor victim’s communication with an adult male. Investigators identified the male as Rehman. Subsequently, other minors at the school  disclosed that Rehman had sent them similarly sexually explicit messages and requests over Snapchat. When investigators located Rehman, he admitted that he had used his Snapchat account to contact the victim and knew she was 15 years old. He also admitted to convincing her to send him explicit photos and admitted to having sexual intercourse with her.

                This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in conjunction with the Fairfax County Police Department. The task force is composed of FBI agents, along with other federal agents and detectives from northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The task force is charged with investigating and bringing federal charges against individuals engaged in the exploitation of children and those engaged in human trafficking. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Caroline Burrell for the District of Columbia. and Trial Attorney Angelica Carrasco of the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section.

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

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    MIL Security OSI –