NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tennessee Man Pleads Guilty to Aiding Police Officer in Destroying Evidence of Fatal Shooting

    Source: United States Attorneys General 12

    Joshua M. Rogers of Memphis, Tennessee, pleaded guilty yesterday to a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1512(c) for his role in destroying evidence related to a police officer’s fatal shooting of a man identified by the initials R.H. With the plea, Rogers admitted that he acted to impair the integrity or availability of R.H.’s body for use in an official proceeding and, in so doing, shield his co-defendant from criminal liability.

    Rogers and his co-defendant, a former Memphis Police Department officer, faced charges following the death of R.H. The indictment alleged that, on Jan. 5, 2021, the officer kidnapped R.H. and shot him in the head. The indictment further alleged that Rogers and the officer sought to cover up the fatal shooting by disposing of R.H.’s body. Specifically, Rogers and the officer transported R.H.’s body in Rogers’ vehicle, and affixed chains, padlocks, and cinder blocks to R.H.’s body. Rogers and the officer then drove to the Wolf River in Memphis, where the two dumped R.H.’s body.

    “The defendant in this case obstructed law enforcement from investigating and seeking justice on behalf of the victim, his family and friends,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “I am proud of the great work by the Department of Justice in their prosecution of this case.”

    A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 6. Rogers faces a maximum penalty of 70 months in prison based on the terms of the plea agreement. A federal judge will determine any sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The remaining defendant faces civil rights, kidnapping, weapons, and obstruction charges in connection with the fatal shooting of R.H. Trial is set for Nov. 3.

    The FBI Memphis Field Office and the Memphis Police Department investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney MarLa Duncan of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Pritchard for the Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Colombian Port Official Sentenced to Over Twelve Years in Prison for Money Laundering

    Source: United States Attorneys General 12

    A Colombian national was sentenced yesterday to 12 years and seven months in prison for conspiring to launder proceeds of bribes. The defendant was also ordered to forfeit a 2017 Lamborghini Huracan Spyder and a 2017 Porsche Cayenne that were involved in the money laundering scheme.

    According to court documents, Omar Ambuila, 64, of Cali, Colombia, pleaded guilty on Jan. 28 to a single count of conspiracy to launder money. As part of his plea, Ambuila admitted that while he was a port official in Colombia, he accepted at least $1,000,000 in illegal bribes that he and co-conspirators laundered to the United States from Colombia. As part of the scheme, Ambuila and his co-conspirators laundered the funds for Ambuila’s benefit and used the funds to purchase luxury vehicles and pay rent on waterfront property, among other things.

    “Criminals who exploit our financial system to launder their illegal gains threaten the security of the United States,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “When you try to abuse the financial system hard working Americans rely upon, we will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “HSI special agents, in close coordination with all their law enforcement partners, will always work diligently to pursue those individuals and those networks of bad actors who exploit the legitimate financial system to support criminal activity,” said Special Agent in Charge John Condon of Homeland Security Investigation Tampa. “This is just another great example of this work.”

    “Let this sentencing serve as a powerful reminder: the United States will not be a sanctuary for those seeking to launder the proceeds of crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Ron Loecker of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Tampa Field Office. “We are relentless in our pursuit of criminals who attempt to exploit our financial systems, and we will use every tool at our disposal to ensure that they face justice. This case underscores our commitment to dismantling transnational criminal operations and holding those responsible accountable, no matter where they try to hide.”

    “This investigation exemplifies the FBI’s commitment to our federal law enforcement partnerships and the unified effort in identifying, investigating, and prosecuting money laundering schemes,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor of the FBI Tampa Division.

    The case was investigated by HSI, IRS-CI, and the FBI.

    Trial Attorneys Ariana Lazzaroni and Adrienne Rosen and Deputy Chief Joseph Palazzo of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Judicial Attaché’s Office in Bogotá, the HSI Attaché’s Office in Bogotá, and the U.S. Marshals Service provided substantial assistance in securing the defendant’s extradition from Colombia.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Essex County, New Jersey Man and Woman for Conspiracy to Commit Forced Labor; Man Also Charged with Sex Trafficking and Forced Labor

    Source: United States Attorneys General 12

    A federal grand jury in the District of New Jersey, returned an indictment on April 25 that was unsealed Wednesday, charging Treva Edwards, 60, with sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion and forced labor. The indictment also charged Treva Edwards and Christine Edwards, 63, with conspiracy to commit forced labor.

    According to the indictment, Treva and Christine Edwards were the founders and pastors of a church they named “Jesus is Lord by the Holy Ghost,” which they operated out of a multi-unit apartment building in Orange, New Jersey, and where they conspired with each other and others to obtain the compelled labor of church members.

    “The Department of Justice will not tolerate the exploitation of vulnerable individuals under the guise of faith or community,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This Civil Rights Division is committed to holding accountable those who abuse positions of trust to manipulate and control others for personal gain. These charges reflect our unwavering focus on protecting victims and prosecuting those who commit forced labor and sex trafficking.”

    “These charges are an example of my office’s tireless commitment to combatting human trafficking in our community,” said U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District of New Jersey. “If you engage in human trafficking, we will find you, and we will prosecute you. We are committed to working alongside our partners to ensure that those who target the most vulnerable are brought to justice.”

    “Treva and Christine Edwards turned a source of hope into a tool of fear by allegedly exploiting religious faith to manipulate victims and expose them to sexual violence and forced labor conditions,” said Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark Division. “Seeking justice for human trafficking victims in cases like this is of utmost importance to HSI Newark. Anyone who may believe they are a victim of trafficking can be assured our investigations are victim-centered and that we will continue to relentlessly pursue justice for anyone’s freedom that has been held ransom.”

    “An important part of the mission of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General is to investigate allegations of labor trafficking involving the use of coercion or force,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Mellone of the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of allegations.”

    As charged in the indictment, between 2011 and 2020, the defendants identified and recruited victims who were facing struggles in their personal lives, including financial and familial struggles, to join the church and live and worship at the church building. Treva Edwards told the victims that he was a prophet who could communicate directly with God and that disobeying him would result in spiritual retribution from God, as well as physical, emotional, and financial harm.

    The defendants secured labor contracts to provide manual labor in and around Orange, New Jersey, and the defendants dispatched the victims to perform the contracted labor. The defendants did not pay wages to the victims for their work and kept the money earned from their labor.

    The defendants convinced the victims that they would lose favor with God if they did not perform labor. Treva Edwards spread fear among the victims through verbal and emotional abuse and threats of reputational harm, homelessness, hunger, spiritual retribution, punishments, and more hard labor to gain their obedience and compel them to perform unpaid labor. The defendants instituted and enforced strict rules about when and whether the victims could eat or sleep, when and for how long they were to pray and work, and whether they could speak to non-members or leave the church building. The defendants isolated the victims, monitored their communications and whereabouts, and by convincing them that non-members were evil or possessed by the devil. The defendants deprived the victims of sleep and typically fed them only once a day after they completed their work.

    Also according to the allegations in the indictment, Treva Edwards controlled and subjected one victim to repeated physical and sexual assaults, impregnated her, and instructed her to get an abortion.

    The defendants made their initial court appearances today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinosa. The charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion against Treva Edwards carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The forced labor charge against Treva Edwards carries a maximum penalty of twenty years or life imprisonment if the violation included aggravated sexual abuse. The conspiracy to commit forced labor charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.

    Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney Alina Habba of the District of New Jersey credited special agents of Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel and special agents of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Mellone, with the investigation leading to this indictment.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Trevor Chenoweth and Susan Millenky for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorney Francisco Zornosa of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit are prosecuting the case.

    HSI Newark is asking anyone with information about Treva Edwards, Christine Edwards, or their organization known as Jesus is Lord by the Holy Ghost (JLHG), to contact its tip line at (866) 347-2423 or email  HSINewarkHumanTrafficking@hsi.dhs.gov. The tip line is monitored 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Additionally, there is an online tip form.

    If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1 (888) 373-7888.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Protecting the Great Lakes from Invasive Carp

    Source: The White House

    MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR
                   THE SECRETARY OF COMMERCE
                   THE SECRETARY OF THE ARMY
                   THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
                          AGENCY

    SUBJECT:       Protecting the Great Lakes from Invasive Carp

    My Administration is committed to protecting the Great Lakes — the world’s largest surface freshwater system, and a highly valued shipping avenue, resource for fishing and recreation, and source of high-quality drinking water — from the economic and ecological threat of invasive carp.  This threat affects every State that borders the Great Lakes:  Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.  Curbing this threat requires immediate and effective deployment of resources, infrastructure, and expertise.  The Federal Government is prepared to do its part, but the States where preventative measures can be taken must cooperate.

    For several decades, invasive species of Asian carp have steadily migrated and expanded from the Southeast northward through streams, rivers, and lakes in the Mississippi River and Midwest region.  Asian carp, which can exceed 100 pounds in weight, spread rapidly by outcompeting native fish populations for food and space.  They also reduce water quality.  These invasive carp are nearing the entry point to the Great Lakes, which, if breached, would irreparably damage native fish species like walleye, yellow perch, and lake whitefish.  This poses a significant risk to Great Lakes fishing, boating, recreation, and tourism, which support tens of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of commerce annually. 

    The Brandon Road Interbasin Project near Joliet, Illinois, was authorized for construction in the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 (Public Law 116-260) and would provide multiple layers of innovative technological deterrents designed to prevent invasive carp from reaching the Great Lakes.  It is a joint project involving the United States Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) and the States of Illinois and Michigan.

    The Federal Government has provided $274 million for this project, has undertaken design work, has started site preparation, and is ready to begin construction of deterrent measures.  In February 2025, however, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker decided to delay the State’s acquisition of property, which is necessary for construction to begin.  Once Illinois acquires the land, it must also issue the Army Corps a State-level permit to begin construction.

    My Administration fully supports preventing the spread of invasive carp.  The State of Illinois, where the Brandon Road Interbasin Project is located, must cease further delay in cooperating with this effort, for the sake of its own citizens and economy and for the sake of all of the Great Lakes States. 

    I am directing my Administration to achieve maximum speed and efficiency at the Federal level.  Specifically, the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of the Army, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall determine and expeditiously implement the most effective mechanisms, barriers, and other measures to prevent the migration and expansion of invasive carp in the Great Lakes Basin and the surrounding region.  This includes supporting the Brandon Road Interbasin Project, through deadline-oriented investments of taxpayer dollars, to ensure the State of Illinois does not stand in the way of its construction. 

    Specifically, for this project to remain on schedule so that it can effectively fulfill its purpose and constitute a worthy investment of taxpayer resources, the State of Illinois should acquire the necessary land to begin construction of the Brandon Road Interbasin Project by July 1, 2025, and the State of Illinois and any applicable localities should grant all permits or approvals required to facilitate Army Corps construction within 30 days of such permits or approvals becoming ripe for consideration by the State or locality and should streamline all permitting and environmental reviews to the maximum degree.  Federal agency heads shall similarly streamline any permitting and environmental reviews and issue any requisite Federal permits or approvals as quickly as possible.

    Additionally, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall prioritize support for infrastructure projects to remove invasive carp from the Upper Illinois Waterway near Lake Michigan and for maintenance on existing infrastructure to block invasive carp from reaching and entering the Great Lakes Basin.

    The Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, through their joint operation of the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force, shall prioritize support for research and management concerning the prevention, removal, and management of aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes, including invasive carp.  The Administrator of NOAA shall also prioritize this objective through the Great Lakes Aquatic Nuisance Species Information System and NOAA’s research and information-sharing work related to the growth and spread of aquatic invasive species.

                                   DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Rescission of Useless Water Pressure Standards

    Source: The White House

    MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF ENERGY
    THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR
    THE DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT AND DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

    SUBJECT:       Rescission of Useless Water Pressure Standards

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby direct:

    Water conservation requirements for faucets, showers, bathtubs, and toilets — promulgated by the Department of Energy pursuant to the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (Public Law 102-486) — make bathroom appliances more expensive and less functional.  “Efficiency” standards render other American appliances like clothes washers and dishwashers less useful, more breakable, and more expensive to repair.  The Federal Government should not impose or enforce regulations that make taxpayers’ lives worse.

    To address these unnecessary radical green agenda policies, I direct the Secretary of Energy to consider using all lawful authority to rescind — or, as appropriate, amend to revert to the standards required by statute — the regulations found in 10 C.F.R. 430.32(f), relating to water and energy use in dishwashers; 10 C.F.R. 430.32(o), relating to water use in faucets; 10 C.F.R. 430.32(p), relating to water use in showerheads; 10 C.F.R. 430.32(q), relating to water use in water closets; 10 C.F.R. 430.32(r), relating to water use in urinals; the definitions of “automatic clothes washer,” “clothes washer,” “dishwasher,” “faucet,” “other clothes washer,” “semi-automatic clothes washer,” “urinal,” and “water closet” contained in 10 C.F.R. 430.2; the residential washing machine efficiency standards contained in 10 C.F.R. 430.32(g); and the commercial washing machine efficiency standards contained in 10 C.F.R. 431.156.

    Furthermore, I direct the Secretary of Energy to publish in the Federal Register a notice clarifying the Waiver of Federal Preemption of State regulations covered by the application of “Energy Efficiency Program for Consumer Products:  Waiver of Federal Preemption of State Regulations Concerning the Water Use or Water Efficiency of Showerheads, Faucets, Water Closets and Urinals,” 75 Fed. Reg. 80289 (December 22, 2010).

    I further direct the Secretary of Energy not to enforce any of the regulatory provisions listed in this memorandum, pending rescission or reversion of such provisions; the provisions of 42 U.S.C. 6295(j) and (k); or energy and water efficiency standards for washing machines, including the provisions in 42 U.S.C. 6295(g) and 42 U.S.C. 6313(e).

    Finally, I direct the Secretary of Energy and the Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Legislative Affairs to jointly prepare and submit recommendations to the President, within 60 days of the date of this memorandum, through the Chair of the National Energy Dominance Council, for the Congress to rescind, insofar as each relates to the subject matter of this memorandum, 42 U.S.C. 6295(g), (j), (k), and (o) and 42 U.S.C. 6313(e), or to repeal the Energy Policy Act of 1992 in its entirety.

    This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Keeping Promises to Veterans and Establishing a National Center for Warrior Independence

    Source: The White House

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  Our Nation’s security, prosperity, and freedom would not be possible without our veterans.  Many service members paid the ultimate sacrifice.  Many others bear visible and invisible wounds from their service.  Too many veterans are homeless in America.  Each veteran deserves our gratitude.

    Yet the Federal Government has not always treated veterans like the heroes they are.  During the previous administration, unaccountable bureaucrats treated them shamefully, failing veterans when they needed help most and betraying the taxpayers who rightfully expect better.

    The story of the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center is indicative of this failure.  More than one hundred years ago, Senator John Percival Jones and Arcadia Bandini de Stearns Baker generously donated hundreds of acres of land that they owned in West Los Angeles on the condition that it be used to house disabled veterans.  The campus once featured a chapel, billiard hall, 1,000-seat theater, and housed about 6,000 veterans, but the Federal Government has since allowed this crown jewel of veteran care to deteriorate over the last few decades.  

    The Department of Veterans Affairs (Department) leased parts of the property to a private school, private companies, and the baseball team of the University of California, Los Angeles, sometimes at significantly below-market prices.  As of 2024, there were approximately 3,000 homeless veterans in Los Angeles, more than in any other city in the country and accounting for about 10 percent of all of America’s homeless veterans.  Many of these heroes live in squalor in Los Angeles’s infamous “skid row.”

    During my first term, I signed legislation to increase accountability and expand benefits and choices for veterans in accessing care, and my second term will build on those efforts.  Accountability will return to the Department.  Veterans around the Nation will have more choices in care, benefits, and services.  The VA campus in West Los Angeles will become the National Center for Warrior Independence with facilities and resources to help our veterans earn back their self-sufficiency.

    Sec. 2.  Establishing the National Center for Warrior Independence.  The Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Secretary) shall take all appropriate action to:

    (a)  designate a National Center for Warrior Independence on the West Los Angeles VA Campus in which homeless veterans in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and around the Nation can seek and receive the care, benefits, and services to which they are entitled;

    (b)  work with other municipalities and VA facilities to ensure that homeless veterans outside the Los Angeles metropolitan area who want to avail themselves of the National Center for Warrior Independence are provided the means to do so;

    (c)  in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the heads of any other relevant executive departments or agencies, ensure that funds that may have been spent on housing or other services for illegal aliens are redirected to construct, establish, and maintain this National Center for Warrior Independence;

    (d)  work to restore self-sufficiency and the warrior ethos among homeless veterans through any guidance, requirements, or services needed to ensure that homeless veterans can access housing, receive substance abuse or addiction treatment, and return to productive work and community engagement; and

    (e)  within 120 days of the date of this order, present an action plan to the President, through the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, to meet these directives and restore the capacity to house up to 6,000 homeless veterans at the National Center for Warrior Independence by January 1, 2028.

    Sec. 3.  Voucher Program.  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall, in consultation with the Secretary, use vouchers to support homeless veterans in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and around the Nation with respect to this effort.

    Sec. 4.  Restoring Accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs.  The Secretary shall take the following steps to restore accountability and excellent service at the Department:

    (a)  take appropriate action against individuals who have committed misconduct, making full use of and in accordance with the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017 (Public Law 115-41); and

    (b)  investigate and take steps to rectify the previous administration’s decision to rehire and reinstate back pay for employees previously fired for misconduct and direct such savings back toward care, benefits, and services for veterans, in accordance with all applicable laws.

    Sec. 5.  Providing Choices and Excellence to Veterans.  The Secretary shall take steps to increase the excellence of and options for care, benefits, and services for veterans including:

    (a)  within 60 days of the date of this order, submitting a report to the President, through the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, with a plan to reduce wait times for Veterans Health Administration appointments that explores options like expanding office hours, offering weekend appointments, and increasing the use of virtual healthcare options;

    (b)  within 30 days of the date of this order, directing a feasibility study at the Manchester VA Medical Center and within 180 days of this order, submitting to the President, through the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, an action plan to expand services to support a full-service medical center in New Hampshire so that it is no longer the only State in the contiguous United States without such a center; and

    (c)  in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, and the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, developing a strategy to improve the delivery and quality of the Department’s healthcare services in a more efficient and effective manner to support veterans; the strategy shall initially prioritize implementation of actions to reduce access times and improve service delivery, to include options for offering treatment to veterans at select military treatment facilities and military beneficiaries at VA facilities with appropriate reimbursement.

    Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof; or

    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

    (d)  The Department of Veterans Affairs shall provide funding for this order’s publication in the Federal Register.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,

        May 9, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Athens Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Filing Over $3.5 Million in False Returns

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

    Defendant Received a Portion of Proceeds from Clients’ Fraudulent Pandemic Benefit Claims

    MACON, Ga. – A tax preparer who admitted to filing more than $3.5 million in fraudulent tax returns tied to a multi-state investigation of a COVID-19 pandemic unemployment benefit scheme in which she received a percentage of the ill-gotten gains was sentenced to serve eight years in prison for her crime.

    Jessica Crawford, 34, of Athens, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 96 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Tilman E. “Tripp” Self, III on May 8. Crawford previously pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of aiding and assisting in preparing and presenting false income tax returns on Nov. 22, 2024. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “Federal law enforcement uncovered a large-scale tax return scheme during the pandemic that was costing taxpayers while benefiting fraudsters,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Alongside our law enforcement partners, federal prosecutors will continue to uphold the law and pursue justice in these cases.”

    “Jessica Crawford used her position as a tax preparer to defraud the U.S. government through a CARES Act program intended for those unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Atlanta Field Office Assistant Special Agent in Charge Lisa Fontanette. “In addition, she continued her theft of taxpayers’ money by fraudulently filing tax returns on behalf of her clients. The sentencing Crawford received should serve notice to unscrupulous tax preparers that IRS Criminal Investigation special agents and our law enforcement partners will continue investigating and holding them accountable for their unethical conduct.”

    “Jessica Crawford lied and took advantage of funds designed to help those who were truly in need during the pandemic,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to identify and hold accountable anyone who defrauds taxpayers.”

    According to court documents and statements made in court, FBI agents investigating a multi-state unemployment benefit scheme conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic discovered text messages between individuals involved in the scheme and Crawford, a tax preparer with Crawford Tax Services in Athens. Crawford filed for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits on behalf of those individuals who had created fake businesses or submitted false information to fraudulently obtain benefits. In return, Crawford received a percentage of the ill-gotten gains.

    Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) agents executed an undercover operation at Crawford’s business in April 2022 as part of the continuing investigation. The undercover agent (UA) met Crawford to have taxes prepared, and Crawford asked if the UA did anything on the side. At first, the UA responded no, but Crawford said that expenses could be deducted if he did, and the UA said he mowed an aunt’s lawn sometimes, which Crawford said was good enough. The UA did not provide any income or expense amounts. Still, Crawford created a Schedule C business for landscaping on the UA’s federal income tax return based solely on that interaction. Crawford prepared a Form 1040 and filed electronically, including a fictitious Schedule C loss of $19,373, and claimed an Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a Child Tax Credit (CTC), and a Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, which were affected by the fraudulent Schedule C loss. As a result, the UA’s return claimed a fraudulent federal income tax refund of $12,359.

    The IRS completed a statistical review of 1,261 total tax returns filed by Crawford in tax years 2020 and 2021. Of those, the IRS determined that Crawford fraudulently filed tax returns on behalf of clients, resulting in losses to the IRS exceeding $3 million from falsely claimed Form 7202 credits for sick leave and family leave, tax credits and dependent care credits.

    The case was investigated by the FBI and the IRS-CI.

    Criminal Chief Leah E. McEwen prosecuted the case for the Government.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-Led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Three in the Central District of Illinois

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

    SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.  The operation resulted in the rescue of children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown.  The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

    “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

    “Protecting our children from those who seek to exploit them and inflict harm is a top priority for our office,” said Acting U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois Gregory M. Gilmore. “We are grateful to our federal and local law enforcement partners whose dedicated work has made our community that much safer.”

    “There will be zero tolerance for those who commit crimes against our children,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson. “There will never be a lead we do not follow or door we do not knock on. We will not stand by – we will stand together. This operation shows that with every partner at the table, from law enforcement to community advocates, we are united in one mission, to protect our children.”

    The cases charged in the Central District of Illinois include the following:

    Mark Peterson, 41, of Pekin, Illinois, was charged by federal criminal complaint on April 25, 2025, with attempted enticement of a minor. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Peterson on May 6, 2025.

    According to the complaint affidavit, Peterson communicated via an internet-based social media platform with an individual whom he believed had access to a ten-year-old female, expressing multiple times that he wanted to engage in sexual activity with the child. Per the affidavit, on Thursday, April 24, 2025, Peterson drove to a location in Peoria to meet the child for the purpose of having sexual relations. Federal law enforcement agents arrested him upon his arrival.

    If convicted of attempted enticement of a minor, Peterson faces a minimum sentence of ten years to life imprisonment.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long ordered Peterson detained on April 29, 2025, and he remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

    The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa P. Ortiz is representing the government in the prosecution.

    Dalton Trader, 27, of Williamsville, Illinois, was charged by federal criminal complaint on April 29, 2025, with possession of child pornography.

    According to the complaint affidavit, law enforcement agents discovered multiple child pornography videos, including a video of a prepubescent minor, on Trader’s computer pursuant to a search warrant.

    If convicted of possession of child pornography, Trader faces a sentence of up to twenty years of imprisonment.

    Trader is in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending a detention hearing that is set for May 8, 2025.

    The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, with assistance from the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Williamsville Police Department, Illinois State Police, Springfield Police Department, the Illinois Secretary of State Police, the Sherman Police Department, and Sangamon County Animal Control. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanner K. Jacobs is representing the government in the prosecution.

    James Yeager, 51, of Springfield, Illinois, was charged by federal criminal complaint on April 29, 2025, with possession of child pornography.

    According to the complaint affidavit, law enforcement agents discovered multiple child pornography images, including photographs of prepubescent minors, on a micro-SD drive at Yeager’s residence, following the execution of a search warrant.

    U.S. District Judge Colleen R. Lawless ordered Yeager detained on May 6, 2025, and he remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals.

    The charges are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office; the Decatur Police Department; the Springfield Police Department; the Illinois State Police; the Illinois Attorney General’s Office Investigation Division, and the Illinois Secretary of State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanner K. Jacobs is representing the government in the prosecution.

    If convicted of possession of child pornography, Yeager faces a minimum sentence of ten years and maximum sentence of twenty years of imprisonment.

    The following agencies provided further assistance during Operation Restore Justice: the Charleston Police Department; the Bradley Police Department; the Manteno Police Department; the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Police Department; and the Eastern-Central Illinois Task Force.

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

    The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    Other online resources:

    Electronic Press Kit

    Violent Crimes Against Children

    How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

    A complaint or indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE makes significant arrest of MS-13 gang member wanted in home country

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BALTIMORE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested 38-year-old criminal alien Joel Armando Mejia-Benitez, a Salvadoran national, May 5 in Silver Spring. Mejia is a validated MS-13 gang member and is wanted in his home country for firearms offenses.

    “The arrest of this violent MS-13 gang member is a critical step in our ongoing mission to safeguard our communities,” said ICE Baltimore acting Field Office Director Nikita Baker. “We remain steadfast in prioritizing public safety and protecting national security by targeting and removing dangerous criminal aliens who threaten the well-being of our Maryland residents.”

    The U.S. Border Patrol apprehended Mejia near Sullivan City, Texas, Nov. 22, 2004, and served him a notice to appear. A Department of Justice immigration judge ordered Mejia removed in absentia Dec. 14, 2005.

    ICE Baltimore arrested Mejia from Prince George’s County Detention Center Sept. 28, 2006. ICE removed Mejia from the United States to El Salvador Dec. 13, 2006.

    Mejia reentered the United States on an unknown date at an unknown location without being inspected, admitted or paroled by an immigration officer. ICE Baltimore arrested Mejia and served him a notice of intent to reinstate prior order March 20, 2014.

    Mejia has a final order of removal and will remain in ICE custody.

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Helps Advance Bipartisan Bill to Enhance 9-1-1 Emergency Response System 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Technology, helped advance a bipartisan bill in committee to make critical updates to our 9-1-1 emergency reporting system, improve its resiliency during natural disasters, and recognize the unique demands and responsibilities of dispatchers and other protective service workers.  
    “When Nevada faces natural disasters, it’s critical that Nevadans can dial 9-1-1 and get the help they need,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to help advance bipartisan legislation to take much-needed steps to prevent 9-1-1 outages and disruptions, while also recognizing dispatchers for their life-saving work in times of crisis. I’ll continue working across party lines to support our first responders.”
    Senator Rosen has fought to support Nevada’s first responders with the resources they need to do their jobs safely. Last Congress, Senator Rosen introduced bipartisan legislation to improve federal mental health support programs for firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other emergency response personnel. Senator Rosen also helped pass bipartisan legislation providing fire departments with additional funding to hire more firefighters and purchase lifesaving equipment. The Recruit and Retain Act, which Rosen helped introduce, was signed into law last year and provides law enforcement with increased resources to hire and retain more police officers in an effort to tackle the law enforcement shortage in Nevada and nationwide. She also helped deliver a historic pay raise and benefits funding for federal wildland firefighters through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Statement on the Passing of Former U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    Published: 05.09.2025

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) released the following statement on the passing of former U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter:
    “Today, I join people in New Hampshire and across America in grieving the loss of former U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter – a devoted public servant who called the Granite State home and put country above all else. He will be remembered for his deep, unwavering commitment to upholding our Constitution and his dedication to a just society. 
    “All Granite Staters should feel immensely proud of Justice Souter’s legacy. Today, Billy and I are thinking of Justice Souter’s family, loved ones and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. May his legacy endure, and may he rest in peace.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man arrested for endangering life

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A man has been arrested following a pursuit through the south-western suburbs last night.

    About 8.30pm on Friday 9 May, patrols were called to Bonython Avenue at Novar Gardens after reports there was a man in the rear yard of a unit who was unknown to the residents.

    Police spotted the man behind the locked gate and told him to come out from the yard however he entered a vehicle and drove through the gate.

    The white Holden Commodore took off and as he headed out the driveway he swerved towards police who had to move to avoid being hit.

    The car then headed east towards Morphett Road and continued onto Mooringe Avenue and south on Marion Road where PolAir started tracking the car.

    The car was tracked by PolAir travelling without head lights and at high speeds to Lindsay Avenue where it was dumped in a shopping centre car park and the driver attempted to run from the area.

    Patrols located the driver a short distance away hiding behind skip bins and he was arrested.

    Police searched the vehicle where they located methamphetamine and item suspected to have been stolen.

    A 33-year-old man from Stockport was charged with acts to endanger life, dangerous driving to cause a police pursuit, driving at a speed dangerous, unlawfully on premises, driving disqualified and possessing a controlled drug.  He was refused police bail and will appear in court on Monday 12 May.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta: Guns Do Not Belong in Public Parks

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    Friday, May 9, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined 18 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief supporting the constitutionality of New York’s restrictions against carrying firearms in public parks in the case, Christian v. James. In the brief, the attorneys general urge the Second Circuit to uphold the district court’s decision that New York’s prohibition on carrying firearms in public parks does not violate the Second Amendment. The brief argues that the law is in line with a long tradition of constitutionally acceptable regulations designed to meet states’ responsibility to protect their residents from gun violence and intimidation.

    “It is commonsense that guns do not belong where our children and families are playing,” said Attorney General Bonta. “States have the responsibility for protecting their communities. Our citizens should not have to live in fear of gun violence. Under Bruen, the Supreme Court acknowledged that states have a right to enact reasonable restrictions to protect communities. We support and recognize states’ authority to enact laws to maintain public safety, including constitutional gun regulations that respond to local needs and concerns.”
     
    The attorneys general argue in the brief that the challenged provisions are consistent with a tradition of constitutionally acceptable regulations designed to meet states’ need to protect their residents and the public safety of communities. These regulations are common and a method of ensuring adequate protection and safety for locations that have become increasingly vulnerable to gun violence in recent years. Imposing location-based restrictions on carrying guns does not conflict with the Second Amendment, allowing states to have flexibility that they need to protect their communities.
     
    In filing the brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Illinois, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and District of Columbia.
     
    A copy of the brief can be found here.
     

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department and City of Albuquerque Seek Termination of Consent Decree Covering the Albuquerque Police Department

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    Note: View joint motion here.

    The Justice Department and the City of Albuquerque filed a joint motion today seeking U.S. District Court approval to terminate the federal consent decree covering the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) since 2015. The joint motion follows a long record of findings that APD has maintained full compliance with the decree.

    “This consent decree has run its course successfully,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We are proud to stand by the men and women of the Albuquerque Police Department and ask the court to terminate this consent decree. Albuquerque Police operates constitutionally. It is now appropriate to end federal oversight and return full control of local law enforcement to the city.”

    “The Albuquerque Police Department has made meaningful progress toward constitutional policing and a culture of accountability,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison for the District of New Mexico. “This progress builds on nearly a decade of hard work and partnership with the community, laying a strong foundation for the future and opening the door to a new chapter. This chapter demands leadership that listens, a community that stays engaged, and a department committed to doing what is right, even when it is difficult, in service of a safer, more just Albuquerque for all.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Lendmark Financial Services Expands ‘Palmetto State’ Presence to 23 Branches, Marking its First Location in Boiling Springs and Ninth Portfolio Opening in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOILING SPRINGS, S.C., May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lendmark Financial Services (Lendmark), a leading provider of household credit and consumer loan solutions, continues to expand its South Carolina footprint, opening a new branch in Boiling Springs.

    The branch is located at 2650 Boiling Springs Rd. and is expected to serve hundreds of customers in its first year. Teanna Harvey Wested, who serves as the branch manager, will be responsible for the administration of all daily operations. These include building personal relationships with customers and integrating into the community to ensure area residents receive a superior level of individualized loan services that meet their unique financial needs.

    “Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, we’re excited to bring our distinct Lendmark standard of service to the Boiling Springs community as we welcome customers to our very first branch in this charming town,” said Travis M. Bowman, Vice President of Branch Operations at Lendmark. “With plans to continue expanding around Upstate South Carolina, we’re uniquely positioned and well-equipped to offer strategic financial guidance to area residents while supporting them throughout every stage of their planned and unplanned life events.”

    In addition to serving consumers directly, Lendmark provides financing solutions for thousands of retailers and independent auto dealerships, allowing these businesses’ customers to obtain Lendmark financing. Local businesses that are interested in partnering with Lendmark to provide financing solutions for their customers should visit the branch or call 864-256-0064.

    Lendmark’s ‘Climb to Cure’ is its signature cause-related initiative. The company has committed to raising $10 million by 2025 to mark its 10-year anniversary partnering with CURE Childhood Cancer. So far, Lendmark’s employees, partners and customers have raised $8.83 million to support CURE, an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to funding targeted pediatric cancer research that is utilized nationwide.

    Lendmark customers can participate by donating $1 when closing their loan. Lendmark matches the donation.

    About Lendmark Financial Services
    Lendmark Financial Services (Lendmark) provides personal and household credit and loan solutions to consumers. Founded in 1996, Lendmark strives to be the lender, employer, and partner of choice by offering stability and helping consumers meet both planned and unplanned life events through affordable loan offerings. Today, Lendmark operates more than 520 branches in 22 states across the country, providing personalized services to customers and retail business partners with every transaction. Lendmark is headquartered in Lawrenceville, Ga. For more information, visit www.lendmarkfinancial.com.

    Media Contact
    Jeff Hamilton
    Senior Manager, Corporate Communications
    jhamilton@lendmarkfinancial.com
    678-625-3128

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Guardian Capital Group Limited Announces Results of Annual Meeting of Shareholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Guardian Capital Group Limited (Guardian) (TSX:GCG) (TSX:GCG.A) announces the results of the director elections held at its annual meeting of shareholders earlier today. Each of the director nominees listed in Guardian’s management information circular dated March 27, 2025 (the Circular) was elected as a director of Guardian, to hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until their successor is duly elected.

    The detailed results of the vote for the election of directors are as follows:

    Name of Director
    Nominee    		 Votes FOR (%) Votes WITHHELD (%)
    James S. Anas 99.94 0.06
    A. Michael Christodoulou 98.79 1.21
    Petros Christodoulou 99.94 0.06
    Marilyn De Mara 99.94 0.06
    Harold W. Hillier 99.94 0.06
    George Mavroudis 99.94 0.06
    Edward T. McDermott 99.91 0.09
    Barry J. Myers 99.94 0.06
    Hans-Georg Rudloff 99.94 0.06

    In addition to the election of directors, shareholders appointed KPMG LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, Toronto, Ontario, as auditor of Guardian for the ensuing year, and authorized the directors of Guardian to fix their remuneration.

    Shareholders also passed the resolution to amend Guardian’s by-laws, in the form of By-Law No.77, as more particularly described in the Circular. A copy of By-Law No.77 was filed on SEDAR+ on May 9, 2025.

    About Guardian Capital Group Limited

    Guardian Capital Group Limited (Guardian) is a global investment management company servicing institutional, retail and private clients through its subsidiaries. As of March 31, 2025, Guardian had C$167.2 billion of total client assets while managing a proprietary investment portfolio with a fair market value of C$1.2 billion. Founded in 1962, Guardian’s reputation for steady growth, long-term relationships and its core values of authenticity, integrity, stability and trustworthiness have been key to its success over six decades. Its Common and Class A shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange as GCG and GCG.A, respectively. To learn more about Guardian, visit www.guardiancapital.com.

    For further information, please contact:

    Matthew Turner
    Senior Vice-President, Chief Compliance Officer and Secretary
    mturner@guardiancapital.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lendmark Financial Services Debuts its First Location in West Bend, Wisconsin Expanding its Wisconsin Presence to 11 Branches, and its 10th Portfolio Opening in 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WEST BEND, Wis., May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lendmark Financial Services (Lendmark), a leading provider of household credit and consumer loan solutions, continues to expand its Wisconsin footprint, opening a new branch in West Bend.

    The branch is located at 1016 Gateway Ct. and is expected to serve hundreds of customers, retailers, and auto dealerships in its first year. Colleen Pettis, who serves as the branch manager, will be responsible for the administration of all daily operations. These include building personal relationships with customers and integrating into the community to ensure area residents receive a superior level of individualized loan services that meet their unique financial needs.

    “Located in Washington county, just 30 minutes north of Milwaukee, West Bend is known for its historic and charming downtown. Having the privilege to serve this bustling community and provide top-notch Lendmark service is exciting,” said Michael McIntire, Vice President of Branch Operations at Lendmark. “This is our 11th location in Wisconsin, and we look forward to furthering our growing reach within the community and the state. Meeting the financial needs of this vibrant community and positively impacting the economy is where we thrive.”

    In addition to serving consumers directly, Lendmark provides financing solutions for thousands of retailers and independent auto dealerships, allowing these businesses’ customers to obtain Lendmark financing. Local businesses that are interested in partnering with Lendmark to provide financing solutions for their customers should visit the branch or call 262-343-8088.

    Lendmark’s ‘Climb to Cure’ is its signature cause-related initiative. The company has committed to raising $10 million by 2025 to mark its 10-year anniversary partnering with CURE Childhood Cancer. So far, Lendmark’s employees, partners and customers have raised $8.83 million to support CURE, an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to funding targeted pediatric cancer research that is utilized nationwide.

    About Lendmark Financial Services
    Lendmark Financial Services (Lendmark) provides personal and household credit and loan solutions to consumers. Founded in 1996, Lendmark strives to be the lender, employer, and partner of choice by offering stability and helping consumers meet both planned and unplanned life events through affordable loan offerings. Today, Lendmark operates more than 520 branches in 22 states across the country, providing personalized services to customers and retail business partners with every transaction. Lendmark is headquartered in Lawrenceville, Ga. For more information, visit www.lendmarkfinancial.com.

    Media Contact
    Jeff Hamilton
    Senior Manager, Corporate Communications
    jhamilton@lendmarkfinancial.com
    678-625-3128

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Warren, Banks, in Bipartisan Letter, Push DOJ to Investigate High Egg Prices, Anticompetitive Behavior by Egg Producers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 09, 2025
    Warren (D-Mass.) and Banks (R-Ind.) raise concerns about major egg producers jacking up prices, raking in record profits while blaming bird flu
    After previous letter led by Warren, DOJ opened probe into potential anticompetitive behavior by egg producers
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – In a new bipartisan letter, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Jim Banks (R-Ind.) applauded the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) ongoing investigation into potential anticompetitive practices by major egg producers and urged the agency to continue its thorough investigation as egg prices continue to rise.
    “Large egg producers and trade associations have previously been found liable for price fixing,” wrote the senators. “Given this history, we urge DOJ to thoroughly review whether recent trends in egg prices reflect impermissible coordination among egg producers and trade associations.”
    The average retail price of a dozen eggs has reached unprecedented levels, surpassing $6 in March 2025, tripling since 2021. While egg producers and trade associations continue to point to recent bird flu outbreaks as the reason for increased prices, large egg producers, like Cal-Maine, are reporting record profitability while families feel economic pain.
    The cost of eggs started to drop from record peaks just after the DOJ announced an investigation into egg prices, raising concerns as to whether large egg producers are engaging in anticompetitive behaviors to raise prices or restrict supply. A federal jury previously found that large egg producers and trade groups increased egg prices by conspiring to artificially limit the supply of hens between 2004 and 2008. Another lawsuit alleges that Cal-Maine inflated egg prices after a 2015 bird flu outbreak and during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
    The five largest egg producers — CalMaine Foods, Rose Acre Farms, Daybreak Foods, Hillendale Farms, and Versova Holdings — control nearly half of the U.S. egg-laying flock, leaving Americans with limited alternatives to purchase eggs if companies are in fact price-gouging consumers.
    The senators requested that the DOJ address their concerns, including if price increases in the egg market can be reasonably explained by bird flu-related supply chain disruptions; how much the five largest egg producers profited during the first three-quarters of fiscal year 2025; if large egg producers’ purchasing patterns potentially reflect an effort to extend the egg supply shortage and maintain high prices; and whether the decline in egg prices following the DOJ’s announcement reflects potential price-fixing among large egg producers.
    “We support DOJ’s investigation into potential anticompetitive behavior by egg producers and urge the agency to consider whether a ‘precipitous drop’ in egg prices just ‘days’ after reports of the investigation broke suggests that egg producers had conspired to artificially inflate prices,” concluded the senators.
    DOJ announced its probe following a January letter Sen. Warren sent to Donald Trump, pressing him to use tools to lower egg prices, including “encouraging DOJ to prosecute actors in the agricultural and food sectors for price-fixing and other anticompetitive behavior.”
    Senators Warren and Banks recently teamed up to open a bipartisan investigation into the harms of private equity roll-ups of fire truck manufacturers. The lawmakers wrote to the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), North America’s largest union of firefighters, seeking information about the adverse impact of private equity consolidation on firefighters and communities in Massachusetts, Indiana, and across the country. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department and City of Albuquerque Seek Termination of Consent Decree Covering the Albuquerque Police Department

    Source: US State of California

    Note: View joint motion here.

    The Justice Department and the City of Albuquerque filed a joint motion today seeking U.S. District Court approval to terminate the federal consent decree covering the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) since 2015. The joint motion follows a long record of findings that APD has maintained full compliance with the decree.

    “This consent decree has run its course successfully,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We are proud to stand by the men and women of the Albuquerque Police Department and ask the court to terminate this consent decree. Albuquerque Police operates constitutionally. It is now appropriate to end federal oversight and return full control of local law enforcement to the city.”

    “The Albuquerque Police Department has made meaningful progress toward constitutional policing and a culture of accountability,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison for the District of New Mexico. “This progress builds on nearly a decade of hard work and partnership with the community, laying a strong foundation for the future and opening the door to a new chapter. This chapter demands leadership that listens, a community that stays engaged, and a department committed to doing what is right, even when it is difficult, in service of a safer, more just Albuquerque for all.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Secures Nine-Year Jail Sentence Against Travel Agent Who Preyed on Immigrants

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, May 9, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced securing a nine-year jail sentence against serial immigrant victimizer Iqbal Randhawa for defrauding more than a dozen members of the South Asian community in Northern California. Between 2017 and 2020, each victim hired Randhawa, a travel agent, to purchase airline tickets, paying him between $1,100 and $12,000. Instead of buying the tickets, Randhawa provided fraudulent itineraries and stole the funds.
     
    “My office is dedicated to seeing those who defraud vulnerable Californians pay for their crimes,” said Attorney General Bonta. “I am thankful for the tireless work of my team in this case. Today’s announcement should serve as a reminder: If you break the law and engage in fraud and theft, my office will hold you accountable.”

    In addition to this scheme, Randhawa committed over $89,000 in credit card fraud, using stolen credit information to purchase legitimate airline tickets. He then sold these tickets to paying customers to keep his travel agency afloat. After two trials, he was found guilty of 11 felony counts of grand theft by embezzlement and two felony counts of violating the Seller of Travel laws. The court also found several aggravating factors, including the vulnerability of the victims, the significant financial losses involved, and the callous nature of Randhawa’s conduct.

    This case was prosecuted by the California Department (DOJ) of Justice’s Cybercrime Section which is a team of professional prosecutors, investigators, auditors, analysts, and paralegals. The unit investigates, and prosecutes technology-related crimes in California, including unauthorized intrusions, internet fraud, scams or confidence schemes committed by means of electronic media, money laundering via cryptocurrency or electronic transfer, organized retail crimes involving significant digital evidence, cyberstalking, and cyber-extortion or cyber-exploitation. This case was also investigated by Northern CA Computer Crimes Task Force and DOJ’s Seller of Travel Program section. 

    A copy of the complaint can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Timberlea — Man wanted on Canada-wide arrest warrant

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment is seeking information on the whereabouts of a man currently wanted on a Canada-wide arrest warrant. Richard MacInnis, 44, of no fixed address, is wanted on a parole violation.

    MacInnis is described as 6-foot-1, 175 pounds. He has auburn hair and green eyes.

    Police have made several attempts to locate MacInnis and are requesting assistance from the public. MacInnis is believed to be in the Timberlea area and is suspected of committing a number of break and enters.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of MacInnis is asked to refrain from approaching him and to call 911 immediately. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    Note to media: Picture attached

    File #: 25-64895 / 25-64824

    Contact:
    Strategic Communications and Media Relations
    Nova Scotia RCMP
    rcmpns-grcne@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Grayson County felon sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for gun violation

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

    PLANO, Texas – A Sherman convicted felon has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    Mouaidad Mohamad, 30, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Sean D. Jordan on May 9, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on August 5, 2022, law enforcement officers responded to a report of shots fired in Sherman.  They discovered that Mohamad had fired two shots from the window of a vehicle before forcing his girlfriend to drive away from the scene.  Mohamad was located later in the day in the same vehicle and taken into custody.  Further investigation revealed Mohamad to be a convicted felon having several state felony convictions including robbery and burglary of a habitation.  As a convicted felon, Mohamad is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

    This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Sherman Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William R. Tatum.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defendant Convicted of Armed Robbery at a Brooklyn Convenience Store

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

    Michael Rutledge Plotted a Violent Robbery with Co-Conspirators and Drove Getaway Car

    Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, a federal jury convicted Michael Rutledge on all counts of a superseding indictment charging him with Hobbs Act robbery conspiracy, Hobbs Act robbery, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.  The charges arose from a robbery committed at gunpoint by Rutledge and two co-conspirators on February 10, 2023.  The verdict followed a five-day trial before United States District Judge Frederic Block.  When sentenced, Rutledge faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to life in prison.

    Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, New York Field Office (ATF); and Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the verdict.

    “Rutledge and his co-conspirators meticulously planned a violent robbery in a neighborhood convenience store in Clinton Hill, during which a customer was brutally pistol-whipped and shot, and a hard-working store clerk was held at knifepoint while thieves lined their pockets with thousands of dollars in cash,” stated United States Attorney Nocella.  “Thanks to exceptional investigative work by the ATF and the NYPD, the defendant was identified, apprehended, and rightly convicted today.”

    This conviction is a testament to the strength of New York City’s law enforcement partnerships and our shared commitment to protecting the public from violent gun crime,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Miller.  “The brazen and violent acts committed in this case are unacceptable. Thanks to the tireless work of the ATF/NYPD SPARTA Group (Strategic Pattern Armed Robbery Technical Apprehension), NYPD 88th Precinct Detective Squad and our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District, this defendant has been held accountable and will face the consequences of his actions. We will remain relentless in our efforts to identify, investigate, and stop those who use illegal firearms to terrorize people in our communities.”

    “Michael Rutledge didn’t just act as a getaway driver—he aided and abetted violent criminals who held a store clerk at knifepoint, stole thousands of dollars from his business, and shot an unassuming victim in a targeted attack,” stated NYPD Commissioner  Tisch.  “Today’s guilty verdict holds him accountable for his role in this senseless violence and his attempt to evade justice. We remain committed to working with all of our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who threaten the safety of our communities face the full consequences of their actions.”

    As proven at trial, Rutledge drove co-defendant Angel Gomez and their other co-conspirator (Co-Conspirator) from the Bronx to Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill neighborhood to execute their plan to rob a convenience store on Myrtle Avenue.  Rutledge parked their vehicle while Gomez and Co-Conspirator walked to the store.  Inside, Gomez displayed a gun and Co-Conspirator pulled out a knife, menacing the store worker.  Co-Conspirator then rifled through two cash registers, removing more than $4,000 in cash. Meanwhile, Gomez pointed his gun at a customer, struck the customer in the head repeatedly with the gun, and shot him in the hip.  The robbery duo fled back to the meet-up location where Rutledge was waiting to drive them away.

    Rutledge was apprehended on June 21, 2023 after law enforcement executed a search warrant at an address in the Bronx where he was staying and where he fled after completing the robbery.  They recovered the clothing he wore on the night of the robbery.

    On February 12, 2025, Gomez pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act Robbery and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.  Gomez is awaiting sentencing.  Co-Conspirator remains at large.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Section.  Assistant United States Attorneys James R. Simmons and Vincent M. Chiappini are in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Matias Burdman and Criminal Investigations Unit Intelligence Research Specialist Ashley Hinkson.

    The Defendant:

    MICHAEL RUTLEDGE
    Age:  45
    Bronx, New York

    Defendant Who Previously Pleaded Guilty:

    ANGEL GOMEZ
    Age:  45
    Bronx, New York

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-269 (S-1) (FB)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Laurel man sentenced to 3 years in prison for possessing stolen firearm after breaking into law enforcement vehicles

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

    BILLINGS – A Laurel man who broke into law enforcement vehicles and possessed a stolen firearm was sentenced today to 36 months in prison to be followed by3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    Jacob Charles Berger, 28, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to possession of a stolen firearm.

    U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.

    The government alleged in court documents that beginning on March 5, 2024, and continuing until March 15, 2024, an unknown male vandalized five different law enforcement vehicles. The suspect stole multiple items from inside the vehicles, including medical kits; body armor; and, on one occasion, a 12-gauge shotgun and ammunition. The Billings Police Department began investigating the thefts.

    Law enforcement officers obtained home surveillance footage from one of the thefts which showed the suspect was wearing black “skater” shoes and was riding a black and red bicycle with skinny tires. The bicycle appeared to have been wrapped in black electrical tape. Investigators recovered the bicycle on March 15, and processed it for fingerprints. Three latent fingerprints on the bicycle were identified as Berger’s.

    On March 20, 2024, law enforcement arrested Berger on an unrelated warrant. He admitted to breaking into police vehicles and taking body armor, medical supplies, and a shotgun. Investigators searched Berger’s garage and seized the shotgun, as well as eight other firearms that had been reported stolen between July 2023 and March 2024. They also located the medical kits and body armor Berger stole from the police vehicles.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Yerger prosecuted the case, and the investigation was conducted by the ATF and Billings Police Department.

    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.

    XXX

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mauritania: IMF Reaches Staff-Level Agreement on Fourth Review of Extended Fund and Extended Credit Facilities and the Third Review of Resilience and Sustainability Facility

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 9, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • The Mauritanian authorities and IMF staff have reached staff-level agreement on the Fourth Review of Mauritania’s economic program under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Extended Credit Facility (ECF), and the Third Review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).
    • Economic activity was stronger than expected in 2024, and is projected to decelerate slightly in 2025, reflecting a contraction in the extractive sector.
    • Pursuing the authorities’ rule-based fiscal policy and exchange rate flexibility will help support the economy’s resilience amid heightened global uncertainty; and executing the national governance action plan, in line with best practices, will foster the role of the private sector in the economy.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Felix Fischer, visited Nouakchott and Nouadhibou during April 28– May 9, 2025 to hold discussions on the Fourth Review of Mauritania’s economic program under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), and the Third Review of the RSF arrangement. At the end of the mission, Mr. Fischer issued the following statement:

    “The Mauritanian authorities and IMF staff have reached a staff level agreement on policies to complete the Fourth Review of Mauritania’s 42-month blended EFF/ECF-supported program and the Third review of the RSF. Subject to approval by the IMF Executive Board, Mauritania will receive a disbursement of SDR 6.4 million (about $ 8.6 million) under the ECF and EFF arrangements and SDR 14.86 million (about $ 20.1 million) under the RSF arrangement, bringing the total disbursement under the EFF/ECF and the RST to SDR 111 million (about $ 148.4 million).

    “Economic activity was stronger than expected, with a growth rate of 5.2 percent in 2024, higher than the initial projection of 4.6 percent. Economic growth rate in 2025 is projected to decelerate to 4.0 percent, due to a contraction in the extractive sector. The medium-term outlook remains broadly positive assuming further reforms will be implemented to diversify the economy and lift non-extractive economic growth.

    “Performance under the program is broadly on track— all quantitative targets for end-December 2024 have been met. The fiscal adjustment was in line with the program targets due to higher tax revenue and spending restraint. The authorities’ commitment to a rule-based fiscal policy and exchange rate flexibility serves the country well in the context of heightened global uncertainty, and will help preserve macroeconomic stability and enhance resilience to shocks.

    “The authorities committed to maintain the non-extractive primary deficit at MRU 15.4 billion (3.4 percent of GDP) in 2025. Improved domestic revenue mobilization and better spending efficiency will help create fiscal space to meet Mauritania’s significant development needs while preserving the medium-term budget credibility.

    “The IMF team welcomed the recent progress in structural reforms, including enacting the central bank and banking laws and the new investment code. They encouraged authorities to move swiftly to finalize the implementing decrees of the laws on SOEs, the investment code, and the free zone of Nouadhibou. Steadfast execution of the homegrown Governance Action Plan, including the laws on the declaration of assets and interests and the anti-corruption authority, in line with the best practices, will foster transparency and accountability and enhance the business climate.

    “The authorities continue to advance their climate agenda to strengthen Mauritania’s resilience to climate change. The parliament introduced the climate contribution and adopted regulations allowing access of private energy producers to power transmission infrastructure. The mission discussed next steps towards introducing the automatic fuel price mechanism and stressed the importance of scaling up well-targeted compensatory measures to mitigate the effects on the vulnerable households.

    “The team met with His Excellency President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, President of the National Assembly Mohamed Ould Megett, Prime Minister Mokhtar Ould Diay, Governor of the Central Bank Mohamed Lamine Ould Dhehby, Minister of Economy and Finance Sid’Ahmed Bouh, Minister of Justice Mohamed Boya, Minister of Energy and Oil Mohamed Ould Khaled, Minister of Mining and Industry Thiam Tidjani, Minister of Hydraulics and Sanitation Amal Mint Mouloud, Minister Delegate in charge of the Budget Codioro Moussa N’guénore, other senior government officials, the civil society, the banking association and other representatives of the private sector, and the donor community.

    “The IMF team would like to thank the Mauritanian authorities and various stakeholders for the excellent hospitality and cooperation and candid discussions during the mission.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/09/pr-25138-mauritania-imf-reaches-agreement-4th-rev-of-ef-and-ecf-and-3rd-rev-of-rsf

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Dallas arrests foreign fugitive wanted in his home country

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    DALLAS — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the North Texas Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Strike Force arrested a foreign fugitive wanted by Venezuelan authorities for his direct involvement in the homicide of four individuals. Law enforcement officers from the DEA, the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service and ICE Dallas apprehended Anthony Fabian Marin La Torre, 42, in Grapevine May 2.

    “This fugitive stands accused of some horrific crimes, further representing a threat in the communities of Texas that we will not tolerate,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas acting Field Office Director Josh Johnson. “ICE Dallas will never relent in our priority of enhancing public safety and arresting and removing criminal alien threats from our streets.”

    On Feb. 18, U.S. law enforcement received notification by Venezuelan authorities that Marin was wanted for the contract killings of four individuals in his home country.

    “FBI Dallas, along with our North Texas OCDETF Strike Force partners, is committed to our mutual objective of ensuring community safety,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “We will continue to provide critical analytical, investigative and tactical resources to identify and locate dangerous criminals in order to bring them to justice.”

    Marin La Torre illegally entered the United States at or near the San Luis, Arizona, port of entry Sept. 26, 2022, as part of a family unit, charged as an inadmissible alien pursuant to the Immigration Nationality Act.  

    Marin La Torre remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.

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

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X at @ERODallas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-Led Nationwide Crackdown, Including Six in the Southern District of Florida

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

    MIAMI – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.  The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown.  The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    The Southern District of Florida is prosecuting the following cases as part of this operation:

    Benjamin Tokoma Sanders, 23, of Oakland, Fla., was charged with possession and production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on April 24. FBI Miami and the Broward Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case. Case No. 25-cr-60092.

    Tre’ Anthony Roberts, 25, of Miami, Fla., was charged with child sexual exploitation on Feb. 27. FBI Miami, FBI Jacksonville and the Tallahassee Police Department are investigating the case. Case No. 25-cr-60042.

    Katriel Victor Marmol, 57, of Davie, Fla., was charged with enticement of a minor on April 30. FBI Miami and the Davie Police Department are investigating the case. Case No. 25-mj-06969.

    Dariel Manresa, 34, of Pembroke Pines, Fla., was charged with possession and distribution of CSAM on April 24. FBI Miami and the Pembroke Pines Police Department are investigating the case. Case No. 25-cr-60090.

    William Neal, 44, of Tampa, Fla., was charged with possession of CSAM on April 30. FBI Miami and FBI Tampa are investigating the case. Case No. 25-mj-02902.

    Brian Jones, 38, of Evanston, Illinois, was charged with distribution of CSAM on April 15. FBI Miami and FBI Chicago are investigating the case. Case No. 25-mj-02747.

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, this effort and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

    The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    Other online resources:

    Violent Crimes Against Children

    How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

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

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Six More Sentenced in Eastern Panhandle Fentanyl Drug Trafficking Operation

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

    MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Six more people have been sentenced for their roles in a major drug trafficking organization responsible for the distribution of large quantities of illegal drugs in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.

    Gary Brown, Jr., age 39, of Baltimore, Maryland, was the leader of the operation. He was sentenced today to 327 months in prison and fined $1,000,000. The indictment, returned in January 2024 against Brown, Jr., and eighty-one others, charged that the defendants caused substantial amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine to be distributed in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.

    Others sentenced this week include:

    • Linda Abshire, age 33, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison.
    • Christopher Sterling Cogle, age 42, of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, was sentenced to 96 months.
    • Saul Percy Powell, Jr., age 56, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison.
    • Nathaniel Frederick Downing, Jr., age 69, of Charles Town, West Virginia, was sentenced to 18 months.
    • James Sanford, age 40, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 60 months in prison.

    Of the 82 defendants, 80 have been convicted. Including today’s six, 59 defendants have been sentenced. One defendant, Charles Delroy Singletary, age 44, of Baltimore, Maryland, remains a fugitive.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Kyle Kane prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.

    U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

    Investigative agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Pittsburgh Field Division and Baltimore Field Division); the Drug Enforcement Administration; the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations; the United States Postal Inspection Service; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the United States Marshals Service;  the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; Ranson Police Department; Martinsburg Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office;  Stafford County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia); Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (Maryland); Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia); Winchester Police Department; and the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia).

    This investigation 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).

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Garbarino Introduces Pro-Law Enforcement Bills Ahead of National Police Week

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrew Garbarino (R-NY)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of National Police Week, Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02) introduced two key pieces of legislation to support law enforcement officers and reaffirm his commitment to the men and women who serve and protect our communities. The bills—the Law Enforcement Officer Bill of Rights Resolution and the Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act—aim to strengthen protections for officers and ensure fair retirement benefits for federal law enforcement professionals.

    “As we approach Police Week, I’m proud to introduce legislation that supports law enforcement officers both in their service today and in their futures,” said Rep. Garbarino. “Whether it’s affirming their rights on the job or ensuring they receive the benefits they’ve earned, we must continue standing with the men and women who put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe. Our officers deserve not only our gratitude, but real action—and that’s what these bills deliver.”

    The Law Enforcement Officer Bill of Rights Resolution reaffirms the rights of local law enforcement officers and condemns efforts to defund, dismantle, or disband police departments. The resolution outlines several core protections, including:

    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to self-defense against physical threats
    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to legal recourse if a civilian attempts to assault the local law enforcement officer
    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to be protected from physical harassment
    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to equipment necessary for personal protection
    • Local law enforcement officer’s right to counsel or a representative present at any interview conducted as part of an investigation

    This resolution is supported by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), and the Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA) and is cosponsored by Representatives Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11), Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Nick Langworthy (R-NY-23), Nick LaLota (R-NY-01), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Pete Stauber (R-MN-08), Randy Weber (R-TX-14), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL-26), and Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21).

    The Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act, introduced alongside RepresentativesGerry Connolly (D-VA-11) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), seeks to expand the federal definition of a “law enforcement officer” under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS). The bill would ensure that qualified federal employees—including IRS officers, VA police, Postal Inspectors, and seized-property specialists—receive the same retirement benefits currently afforded to other law enforcement personnel.

    Specifically, the Law Enforcement Officers’ Equity Act would:

    • Provide federal officers with 6(c) retirement benefits and the ability to retire after 20 years of service at the age of 50, or after 25 years of service at any age
    • Allow incumbent law enforcement officers federal service after the enactment of this Act to be considered service performed as a law enforcement officer for retirement purposes
    • Expand the definition of “law enforcement officer” for retirement benefits to include all GS-0083 officers. That change would grant law enforcement officer status to:
      • employees who are authorized to carry a firearm and whose duties include the investigation and/or apprehension of suspected criminals
      • employees of the Internal Revenue Service whose duties are primarily the collection of delinquent taxes and securing delinquent returns
      • employees of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs who are department police officers

    Rep. Garbarino has consistently championed legislation that supports law enforcement and their families and has worked to ensure officers receive the resources, respect, and recognition they’ve earned.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Department of Justice Releases Report on Officer-Involved Shooting of Kyle Sostek

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, May 9, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta, pursuant to Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), today released a report on Kyle Sostek’s death from an officer-involved shooting in Sugar Loaf, California, on March 12, 2023. The incident involved an officer from the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department (SBSD). The report is part of the California Department of Justice’s (DOJ) ongoing efforts to provide transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices. The report provides a detailed analysis of the incident and outlines DOJ’s findings. After a thorough investigation, DOJ concluded that criminal charges were not appropriate in this case.  
     
    “This was a tragic situation with a tragic outcome,” said Attorney General Bonta. “I sincerely hope this report provides the community with the answers they’ve been waiting for. The California Department of Justice aims to partner with law enforcement to build a just and equitable legal environment, ensuring that the rule of law is upheld, and justice is accessible to everyone.”
     
    On March 12, 2023, at the SBSD night shift briefing, it was reported that Mr. Sostek had an outstanding parole warrant and that he was armed and dangerous. It was also reported that he was driving a white Honda sedan. During the shift, a SBSD deputy observed the white Honda described in the briefing. Another SBSD deputy located the vehicle and tried to conduct a traffic stop but a vehicle pursuit ensued. At a dead end of the road, Mr. Sostek stopped the vehicle and opened his door at the same time that the SBSD deputy opened his door. Mr. Sostek ran towards the deputy with his arm extended. The deputy shot multiple times, fatally wounding Mr. Sostek. It was later discovered that Mr. Sostek was not in possession of a deadly weapon.
     
    Under AB 1506, which requires DOJ to investigate all incidents of officer-involved shootings resulting in the death of an unarmed civilian in the state, DOJ conducted a thorough investigation into this incident and concluded that there is insufficient evidence to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the deputy involved acted without the intent to defend themselves and others from what he  reasonably believed to be the imminent risk of death or serious bodily injury. Therefore, there is insufficient evidence to support a criminal prosecution of the deputy and no further action will be taken in this case. 
     
    As part of its investigation, DOJ has identified four policy recommendations related to this incident. The first recommendation is that SBSD require deputies who have participated in officer-involved shootings to be placed in separate patrol vehicles when waiting for transportation to the station and when being transported to the station. This prevents deputies from discussing the incident with one another prior to their attorney consultation and interview with Homicide Detail investigators to preserve the integrity of their statements. 
     
    The second recommendation is that SBSD provide refresher training as to the importance of preserving all evidence and not removing potential evidence related to homicide or any other investigations to ensure proper collection and preservation. Further, if any evidence is to be removed from the scene, including involved vehicles, SBSD must fully document the evidence and document the reason why the policy was not followed. The third recommendation is that SBSD should revise its policies regarding the use of body worn cameras. The fourth recommendation is that SBSD consider equipping and installing an in-car video system in its patrol units.
     
    A copy of the report can be found here

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