NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Building access to justice for Albertans

    Government of Alberta and Judiciary representatives with special guests at the Red Deer Justice Centre plaque unveiling event April 22, 2025.

    Albertans deserve to have access to a fair, accessible and transparent justice system. Modernizing Alberta’s courthouse infrastructure will help make sure Alberta’s justice system runs efficiently and meets the needs of the province’s growing population.

    Alberta’s government has invested $191 million to build the new Red Deer Justice Centre, increasing the number of courtrooms from eight to 12, allowing more cases to be heard at one time.

    “Modern, accessible courthouses and streamlined services not only strengthen our justice
    system – they build safer, stronger communities across the province. Investing in the new Red Deer Justice Centre is vital to helping our justice system operate more efficiently, and will give people in Red Deer and across central Alberta better access to justice.”

    Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General

    On March 3, all court services in Red Deer began operating out of the new justice centre. The new justice centre has 12 courtrooms fully built and equipped with video-conference equipment to allow witnesses to attend remotely if they cannot travel, and vulnerable witnesses to testify from outside the courtroom.

    The new justice centre also has spaces for people taking alternative approaches to the traditional courtroom trial process, with the three new suites for judicial dispute resolution services, a specific suite for other dispute resolution services, such as family mediation and civil mediation, and a new Indigenous courtroom with dedicated venting for smudging purposes.

    “We are very excited about this new courthouse for central Alberta. Investing in the places where people seek justice shows respect for the rights of all Albertans. The Red Deer Justice Centre fills a significant infrastructure need for this rapidly growing part of the province. It is also an important symbol of the rule of law, meaning that none of us are above the law, and there is an independent judiciary to decide disputes. This is essential for a healthy functioning democracy.”

    Ritu Khullar, chief justice of Alberta

    “Public safety and access to justice go hand in hand. With this investment in the new Red Deer Justice Centre, Alberta’s government is ensuring that communities are safer, legal matters are resolved more efficiently and all Albertans get the support they need.”

    Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

    “This state-of-the-art facility will serve the people of Red Deer and surrounding communities for generations. Our team at Infrastructure is incredibly proud of the work done to plan, design and build this project. I want to thank everyone, at all levels, who helped make this project a reality.”

    Martin Long, Minister of Infrastructure

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

    Quick facts

    • The new Red Deer Justice Centre is 312,000 sq ft (29,000 m2). (The old courthouse is 98,780 sq ft (9,177 m2)).
    • The approved project funding for the Red Deer Justice Centre is about $191 million.

    Related news

    • Red Deer’s first new courthouse in 40 years (Nov. 8, 2024)
    • Empowering Albertans dealing with family law matters (April 15, 2024)
    • Increasing access to family justice services (Dec. 1, 2023)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Speaker Johnson Hosts Awards Ceremony Honoring 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winners and Community Leaders

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    Speaker Johnson Hosts Awards Ceremony Honoring 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winners and Community Leaders

    Washington, April 24, 2025

    WASHINGTON — Today, Speaker Johnson honored winners of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition and Congressional Commendation recipients at the 2025 Community Awards Ceremony for Louisiana’s Fourth Congressional District. 

    “We just had an extraordinary event – we love to do this annually. We give out awards for people who really represent our communities well and do a lot of extraordinary work in all of our 20 parishes around the 4th Congressional District, which is the greatest district in America. There is of honor to give, and it is due,” Speaker Johnson said. “It was a great day, and we love to do this event.” 

    The Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide, visual art contest for high school students, in which one piece of artwork from each congressional district is chosen by a panel of judges to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year. The second, third, and fourth place selections will be proudly displayed in Speaker Johnson’s congressional offices. 

    Congressional Commendation recipients were submitted for consideration by constituents of Louisiana’s Fourth Congressional District and chosen for their efforts to better their communities.

    2025 Congressional Art Competition Winners:

    • 1st Place: “Craw-Fever” by Grace Rougeau, Faith Training Christian Academy2nd Place: “Glow of the Magnolia” by Ava Agee, Airline High School
    • 3rd Place: “Serene” by Samirah Etienna, South Beauregard High School
    • 4th Place: “Bayou’s Serenity” by EMantyi Mosby, Airline High School 
    • Staff Pick: “Beauty of the Swamp” by Jarei’Yuana Adams, Homer High School
    • Staff Pick: “In Loving Memory” by Angela Smith, Simsboro High School

    2025 Congressional Commendation Recipients:

    Allen:

    • Patsy Cavenah, Founder and Director of Lighthouse Ministries

    Beauregard:

    • Kenneth Harlow, DeRidder Fire Chief (30 years of service)

    Bossier:

    • Natalie Davis, Haughton High School student, worked to get girls’ wrestling sanctioned in Louisiana
    • Brad Zagone, Bossier City Fire Chief (30 years of service)
    • James “Trey” Morriss, Mission Operation Secret Squirrel, Director of Staff, Eighth Air Force & Joint-Global Strike Operations Center
    • Warren Ward, Mission Operation Secret Squirrel, Executive Director, Louisiana Tech Research Institute
    • Lane Calloway, Barksdale Air Force Base Historian

    Caddo:

    • Laurie Boswell, CEO of Holy Angels 
    • Jacob Schneider, Caddo Magnet High School student, Eagle Scout, led a team from Shreveport to Tumutumu, Kenya to train 72 students in livestock management, farming skills needed to increase the yield of their family farms by 60%, and financial skills to market their produce and manage their money.

    Bienville:

    • Deanna Curtis, Bienville Court Appointed Special Advocate, Chamber President, Victims for Youth Justice Board Member, and DART volunteer

    Claiborne:

    • Pat Abshire, Claiborne Chamber President

    Grant:

    • Bonita Armour, created an after-school program for Grant Parish youth

    Jackson: 

    • Wilda Smith, Secretary and Treasurer for the Jackson Parish Museum Board, Jackson Parish Tourism, Jackson Parish Cancer Board, Jonesboro Hodge Lions Club Board, Secretary Jackson Parish Industrial District Board, and the Treasurer Jackson Parish Study Guild

    Lincoln:

    • Sam Mattox, Oldest-living WWII veteran in Louisiana, turning 106 this year

    Ouachita:

    • Roy Heatherly, Ouachita Chamber President

    Sabine:

    • Crystal Hable, dedicated to service and organization of events in community 
    • Blake Byles, organizes hunting trips for disabled children and veterans

    Union:

    • Axton Nolan, 2025 U.S. Service Academy Appointee, United States Air Force Academy

    Vernon:

    • Melinda Granger, School teacher of 36 years at Rosepine High School 

    Webster:

    • Jerry Madden, Minden Lion, veteran, past Minden Man of the Year

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst, Gonzales Codify Trump Efforts to Protect Americans from Criminal Illegal Aliens

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – During Sexual Assault Awareness Month, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Congressman Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) are codifying key parts of President Trump’s zero-tolerance border crackdown by introducing new legislation to deport illegal immigrants convicted of sex crimes.
    The Better Enforcement of Grievous Offenses by unNaturalized Emigrants (BE GONE) Act, which amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to include sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence as crimes that are defined as “aggravated felonies,” comes after a report last year found 16,320 illegal immigrants with sexual assault convictions were in the country.
    “President Trump and his team have hit the ground running reversing the damage from the last four years, but we must ensure that every last sexual predator let in by Joe Biden is deported,” said Ernst. “The health and safety of our citizens must always come first, and I am proud to continue working with President Trump to protect the American people. These violent, criminal illegal aliens need to BE GONE!”
    “I represent the largest border district in the House of Representatives—Eagle Pass, Del Rio, and El Paso are all in my district. We witnessed firsthand the consequences of the Biden administration tying the hands of our Border Patrol Agents and ignoring warnings from law enforcement that illegal aliens with violent criminal charges were entering our country. Thousands of these criminal illegal aliens had a sexual violence charge on their record. If someone is here illegally, especially with a criminal conviction and a history of sexual violence, they must be deported immediately,” said Gonzales. “The BE GONE Act will give ICE agents and CBP personnel more tools to identify and deport illegal immigrants with sexual violence charges. I look forward to joining forces with my colleagues in the House and Senator Joni Ernst to move this critical legislation across the finish line.”
    “Under the Biden administration’s policies, tens of thousands of criminal aliens were apprehended attempting to enter illegally, with shocking data last year showing that there were at least 16,320 aliens in the U.S. convicted of sexual assault,” said Federation for American Immigration Reform Director of Government Relations Joe Chatham. “Congress must work to ensure that these criminal aliens are quickly removed from our country and this bill will help to accomplish exactly that. FAIR is proud to support the BE GONE Act and protecting American communities from illegal alien crime.”
    “We are grateful to Senator Ernst and Congressman Gonzales for reintroducing the BE GONE Act which will deport immigrants who have committed heinous acts,” said NumbersUSA Director of Federal Affairs Michael Hough. “This is common sense legislation, following up on the Laken Riley Act, that Congress passed this year to protect Americans from criminal illegal aliens.”
    Click here to view the bill.
    Background:
    Senator Ernst has fought tirelessly to protect the American people from violent, criminal illegal aliens.
    After Iowan Sarah Root was killed in 2016 by an illegal immigrant who escaped justice, Ernst fought for nine years to bring her killer to justice alongside Sarah’s parents, Michelle and Scott Root.
    This year, President Trump made Ernst’s Sarah’s Law the law of the land to help ensure this never happens to another family by requiring illegal immigrants who have committed violent crimes against Americans to be detained.
    Ernst’s tireless advocacy helped bring closure to the Root family last month when Sarah’s killer was delivered into U.S. custody to face justice.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIGC) Joint Communiqué

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIGC) Joint Communiqué

    Today the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP, and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Fleur Anderson MP, attended the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference in Hillsborough Castle.

    Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn MP, and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Fleur Anderson MP, with Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Simon Harris and Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan, at the latest meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference, held in Northern Ireland.

    A meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference took place in Hillsborough Castle on 24 April 2025.

    The Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was represented by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Fleur Anderson MP.

    The Government of Ireland was represented by the Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Minister for Defence, Simon Harris TD, and the Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan TD.

    Legacy

    The UK Government and the Government of Ireland noted that one of the aims of the Good Friday Agreement – to acknowledge and address the suffering of victims and survivors of the Troubles – remains unrealised. Both Governments reaffirmed their strong desire to work in partnership on this issue and expressed a mutual commitment to making timely progress so that families can obtain the information and accountability that they deserve and have long sought. 

    Both Governments reflected on the positive and constructive bilateral discussions that had taken place since the last BIIGC on the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy & Reconciliation) Act 2023 and the Commission it established. They noted the substantive progress made and emphasised that their aim remains to reach agreement on a joint, comprehensive approach to legacy issues consistent with the principles of the Stormont House Agreement – including ensuring that legacy mechanisms are human rights compliant and balanced, proportionate, transparent, fair and equitable.

    The UK Government and the Government of Ireland agreed that any joint approach to legacy will require agreement on all key issues, including: fundamental reform of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery to ensure its human rights compliance and to strengthen its practical independence, governance and oversight; the approach to legacy inquests and information retrieval; and ensuring that there are clear reciprocal commitments by both the UK Government and the Government of Ireland. 

    It was agreed that both Governments would continue to work quickly and intensively in seeking to finalise a joint approach. The UK Government remains committed to introducing legislation to repeal and replace the Legacy Act when Parliamentary time allows, and the Government of Ireland will introduce its own legislation as necessary. Ultimately, securing the confidence of victims, survivors, and families will remain at the heart of the work of both Governments.

    Political stability

    The Governments discussed their shared commitment to the good operation of all three strands of the Good Friday Agreement. They affirmed the importance of the full and timely implementation of the Windsor Framework. They took stock of recent developments including US tariff measures and their respective engagement with stakeholders to date. 

    The UK Government also provided an update on the ongoing efforts to support the Northern Ireland Executive with public service transformation. 

    Security update

    The Governments discussed the current security situation, including the Northern Ireland-related terrorism (NIRT) threat. That the NIRT threat level remains unchanged at SUBSTANTIAL is testament to the work being done by agencies on both sides of the border. This cross-border cooperation remains a vital part of work to tackle the terrorist threat and wider harms.

    They discussed an update on the process underway jointly to appoint an Independent Expert to carry out a short scoping and engagement exercise to assess whether there is merit in, and support for, a formal process of engagement to bring about paramilitary group transition to disbandment.

    British-Irish cooperation

    Ministers reflected on the recent UK-Ireland Summit, including on how future meetings of the BIIGC could complement the programme of cooperation agreed at the Summit.

    They reaffirmed their shared commitment to protecting the Common Travel Area to the benefit of citizens across these islands and noted, in particular, the importance of continued engagement with all stakeholders to ensure the UK ETA scheme operates smoothly.

    The Governments agreed that the Conference would meet again in the coming months.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Court bill for verbally abusing City Council staff and Northumbria Police officers

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Two residents who verbally abused City Council and Northumbria Police officers have been left with court bills of more than £1,000 each.

    The court bills follow an incident earlier this year on Monday 28 January when officers from the council’s Neighbourhood Enforcement Team and Northumbria Police were making enquiries in Broadsheath Terrace, Southwick.

    They were investigating reports about ‘public nuisances’ caused by a caravan and quad bikes being stored on the public highway.

    During the visit, the two residents were verbally abusive and aggressive towards officers. They were both charged with offences under the Public Order Act 1986 for using threatening or abusive words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress.

    Rebecca Trott and Bradley Moody, both of Broadsheath Terrace, admitted the offences when they appeared at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court. Magistrates were shown bodycam footage of the incident and imposed fines of £660, victim surcharges of £264 and costs of £85 on both defendants.

    Sunderland City Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities, Councillor Kelly Chequer said: “Officers in the City Council and Northumbria Police are working hard to help keep our communities safe. They should never be subjected to abuse or intimidation for simply doing their jobs.

    “The court has sent a very clear message that threatening officers while carrying out their community duties is completely unacceptable. Both the City Council and Northumbria Police stand united that any abuse and intimidation will not be tolerated.”

    A Northumbria Police spokesperson added: “We want to make it clear that violence towards our officers, or any of our partners – be that physical or verbal – is completely unacceptable. Our officers come to work every day to protect and serve our communities, not to be abused and violence and intimidation against them will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

    “Let this result be a clear message to those who choose to commit violence, you will be dealt with and put before the courts.”

    The case was heard at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 2 April.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Trespass Regulations Amended to Improve Public Safety, Protect Communities

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 24, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan has passed new regulations to empower police to enforce trespass laws in businesses and public spaces such as libraries and parks. These changes are part of the province’s ongoing work to protect communities from the impact of illicit fentanyl and methamphetamine production, transportation, trafficking and street use. 

    Under The Trespass to Property Amendment Regulations, 2025, activities such as public intoxication and drug use will now be automatically considered trespassing in public spaces or businesses. This will allow police to immediately enforce the Act against individuals who are causing public disturbance or threatening public safety without seeking further information from owners and occupants of the premises.

    ” We continue to explore avenues that will provide police with additional legal tools to address harmful items and activities in public spaces, creating safer communities across the province,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said. “These regulations will ensure that police can act quickly to remove individuals who pose a threat to themselves and others, ensuring our public spaces and businesses remain safe and accessible.”

    Under the new Regulations, police will be able to remove someone and, if necessary, charge them with an offence under The Trespass to Property Act if they are engaged in the following activities:

    • public intoxication;
    • use of a controlled substance;
    • threatening to cause harm to persons and property through verbal, physical or other means;
    • public urination or defecation;
    • causing damage to premises or personal property located on the premises; and
    • any other activity that constitutes an offence pursuant to the Criminal Code.

    Fentanyl and methamphetamine are increasingly the cause of overdose deaths, violent crime and community instability. These new regulatory changes represent another step in Saskatchewan’s ongoing work to address the negative impact of addictions, and protect businesses and public spaces from illicit drug use and other dangerous activities. 

    For more information on Saskatchewan’s ongoing work to address drug use and improve public safety, visit:

    https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2025/april/15/government-expands-legislation-to-target-street-weapons-and-illicit-drugs.

    https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2025/february/25/saskatchewan-announces-measures-to-protect-communities-against-fentanyl-and-methamphetamine.

    https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2024/june/10/government-of-saskatchewan-makes-major-investments-in-public-safety.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: York County Man Sentenced To 46 Months In Prison For Drug Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Glenn Jerome Bradley, age 61, of New Park, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on April 22, 2025, to 46 months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for possession with intent to distribute powder and crack cocaine.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, on February 27, 2020, police officers observed Bradley travel from his home in Pennsylvania to a location in Maryland and conduct a drug transaction. Upon stopping Bradley’s vehicle, officers recovered distribution quantities of crack and powder cocaine from Bradley’s person. Officers subsequently executed a search warrant on Bradley’s home; from Bradley’s master bedroom closet, officers recovered additional distribution quantities of powder and crack cocaine, more than $20,000 in cash, a loaded handgun, and drug distribution paraphernalia.

    The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Baltimore County Drug Task Force, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Williams prosecuted the case.

    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.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Men Accused of Involvement in Impostor Scam Targeting Missouri Residents

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – Two men from Wisconsin have been accused of acting as couriers for an impostor scam that targeted a Missouri resident.

    Srinivas Putta, 42, and Ankurkumar Patel, 43, were indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on February 26 on one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and two counts of wire fraud. Putta was arrested in Wisconsin on April 14. He appeared in court Wednesday and pleaded not guilty to the charges. Patel was arrested March 27 and has also pleaded not guilty.

    The indictment accuses the men of involvement in a conspiracy that defrauded victims by pretending to contact them on behalf of financial institutions, law enforcement organizations and government agencies such as the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Treasury and the Federal Trade Commission. One victim was told that his identity had been stolen and that he would be deported if he didn’t act, the indictment says. The indictment also alleges that the victim had been told that his money had been converted to “black money” through identity theft and that he needed to give cards or prepaid debit cards to couriers to transfer the money into an uncontaminated account that the government set up. On Sept. 25, 2023, Putta and Patel tried to collect $144,000 from the victim, who had been told to meet them in a Target parking lot in Missouri, the indictment says. The indictment also alleges that other couriers collected $125,000 from that victim.

    Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt.  Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The conspiracy and wire fraud charges each are punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the O’Fallon (Missouri) Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Berry is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illinois Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Robberies

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on April 23, 2025, Jamal White (age 34) was sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for his role in five armed robberies in southeastern Wisconsin.

    According to court records, White robbed five commercial businesses between May 19 and May 21, 2023. During each robbery, White brandished a firearm and demanded money from the store cashiers. White robbed a West Allis Speedway gas station, a West Allis BP gas station, a Milwaukee Walgreens, a Greenfield Speedway gas station, and a Kenosha Kwik Trip. At his sentencing hearing, Chief United States District Judge Pamela Pepper also considered White’s role in two uncharged robberies in northern Illinois on May 21, 2023, which occurred at a Waukegan Walgreens and a Chicago Walgreens. At the time of the robberies, White was on parole with the Illinois Department of Corrections after serving approximately six years in Illinois state prison for armed robbery. White also had outstanding warrants for armed robbery in Indiana. Following his term of imprisonment, White will spend three years on supervised release. He was also ordered to pay restitution. 

    This case was investigated by the FBI’s Milwaukee Area Violent Crimes Task Force, Milwaukee Police Department, Greenfield Police Department, West Allis Police Department, Kenosha Police Department, Waukegan Police Department, and Chicago Police Department.

    It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abbey M. Marzick and Michael C. Schindhelm.

     

    #    #  #   #   #

    For additional information contact:

    Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales               

    (414) 297‑1700

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Charged with Armed Robbery of Westfarms Mall Store

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging WILLIE WHITE, 58, formerly residing in Bristol, New Britain, and Hartford, with offenses stemming from an armed robbery at the Westfarms Mall.

    The indictment was returned on April 16, 2025.  White appeared yesterday in New Haven federal court and pleaded not guilty to the charges.  He has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on July 15, 2024.

    The indictment alleges that, on July 15, 2024, White robbed the Sunglass Hut at the Westfarms Mall in West Hartford.  He stole multiple pairs of designer sunglasses and brandished a Glock pistol during the robbery.

    It is further alleged that White’s criminal history includes more than 15 felony convictions for drug, robbery, burglary, and other offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.  White was on state supervision, including GPS monitoring, at the time of the offense.

    The indictment charges White with one count of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act robbery), which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years; one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of seven years and maximum term of imprisonment of life; and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Silverman stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the assistance of the West Hartford Police Department and the New Britain Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shan Patel.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Previously Convicted Felon Sentenced for Federal Firearm and Narcotics Trafficking Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Baltimore, Maryland – Judge Brendan A. Hurson sentenced Hugh Emerson Berry, Jr., 41, of Hagerstown, Maryland, to 78 months in federal prison for his role in a narcotics and firearm trafficking network. In January 2025, Berry pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine along with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. 

    Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Frederick; Postal Inspector in Charge Damon Wood, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) – Washington Division; Roland L. Butler, Jr. Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); and Colonel Paul Joey Kifer, Chief of Police, Hagerstown Police Department (HPD).

    In May 2023, the ATF, HSI, and MSP began investigating a drug and firearm trafficking network spanning the mid-Atlantic of the United States. During the investigation, ATF, HSI, and MSP investigators discovered that Berry and his co-conspirators were selling both illegal narcotics and firearms throughout Maryland. Additionally, the ATF used an undercover investigator to participate in multiple controlled drug purchases. The drugs included heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine aka “crystal meth.”  Berry, a convicted felon who cannot possess firearms or ammunition, also offered firearms and a machine-gun conversion device.

    Between May and October 2023 — over the course of approximately 10 meetings — Berry sold an undercover detective heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. The defendant also sold an undercover detective numerous firearms, including eight polymer 80 firearms aka “Ghost Guns,” three firearm magazines, and a machine-gun conversion device.

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

    This case is part of a Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The specific mission of the Baltimore Strike Force is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle violent drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations to reduce drug-related and/or gang violence in the Baltimore metropolitan and surrounding areas.  The Baltimore Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Secret Service, United States Postal Inspection Service, the Maryland State Police, the Baltimore Police Department, the Baltimore Sheriff’s Office, the Baltimore County Police Department, the Maryland Transportation Authority, and the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. The prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Maryland.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF, HSI, USPIS, MSP Criminal Enforcement Division, and HPD for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Simpkins who prosecuted the case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to report fraud, visit www.justice.gov/usao-md  and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Romanian National Arrested For Possession Of A Firearm By An Alien Unlawfully In The United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the arrest and filing of a criminal complaint charging Andrei Saplacan (35, Tampa) with possessing a firearm as an alien unlawfully in the United States. If convicted, Saplacan faces up to 15 years in federal prison.

    According to the complaint, earlier this month, Saplacan attempted to purchase a firearm from a local Federal Firearms Licensee. Saplacan incorrectly answered one of the questions on the form regarding his immigration status, failing to disclose that he had been admitted to United States under a non-immigrant visa. Saplacan’s application to purchase the firearm was denied.

    Further investigation revealed that Saplacan entered the United States in September of 2014 on an H2B visa with authorization to remain in the United States until June 10, 2015, and has overstayed for nearly 10 years. As such, he is prohibited from legally purchasing or possessing a firearm or ammunition.

    A search warrant was executed at Saplacan’s home on April 21, 2025. In Saplacan’s bedroom, law enforcement located five firearms, various rounds of ammunition, a gas mask, and bullet proof vest.

    This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman.

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

    This case 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 Neighborhoods (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bay Roberts — Arrest warrant issued for Jesse Lewis

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Bay Roberts RCMP is looking to arrest wanted man, 27-year-old Jesse William Lewis, who is actively evading police. Lewis was last seen yesterday evening and is believed to be in the North River to Brigus area.

    Lewis is wanted in relation to a number of charges including:

    • Robbery
    • Theft of a vehicle
    • Dangerous operation of a vehicle
    • Possession of a weapon for dangerous purposes
    • Mischief over $5,000
    • Flight from peace officer
    • Forcible confinement
    • Failure to comply with a probation order

    It is a criminal offence to aid a wanted individual.

    Anyone having information about the current location of Jesse Lewis is asked to contact Bay Roberts RCMP at 709-786-2118. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Couple Sentenced to Federal Prison for SNAP Fraud, Drugs and Illegal Firearms Possession

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

    Hagåtña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that the following defendants pled guilty and were sentenced in the District Court of Guam on April 23, 2025:

    Antonio J. Toves, age 48, from Chalan Pago, Guam was sentenced to 12 months and one day for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Unauthorized Use, Transfer, Acquisition, Alteration, or Possession of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343 and 7 U.S.C. § 2024.  He was also sentenced to serve 36 months imprisonment for Possession of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride with Intent to Distribute, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(l), and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A).  The terms of imprisonment were also ordered to run consecutive.  The Court also ordered four years of supervised release, $40,869 in restitution, and $400 in mandatory special assessment fees.  Toves also forfeited several firearms and a Lexus vehicle.  Defendants convicted of SNAP fraud are barred from further participation in the program.

    Christina J. Toves, age 47, from Chalan Pago, Guam was sentenced to 12 months and one day for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1343 and 1349; Unauthorized Use, Transfer, Acquisition, Alteration, or Possession of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (“SNAP”) Benefits, in violation of 7 U.S.C. § 2024(b)(1); and Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g).  The Court also ordered three years of supervised release, $40,869 in restitution, and $300 in mandatory special assessment fees.  Toves was also ordered to forfeit several firearms, ammunition, and a Lexus vehicle.

    From September 2015 to September 2020, Antonio and Christina Toves defrauded the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) to obtain SNAP benefits to which they were not entitled. The couple made false statements about their household size and income.  They also failed to disclose to DPHSS that Christina Toves was employed as a social worker with the Guam Department of Corrections – information on which DPHSS relies in making benefits determinations. As a result of this deceit, they received $40,846.00 in fraudulently obtained SNAP benefits.

    Following his arrest, Antonio Toves was found in possession of over five grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, two pistols, an AR-15 rifle, and over 800 rounds of ammunition.  Christina Toves was found in possession of a concealed handgun.

    “Citizens with low income rely on SNAP benefits to meet their nutritional needs,” stated United States Attorney Anderson.  “Unfortunately, some people seek to obtain these benefits through fraud and other abuse of the program.  Taxpayers deserve justice for this criminal conduct.  We will continue to pursue these prosecutions to ensure that federal funds are appropriately used.  As this case demonstrates, those who engage in this type of fraud, in addition to drug trafficking, risk significant federal penalties.”

    “Fraud, drugs and firearms are a dangerous mixture for failure,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “The Tove’s actions not only cost them prison time and restitution, but also cost the taxpayers of Guam because of their fraudulent claim and receipt of SNAP benefits.  This sentence is well deserved and should serve as a warning against anyone that illegal actions will be investigated and prosecuted.”

    This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Guam DPHSS Investigation & Recovery Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin K. Petersburg prosecuted these cases in the District of Guam.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Launches Investigation Into Harms of Trump Attacks on Department of Education for Students, Families, and Teachers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    April 24, 2025
    Sends letters requesting information on harms to members of 12 leading education, civil rights organizations
    New, comprehensive initiative is latest from Senator’s Save Our Schools campaign
    Text of Letters (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) launched a new investigation into the harms of President Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education (ED) for students, families, and teachers. The initiative is the latest in her Save Our Schools campaign.
    Senator Warren wrote letters seeking information on the impact of the Trump administration’s actions for the members of twelve leading organizations representing schools, parents, teachers, students, borrowers, and researchers: the American Council on Education (ACE), National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), National Parents Union (NPU), National Education Association (NEA), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Student Borrower Protection Center (SBPC), Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), National Center for Youth Law (NCYL), National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP), and the Association for Institutional Research (AIR).
    “Americans rely on [the Department of Education] to fund a range of critical services such as financial aid to pay for college, special education, afterschool programs, and more. The Department is also responsible for protecting students from civil rights violations, fraudulent for-profit colleges, and predatory student loan servicers,” wrote Senator Warren. “Accordingly, I request your assistance in understanding whether the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department will jeopardize students’ access to affordable, accessible, and high-quality public education.”
    President Trump and Education Secretary McMahon have already begun to dismantle the Department and its core functions by firing nearly half of ED’s employees. Even before the firings, ED was significantly understaffed, had fewer employees than any other cabinet department, and was struggling to work through long backlogs of civil rights investigations, college audits, and student debt relief claims from defrauded borrowers. Nonetheless, the Trump Administration has doubled down on their efforts to gut the Department, issuing an executive order to abolish the agency and announcing the transfer of key ED functions to other agencies.
    “These actions risk major interruptions and delays in key services that students and families rely on,” wrote Senator Warren.
    Senator Warren asked the organizations to share how the Trump Administration’s attacks on public education affect their members, including students, families, and teachers, by May 22, 2025.
    The letters are the latest action from Senator Warren’s Save Our Schools campaign, a coordinated effort to fight back against Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education. The campaign has already notched wins, including a new investigation from the Department of Education’s Acting Inspector General following a request from Senator Warren, and Secretary McMahon’s first public admission that she “wholeheartedly” agreed with Trump’s plans to abolish the Department of Education, which is now being used by Somerville Public Schools, Easthampton Public Schools, AFT Massachusetts, and AFT National in their lawsuit against Trump’s executive order to abolish ED. 
    More information on the Save Our Schools campaign can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur Response To Vance And Rubio Statements On United States Abandoning Peace Talks Unless Ukraine Capitulates

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Toledo, Ohio —  Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus released the following statement in response to public statements by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance that the United States of America should abandon being part of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine unless Ukraine agrees to surrender portions of its sovereign territory which were illegally annexed by Russia.

    “Please let me remind the US Vice President and Secretary of State — Freedom means never Surrender, and Liberty must never capitulate to Dictatorship.  America does not live alone on this Earth. Our nation lives in a Free World alliance that is tested every day.

    “Our leaders cannot turn America’s back to the murderous forces from Russia illegally bearing down on Ukraine. History is clear: Russian dictators if given an inch have always invaded further into territory that is not theirs. The facts speak for themselves — just ask Georgia, Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.  Russia now taunts our nation’s closest military Allies on the European continent. We honor them and our collective memory of the historic sacrifice and bloodshed that built the Free World bequeathed to us.

    “The Trump Administration proposes that the US abandon our European Allies. With them, our nation intergenerationally has painstakingly built NATO — a global fortress of democratic nations. Across Europe from the ruins of World Wars I and II lie the precious graves of 411,516 American soldiers. These heroes and heroines fought for the cause of Liberty and a world order that enshrines it, and our joint commitment to defend it above all else. This moment for Ukraine is a crucial test of our common purpose — freedom or subjugation?

    “No succor can be allowed to a murderous dictatorship. No matter how many of Russia’s rich oligarchs seek to plunder and steal from the sacred soils and minerals of Ukraine, the Free West must stand united and say ‘No!’ Freedom lovers must not ignore history and allow Putin’s illegal invasion of Crimea and other stolen territories in Ukraine.

    “No stolen territory should be ceded to Putin. Spanning 11 time zones, Russia holds enough territory. Putin has no need for Ukraine, which is among the poorest nations in Europe. His plunder seeks to reconstitute the vanquished Soviet dictatorship as he longs for more that is not his. Putin now issues an ultimatum: unless Ukraine agrees to surrender territory Russia ruthlessly and illegally invaded and seized there will be no peace deal. 

    “The United States as leader of the Free world must never ever genuflect to tyrants. Aggressor Putin wants the United States to walk away from the negotiating table according to the terms the U.S. Vice President and Secretary of State laid out today. Those terms include ceding Ukraine’s territory to Russia. 

    “Russia is losing the war it started without provocation in 2014. It is losing a war that Putin started and escalated in bloody fashion when he initiated a full-scale invasion in 2022. Sadly, at every step of the way, the Trump Administration has conceded to Putin’s demands without Ukraine‘s consent.  Russia does not recognize international agreements. It never has. 

    “During World War II, it reneged on the Ribbentrop-Molotov agreement. Following World War II, Russia broke its commitments, made at the Yalta conference with its conquest of Poland. Russia signed the Budapest Memorandum to guarantee Ukrainian security and yet it invaded Ukraine. Putin even violated the cease-fire on targeting energy and civilian infrastructure targets negotiated by the Trump administration just weeks ago. Vladimir Putin and Russia, simply cannot be trusted.

    “Why would the Vice President, Secretary of State or any world leader believe that communist dictator Vladimir Putin and the Russian regime will hold to a peace agreement?  They never have. 

    “The only way to force Russia to abide by such agreement is to include strong security guarantees for Ukraine, to ensure Russia will remain in its own borders or face, serious, global sanctions, and consequence so severe they would collapse the Russian economy. Short of that, with the Vice President’s and Secretary of State’s abdication, Ukraine has everything to lose and Russia has everything to gain.  The White House isn’t leading a legitimate peace process. It is enabling the globally aggressive reach of the most lethal Dictatorship in Europe.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hillsville Man Arrested for Sexual Exploitation of Children

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Used Discord to Purchase Sexual Content from at Least Ten Teenage Girls

    ROANOKE, Va. – Michael Tibbs, 24, of Carroll County, Virginia, was arrested by FBI agents last week on a criminal complaint charging him with sexual exploitation of children. Earlier this week, Tibbs appeared before a U.S. magistrate judge who ordered him detained without bond.

    Based on evidence presented at Tibbs’ detention hearing, in April 2023, a then-15-year-old minor victim submitted a tip to the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center, reporting that a man had been grooming her for approximately one year and continually requesting nude images.

    FBI agents identified Tibbs as the victim’s groomer and obtained records of his Discord messages.  The Discord records revealed that beginning as early as November 2022, Tibbs engaged in sexual chats with several minor girls and paid them to record and send him sexually explicit images and videos. Agents were able to identify and interview some of the minor victims, who confirmed that Tibbs paid them to record sexually explicit content for him.

    On July 18, 2024, agents executed a search warrant at Tibbs’ home and seized his phone, which contained many sexually explicit images and videos of women with indeterminate ages. Agents were able to identify one of the minor victims, 13 years old, depicted in two of those videos.  Tibbs’ phone also held hundreds of computer-generated and animated images of children, including toddlers, being graphically, sexually abused.

    Agents interviewed Tibbs, who admitted to using Discord to purchase sexual content from minors.  He estimated that he purchased from 10 to 15 underage girls.  Tibbs explained that he developed an interest in purchasing sexual content from minors after viewing child pornography on TikTok.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Lee and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division, made the announcement.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew Inman is prosecuting the case.

    The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identity and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Truelink Capital Completes Investment in Channel Factory to Fuel Global Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Truelink Capital today announced that it has completed a significant investment in Channel Factory, a leading adtech company specializing in brand suitability, contextual targeting, and media optimization solutions for digital advertising. Financial terms were not disclosed.

    Founded in 2014 by Tony Chen, Channel Factory is a trusted partner to the world’s leading brands, agencies, and media buyers, delivering contextually targeted advertising solutions. Leveraging proprietary AI technology, Channel Factory helps advertisers maximize the efficiency of their digital media campaigns across YouTube, Meta, other walled gardens, and CTV. It ensures ads appear in brand-suitable, high-performing, and contextually relevant content.

    “We are thrilled to partner with Channel Factory’s founder-based leadership team and will work together to invest in the company’s expansion into new geographies and additional digital media platforms. Their deeply entrenched relationships with the global agency holding companies and brands, built on a strong foundation of their leading AI technology, have driven exponential growth over the past few years. We see exceptional opportunities to support the business and its leadership as it further develops its core technology to support other social media platforms, ultimately positioning itself to be a one-stop provider for contextual targeting, brand suitability and media optimization. Additionally, we are eager to explore opportunities to continue growing Channel Factory through M&A and organic opportunities in international markets by leveraging the strong relationships that they have cultivated in recent years,” said Luke Myers, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Truelink Capital.

    “We’re excited to partner with Truelink Capital to accelerate our next phase of growth and deliver even more innovation and value creation to our clients,” said Tony Chen, Founder and CEO of Channel Factory. “This partnership marks a new chapter. One that allows us to scale our operations faster, expand into new markets, and multiply our investment in our AI-driven technology. With Truelink’s support and strategic insight, we remain focused on our mission and will continue to run the business with the same leadership, vision, and commitment to our clients that have brought us here.”

    With a strong focus on brand safety, suitability, and responsible media placements, Channel Factory enables advertisers to align campaigns with content that reflects their values and resonates with target audiences. Using machine learning to analyze billions of videos, its platform ensures ads appear in optimal environments driving engagement and maximize ROI. Along with this leading AI-based technology, the company has supported its growth by nurturing strong relationships with the biggest and most well-known brands and agencies in this space.

    This transaction marks the eighth investment for Truelink Capital, a middle-market private equity firm focused on creating long-term value by partnering with industry-leading companies. The firm has a successful track record of operationally focused investments in the Industrials and Tech-enabled Services sectors.

    BMO Capital Markets served as buy-side financial advisor, while O’Melveny served as the legal advisor to Truelink Capital for this transaction.

    Global Investment Bank, Canaccord Genuity, acted as the exclusive investment banking advisor to Channel Factory. Greenberg Traurig and Marquee Law Group served as Channel Factory’s legal counsel.

    ABOUT TRUELINK CAPITAL
    Truelink Capital is a private equity firm based in Los Angeles. Truelink pairs deep industry experience in the Industrials and Technology-enabled services sectors with a commitment to building partnerships that drive long-term value through an operationally focused strategy. Truelink partners with management, corporate sellers, and founders to accelerate growth through the execution of strategic initiatives and transformative add-on acquisitions. Truelink is investing out of Truelink Capital Fund I, a $950 million fund.

    About Channel Factory
    Channel Factory is a global technology and data platform that optimizes business performance and enhances brand reputation through ethical and effective contextual targeting. Utilizing proprietary AI and brand suitability technologies, Channel Factory ensures ads are placed on brand-safe, contextually relevant content across YouTube, CTV platforms, and social media, including Meta and TikTok. Through its conscious media planning, Channel Factory is committed to promoting sustainability, diversity, and positive content, helping brands achieve their goals while fostering a healthier digital ecosystem.

    Channel Factory has a presence in 31 countries across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and ANZ, providing advertisers with IAB standard category lists and customized content options in 49+ languages. For more information about Channel Factory, please visit http://www.channelfactory.com

    Media Contact:
    Truelink: Peter Schultz / pschultz@truelinkcap.com
    Channel Factory: Luiz Barros / luiz.felipe@channelfactory.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Open letter to Fijians – ‘why is our country supporting Israel’s heinous crimes in Gaza?’

    Pacific Media Watch

    The Fijians for Palestine Solidarity Network today condemned the Fiji government’s failure to stand up for international law and justice over the Israeli war on Gaza in their weekly Black Thursday protest.

    “For the past 18 months, we have made repeated requests to our government to do the bare minimum and enforce the basic tenets of international law on Israel,” said the protest group in an open letter.

    “We have been calling upon the Fiji government to uphold the principles of peace, justice, and human rights that our nation cherishes.

    “We campaigned, we lobbied, we engaged, and we explained.

    “We showed the evidence, pointed to the law, and asked our leaders to do the right thing. Our pleas fell on deaf ears. We’ve been met with nothing but indifference.”

    The open letter said:

    “Dear fellow Fijians,

    “As we gathered tonight in Suva at the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre compound, Israel has maintained an eight-week blockade on food, medicine and aid entering Gaza, while continuing to bomb homes and tent shelters.

    “At least 52,000 people in Gaza have been killed since October 2023, which includes more than 18,000 children. The death toll means that one out of every 50 people has been killed in Gaza. We all know that the real number of those killed is far higher.

    “Today, at least 13 people were killed in Israeli attacks. Among the dead were three children in a tent near Nuseirat in central Gaza, and a woman and four children in a home in Gaza City.

    “Also reportedly killed in a recent attack was local journalist Saeed Abu Hassanein, whose death adds to at least 232 reporters killed by Israel in Gaza in this genocide.

    “For the past 18 months, we have made repeated requests to our government to do the bare minimum and enforce the basic tenets of international law on Israel. We have been calling upon the Fiji Government to uphold the principles of peace, justice, and human rights that our nation cherishes.

    “We campaigned, we lobbied, we engaged, and we explained. We showed the evidence, pointed to the law, and asked our leaders to do the right thing. Our pleas fell on deaf ears. We’ve been met with nothing but indifference.

    “Instead our leaders met with Israeli Government representatives and declared support for a country accused of the most heinous crimes recognised in international law.

    “Fijian leaders and the Fiji Government must not be supporting Israel or planning to set up an Embassy in Israel while Israel continues to bomb refugee tents, kill journalists and medics, and block the delivery of aid to a population under relentless siege.

    “No politician in Fiji can claim ignorance of what is happening.

    “Tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed.

    “Many more have been maimed, traumatised and displaced. Hospitals, clinics, refugee camps, schools, universities, residential neighbourhoods, water and food facilities have been destroyed.

    “We must loudly name what’s happening in Gaza – a GENOCIDE.

    “We should name the crime, underline our government’s complicity in it, and focus our efforts on elevating the voices of Palestinians.

    “We know that our actions cannot magically put an end to the GENOCIDE in occupied Palestine, but they can still make a difference. We can add to the global pressure on those who have the power to stop the genocide, which is so needed.

    “The way our government is responding to the genocide in Gaza will set a precedent for how they will deal with crises and emergencies in the future — at home and abroad.

    “It will determine whether our country will be a force that works to uphold human rights and international law, or one that tramples on them whenever convenient.

    “There are already ongoing restrictions against protests in solidarity with Palestine including arbitrary restrictions on marches and the use of Palestine flags.

    “We have had to hold gatherings in the premises of the FWCC office as the police have restricted solidarity marches for Palestine since November 2023, under the Public Order (Amendment) Act 2014.

    “Today, we must all fight for what is right, and show our government that indifference is not acceptable in the face of genocide, lest we ourselves become complicit.

    “History will judge how we respond as Fijians to this moment.

    “Our rich cultural heritage and shared values teach us the importance of always standing up for what is right, even when it is not popular or convenient.

    “We stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people out of a shared belief in humanity, justice, and the inalienable human rights of every individual.”

    In Solidarity
    Fijians for Palestine Solidarity Network

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Investigation launched after man found dead in Southall

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of a man in Southall.

    Police were called by the London Ambulance Service following concerns for the welfare of a man at 10:56hrs on Wednesday, 23 April in Samara Drive.

    Sadly, a man, believed to be in his 60s, was found dead at the address.

    An investigation has been launched into the circumstances of his death, which at this time is being treated as suspicious.

    Enquiries are ongoing to identify the man’s next of kin.

    Detective Chief Inspector Brian Howie from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, who is leading the investigation, said:

    “We are in the very early stages of our investigation and my team of experienced detectives and forensic specialists are working at pace to establish the circumstances of this death.

    “I can understand that this may be concerning for the community in Southall, who can expect to see an increased police presence in the area as we begin our investigation.

    “Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call police on 101 providing the reference CAD2369/23APR.

    “Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”

    A 54-year-old man from Southall was arrested on suspicion of murder and preventing a lawful burial on Wednesday, 23 April. He remains in custody.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Signing of a Co-operation Agreement between the International Criminal Police Organisation (ICPO-INTERPOL) and the Economic and Monetary Community…

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    26 March 2001

    INTERPOL and EMCCA have signed a Co-operation Agreement, on Monday 26th March 2001. The INTERPOL President Mr Jesus ESPIGARES MIRA, and the EMCCA Secretary General Mr Jean NKUETE took part in the ceremony as well as M. Pierre MINLO MEDJO, General Delegate to the Public Security of Cameroon and Chairman of the Central African Police Chiefs Committee (CAPCCO)

    The purpose of this bilateral agreement is to develop the exchange of information between the two organisations, to establish operational channels of co-operation between both Organisations throughout the world, recognising the importance of further strengthening the co-operation between them within the fields of their mutual competence and to co-ordinate their efforts within the framework of the missions assigned to them.

    For more information about INTERPOL, please consult our web site: http://www.INTERPOL.int

    See also: Resolution No AGN/69/RES/9.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: INTERPOL and Europol sign cooperation agreement

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    ‘Today marks an important and historic step in strengthening the international combating of organised crime and terrorism’, INTERPOL’s chief executive Ronald K. Noble said on Monday as he and his Europol counterpart Jürgen Storbeck signed a cooperation agreement between the two international police agencies.

    The signing concludes the successful negotiations between the International Criminal Police Organisation and the European Union’s Police Bureau on how to effectively join forces in fighting crime. Present at the ceremony, which took place in Brussels under the aegis of the EU Presidency currently held by Belgium, were also Antoine Duquesne, Belgium’s Minister of the Interior and Antonio Vitorino, the EU’s Justice and Home Affairs Commissioner.

    ‘In the fight against international terrorists and other criminals there is no excuse for duplicating law enforcement efforts but all the reason for efficient collaboration. Europol’s and INTERPOL’s move to share critical criminal intelligence will strengthen the work of both organisations’, said Secretary General Noble.

    ‘The world is today faced with severe threats from terrorism, the drugs trade, the trafficking in human beings, cyber crime, the trade in stolen vehicles and other organised crime. These are areas where our adversaries build alliances and join forces. To protect our citizens all of us engaged in law enforcement must do the same’, Mr Noble continued.

    ‘One immediate challenge to both Europol and INTERPOL is the obvious crime risks that will inevitably follow the introduction on 1 January 2002 of the Euro, the new European currency. To fight back these threats INTERPOL will add the support of its 179 member countries which include the 15 Europol members’, Secretary General Noble continued.

    The text of the cooperation agreement between INTERPOL and Europol was approved by the Council of the European Union on 27 June 2001, and by the INTERPOL General Assembly at its 70th session, held in Budapest, on 26 September 2001.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final Defendant Sentenced in Organized Retail Crime Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLESTON, S.C. — Anthony Wilson, 42, of Florence, has been sentenced to 36 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to his role in defrauding a chain of home improvement stores.

    The investigation revealed that Wilson, and a known coconspirator, Caleb Hood, would steal items from a home improvement chain store located within the District of South Carolina, and elsewhere, and would then take the items to the counter, claim he wanted to return the item but did not have a receipt and would accept store credit on a merchandise card.  The investigation further revealed that Wilson and his known coconspirators would use fraudulent means of identification during the return process. Once Wilson and coconspirators had received the merchandise cards, he would either sell the cards to others or make in-store purchases with the fraudulently obtained cards.

    As for Wilson’s role in the conspiracy, the evidence revealed that he fraudulently obtained $122,828 in merchandise cards.

    The investigation into Wilson and Hood led to the discovery of three more co-conspirators who would purchase the merchandise cards from Wilson and Hood. Those three men have pleaded guilty and received the following sentences:

    James Hoffman, 48, of McBee, was sentenced to five years of probation and restitution in the amount of $80,000.

    Donovan Young, 60, of Hartsville, was sentenced to five years of probation. He was also ordered to pay a fine in the amount of $75,000, and restitution in the amount of $75,000.

    Aaron Young, 35, of Florence, was sentenced to four months in federal prison. He was also ordered to pay a fine in the amount of $75,000, and restitution in the amount of $75,000.

    “We’re grateful for the several law enforcement agencies that worked with this home improvement store to unravel this organized retail fraud scheme,” said Brook Andrews, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina. “The defendants clearly believed they had everyone fooled. Turns out it’s pretty hard to fool the Secret Service.”

    “This investigation highlights the value of cooperation between the U.S. Secret Service, local law enforcement, and the private sector. These sentencings serve as a sobering reminder of the consequences faced by those who defraud businesses and individuals in our state,” said Charles Leopard, Special Agent in Charge of the Secret Service Columbia Field Office. “I appreciate the commitment our South Carolina partners, especially the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Charleston Police Department, Florence County Sheriff’s Office, and the home improvement’s stores investigations team.”

    United States District Richard M. Gergel sentenced Wilson to 36 months imprisonment and ordered to pay the loss amount of $122,828 in restitution. There is no parole in the federal system.

    Hood received a 48-month sentence in May 2023 and was ordered to pay $202,659 in restitution.

    This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, Charleston Police Department, and the Florence County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower is prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: North Dakota Awarded Nearly $28 Million Over Damages Resulting from DAPL Protests

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    04.23.25
    Lawsuit Ruling Comes in Addition to $10 Million Senator Secured to Reimburse the State
    BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after U.S. District Judge Daniel Traynor ruled in favor of the State of North Dakota in its lawsuit against the federal government for damages from the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) protests. The state was awarded nearly $28 million to help cover emergency response costs resulting from the federal government’s negligence during the protests. This comes in addition to the $10 million that Hoeven secured in 2017 as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee to help reimburse the state.
    “The federal government, through its negligence, allowed lawlessness to take hold on Army Corps land, resulting in months of disruption to local residents’ lives, threats to their safety and significant costs to the state,” said Hoeven. “We commend Attorney General Drew Wrigley and his team for securing today’s verdict, which recognizes the harm resulting from the Obama administration’s refusal to enforce the law and police illegal activity during the DAPL protests. This nearly $28 million award is about accountability for federal officials and, when combined with the $10 million we previously secured, making the State of North Dakota whole again.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Themis of the 21st Century” united students from five universities

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Winners and Prize Winners

    On April 21, at the Faculty of Forensic Science and Law in Construction and Transport of the St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, another “crime” was solved as part of the “Themis of the 21st Century” Olympiad.

    This year, the Olympiad “Themis of the 21st Century” became inter-university for the first time and was held in the format of a quest. Five teams participated in the quest: “Conclusions Don’t Burn” (SPbGASU), “Gatchina Gendarmes” (Gatchina State University), “Sledkom” (St. Petersburg Academy of the Investigative Committee), “Expert Element” (St. Petersburg University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia), “Veshdok” (second name – “Expert Five”, St. Petersburg University of the State Fire Service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia).

    The “Gatchina Gendarmes” were accompanied by fans who actively supported the guys throughout the event.

    “Today we are holding a knowledge festival, where you will be able to demonstrate your creative potential, ability to make unconventional decisions, team spirit and all those positive qualities that are not always possible to demonstrate during the educational process. I hope we will see a fair and beautiful game. May the strongest win!” – Dmitry Ivanov, Dean of the FSEiPST, encouraged the participants of the quest.

    Having exchanged traditional greetings, the teams began investigating the murder of an antique dealer and the mysterious disappearance of a 13th-century Byzantine icon. The students examined the crime scene, conducted a trace examination, questioned witnesses and built their own version of events. The quest resulted in the announcement of a verdict for the criminal, who fully acknowledged his guilt and repented.

    The announcement of the verdict allowed the teams to understand the correctness of the version put forward and, accordingly, the correctness of the completion of the final task.

    For each task, the jury awarded points to the teams. The jury included Associate Professor of the Forensic Science Department, Academic Secretary of the Faculty of the Federal Service for Economics and Social Development of the Russian Federation (FSESiPST) of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering Elena Kuzbagarova, Associate Professor of the Criminal Law Disciplines Department of Gatchina State University Albina Bachieva, Lecturer of the Forensic Science and Research Department of the St. Petersburg University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia Nadezhda Gorbunova, Senior Lecturer of the Forensic Science and Engineering and Technical Expertise Department of the St. Petersburg University of the State Fire Service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia Oleg Abramumov, Associate Professor of the Forensic Science Department of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering Alexey Kopanev.

    Based on the results of completing the tasks, the gap between the teams was minimal: they were separated by two or three points, which indicates good preparation and the active role of the leaders.

    The places were distributed as follows:

    fifth place – “Material Evidence”; fourth place – “Gatchina Gendarmes”; third place – “Conclusions Don’t Burn”; second place – “Expert Element”; first place – “Investigative Committee”.

    The organizers awarded valuable gifts to the participants of the quest and those who were involved in it as actors – students of the Faculty of Social and Economic Development and Social Sciences of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering Ekaterina Ryzhikova, Igor Stepanov, Maxim Semenov and Daria Kulabukhova.

    Students shared their opinions on what helped them solve the complex case and what the difficulties were.

    “Practical experience helped us. We had already been in practice, and felt more confident during interrogation. Theoretical knowledge, a good atmosphere at the event, and the team also helped – this is also important. We clearly understood who to assign what to, quickly distributed who does what,” said Sledkom team member Yuri Churintsev.

    “The main difficulty was that too little time was given to complete the tasks. But we will try to win next time,” promised the captain of the “Conclusions Don’t Burn” team, Ulyana Nasonova.

    The team leaders also expressed their gratitude for the invitation to participate in the Olympiad and the good organization. In particular, Albina Bachieva said: “Many thanks to the university for this wonderful day. We really liked the teams, each had its own highlight.”

    “We took an honorable fifth place. However, I think that next year we will participate in the Olympiad at the St. Petersburg University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in the same composition and win a prize. Many thanks to the organizers of the quiz: everything went very well, at a high level of organization. You created a holiday for us and our cadets,” Oleg Abramumov noted.

    “Interesting format of the event, great teams, good preparation. I hope that in the future you will come to our events and invite us again,” said Nadezhda Gorbunova.

    Summing up the results, the jury chair Elena Kuzbagarova said that the Olympiad had become a kind of testing ground, allowing to identify the strengths of the participants and determine the directions for further development of science and practice: “Today’s Olympiad demonstrated the high level of preparedness of our students, demonstrated the best examples of a creative approach to solving complex professional problems. For students, participation in the Olympiad is an opportunity not only to test their knowledge in criminology, forensic examination, traceology, criminal procedure, but also to meet colleagues from other universities, expand their professional horizons, better prepare for future professional activity, increase self-esteem and self-confidence, and establish useful professional connections. I wish the participants success in their studies and future professional activity, new achievements and interesting discoveries. Let the knowledge gained become a solid foundation for your career and a guarantee of a successful future!”

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mill Village — UPDATE: RCMP upgrade charges to Second-Degree Murder

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit has upgraded a charge to Second-Degree Murder after the death of the victim of an assault in Mill Village.

    On March 28, 2025, at approximately 3:30 a.m., Queens District RCMP and EHS responded to a weapons call at a home on Hwy. 3 in Mill Village. When officers arrived at the scene, they located a man with life-threatening injuries and learned that another man had left in a vehicle. The victim, an 84-year-old man, was transported to hospital by EHS, with injuries consistent with being stabbed.

    At approximately 7:45 a.m., officers located the suspect at home in Voggler’s Cove and he was safely arrested.

    Derek Dominix, age 60, of Mill Village, was subsequently charged with Attempt to Commit Murder and was remanded into custody.

    Original news release here.

    On April 11, 2025, the victim, who had been in the hospital since the incident, died from their injuries. The Nova Scotia Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the death a homicide. The man’s death was the result of intimate partner violence.

    The Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit has taken carriage of the investigation. On April 22, 2025, the charge of Attempt to Commit Murder that had been laid against Dominix was upgraded to Second-Degree Murder. Dominix remains in custody and will appear in Bridgewater Provincial Court on May 15, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.

    Nova Scotia RCMP encourages anyone experiencing, or at risk of, intimate partner violence to reach out. Support is available across Nova Scotia and can be accessed by dialing 211, calling the provincial toll-free line at 1-855-225-0220, or visiting Nova Scotia 211 online. You can access support anonymously.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Sentinel Brokers Company, Inc., a Subsidiary of DSS, Inc., Receives FINRA Approval to Act as Underwriter and Selling Group Member for Corporate Securities Offerings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sentinel Brokers Company, Inc. (“Sentinel”), a FINRA-registered broker-dealer and a subsidiary of DSS, Inc. (NYSE American: DSS), is pleased to announce that it has received approval from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to act as an underwriter and selling group member for corporate securities offerings.

    This regulatory milestone significantly enhances Sentinel’s capabilities in the capital markets, enabling the firm to participate more fully in initial public offerings (IPOs), follow-on offerings, and a wide array of corporate financing transactions. The approval underscores Sentinel’s strategic growth and positions the company to better serve clients seeking capital through public market channels.

    “FINRA’s approval represents a pivotal advancement in our firm’s trajectory,” said Joseph Lawless, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sentinel Brokers Company, Inc. “It expands our scope beyond fixed income and equity market making and empowers us to more effectively support corporate issuers and institutional clients across the capital formation process.”

    Established in 1996, Sentinel has earned a reputation for excellence in institutional fixed income trading. In 2021, the firm broadened its offerings to include equity market-making. Now, with underwriting and selling group authority, Sentinel is poised to offer clients a fully integrated suite of services across multiple asset classes.

    As a subsidiary of DSS, Inc.—a diversified, multinational company operating across various business divisions—Sentinel benefits from the strategic support and operational scale of a broader corporate ecosystem.

    Forward-looking Statements:

    The foregoing material may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended. Forward-looking statements include all statements that do not relate solely to historical or current facts, including without limitation statements regarding the Company’s product development and business prospects, and can be identified by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “project,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “should,” “continue” or the negative versions of those words or other comparable words. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future actions or performance. These forward-looking statements are based on information currently available to the Company and its current plans or expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect current plans. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may differ significantly from those anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, intended, or planned. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, the Company cannot guarantee future results, performance, or achievements. Except as required by applicable law, including the security laws of the United States, the Company does not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements to conform these statements to actual results.

    About Sentinel Brokers Company, Inc.:

    Sentinel Brokers Company, Inc. is a FINRA-registered broker-dealer specializing in institutional bond brokerage, equity market making, initial public offerings (IPOs), follow-on offerings, and other corporate financing transactions. Since our founding in 1996, we have built a reputation for delivering excellence, having a deep market expertise, and being a client-focused service for all of our customers.

    About DSS, Inc.:

    DSS, Inc. (NYSE American: DSS) is a multinational company operating businesses across multiple high-growth sectors. DSS focuses on creating, acquiring, and investing in innovative companies that drive sustainable value for its shareholders.

    For investor and media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

    Joseph Lawless
    Chief Executive Officer
    Sentinel Brokers Company, Inc.
    Phone: 561-406-2242
    Email: jlawless@sentinelbrokers.com
    Website: www.sentinelbrokers.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Agriculture Drones Market Projected to Reach $8.03 Billion By 2029 with Significant Growth Still Expected

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Many experts see the global agriculture drones market to continue its substantial growth through this decade and maybe beyond. One such industry watcher, MarketsANDMarkets reported that: “The global agriculture drones market was projected to grow to $2.01 Billion in 2024 and reach $8.03 Billion by 2029. High adoption of aerial data collection tools in agriculture holds immense opportunity for the agriculture drones market. As farmers want to boost yields and their uses in resource optimization, precision agricultural tools are in increased demand; drones offer sensors and timely data for crop health and soil conditions. Efficiencies and accuracies increase the appealability of aerial data collection, and more farmers are adopting drone technology. Drones combined with emerging technologies in the form of machine learning and AI make them robust for position and to improve broadband agricultural data systems. Moreover, many industries use drones, and the adoption rate of tools required to collect aerial data is high in the construction, agriculture, and mining industries. Moreover, as farmers emphasize yield optimization and resource utilization more, the use of precision agriculture tools and drones increases. Drones have advanced sensors and real-time data for monitoring crop health and soil conditions. Their efficiency and accuracy appeal to more farmers who have become open to drone technology.”   Active Companies in the drone industry today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC), Sidus Space (NASDAQ: SIDU), AgriFORCE Growing Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: AGRI).

    MarketsANDMarkets continued: “The cereals & grains segment is growing substantially in the agriculture drones market. Cereals like wheat, corn, and rice are staple crops that require precise management to optimize yields, which makes drones more important. Drones can perform aerial surveys, crop health monitoring, and soil condition assessment, thus supporting farmers in informed decisions that may yield maximum productivity and resource utilization. Moreover, precision agriculture development is quite useful for producing cereals and grains. Agriculture drones conduct aerial surveys; thorough data acquisition and actionable insight generation will assist farmers in undertaking focused interventions such as precise irrigation and fertilization. This is resource efficient, cost-reducing, and productivity-enhancing in absolute terms. Moreover, with environmental objectives driving this agenda, increasing the importance of sustainability works well for the cereals & grains segment, with drones monitoring inputs more efficiently for management. The rising trend of digital agriculture, whereby decisions are made based on data, also builds a case for drones in the segment. Thus, considering the above parameters, based on farm produce, the cereals & grains segment is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR during the studied period.”

    ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) ZenaDrone Granted FAA Part 137 Approval for Agricultural Drone Operations Addressing a $6 Billion Global Agricultural Drone Market Growing to $24 Billion by 2032 – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS and Quantum Computing solutions, announces its subsidiary ZenaDrone has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct commercial agricultural operations under the rules and regulations of 14 CFR Part 137 for crop spraying and precision agriculture. This approval allows ZenaDrone to commence final testing and deployment of the ZenaDrone 1000 drone for aerial spraying of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers, and seeds for agricultural, environmental and government customers. The company plans to sell these solutions through its Drone as a Service, or DaaS, business model as well as selling the drone hardware and solution directly to larger commercial farms, agribusinesses, and cooperatives.

    “FAA part 137 approval now enables our team to finish final testing and commence sales of our agriculture solutions. Drones offer a more precise, efficient, cost effective and safer alternative to traditional methods while reducing chemical use, crop damage, and manual work, as well as being able to reach hard-to-access areas. We plan, test, then deploy our solutions through our DaaS model in the US first, followed by Ireland where we have a history of pioneering development work in agricultural drones,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

    According to Fortune Business Insights the global agriculture drone market is projected to grow from USD 6.10 billion in 2024 to USD 23.78 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.5%. This growth reflects a growing demand for precision agriculture, advances in drone technology, cost-effectiveness, government support and incentive programs, and growing awareness and education.

    The ZenaDrone 1000 is an autonomous drone, in a VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) quadcopter design with a total of eight rotors on its two fixed wings; it is considered a medium-sized drone measuring 12X7 feet in size. It is designed for stable flight, maneuverability, heavy lift capabilities up to 40 kilos, incorporating innovative software technology, AI, sensors, and purpose-built attachments like crop spraying, along with rugged and compact hardware featuring foldable wings enabling the drone to fit into the back of a truck.

    ZenaTech’s DaaS business will incorporate the ZenaDrone 1000 and the IQ series of multifunction autonomous drones to provide a variety of service solutions from land surveys to power line inspections or power washing, made accessible and cost effective through an Uber-like business model on a regular subscription or pay-per-use basis. Customers can conveniently access drones for eliminating manual or time-consuming tasks achieving superior results, such as for surveying, inspections, security and law enforcement, or precision farming applications, without having to buy, operate, or maintain the drones themselves.   Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Other recent developments in the markets include:

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), an industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, recently announced the formation of its Public Safety Advisory Board. This new initiative reinforces Draganfly’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, mission-critical technologies that support enforcement and public safety agencies worldwide. Renowned global public safety expert and Homeland Security advisor Paul Goldenberg will serve as the inaugural Chair of the Board.

    With more than 30 years of experience in law enforcement, global security, and national intelligence, Goldenberg brings unparalleled expertise to the role. Recently named America’s Most Influential Person in Homeland Security, he has advised U.S. Presidents, members of Congress, and international security bodies on counterterrorism, cybercrime, and public safety. As a former senior member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC), Goldenberg led pivotal initiatives, including the DHS Cybersecurity Task Force and the Countering Foreign Influence Task Force. He currently serves as Chief Advisor for Policy and International Policing at the Rutgers University Miller Center on Policing, a Distinguished Visiting Fellow for Transnational Security at the University of Ottawa, and a member of the National Sheriffs’ Association Southern Border Security Committee.

    Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC), a drone and drone components manufacturer, recently announced it filed its Form 10-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and provided the following letter to its shareholders from CEO Allan Evans.

    Dear Shareholders, This shareholder letter follows the completion of our fiscal year 2024. This is our first year being public. It has been an excellent fourth quarter and an incredible year. We continue to see great interest in the company and receive questions from shareholders. We would like to take this opportunity to provide context and deeper insights into our operations and what these represent for Unusual Machines’ future.

    Unusual Machines revenue for the fourth quarter revenue was over $2.0 million which represents a sequentially quarter over quarter increase of approximately 31%. This is our best revenue quarter of all time (again) and was done while improving gross margins slightly to 28%. With the launch of our Blue Framework products, approximately 15% of our Q4 revenue was from enterprise sales. Our total revenue of $5.65M for FY2024 exceeded our target of $5M for 2024 by 13%. This growth was achieved without customer concentration as no single customer represented more than 5% of our total revenue for 2024.

    Sidus Space (NASDAQ: SIDU) recently announced the unveiling of near real-time vessel detection and classification capability to be enabled by its hybrid 3D printed LizzieSat® satellite platform. Processing data directly onboard LizzieSat® through Sidus Orlaith™ AI Ecosystem, which includes FeatherEdge™ edge computing hardware, and the OrbitfyEdge software from Little Place Labs, represents a significant advancement in space-based maritime intelligence.

    In January 2025, Sidus and Little Place Labs (LPL) formed a strategic partnership and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop integrated satellite solutions based on edge computing and AI applications. This collaboration aims to meet the growing needs of a global customer base and is expected to provide accurate vessel detection and classification within one hour of satellite observation.

    AgriFORCE Growing Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: AGRI) recently announced significant progress in its Radical Clean Solutions (RCS) division, acquired in August 2024.   The RCS division has been awarded a U.S. patent (Patent No. 17/713,959), dated today, for its design of agricultural integrated systems for Radicals Hydroxyl generation units. This innovative technology provides growers of fruits, vegetables, and other plants with a chemical-free solution for reducing mold, viruses, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It can be integrated into existing heating and ventilation systems or used as a standalone unit. Additionally, the system helps lower levels of gases such as ethylene, thereby slowing the ripening process and extending the shelf life of produce.

    Roger M. Slotkin, founder of RCS and on behalf of our RCS division, stated:   “We have applied for multiple patents related to the application of our technologies across various sectors, including agriculture. Our solutions provide businesses with a chemical-free, safe, and effective method for mitigating viruses, mold, and other pathogens—without harm to people, pets, or plants. Over the coming months, we anticipate the approval of several additional patents.”

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

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    DISCLAIMER:  FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels.  FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein.  FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.  FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities.  The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material.  All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks.  All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release.  FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers.  Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks.  For current services performed FNM has been compensated fifty one hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by ZenaTech, Inc. by the Company.  FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:

    Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com – +1(561)325-8757

    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: YJB response to government’s PAVA announcement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    YJB response to government’s PAVA announcement

    The YJB’s response to the Ministry of Justice’s announcement that PAVA (synthetic pepper spray) will be issued at Young Offender Institutions that hold children.

    The Youth Justice Board

    Keith Fraser, Chair of the Youth Justice Board, says:

    The Youth Justice Board (YJB) does not support the use of PAVA in youth custody due to the overall detrimental effect on children and the distinct lack of evidence that its use improves safety. Our advice to the government, based on robust evidence, is that PAVA spray is not effective in reducing violence or in preventing children offending or reoffending. In fact, its use could be harmful.

    The YJB has not seen any evidence that would justify this decision, and this move is a further indication that the current model for youth custody is not working.

    We will be writing to the Minister to express our extreme disappointment at this decision, reaffirm our advice and to voice our specific concerns. In particular, we are concerned that there is a significant risk that children from ethnic minority communities, particularly Black boys, children with speech, language, communication needs, and those who are neurodivergent will be unfairly targeted. We are concerned that the introduction will erode trust and relationships, undermining safety and rehabilitation efforts.

    We urge the government to instead invest in sustained reform, to include increased staff levels, improved staff training and retention, effective behaviour management strategies and evidence-based programmes to improve safety. In the longer-term, there should be a move towards smaller, locally-based units staffed by professionals who are specially trained to work with children with complex needs. These units should prioritise education and training to support children to be positive members of society and will contribute to making communities safer.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City-wide ban and fines for fouling and poor dog control to start

    Source: City of York

    From 1 June 2025, Council officers will be able to fine people found urinating in public, or not controlling or picking up after their dogs.

    Discretionary powers to act against these offences committed anywhere in York have been awarded by the Council who, this week on Tuesday 22 April, agreed a new, city-wide Public Space Protection Order (PSPO). 

    This decision follows a public consultation from December to February. During it, over 90% of the 1,026 people who took part, agreed with the proposals.

    Evidence from North Yorkshire Police, BID Street Rangers and members of the public can be used to support the issue of fines for people behaving anti-socially and creating health hazards.

    Once the evidence has been provided, the fines will be mailed to offenders as fixed penalty notices. By introducing these PSPO fines, the number of slow, costly and work-intensive prosecutions will be reduced.

    For a breach of the PSPO by urinating or defecating in public, for not controlling a dog or not picking up after it, fines of £100 will be issued. This level of fine reflects the health hazards and administrative costs these offences incur, and enables us to resolve offences more quickly. It also represents a £25 increase to fines for dog fouling, mirroring increases to fines for littering. 

    The fines will contribute to a safer, better-managed and vibrant night-time economy, and are expected to help tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in the city centre, supporting the city’s Purple Flag status.

    Exemptions to these fines will be made for people who are registered blind or partially-sighted, and for people in charge of a registered assistance dog.

    Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Safer Communities at City of York Council, said:

    We want these offences to stop. They create health hazards and an unwelcome environment for people simply going about their daily business. This decision means we have a stronger deterrent, and a more timely and proportionate enforcement approach.

    “People should use toilets in the pubs and cafés they’ve visited, and control and pick up after their dogs. For those who we find not doing so, our officers will be able to take immediate action with fines which will reflect the associated risks and costs.

    “We will continue to work with partners, including the police and York BID who, like us, can provide supporting evidence. Together, we will take an intelligence-led approach to enforcement, targeting known hot-spot areas at key times.”

    Superintendent Ed Haywood-Noble, North Yorkshire Police’s senior operational commander for York and Selby, said:

    The Public Spaces Protection Order in York enhances our collective power to take direct action against individuals and groups whose behaviour have a detrimental impact.

    “We have a strong partnership with our City of York Council colleagues through the Community Safety Hub, which tackles crime and anti-social behaviour. We will continue to do all we can to improve the safety and quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors to our magnificent city.”

    The full report was discussed at the Council’s Executive meeting on 22 April at 4:30pm. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –