NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI USA: Leaders of La Nueva Familia Michoacana and Atlanta-Based Money Launderer Indicted

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Siblings Johnny Hurtado Olascoaga — also known as El Pez, Pescado, and Mojarra — and Jose Alfredo Hurtado Olascoaga — also known as El Fresa, El Feyo, and La Fruta — both of Guerrero, Mexico, and co-leaders of the La Nueva Familia Michoacana (LNFM) drug cartel, were charged by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia with conspiracy to manufacture and distribute heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl knowing those controlled substances would be imported into the United States, conspiracy to import those controlled substances into the United States, and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute those controlled substances.

    The indictments were returned in September 2024 and recently unsealed. Prior to his indictment, Johnny Hurtado Olascoaga was designated as a Consolidated Priority Target (CPOT) by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program. Both Hurtado Olascoaga brothers are fugitives believed to be residing in Mexico. In addition, today the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced new sanctions against Johnny and Jose Alfredo Hurtado Olascoaga and their siblings, LNFM members Ubaldo Hurtado Olascoaga and Adita Hurtado Olascoaga. On Feb. 20, the U.S. Department of State also announced the designation of LNFM as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). Additionally, the Department of State announced a Narcotics Rewards Program offer of up to $5 million and $3 million, respectively, for information leading to the arrests or convictions of Johnny and Jose Alfredo Hurtado Olascoaga.

    Franco Tabares Martinez, 51, of Guerrero, Mexico, a high-ranking member of LNFM was charged by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia with conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and related substantive counts of drug trafficking. The indictment was unsealed against Franco Tabares Martinez on July 7, 2023, after which he was sanctioned by OFAC. On June 20, 2024, his brother Uriel Tabares-Martinez was also sanctioned by OFAC. Another brother, Pablo Tabares Martinez, pleaded guilty on Jan. 13 to conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Their sister, Guadalupe Tabares Martinez — also known as Yosel Medrano Hernandez and Lupe — of Mableton, Georgia, has now been charged by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia with conspiracy to commit international money laundering, conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money services business, and related substantive counts. The indictment was returned on April 8 and recently unsealed.                 

    “Today’s indictments and OFAC sanctions against high-ranking LNFM cartel members sends a clear message: if you contribute to the death of Americans by peddling poison into our communities, we will work relentlessly to find you and bring you to justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

    “These cartel members are allegedly responsible for importing massive amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl from Mexico to the Atlanta area and across the United States, and then wiring hundreds of thousands of dollars in proceeds from distributing those drugs back to Mexico,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. for the Northern District of Georgia. “These federal indictments, in conjunction with the imposition of OFAC sanctions, send a strong message that we will tirelessly investigate, prosecute, and defund individuals around the globe who choose to import deadly drugs into, and risk the lives of the members of, our communities.”

    “Today’s action underscores our commitment to intensify the pressure on violent drug cartels like LNFM, who continue to traffic deadly fentanyl and other drugs, smuggle illegal aliens over our Southwest border, and attack law enforcement,” said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. “The Trump administration will continue to use all available tools to target the cartels and other violent organizations that attempt to exploit our communities and harm Americans.”

    “President Trump has promised to crack down on the flow of deadly drugs into our country,” said Senior Bureau Official F. Cartwright Weiland of the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). “And today, working with the DEA and Homeland Security Investigations, the Department of State is delivering on that promise by offering rewards totaling up to $8 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of the Hurtado brothers.”

    “Cases like this exemplify the value of partnerships,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jae W. Chung of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Atlanta Division. “The volume of dangerous drugs and violence impacts our communities beyond comprehension. This investigation and subsequent indictments demonstrate DEA’s commitment to protecting our community by destroying these drug trafficking organizations.”

    “The indictment of senior leaders of this brutal Mexican cartel and subsequent OFAC sanctions makes one thing clear, we are coming after these criminal networks and utilizing every weapon in our arsenal,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven N. Schrank of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Georgia and Alabama. “Through aggressive interagency coordination, HSI and our law enforcement partners are not only seizing their drugs and arresting their members, but we are also cutting off their money, dismantling their infrastructure, and bringing their leaders to justice. This operation underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting our communities and dismantling the criminal enterprises that profit from violence and addiction.”

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie for the Northern District of Georgia, the indictments, and other information presented in court: In 2021, agents of the DEA and HSI began an investigation of LNFM cartel members importing methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl into the United States, including into the Northern District of Georgia. As part of the investigation, agents identified Franco Tabares Martinez as a then-high-ranking member of the LNFM cartel who allegedly distributed multi-kilogram quantities of methamphetamine in the metro Atlanta area.

    In addition, agents identified Franco Tabares Martinez’s sister, Guadalupe Tabares Martinez, as an Atlanta-based money launderer allegedly helping her brother and other drug traffickers by picking up bulk currency and then using her money service business, Noyola Multiservice, to transmit those drug proceeds to drug trafficking associates in Mexico. Through the investigation, agents also identified Johnny Hurtado Olascoaga and Jose Alfredo Hurtado Olascoaga as the cartel’s co-founders and kingpins, who conspired with cartel members in Mexico and throughout the United States to import heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl across the U.S.-Mexico border for distribution in various cities and states, including Atlanta.

    This case is being investigated by the DEA and HSI.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laurel Milam and Bethany Rupert for the Northern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case against the Hurtado Olascoaga brothers, Franco Tabares Martinez and Guadalupe Tabares Martinez. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Morrison for the Middle District of Georgia provided valuable contributions to the investigation of Guadalupe Tabares Martinez.

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

    This prosecution is part of an OCDETF 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 David G. Wilhelm Atlanta OCDETF Strike Force (the Strike Force) is to degrade and dismantle major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations (DTMLOs) in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the Northern District of Georgia. To accomplish this mission, the Strike Force will target these organizations’ leaders, focusing on targets designated as Consolidated Priority Organization Targets (CPOTs), Regional Priority Organization Targets (RPOTs), and their associates.  The Atlanta Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from ATF, DEA, FBI, HSI, USMS, USPIS, and IRS; as well as numerous state and local agencies, and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.

    An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Members of a Massive International Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering Ring Indicted in Atlanta

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Members of a Massive International Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering Ring Indicted in Atlanta

    On April 1, seven individuals in Georgia and Mexico were indicted by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia related to a drug trafficking and money laundering ring tied to a Mexico-based trafficker. Five of these defendants, all of Norcross, Georgia — Sandra Beatriz Hernandez Chilel, 49; Karina Beatriz Perez Hernandez, 22; David Miranda Vinalay, 39; Jerome Lewis, 47; and Irving Joel Hernandez, 34 — were arrested earlier today in a coordinated effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), and local law enforcement. The defendants were arraigned before a U.S. Magistrate Judge following their arrests.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Members of a Massive International Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering Ring Indicted in Atlanta

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    On April 1, seven individuals in Georgia and Mexico were indicted by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia related to a drug trafficking and money laundering ring tied to a Mexico-based trafficker. Five of these defendants, all of Norcross, Georgia — Sandra Beatriz Hernandez Chilel, 49; Karina Beatriz Perez Hernandez, 22; David Miranda Vinalay, 39; Jerome Lewis, 47; and Irving Joel Hernandez, 34 — were arrested earlier today in a coordinated effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), and local law enforcement. The defendants were arraigned before a U.S. Magistrate Judge following their arrests.

    “Thanks to the great investigative work of our federal partners and local law enforcement, five individuals working on behalf of the violent Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) have been taken off our streets,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will not allow these criminal enterprises to continue profiting off of the death and destruction of American lives.”

    “The defendants allegedly trafficked high volumes of fentanyl and other deadly drugs into our community and then laundered the illicit proceeds of their activities as directed by a Mexico-based drug trafficker, including more than $1 million during a mere two-month period,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. for the Northern District of Georgia. “Although these individuals took great measures to conceal their alleged criminal conduct, a determined and coordinated effort by our federal and local law enforcement partners helped to secure the federal charges in this case.”

    “The deadly impact of fentanyl on our communities is devastating,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jae W. Chung of the DEA’s Atlanta Division. “These arrests should be a clear message to the traffickers that keeping our communities safe is our highest priority.”

    “Using our expertise in financial investigations, IRS Criminal Investigation is following the money, despite attempts by criminals to cover their tracks,” said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman of IRS-CI’s Atlanta Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation special agents in partnerships with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and other law enforcement agencies, will continue our work investigating and holding accountable those responsible for bringing dangerous drugs into our communities.”

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie for the Northern District of Georgia, the indictment, and other information presented in court: In September 2024, the DEA uncovered a scheme involving drug traffickers delivering bulk currency from drug sales to a middleman in Norcross. The middleman then allegedly delivered the drug proceeds to defendants Sandra Beatriz Hernandez Chilel (Chilel) and her daughter Karina Beatriz Perez Hernandez (Perez), who then laundered the proceeds as directed by a Mexico-based drug trafficker. Chilel and Perez allegedly operated a money service business (MSB) in Norcross called “La Pulga Esperenza.”

    Between September and November 2024, DEA saw several traffickers deliver hundreds of thousands of dollars of suspected drug proceeds to the middleman in Norcross, who then transferred the cash to Chilel and Perez. Agents with IRS-CI analyzed the MSB’s transactions and determined that the cash was wired to Mexico but was transferred in small increments so as not to raise suspicion by federal regulators. During a period of approximately two months, this ring of individuals allegedly laundered over $1 million in drug proceeds smuggled to Mexico.

    During the investigation, the DEA identified several alleged traffickers who transported the drug proceeds to Norcross, including defendants David Miranda Vinalay, Jerome Lewis, and Irving Joel Hernandez. DEA identified one of the primary traffickers as being a member or associate of the CJNG. Additionally, as alleged in the indictment, some of the traffickers also possessed methamphetamine and fentanyl that they intended to distribute on behalf of the drug trafficking ring.

    Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    This case is being investigated by the DEA and IRS-CI. Valuable assistance was also provided by the Georgia State Patrol, Dekalb County, Georgia, Police Department, Gwinnett County, Georgia, Police Department, and Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bethany L. Rupert and Dwayne A. Brown Jr. for the Northern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case.

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

    This effort is part of an OCDETF operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tuhikaramea Road, Temple View closed following crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Tuhikaramea Road, Temple View is closed following a crash.

    The single vehicle crash was reported at 10:30am.

    Initial indications are that there are serious injuries.

    Diversions are in place at the intersection with Collins Road (south) and Kahikatea Drive (north).

    The road is expected to be closed for a significant period of time.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mongols Motorcycle Club Member Arrested, Other Also Charged, with Assault and Murder of Rival Gang Member Last Month in Ontario

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RIVERSIDE, California – A member of the Mongols Motorcycle Club was arrested today, and another Mongols member has been charged, both in connection with the assault and murder of a rival motorcycle gang member at a San Bernardino County bar last month.

    Clifford Michael Lavoy, 51, a.k.a. “Buckshot,” of Montclair, was arrested on a federal criminal complaint that charges him with assault resulting in serious bodily injury in aid of racketeering. Julian Pulido, 35, a.k.a. “Juls,” of Upland is charged via the same federal complaint with murder in aid of racketeering.

    Lavoy was arrested this morning and made his initial appearance in United States District Court in Riverside this afternoon. A federal magistrate judge ordered him jailed without bond and scheduled a May 6 arraignment in Riverside federal court.

    Pulido currently is in state custody, charged in San Bernardino County Superior Court with murder. He is expected to make his initial appearance in Riverside federal court in the coming weeks.

    According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, during the early morning hours of March 4, Pulido and Lavoy violently attacked the victim – a member of the Vagos, a rival motorcycle gang and who is identified in court documents as “V.S.” – at an Ontario bar. Inside the bar, the defendants confronted the victim, who was wearing clothing reflecting his Vagos membership, argued with him, and told the victim that he needed to show respect to them as Mongols members.

    Later, the defendants assaulted and overpowered the victim, including by punching the victim in the face, choking him, and causing injuries to the victim’s face, head, and neck. 

    When the victim tried to run out of the bar, Pulido allegedly pulled out a gun and shot the victim several times in the back, causing the victim to fall through the door of the bar and bleed out on the sidewalk. The defendants then fled the scene. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene at 2:45 a.m.

    Later that same day, Pulido led law enforcement on a nine-hour chase across five counties in California. He was arrested after crashing a black Dodge vehicle into a ditch during a high-speed chase along Highway 46 near Lost Hills in Kern County. At the time of his arrest, Pulido possessed the same Mongols-branded clothing he had worn on the night of V.S.’s murder. 

    Lavoy was arrested in Whittier, was booked then later released.

    A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted, Pulido would face a mandatory minimum sentence of life in federal prison and Lavoy would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is investigating this matter with the Ontario Police Department. The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office provided substantial assistance.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Declan T. Conroy and Daniel H. Weiner of the Transnational Organized Crime Section are prosecuting this case.

    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 Australia: Infringements issued for illegal rubbish dumping in Geeveston state reserve forest area

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Infringements issued for illegal rubbish dumping in Geeveston state reserve forest area

    Wednesday, 16 April 2025 – 8:52 am.

    Two men will receive an infringement notice for $2,200 each after they allegedly illegally dumped a significant amount of rubbish in a stream side reserve at Geeveston recently. 
    The 39-year-old and 66-year-old men from Geeveston allegedly dumped more than two cubic metres of rubbish in the state reserve forest area. 
    “Police are continuing to investigate further reports of illegal rubbish dumping within the Geeveston area,” said Sergeant Simon Ward from Huonville Police. 
    “Illegal rubbish dumping will not be tolerated, and I ask anyone with information into the matters to contact Huonville Police on 131 444 or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000”
    Stephen Rymer, Assistant General Manager Operations, Sustainable Timber Tasmania said, “This is a strong demonstration that illegal rubbish dumping on Permanent Timber Production Zone land is a serious offence and offenders will be prosecuted.”   
    “Illegal dumping of rubbish is a major concern for Sustainable Timber Tasmania, costing tens of thousands of dollars each year in time, resources, and clean up and has significant environmental, economic, and safety impacts.”  
    Littering can be reported to the Environmental Protection Authority via epa.gov.au or by calling 1300 135 513.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Road users urged to pay attention at level crossings following recent near misses

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Road users urged to pay attention at level crossings following recent near misses

    Wednesday, 16 April 2025 – 9:13 am.

    Tasmania Police and TasRail are urging all road users to take greater care around level crossings following several near misses between trains and vehicles across Tasmania recently.
    The warnings come after regular incidents where drivers failed to stop at level crossings, ignored warning signals, or attempted to beat approaching trains, putting lives at serious risk.
    Tasmania Police is increasing patrols and monitoring of known high-risk level crossings, reminding drivers that failure to obey railway crossing signs and signals can result in significant fines and demerit points.
    Inspector Adam Spencer from Western District said we’ve seen far too many close calls in recent weeks.
    “Ignoring crossing signals or trying to outrun a train isn’t just illegal, it’s incredibly dangerous, and we’re urging everyone to slow down, look for trains and obey the signals at level crossings.”
    “It is incredibly lucky that no one has been seriously injured in these incidents, and we are using them as an example to others about the importance of rail safety.”
    “We’ll be monitoring driver behaviour around level crossings, and anyone found to be taking breaking the road rules will be prosecuted,” he said.
    There are ~180 public level crossings across Tasmania’s 600km operational rail network, and most are located in rural or regional areas. TasRail operates freight trains throughout the day and night, and driver vigilance is essential.
    “Our train drivers rely on road users obeying road rules at level crossings, trains cannot swerve or stop instantaneously. It’s in your hands. Thank you to Tasmania Police for its continued support for rail safety, TasRail CEO Steven Dietrich said.”
    Both TasRail and Tasmania Police are calling on all road users, especially those in regional communities, to stay alert and help prevent the next potential tragedy by following the tips below:

    Always obey signs, lights, and signals.
    Stop, look both ways, and listen for trains—especially at passive crossings.
    Never attempt to race a train or cross when warning signals are active.
    Be patient—trains may take several minutes to clear a crossing.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Leaders of La Nueva Familia Michoacana and Atlanta-Based Money Launderer Indicted

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Siblings Johnny Hurtado Olascoaga — also known as El Pez, Pescado, and Mojarra — and Jose Alfredo Hurtado Olascoaga — also known as El Fresa, El Feyo, and La Fruta — both of Guerrero, Mexico, and co-leaders of the La Nueva Familia Michoacana (LNFM) drug cartel, were charged by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia with conspiracy to manufacture and distribute heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl knowing those controlled substances would be imported into the United States, conspiracy to import those controlled substances into the United States, and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute those controlled substances.

    The indictments were returned in September 2024 and recently unsealed. Prior to his indictment, Johnny Hurtado Olascoaga was designated as a Consolidated Priority Target (CPOT) by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program. Both Hurtado Olascoaga brothers are fugitives believed to be residing in Mexico. In addition, today the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced new sanctions against Johnny and Jose Alfredo Hurtado Olascoaga and their siblings, LNFM members Ubaldo Hurtado Olascoaga and Adita Hurtado Olascoaga. On Feb. 20, the U.S. Department of State also announced the designation of LNFM as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). Additionally, the Department of State announced a Narcotics Rewards Program offer of up to $5 million and $3 million, respectively, for information leading to the arrests or convictions of Johnny and Jose Alfredo Hurtado Olascoaga.

    Franco Tabares Martinez, 51, of Guerrero, Mexico, a high-ranking member of LNFM was charged by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia with conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and related substantive counts of drug trafficking. The indictment was unsealed against Franco Tabares Martinez on July 7, 2023, after which he was sanctioned by OFAC. On June 20, 2024, his brother Uriel Tabares-Martinez was also sanctioned by OFAC. Another brother, Pablo Tabares Martinez, pleaded guilty on Jan. 13 to conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Their sister, Guadalupe Tabares Martinez — also known as Yosel Medrano Hernandez and Lupe — of Mableton, Georgia, has now been charged by a federal grand jury seated in the Northern District of Georgia with conspiracy to commit international money laundering, conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money services business, and related substantive counts. The indictment was returned on April 8 and recently unsealed.                 

    “Today’s indictments and OFAC sanctions against high-ranking LNFM cartel members sends a clear message: if you contribute to the death of Americans by peddling poison into our communities, we will work relentlessly to find you and bring you to justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.

    “These cartel members are allegedly responsible for importing massive amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl from Mexico to the Atlanta area and across the United States, and then wiring hundreds of thousands of dollars in proceeds from distributing those drugs back to Mexico,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. for the Northern District of Georgia. “These federal indictments, in conjunction with the imposition of OFAC sanctions, send a strong message that we will tirelessly investigate, prosecute, and defund individuals around the globe who choose to import deadly drugs into, and risk the lives of the members of, our communities.”

    “Today’s action underscores our commitment to intensify the pressure on violent drug cartels like LNFM, who continue to traffic deadly fentanyl and other drugs, smuggle illegal aliens over our Southwest border, and attack law enforcement,” said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. “The Trump administration will continue to use all available tools to target the cartels and other violent organizations that attempt to exploit our communities and harm Americans.”

    “President Trump has promised to crack down on the flow of deadly drugs into our country,” said Senior Bureau Official F. Cartwright Weiland of the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). “And today, working with the DEA and Homeland Security Investigations, the Department of State is delivering on that promise by offering rewards totaling up to $8 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of the Hurtado brothers.”

    “Cases like this exemplify the value of partnerships,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jae W. Chung of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Atlanta Division. “The volume of dangerous drugs and violence impacts our communities beyond comprehension. This investigation and subsequent indictments demonstrate DEA’s commitment to protecting our community by destroying these drug trafficking organizations.”

    “The indictment of senior leaders of this brutal Mexican cartel and subsequent OFAC sanctions makes one thing clear, we are coming after these criminal networks and utilizing every weapon in our arsenal,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven N. Schrank of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Georgia and Alabama. “Through aggressive interagency coordination, HSI and our law enforcement partners are not only seizing their drugs and arresting their members, but we are also cutting off their money, dismantling their infrastructure, and bringing their leaders to justice. This operation underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting our communities and dismantling the criminal enterprises that profit from violence and addiction.”

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie for the Northern District of Georgia, the indictments, and other information presented in court: In 2021, agents of the DEA and HSI began an investigation of LNFM cartel members importing methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl into the United States, including into the Northern District of Georgia. As part of the investigation, agents identified Franco Tabares Martinez as a then-high-ranking member of the LNFM cartel who allegedly distributed multi-kilogram quantities of methamphetamine in the metro Atlanta area.

    In addition, agents identified Franco Tabares Martinez’s sister, Guadalupe Tabares Martinez, as an Atlanta-based money launderer allegedly helping her brother and other drug traffickers by picking up bulk currency and then using her money service business, Noyola Multiservice, to transmit those drug proceeds to drug trafficking associates in Mexico. Through the investigation, agents also identified Johnny Hurtado Olascoaga and Jose Alfredo Hurtado Olascoaga as the cartel’s co-founders and kingpins, who conspired with cartel members in Mexico and throughout the United States to import heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl across the U.S.-Mexico border for distribution in various cities and states, including Atlanta.

    This case is being investigated by the DEA and HSI.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laurel Milam and Bethany Rupert for the Northern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case against the Hurtado Olascoaga brothers, Franco Tabares Martinez and Guadalupe Tabares Martinez. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Morrison for the Middle District of Georgia provided valuable contributions to the investigation of Guadalupe Tabares Martinez.

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

    This prosecution is part of an OCDETF 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 David G. Wilhelm Atlanta OCDETF Strike Force (the Strike Force) is to degrade and dismantle major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations (DTMLOs) in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the Northern District of Georgia. To accomplish this mission, the Strike Force will target these organizations’ leaders, focusing on targets designated as Consolidated Priority Organization Targets (CPOTs), Regional Priority Organization Targets (RPOTs), and their associates.  The Atlanta Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from ATF, DEA, FBI, HSI, USMS, USPIS, and IRS; as well as numerous state and local agencies, and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.

    An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand-Australia investigation into Latitude breach begins

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    The New Zealand Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) have commenced a joint privacy investigation into the 12 March Latitude Financial data breach.

    This decision follows preliminary inquiries into the matter by both offices.

    This is the first joint privacy investigation by Australia and New Zealand and reflects the impact of the data breach on individuals in both nations.

    The breach, New Zealand’s largest, has seen millions of New Zealanders’ and Australians’ records exposed, including drivers’ licenses, passports and sensitive financial data including personal income and expense information.

    The joint investigation will allow the use of both agencies’ resources. The structure of the investigation does not preclude the OAIC and OPC reaching separate regulatory outcomes or decisions regarding the most appropriate regulatory response to a breach.

    The OAIC and OPC’s investigation will focus on whether Latitude took reasonable steps to protect the personal information they held from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorised access, modification or disclosure.

    The investigation will also consider whether Latitude took appropriate steps to destroy or de-identify personal information that was no longer required.

    Deputy Privacy Commissioner Liz MacPherson says the investigation will focus on

    • how the hackers gained entry to Latitude Financial’s systems
    • how long they were inside before they were noticed
    • what Latitude’s staff did when they discovered the attack
    • the retention of information held by Latitude, and
    • the security and storage of that information within its IT systems.

    “This is a significant attack with an appalling result. I want to thank the affected customers who have been in contact with us so far. Thank you for your patience and for sharing your experiences with us, says Liz MacPherson.

    “There is a human cost to a breach. We have former customers of Latitude who took a loan to buy a fridge about 15 years ago and now part of their identity is being held for ransom.  We will be asking the same questions these customers are.  Could Latitude have done anything to prevent the hackers getting in and stealing information? What reasons does Latitude have for holding onto the personal information of past customers for such long periods?”

    “I also expect this breach has caused emotional stress for staff and the Board at Latitude Financial and I thank them for their constructive engagement with us to date,” says Liz.

    A compliance investigation enables the Office of the Privacy Commissioner to use its full information gathering powers including obliging people to provide information and summoning witnesses.

    “This information will help us to establish whether Latitude’s actions or inaction enabled the cyber-criminals and contributed to the scope and impact of the breach.  Establishing these facts will be critical to our ability to make decisions about the individual complaints that are made to us by impacted Latitude customers,” says Liz.

    “We are still encouraging affected customers to contact Latitude Financial and ID Care for support first. They have made commitments to assist impacted customers.  If you complain to Latitude and you haven’t heard back from them within 30 working days, then we encourage affected customers to make a complaint to us.

    Liz says, “we won’t start assessing individual complaints until we have completed our compliance investigation, but we want to get a sense of the number of people affected and the issues people are facing.

    “We are expecting this investigation to be wide-ranging and we need to be able to assign investigators accordingly and plan how to meet the needs of affected customers. We also want to know the types of impact and harm people have suffered because of this breach (e.g. examples of harm like identity theft, credit difficulties, undue stress etc).

    “We have set up an email for affected customers to contact our team easily. Can you please contact us at latitude.breach@privacy.org.nz ”

    The Office of the Privacy Commissioner has been working with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) throughout the early stages and will continue to do so during the compliance investigation.

    “As this investigation is now active no further comments will be made on it until it is concluded. When the OPC finishes its investigation, we will give an update, so please keep in contact with us.”

    Anyone coming across the Latitude Financial data should take care.

    “Do not access it. Do not spread it. Do not share it. Report it to the New Zealand Police. Report it to us or you can report it to CERT. No one should contribute to its dissemination and increase the anxiety and distress of the affected individuals.”

    Individuals should be on the lookout for anything out of the ordinary.

    “Be hyper vigilant. Watch out for suspicious texts, emails or unusual things happening with your accounts or records. Be particularly cautious of contact from an unknown source.”

    If people would like to know more about some steps, they could take to protect themselves from privacy breaches they could follow this link: https://privacy.org.nz/resources-2/protecting-yourself-from-a-privacy-breach/

    Timeline:

    • Latitude Financial informs the OPC it was breached on March 16.
    • The Office of the Privacy Commissioner starts its preliminary enquiries into the breach including working with the OAIC.
    • The NZ Office of the Privacy Commissioner and the Australian Office of the Information Commissioner commence a joint compliance investigation into Latitude on 9 May.

    Facts:

    • Latitude Financial Services Limited NZ provides a wide range of financial and (limited) insurance services to customers across New Zealand via Gem Finance and Gem Visa and several subsidiary groups.
    • Latitude Financial Services Limited NZ is a subsidiary of Latitude Holdings based in Australia. As such we will continue to work closely with the OAIC as our investigation progresses.
    • Latitude Financial have estimated that 14 million NZ and Australian customer records have been exposed because of the 12 March attack of which around 1.08 million are NZ customer records.
    • The 1.08 million NZ customer records includes around 1.037 million driver license records, around 40,000 passport records and sensitive income and expense information. The income and expenditure information was submitted as part of a personal loan application process.
    • The Privacy Act 2020 places responsibility on Latitude for keeping personal information data secure.
    • The OPC regulatory role is to understand whether reasonable steps to keep personal data secure have been followed, including appropriate data retention practices and to monitor the Latitude response to the cyber-attack breach.

    The difference between preliminary inquiries, a compliance investigation and a complaint investigation

    • Preliminary inquiries allow us to ask questions and assess the situation. Agencies provide information voluntarily.
    • A compliance investigation is undertaken under Part 6 of the Privacy Act 2020. It is designed to allow the Privacy Commissioner to hear or obtain information from any person he considers may have relevant information to enable him to decide whether to issue a compliance notice to an agency for breaching the Privacy Act.  A compliance notice requires an organisation to do something or to stop doing something, in order to comply with the Privacy Act. A compliance investigation can be used to inform the investigation of individual complaints where there are multiple complaints of the same nature.
    • A complaint investigation is undertaken under Part 5 of the Privacy Act 2020. These investigations are focussed on the harm caused to the individual by a privacy breach and seek to resolve the complaint including through compensation or redress. 

     For media please call: 021 959 050

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crash closes State Highway 2, Tangoio

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 2, Tangoio is closed following a crash.

    The two-vehicle crash near Tangoio Settlement Road happened just before 9am.

    Initial indications are that there are serious injuries.

    The road is expected to be closed for a significant period of time. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 5 near Mohaka Bridge blocked by landslide

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A landslide has blocked State Highway 5, near the Mohaka Bridge.

    The landslide was reported to Police at 9.35am. 

    This road was being used as a diversion following a serious crash on State Highway 2. 

    Motorists heading north from Hawke’s Bay are advised to delay travel wherever possible.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: State Highway 5 blockage

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have visited the site of a slip of State Highway 5 near the Mohaka Bridge.

    Officers have confirmed the northbound lane is partially blocked and is being cleared.

    Traffic is able to get through but we ask motorists to drive with caution in the area.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Restoring Common Sense to Federal Procurement

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered: 

    Section 1.  Purpose.  The Federal Government is the largest buyer of goods and services in the world –- yet conducting business with the Federal Government is often prohibitively inefficient and costly.  More than 40 years ago, the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) was implemented to establish uniform procedures for acquisitions across executive departments and agencies (agencies).  The “vision” of the Federal Acquisition System, codified at section 1.102 of the FAR, is to “deliver on a timely basis the best value product or service to the customer, while maintaining the public’s trust and fulfilling public policy objectives[,]” but since its inception, the FAR has swelled to more than 2,000 pages of regulations, evolving into an excessive and overcomplicated regulatory framework and resulting in an onerous bureaucracy. 
    Federal procurement under the FAR receives consistently negative assessments regarding its efficiency.  Comprehensive studies such as the 2024 Senate committee report entitled “Restoring Freedom’s Forge” and the 2019 report by the Advisory Panel on Streamlining and Codifying Acquisition Regulations, created by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (Public Law 114-92) and made up of experts in acquisition and procurement policy, conclude that the FAR is a barrier to, rather than a prudent vehicle for, doing business with the Federal Government.  Its harmful effects permeate various items paid for by American taxpayers, from commercial products like laptops and office supplies to major defense weapons systems.  The management and expenditure of nearly $1 trillion annually in procurements cannot continue on this trajectory.  Fortunately, its inadequacies are self-inflicted and can be remedied through a comprehensive reform of the FAR.  
    Executive Order 14192 of January 31, 2025 (Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation), established that the policy of the executive branch is to be prudent and financially responsible in the expenditure of funds and to alleviate unnecessary regulatory burdens placed on the American people.  Reforming the FAR will advance this objective.

    Sec. 2.  Policy.  It is the policy of the United States to create the most agile, effective, and efficient procurement system possible.  Removing undue barriers, such as unnecessary regulations, while simultaneously allowing for the expansion of the national and defense industrial bases is paramount.  Accordingly, the FAR should contain only provisions required by statute or essential to sound procurement, and any FAR provisions that do not advance these objectives should be removed.

    Sec. 3.  Definitions.  (a)  “FAR” means the Federal Acquisition Regulation codified at title 48 of the Code of Federal Regulations. 
    (b)  “Administrator” refers to the Administrator of the Office of Federal Public Procurement Policy.
    (c)  “Agency” means an executive department, a military department, or any independent establishment within the meaning of 5 U.S.C. 101, 102, and 104(1), respectively, and any wholly owned Government corporation within the meaning of 31 U.S.C. 9101.

    Sec. 4.  Reforming the Federal Acquisition Regulation.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Administrator, in coordination with the other members of the Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council (FAR Council), the heads of agencies, and appropriate senior acquisition and procurement officials from agencies, shall take appropriate actions to amend the FAR to ensure that it contains only provisions that are required by statute or that are otherwise necessary to support simplicity and usability, strengthen the efficacy of the procurement system, or protect economic or national security interests.

    Sec. 5.  Aligning Agency Supplements to the FAR.
    (a)  Within 15 days of the date of this order, each agency exercising procurement authority pursuant to the FAR shall designate a senior acquisition or procurement official to work with the Administrator and the FAR Council to ensure agency alignment with FAR reform and to provide recommendations regarding any agency-specific supplemental regulations to the FAR.  The Administrator, the FAR Council, and each agency designee under this subsection shall collaborate to identify and appropriately address FAR provisions that are inconsistent with the policy objectives described in section 2 of this order.   
    (b)  Within 20 days of the date of this order, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, in consultation with the Administrator, shall issue a memorandum to agencies that provides guidance regarding implementation of this order.  That memorandum shall ensure consistency and alignment of policy objectives and implementation regarding changes to the FAR and agencies’ supplemental regulations to the FAR.  
    (c)  The memorandum issued pursuant to subsection (b) of this section shall propose new agency supplemental regulations and internal guidance that promote expedited and streamlined acquisitions.  With respect to such proposals, the Administrator shall direct the appropriate agency and its subordinate agencies to adhere to the ten-for-one requirement described in Executive Order 14192. 
    (d)  The Administrator and the FAR Council shall issue deviation and interim guidance, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, until final rules reforming the FAR are published.

    Sec. 6.  Regulatory Sunset.  In amending the FAR under section 4 of this order, the Administrator, in coordination with the FAR Council, shall:
    (a)  identify all FAR provisions not required by statute that will remain in the FAR;
    (b)  consider amending the FAR such that any provisions identified in accordance with subsection (a) of this section will expire 4 years after the effective date of the final rule promulgated in accordance with section 4 of this order unless renewed by the FAR Council; and
    (c)  consider whether any new FAR provision not required by statute that is promulgated after the effective date of the final rule promulgated in accordance with subsection (b) of this section should include a provision stating that it will expire 4 years after its effective date unless renewed by the FAR Council.

    Sec. 7.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
     
     
     
    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        April 15, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Lowering Drug Prices by Once Again Putting Americans First

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Purpose.  My first term included numerous significant actions, including some of the most aggressive in recent history, to deliver lower prescription drug prices to American patients.  The message was clear:  no longer would the executive branch sit idly by as pharmaceutical manufacturers charged patients in our Nation more than those in other countries for the exact same prescription drugs, often made in the exact same places.

    These actions included encouraging the development of generic and biosimilar alternatives to higher cost brand name prescription drugs and biologics to harness competitive forces and increase access to affordable medicines.  The United States also, for the first time, established a pathway to expand access to lower cost drugs imported from outside of the country.  Reform efforts ensured that Government-mandated discounts were passed through to patients instead of being retained by middlemen.  New price transparency rules were promulgated to allow patients, doctors, and employers to see the actual cost of prescription drugs before purchase.  Insulin copayments were capped for Medicare beneficiaries, and manufacturers, instead of patients and taxpayers, were forced to foot the bill through the provision of larger discounts.  I also called on the Congress to come to the table to help craft sustainable solutions that would promote innovation and affordable access for the long-term.  When the Congress refused, I proposed the test of an innovative new payment mechanism that would prevent drug manufacturers from charging our patients much higher prices than those found abroad.
    Combined, these bold actions were delivering real savings for American patients and set the foundation to dramatically narrow the price disparity between the United States and foreign nations over time.
    Unsurprisingly, the Biden Administration reversed, walked back, or neglected many of these initiatives, undoing the progress made for American patients.  The Biden Administration then signed into law the misnamed Inflation Reduction Act, which included the Medicare Prescription Drug Negotiation Program.  While this program has the commendable goal of reducing the drug prices Medicare and its beneficiaries pay, its administratively complex and expensive regime has thus far produced much lower savings than projected.  Further, accompanying changes to the Medicare Part D program led to inflated premiums and diminished coverage choices for seniors, prompting a taxpayer-funded bailout of insurance companies offering Part D plans.  Finally, the program imposes price controls on small molecule prescription drugs, usually in tablet or capsule form, 4 years earlier than on large molecule biological products.  Known as the “pill penalty,” this discrepancy threatens to distort innovation by pushing investment towards expensive biological products, which are often indicated to treat rarer diseases, and away from small molecule prescription drugs, which are generally cheaper and treat larger patient populations.
    The American people deserve better.  It is time to restore the progress our Nation made in my first term to deliver lower prescription drug prices by putting Americans first and making America healthy again.

    Sec. 2.  Policy.  It is the policy of the United States that Federal health care programs, intellectual property protections, and safety regulations are optimized to provide access to prescription drugs at lower costs to American patients and taxpayers.

    Sec. 3.  Improving upon the Inflation Reduction Act.  (a)  Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary), consistent with sections 1191 to 1198 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1320f-1320f-7) and other applicable law, shall propose and seek comment on guidance for the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program for initial price applicability year 2028 and manufacturer effectuation of maximum fair price under such program in 2026, 2027, and 2028.  The guidance shall improve the transparency of the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program, prioritize the selection of prescription drugs with high costs to the Medicare program, and minimize any negative impacts of the maximum fair price on pharmaceutical innovation within the United States.
    (b)  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, in coordination with the Secretary, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB Director), and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, shall provide recommendations to the President on how best to stabilize and reduce Medicare Part D premiums.
    (c)  The Secretary shall work with the Congress to modify the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program to align the treatment of small molecule prescription drugs with that of biological products, ending the distortion that undermines relative investment in small molecule prescription drugs, coupled with other reforms to prevent any increase in overall costs to Medicare and its beneficiaries.

    Sec. 4.  Reducing the Prices of High-Cost Drugs for Seniors.  Within 1 year of the date of this order, the Secretary shall take appropriate steps to develop and implement a rulemaking plan and select for testing, consistent with 42 U.S.C. 1315a(b)(2), a payment model to improve the ability of the Medicare program to obtain better value for high-cost prescription drugs and biological products covered by Medicare, including those not subject to the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program.

    Sec. 5.  Appropriately Accounting for Acquisition Costs of Drugs in Medicare.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, the Secretary shall publish in theFederal Register a plan to conduct a survey under section 1833(t)(14)(D)(ii) of the Social Security Act to determine the hospital acquisition cost for covered outpatient drugs at hospital outpatient departments.  Following the conclusion of this survey, the Secretary shall consider and propose any appropriate adjustments that would align Medicare payment with the cost of acquisition, consistent with the budget neutrality requirement in section 1833(t)(9)(B) of the Social Security Act and other legal requirements.

    Sec. 6.  Promoting Innovation, Value, and Enhanced Oversight in Medicaid Drug Payment.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the OMB Director, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, in coordination with the Secretary, shall jointly provide recommendations to the President on how best to ensure that manufacturers pay accurate Medicaid drug rebates consistent with section 1927 of the Social Security Act, promote innovation in Medicaid drug payment methodologies, link payments for drugs to the value obtained, and support States in managing drug spending.

    Sec. 7.  Access to Affordable Life-Saving Medications.  Within 90 days of the date of this order, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, the Secretary shall take action to ensure future grants available under section 330(e) of the Public Health Service Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 254b(e), are conditioned upon health centers establishing practices to make insulin and injectable epinephrine available at or below the discounted price paid by the health center grantee or sub-grantee under the 340B Prescription Drug Program (plus a minimal administration fee) to individuals with low incomes, as determined by the Secretary, who:
    (a)  have a high cost-sharing requirement for either insulin or injectable epinephrine;
    (b)  have a high unmet deductible; or
    (c)  have no healthcare insurance.

    Sec. 8.  Reevaluating the Role of Middlemen.  Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, in coordination with the Secretary, the OMB Director, and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, shall provide recommendations to the President on how best to promote a more competitive, efficient, transparent, and resilient pharmaceutical value chain that delivers lower drug prices for Americans.

    Sec. 9. Accelerating Competition for High-Cost Prescription Drugs.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary, through the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, shall issue a report providing administrative and legislative recommendations to:
    (a)  accelerate approval of generics, biosimilars, combination products, and second-in-class brand name medications; and
    (b)  improve the process through which prescription drugs can be reclassified as over-the-counter medications, including recommendations to optimally identify prescription drugs that can be safely provided to patients over the counter.

    Sec. 10.  Increasing Prescription Drug Importation to Lower Prices.  Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary, through the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, shall take steps to streamline and improve the Importation Program under section 804 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to make it easier for States to obtain approval without sacrificing safety or quality.

    Sec. 11.  Reducing Costly Care for Seniors.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary shall evaluate and, if appropriate and consistent with applicable law, propose regulations to ensure that payment within the Medicare program is not encouraging a shift in drug administration volume away from less costly physician office settings to more expensive hospital outpatient departments.

    Sec. 12.  Improving Transparency into Pharmacy Benefit Manager Fee Disclosure.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Labor shall propose regulations pursuant to section 408(b)(2)(B) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to improve employer health plan fiduciary transparency into the direct and indirect compensation received by pharmacy benefit managers.

    Sec. 13.  Combating Anti-Competitive Behavior by Prescription Drug Manufacturers.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary or his designee shall conduct joint public listening sessions with the appropriate personnel from the Department of Justice, the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Trade Commission and issue a report with recommendations to reduce anti-competitive behavior from pharmaceutical manufacturers.

    Sec. 14.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

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

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

      (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
      (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

                                     DONALD J. TRUMP

      THE WHITE HOUSE,
          April 15, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Youths arrested following recent Gore burglaries

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Seven youth have been arrested following a number of recent burglaries in the Gore area.

    Between 5pm Monday 7 April and 8am Tuesday 8 April, Gore Police received reports of multiple reports of burglaries in the Main Street area.

    After making a number of enquiries into the incidents, Police identified and located seven young people who are believed to be involved.

    Some of the young people were located in the Dunedin area.

    The seven youth have been spoken to by Police and have been referred to Youth Services.

    We understand this activity is incredibly frustrating to members of the public, and we will continue to work to hold offenders to account.

    However we cannot do this alone, if you witness any suspicious or unlawful activity, please contact Police with as much information you can safely gather.

    You can contact us on 111, or for non-emergencies through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Make a Report” or call 105.

    Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division Delivers Remarks Following Conviction of Michael Sang Correa

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division Delivers Remarks Following Conviction of Michael Sang Correa

    Thank you, Acting United States Attorney Grewell, Special Agent in Charge of HSI’s Denver Field Office, Steve Cagan, and everyone for being here.  My name is Matthew Galeotti, and I am the Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 04.15.2025 WTAS: Sen. Cruz Leads the Fight for Cryptocurrency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) continues to make news for his leadership in the cryptocurrency space. Last week, President Trump signed his resolution into law overturning a Biden-era rule that would have undermined American leadership in cryptocurrency. Significantly, this is also the first cryptocurrency bill to ever be signed into law.
    Read more about Senator Cruz’s leadership and accomplishments for Bitcoin and cryptocurrency below.
    THE DALLAS EXPRESS: Cruz Control: Celebrating Cryptocurrency Win After Trump Signs New Law
    “Senator Ted Cruz declared a win for the cryptocurrency community when President Donald Trump signed his Congressional Review Act into law.
    Cruz has emerged as one of crypto’s most vocal advocates in the Senate. The senator has introduced a series of bills aimed at boosting the industry, and fending off what he views as federal overreach into digital financial systems.”
    CRYPTO IN AMERICA: Trump Makes History Signing First Crypto Bill into Law
    “The bill, introduced under the Congressional Review Act by Republican Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to repeal the IRS’s so-called ‘DeFi broker rule,’ passed the Senate on March 26 with overwhelming bipartisan support in a 70–28 vote.
    ‘This rule would have undermined American leadership on cryptocurrency, and I am grateful to President Trump for signing my resolution into law,’ Cruz, who attended the signing ceremony Thursday afternoon, told Crypto In America. ‘The resolution is a victory for innovation, privacy, and economic freedom.’”
    INSIGHTS: The First U.S. Crypto Law is Now in Effect! Trump Has Eliminated DeFi Regulations!
    “The rules faced quick backlash. Critics argued they would hinder DeFi development. Republican Senator Ted Cruz pushed to repeal these rules, and now he has Trump’s support. Cruz attended the signing ceremony and stated, ‘This regulation will undermine America’s leadership in crypto. I thank President Trump for signing my resolution into law.’
    Cruz added, ‘We are protecting developers building the future of cryptocurrency. We clearly state that America will not cede digital leadership to China. We will preserve the ability for Americans to trade without government interference.’”
    DECRYPT: Ted Cruz Introduces FLARE Act to Repurpose Flared Gas for Bitcoin Mining
    “U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has introduced a new bill aiming to turn waste energy into electricity for Bitcoin mining.
    Cruz specifically pointed to crypto mining as a direct output of this extra energy. In a statement announcing the bill’s introduction, he said that it, ‘takes advantage of Texas’s vast energy potential, reinforces our position as the home of the Bitcoin industry, and is good for the environment.’”
    THE STREET ROUNDTABLE: Senator Ted Cruz proposes bill to power Bitcoin mining with wasted gas
    “With Bitcoin mining still at the center of the debate over cryptocurrency’s environmental footprint, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has introduced legislation intended to change the narrative — and the power source.
    Cruz emphasized the bill’s environmental and economic angles in a statement released when it was announced…Cruz’s measure could be considered part of a larger political drive to keep crypto innovation — and energy consumption — inside U.S. limits with a climate-conscious touch to mining.”
    CRYPTO.NEWS: Ted Cruz introduces FLARE Act to incentivize Bitcoin mining with waste gas
    “United States Senator Ted Cruz has introduced a new bill that offers tax incentives for cryptocurrency miners using flared natural gas to power mining operations.
    By turning stranded gas into usable energy, Cruz and supporters argue the bill would not only cut emissions but also boost energy innovation and grid resilience, especially during periods of peak demand or extreme weather.”
    CRYPTOSLATE: Senator Ted Cruz introduces FLARE Act to repurpose flared gas for Bitcoin mining
    “Senator Ted Cruz introduced legislation on April 1 to repurpose flared gas and use it to generate ‘value-added products,’ like mining Bitcoin (BTC) and other digital assets.
    According to Cruz, the bill simultaneously addresses two challenges: reducing oil and gas industry emissions and encouraging energy use innovation.”
    BACKGROUND
    Sen. Cruz introduced the Facilitate Lower Atmospheric Released Emissions (FLARE) Act, incentivizing entrepreneurs and crypto miners to use natural gas that would otherwise be stranded.
    Sen. Cruz introduced the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act, legislation that prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC). This bill passed with an overwhelming bipartisan support.
    Sen. Cruz passed a joint resolution of disapproval overturning the IRS’s Gross Proceeds Reporting rule for brokers handling digital asset sales.
    Sen. Cruz authored the Adopting Cryptocurrency in Congress as an Exchange of Payment for Transactions Resolution, also known as the ACCEPT Resolution.
    Sen. Cruz introduced an amendment to repeal a provision from the 2021 infrastructure package that created new reporting requirements for many cryptocurrency and blockchain companies in both the 117th and 118th Congresses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, federal partners arrest illegal Honduran national charged with incest, sex crimes in Virginia

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    HERNDON, Va. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement along with law enforcement partners from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and Virginia State Police arrested an illegally present Honduran national charged with incest with a 13 to 17-year-old child and aggravated sexual battery: parent with a 13 to 17-year-old child. Officers and agents arrested Marvin Mateo-Alberto, 25, in Falls Church, Virginia April 10.

    “Marvin Mateo-Alberto stands accused of some very appalling and disturbing crimes and represents a threat to the children of our Virginia communities,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director Russell Hott. “We cannot in good conscience allow Mr. Mateo to continue to potentially threaten other children in our neighborhoods. ICE Washington, D.C. will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien threats from our streets.”

    U.S. Border Patrol arrested Mateo-Alberto after he illegally entered the United States Oct. 17, 2005, near Eagle Pass Texas.  USBP issued Mateo-Alberto a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge.

    On April 5, 2006, the DOJ immigration judge ordered Mateo-Alberto removed from the United States to Honduras.

    Fairfax County Police Department officers arrested Mateo-Alberto Jan. 1 and charged him with incest with a 13 to 17-year-old child and aggravated sexual battery: parent with a 13 to 17-year-old child. ICE lodged an immigration detainer against Mateo-Alberto with the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center.

    The Fairfax County Adult Detention Center did not honor the ICE detainer and released Mateo-Alberto Jan. 16.

    Officials with ICE Washington, D.C.; ATF Washington, D.C.; DSS Washington, D.C. and VSP arrested Mateo-Alberto in Herndon April 10. He remains in ICE custody.

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Bremerton, Washington women indicted in massive identity theft and bank fraud scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Allegedly used stolen mail to take over identities and steal from bank accounts, running up credit card debt in victims’ names

    Tacoma – A Bremerton, Washington woman was arraigned today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma on a 14-count indictment charging conspiracy, bank fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Heather Marquis, 36, entered pleas of ‘not guilty’ on all counts. Marquis remains detained at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac. Marquis’ co-defendant Emily Vranic, 33, was arraigned and released to the custody of her parents last week. Trial is scheduled in front of U.S. District Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright on June 16, 2025.

    “With an estimated 278 victims, these defendants left a broad swath of damage across Kitsap and Mason Counties,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Miller. “The Bremerton Police Department and Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office did important work with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to identify victims and trace the financial harm they suffered in this case.”

    According to records filed in the case, between April 2019 and November 2024, Vranic and Marquis would steal identities in several different ways. Most often, they would steal victims’ mail and use personal documents inside to activate credit cards, open new lines of credit, or gain wholesale access to online bank accounts. The pair would have documents related to their activities mailed to a third-party victim’s address, where they would intercept the mail again. Once they had fully taken over a stolen identity, statements and other records were mailed directly to their own Bremerton address.

    Armed with their victims’ identities, the pair ran up credit card debt, made transfers from victim accounts to their own, and even used victim accounts to make their monthly mortgage payments. In one instance, the pair attempted to transfer $35,000 from a vulnerable victim’s account, after a successful transfer of almost $33,000 from the same account. When the transfer was rejected, they repeatedly called the bank posing as the account holder to try to get the fraud alert removed.

    The estimated loss from their financial fraud is approximately $620,000.

    “The U.S. Mail remains one of the most trusted forms of commerce and communication in this country.  Working to protect the mail system and the citizens it serves from those who wish to harm others while enriching themselves remains our steadfast mission,” said Tony Galetti, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “The allegations made against Vranic and Marquis are staggering. The process to undo the harm done to members of our community, not just financially but emotionally, can be agonizing. From fixing bank accounts to rebuilding credit reports, the harm lasts far longer than the initial crime. I thank Bremerton PD and Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office for the assistance in this case; partnerships across all levels of law enforcement are what bring these kinds of results.”

    Conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and bank fraud are punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Aggravated identity theft is punishable by a mandatory minimum two years in prison for each count to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed in the case.

    The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The case is being investigated by the Bremerton Police Department, the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Victoria Cantore.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal jury finds human smuggler guilty of possessing child sexual abuse material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 43-year-old Lyford man has been convicted of possessing 150 images of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    The jury deliberated for approximately 15 minutes before finding Jose Rodriguez Jr. guilty after a one-day trial.

    Law enforcement originally arrested Rodriguez Aug. 12, 2024, in connection with an alien transportation event. At that time, they seized his phone and discovered over 150 images and videos of child sexual assault material (CSAM).

    During the trial, the jury heard testimony and evidence regarding the multiple images and videos of CSAM downloaded and stored on Rodriguez’s phone over multiple months. The evidence included numerous files depicting sexual assaults of prepubescent children. The jury also learned Rodriguez has a prior conviction for criminal attempted sexual assault from 2010 which involved a minor victim.

    The defense attempted to convince the jury that a virus downloaded the CSAM onto his phone. However, evidence showed that Rodriguez had over 100 user accounts on the phone linked to him and that the child pornography was downloaded on 20 separate occasions from April through August of 2024.

    The jury also heard from a computer forensic expert who rendered an opinion that the pattern of activity indicated intentional downloading.

    “The Southern District of Texas has zero tolerance for child sex offenses, much less repeat sex offenders like the defendant in this case,” said Ganjei. “We are grateful to the jury for serving justice in this case.”

    U.S. District Judge Drew Tipton set sentencing for July 15. At that time, Rodriguez faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    Rodriguez was charged in a separate case for the human smuggling event and later pleaded guilty.

    He was taken into custody following the verdict where he will remain pending sentencing in both cases.

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and Border Patrol conducted the investigation with assistance from Raymondville Police Department and Willacy County Sheriff’s Office. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Devin Walker and Jose Garcia are prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dominican National Arrested for Conspiring to Distribute Nearly 65,000 Fentanyl Pills

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Dominican national, unlawfully residing in Lawrence, Mass., has been arrested and charged for allegedly conspiring to distribute tens of thousands of fentanyl pills and illegally reentering the United States after deportation.  

    Juan Alexis Rodriguez Garcia, 35, was charged with conspiracy to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl and unlawful reentry of a deported alien. The defendant was arrested this morning and, following an initial appearance in federal court in Boston, was ordered detained.  

    According to the charging documents, Rodriguez Garcia was admitted into the United States in December 2009 as a Lawful Permanent Resident in Puerto Rico. In November 2016, Rodriguez Garcia was arrested in North Andover, Mass. for fentanyl distribution, which he was later convicted of in May 2018. He was ordered removed from the United States in November 2018. It is alleged that, sometime after his removal, Rodriguez Garcia unlawfully reentered the United States.

    According to the charging documents, on March 30, 2025, as part of an ongoing drug trafficking investigation, law enforcement attempted to conduct a controlled purchase of 65,000 fentanyl pills from a known drug trafficker. It is alleged that, on April 2, 2025, Rodriguez Garcia arrived at the agreed upon location for the transaction in Lawrence. Rodriguez Garcia was arrested on site for immigration violations.

    During a subsequent search of the residence Rodriguez Garcia allegedly visited immediately prior to the planned drug deal, approximately 64,390 fentanyl pills made to look like pharmaceutical pills were found. It is alleged that the pills were packaged into three separate vacuum sealed plastic bags and found inside a large black duffel bag inside of the front closet on the first floor. It is alleged that Rodriguez Garcia’s fingerprints matched two latent prints developed from the plastic bags containing the pills. The fentanyl pills had a net weight of over 7.2 kilograms.  

    The charge of conspiracy to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of unlawful reentry of a deported alien provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; Patricia H. Hyde, Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. Valuable assistance was also provided by the Hudson, New Hampshire Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Kunal Pasricha of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: High Speed motorcyclist arrested

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    High Speed motorcyclist arrested

    Wednesday, 16 April 2025 – 8:06 am.

    A motorcycle rider has been charged with multiple offences and had their bike confiscated for 90 days after they were allegedly detected speeding at 170km/h at Devon Hills last night.About 6.15pm on Monday 14 April 2025 police observed a blue Suzuki motorcycle travelling at excessive speed on the Midland Highway. Police intercepted the rider – a 39 year old man from Ravenswood – who was the holder of a learner motorcycle licence.He was charged with several traffic related offences including exceed 80km/hr as a motor cycle learner licence holder.He was bailed to appear before the Launceston Magistrates Court at a later date.Anyone who may have witnessed the motorcycle behaviour or has dash camera footage is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.Quote ESCAD 349-14042025.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WISH to Ignite: WISHfest25 Sparks Curiosity, Community, and Courage in Waterbury

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    More than 1,200 students, educators, and community members filled downtown Waterbury on March 28 for WISHfest25, the University of Connecticut’s third annual Waterbury Innovation, Sustainability, and Health Festival (WISHfest).

    Co-hosted by UConn Waterbury, the City of Waterbury, and Waterbury Public Schools, the festival embraced this year’s theme: “WISH to Ignite: Passion, Resilience, and Boundless Possibilities.”

    From electrifying keynotes and hands-on science exhibits to deep conversations around neurodiversity, leadership, and identity, WISHfest25 once again demonstrated that innovation isn’t limited to the lab—it thrives in community.

    From Jurassic Science to Real-Life Resilience

    The day began at the historic Palace Theater, where students heard from Jack Horner, the world-renowned paleontologist who advised six “Jurassic Park” and “Jurassic World” films—and who also happens to be severely dyslexic.

    “Being different doesn’t mean being broken,” Horner told a packed theater. “It means you see the world in a different way—and that’s where new ideas come from.”

    A panel discussion at the Palace Theater features, from left to right, Clarke, UConn NSF TRANSCEND fellow & Ph.D. student Vaishnavi Sivaprasad, Horner, and Reis, moderated by Hoeft.” (Steven Bustamante / UConn Photo)

    Horner, a MacArthur “Genius” Fellow who has received multiple honorary doctorates, shared his journey of scientific discovery and defying expectations—even showing the audience a high school report card filled with Ds and Fs. For many students, this was their first time meeting a scientist in person.

    “I still remember his talk from 10 years ago, word for word,” said Dean Fumiko Hoeft, founder and co-director of WISHfest. “It’s the kind of spark we want every student to walk away with.”

    After the event, Horner added, “You found a wonderful group of young students and lots of interesting people. I had a blast!”

    Also featured on stage was Shavana Clarke, Miss Connecticut USA 2024, a proud Jamaican American, LGBTQ+ advocate, and UConn alumna. With honesty and grace, Clarke shared her journey navigating mental health and identity, reminding students that resilience often begins with telling your story.

    Members of the Waterbury Police Department’s Mounted Unit interact with attendees at WISHfest, at the UConn Waterbury campus.” (Steve Bustamante / University of Connecticut)

    “You’re not a burden. You’re not alone. And your difference is your strength,” Clarke told the crowd, as students rose to applaud.

    Sally Reis, UConn Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor and 2025 Reed Fellow, urged educators to adopt a strength-based approach and emphasized how supporting neurodiverse and twice-exceptional learners can unlock untapped potential.

    “We spend too much time fixing what’s ‘wrong,’” Reis said. “WISHfest reminds us to discover and develop the talents of all students.”

    From the Stage to the Lab: Hands-On Learning at UConn Waterbury

    Following the morning program, energy shifted across the street to the UConn Waterbury campus, where students dove into VR simulations, brain dissections, research showcases, and interactive career stations hosted by UConn faculty, staff, and industry professionals.

    “I loved how WISHFest had such fun events at the Palace and UConn like when Jack Horner came and talked about his life,” said Julian Malusa, age 10, from Judson School in Watertown, who attended with his grandmother, reflecting on the excitement and inspiration the event provided for young attendees.

    Two UConn Waterbury students pose with Jonathan XV at WISHfest 2025 (Steve Bustamante / University of Connecticut)

    This portion of the festival was coordinated by the UConn Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills and the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board (NRWIB), highlighting pathways in health care, business, government, tech, and education.

    The event also earned praise from school leadership. “The Waterbury Public Schools’ students were once again wowed by WISHfest and encouraged by their visit to UConn Waterbury,” said Interim Superintendent Darren Schwartz. “I am grateful for the ongoing leadership of Dr. Fumiko Hoeft and her collaboration with the Waterbury Public Schools.”

    From 1:30 to 4:00 p.m., UConn Waterbury students participated in closed small-group sessions with keynote speakers, NSF TRANSCEND Ph.D. Fellows, researchers, and community partners—deepening discussions on AI, neurodiversity, innovation, and inclusive leadership.

    Leadership, Laughter, and Legacy: The Pre-Event Dinner

    The evening before WISHfest, over 20 civic and academic leaders gathered for a private dinner hosted by Cathy and Jim Smith at their Middlebury residence. Guests included UConn President Radenka Maric, Senator Joan Hartley, Mayor Paul Pernerewski, Interim Superintendent Schwartz, and leaders in the arts, education, and nonprofit sectors.

    A student uses a VR headset at UConn Waterbury’s WISHFest 2025 (Steve Bustamante / University of Connecticut)

    Cathy Smith, President of the Leavenworth Foundation, has long supported revitalization efforts throughout Waterbury with her husband Jim Smith—from restoring the Green and City Hall to supporting the Palace Theater, and now, WISHfest.

    Closing the Day with Art and Appreciation

    The festival concluded with a VIP reception at the Mattatuck Museum, where speakers, students, and community members came together in an evening of reflection, art, and connection.

    “This is what it means to be One UConn,” said President Radenka Maric, who returned for her second WISHfest. “We don’t just teach science or policy—we create spaces where young people can imagine new futures.”

    Powered by Partnership

    WISHfest25 is a free event, made possible through the generosity of the David and Joan Reed Endowment to UConn Waterbury, with additional support from UConn NSF TRANSCEND Ph.D. Training Program, UConn School of Business Digital Frontiers Initiative, UThe OLLI Program at UConn Waterbury, Mattatuck Museum, Palace Theater, Cathy & Jim Smith, Dunkin’, and Coca-Cola.

    A group photo of WISHfest staff, comprising UConn Waterbury staff and students, in front of the Palace Theater.(Steve Bustamante / University of Connecticut)

    “The collaboration between UConn, local schools, and community partners is what truly makes WISHfest successful,” said Monica Lattimer, co-director of WISHfest and Associate Director of Operations at UConn Waterbury. “It’s amazing to see how this event grows each year and continues to inspire our students to explore new career paths and ideas.”

    What’s Next?

    Planning is already underway for WISHfest26, which will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, and feature Temple Grandin—renowned scientist, animal behaviorist, and autism advocate—as keynote speaker. The 2026 theme will explore agriculture, nutrition, sustainability, and neurodiversity, co-sponsored by UConn CAHNR and the USDA NextGen Fellows.

    “If this year was about igniting possibility,” said Hoeft, “next year, we’ll cultivate it.”

    To learn more, visit wishfest.waterbury.uconn.edu. To inquire about sponsorship or participation in next year’s event, email wishfest@uconn.edu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division Delivers Remarks Following Conviction of Michael Sang Correa

    Source: United States Department of Justice

    Thank you, Acting United States Attorney Grewell, Special Agent in Charge of HSI’s Denver Field Office, Steve Cagan, and everyone for being here. My name is Matthew Galeotti, and I am the Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.

    Today, the Justice Department secured the conviction of Michael Sang Correa on multiple counts of torture and one count of conspiracy to commit torture.

    This verdict underscores the Justice Department’s determination to protect victims and prevent perpetrators of torture and other heinous human rights abuses abroad from seeking a new life here in America.  You cannot hide here.  We can and will prosecute you if you come to the United States after committing atrocities abroad. This country will not be a safe haven for human rights violators.

    At the outset, I want to express my admiration and gratitude for the strength and courage of the victim witnesses who travelled all the way from Africa to a courtroom in Denver, Colorado, to tell the jury what Correa and his co-conspirators did to them. Reliving those horrific crimes and facing their tormenter in person again takes tremendous bravery. It must have been painful and difficult, and we thank them for enduring this ordeal in the interests of justice.

    I also want to express my appreciation and commend the prosecutors from the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, Assistant United States Attorneys from the District of Colorado, and agents from Homeland Security Investigations for relentlessly pursuing this case, and ensuring justice was done.

    The evidence presented at trial exposed the depravity of the torture Correa committed in 2006, prior to his arrival in the United States, where he sought to escape accountability for his crimes here in Colorado.

    The government’s evidence showed that Correa, along with his co-conspirators, tortured and abused victims accused of plotting a coup against the regime then in power in The Gambia, a West African country which at the time was under the regime of President Yahya Jammeh.

    Correa belonged to a special unit of President Jammeh’s security forces, known as the “Junglers,” who brutally cracked down on what the regime claimed was a coup plot.

    Trial testimony revealed the direct role Correa played in that torture.

    With the intent to cause severe pain and suffering, Correa and his co-conspirators:

    Dripped hot, molten plastic onto the bare skin of one of their victims; they put plastic bags over victims’ heads, restricting breathing; one of Correa’s co-conspirators put the barrel of a pistol into the mouth of a victim; they threatened victims with knives and stabbed one of them; they electrocuted their victims, on their hands, and on their genitals; they extinguished cigarettes into their skin; they rubbed sand into their eyes; they hit one victim in the face with a hammer; and they beat their victims ruthlessly, using fists, feet, firearms, sticks, branches, wire, and pipes, to inflict pain and cause injury.

    There were virtually no bounds on their cruelty.

    But, just as there were no bounds on the defendant’s cruelty, there are no bounds on how far this Justice Department, under the leadership of Attorney General Pamela Bondi, will go to hold people who commit such brutality to account.

    People who have committed violent crimes — let alone human rights abuses — should not come to the United States. Period. They are not entitled to live the American Dream. They belong in prison. A core policy objective of the Justice Department is to secure our communities against criminal aliens, and today’s conviction of Correa is one more step taken in that direction.

    Wherever we have jurisdiction, the Justice Department will prosecute persons who have committed atrocities abroad under the federal criminal statutes proscribing torture, war crimes, genocide, and the recruitment or use of child soldiers, among other criminal charges. The Department can also use our criminal and civil immigration and naturalization laws to revoke U.S. citizenship or obtain other criminal penalties.

    The Department of Justice participates in an interagency effort to deny safe haven in the United States to human rights violators, working closely with the Department of Homeland Security, FBI and other agencies to identify such individuals and prevent them from entering the United States. This verdict today is the outcome of successful collaboration across agencies, and especially with Homeland Security Investigations and its Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center.

    My thanks also go to the Department’s prosecutors, paralegal specialists, historian/analysts, and others who have worked on the Correa case with impressive determination and skill. They did so while always putting the victims first, which is one of the Department’s core principles.

    Correa’s conviction is the third time in which a defendant has been found guilty of torture in federal court, and it won’t be the last. Today’s verdict is a demonstration of our commitment to leave no stone unturned to prosecute human rights violators.

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Delivering on compassionate intervention

    [. The creation of the Alberta Recovery Model is a shift in addiction policy, with an approach that focuses on services and investments to lead people down a path of healing. Alberta’s government built this model because with the right care and support, recovery is possible.

    Despite the supports for treatment and recovery, there are some individuals who remain likely to cause harm to themselves or others as a result of their addiction or substance use. In response to these concerns, Alberta’s government is delivering on its promise to bring forward the Compassionate Intervention Act to support the health, wellness and recovery of Albertans facing severe addiction challenges and in turn, restore safety for families and communities.

    “For those suffering from addiction there are two paths – they can let their addiction destroy and take their life or they can enter recovery. There is no compassion in leaving people to suffer in the throes of addiction and in Alberta we choose recovery. That’s why we’re introducing compassionate intervention – another tool in the Alberta Recovery Model – to help keep our communities safe while ensuring our most vulnerable can access much needed recovery supports.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    “We cannot – and will not – stand by and let addiction destroy our families and communities. The Compassionate Intervention Act will provide life-saving support, ensuring families are no longer forced to watch their loved ones suffer from the deadly disease of addiction and endure the pain it brings.”

    Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

    If passed, the Compassionate Intervention Act would create a pathway for parents, family members, guardians, health care professionals, and police or peace officers to request a treatment order or care plan for those who, because of their severe addiction, are likely to cause harm to themselves or others. Compassionate intervention is just one tool to help someone pursue recovery, which is why other options should be tried and specific criteria met before someone could be considered eligible.

    The eligibility criteria for youth are comparable to the Protection of Children Abusing Drugs Act (PChAD), which provides mandatory short-term stabilization, detox and assessment. Compassionate intervention would replace and improve PChAD, allowing for longer-term treatment, an easier application process and increased family involvement in a child’s recovery.

    “This is an opportunity to bring forward a world-leading program that will restore health to our most vulnerable Albertans, many of whom are facing the most severe addictions. I look forward to working with Recovery Alberta and Alberta’s government to help lead a thoughtful and evidence-informed implementation of compassionate intervention.”

    Dr. Rob Tanguay, interim senior medical lead for compassionate intervention, Recovery Alberta

    “With evidence-based programming and support, the compassionate intervention program will be a world leader in addressing some of the most complex cases of addiction. Recovery Alberta is well-positioned to deliver this with incredible staff and clinicians, and we look forward to supporting more people in their journey to reclaim their lives from the disease of addiction.”

    Kerry Bales, CEO, Recovery Alberta

    Premier Danielle Smith and Mental Health and Addiction Minister Dan Williams announce introduction of compassionate intervention legislation

    Alberta’s government has built a strong partnership focused on recovery with Indigenous communities across the province. The Compassionate Intervention Act includes the ability for First Nations and Métis to integrate their unique practices and traditions into the compassionate intervention process.

    Budget 2025 provides $180 million over three years to build two 150-bed compassionate intervention centres in Edmonton and Calgary, with construction expected to begin in 2026. These centres, operated by Recovery Alberta, will support intakes and assessment, and delivery of compassionate intervention care for adults. With an immediate need to provide compassionate intervention care, Alberta’s government is also exploring options to have some temporary adult spaces available within existing facilities next year. 

    For youth capacity, Alberta’s government is planning to transition protective safe houses used for PChAD into spaces for compassionate intervention. Next year, Alberta’s government expects to open the Northern Alberta Youth Recovery Centre, which will more than double addiction treatment capacity for youth and include space for care under the Compassionate Intervention Act.

    Every patient who leaves the compassionate intervention system will leave with a discharge plan for ongoing supports and services. This may include continuing treatment in a recovery community or another community bed-based program, day programming, psychiatric care and/or ongoing work with a recovery coach. It may also include help finding housing, employment, skills training and more.

    Key facts:

    • Significant investments have been made to expand treatment capacity since 2019, such as:
      • Publicly funding more than 10,000 addiction treatment spaces.
      • Building 11 recovery communities, including four in partnership with First Nations and one with the Métis Nation within Alberta.
      • Expanding Virtual Opioid Dependency Program (VODP), which provides same-day access to evidence-based addiction treatment medication.

    Related information

    • Compassionate Intervention
    • Fact sheet – Compassionate Intervention: A path to recovery
    • Fact sheet – Compassionate Intervention: Based on best practices
    • Alberta Recovery Model
    • Bill 53: Compassionate Intervention Act

    Related news

    • Laying the foundation for compassionate intervention (Feb 24, 2025)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Listen to the news conference
    • Listen to Albertans’ stories

    Quotes:

    “We value our partnership with Alberta’s government as we work to save lives and bring people into recovery. But with new, increasingly deadly drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl, we can’t keep doing the same things and expect different results while people are dying. As Chief of Enoch Cree Nation, I support compassionate intervention and welcome investments that prioritize Indigenous culture and new approaches that truly meet the needs of our people.”

    Chief Cody Thomas, Enoch Cree Nation

    “Tsuut’ina Nation is grateful for our relationship with the Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction. Compassionate intervention is an important part of addressing the opioid addiction crisis. We are confident that this policy, guided by elders and experts, will provide valuable support for individuals and families in need.”

    Chief Roy Whitney, Tsuut’ina Nation

    “We cannot afford to sit back and watch our nation members continue to suffer in their addiction. We must intervene. We would much rather step in with compassionate intervention instead of waiting until we are going to funerals.”

    Chief Ouray Crowfoot, Siksika Nation

    “As Chief of Woodland Cree First Nation, I appreciate Alberta’s commitment to addressing addiction through expanded treatment and recovery supports. With the Compassionate Intervention Act, it’s encouraging to see the government taking steps to work in partnership with First Nations. While we recognize there are complexities with this approach, our shared goal remains the same: to provide our people with the help they need and to stop the devastation that addiction continues to bring to our communities.”

    Chief Isaac Laboucan-Avirom, Woodland Cree First Nation

    “We have never felt more pain than the day we found out we lost our daughter to addiction. Addiction truly does take over a person’s life, and it is devastating that legal intervention was not available to us. As parents, my husband and I support the Compassionate Intervention Act as an option for families today dealing with the challenges of addiction.”

    Susan and Stephen Boone, parents of a child lost to addiction

    “My son was discharged from the emergency room into our care, without any addiction resources or support. The new Compassionate Intervention Act is critical for other families in crisis like mine. The opportunity for recovery in Alberta is necessary for the addict who suffers and for those who love them.”

    Janelle Watson, parent with a child affected by addiction

    “Alberta is a leader in recovery, and other jurisdictions are taking note of what they are accomplishing. Compassionate intervention is an innovative and encouraging step forward in resolving the most complex cases of addiction. I strongly support approaches like this, which commit to providing high-quality, comprehensive, evidence-based treatment within therapeutic environments.”

    Dr. Keith Humphreys, Esther Ting Memorial professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University

    “What Alberta is bringing forward for compassionate intervention and the Alberta Recovery Model is a monumental achievement and will provide a roadmap for the rest of North America. Providing options for long-term care with monitoring and accountability, similar to what we know works for doctors and pilots, is going to be a game-changer for those struggling with severe addiction and mental illness. It’s fantastic Alberta has the will to help people suffering from addiction by giving them the tools and support that will get them into recovery.”

    Dr. Anna Lembke, professor and medical director of Addiction Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine

    “As an addiction psychiatrist, I welcome Alberta’s commitment to treatment and recovery, an example for governments everywhere to follow. Compassionate intervention for those experiencing severe addiction is a policy that will save lives and restore people’s well-being. Especially encouraging is the level of care that will be given to support psychiatric treatment along with long-term recovery.”

    Dr. Charl Els, addiction psychiatrist and clinical professor, psychiatry, University of Alberta

    “The Canadian Centre of Recovery Excellence (CoRE) appreciates Alberta’s willingness to align compassionate intervention with empirically proven practices, such as opioid agonist treatments, to help those with severe illness. As the policy moves forward, CoRE will closely monitor and research the outcomes to ensure it is helping people effectively stabilize and make meaningful progress in their recovery journeys.”

    Dr. Nathaniel Day, chief scientific officer, Canadian Centre of Recovery Excellence

    “Internationally and within Canada, attempts at intervention for drug-related problems have often proven ineffective as approaches have lacked a comprehensive plan and don’t account for the co-occurrence of complex illnesses. Alberta’s system-wide, holistic approach to compassionate intervention balances the short-term rights of individuals and the intermediate and long-term health and wellness of those same people. This new legislation definitely adds to the international benchmark status of the Alberta Recovery Model.”

    Dr. Julian Somers, clinical psychologist and distinguished professor, Simon Fraser University

    “Addiction is not just a big city issue. Each one of our communities has grappled with different social challenges such as addiction. Alberta’s Mid-sized Cities Mayors’ Caucus is pleased the Government of Alberta is introducing the Compassionate Intervention Act and welcomes the provincial government’s investment in solving the addiction crisis.”

    Jeff Genung, mayor, Town of Cochrane and chair, Alberta Mid-sized Cities Mayors’ Caucus

    “The Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police supports the Alberta Compassionate Intervention Act as a vital step toward addressing the complex challenges of addiction and recovery-oriented treatment for our communities. This legislation provides law enforcement with a compassionate approach to intervene and connect individuals in crisis with the treatment and support they need. By prioritizing public safety and individual well-being, this act reflects our shared commitment to building healthier and safer communities across Alberta.”

    Mark Neufeld, president, Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police

    “The Downtown Revitalization Coalition supports a comprehensive and compassionate approach to addressing the complex challenges of addiction and mental health in our communities. We commend the Alberta government for introducing the Compassionate Intervention Act, which recognizes that some individuals are simply not able to seek help or manage recovery on their own. This legislation offers a path forward – one grounded in care, a holistic plan of support and the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to reclaim their future.”

    Cheryll Watson, chair, Downtown Revitalization Coalition, Edmonton

    “Native Counselling Services of Alberta is pleased to support the Compassionate Intervention Act. We believe this is an important piece of legislation to support recovery for people who have been entrapped by addiction and are now a danger to themselves or others.”

    Blake Jackman, director of housing, Native Counselling Services of Alberta

    “It is important to do everything possible to help a young person be lifted out of addiction onto a path of recovery. Hull Services is pleased to support the Compassionate Intervention Act to enhance life-saving services for young Albertans in need.”

    Jon Reeves, executive director, Hull Services

    “We know the despair and hopelessness parents feel when their child is struggling with addiction to harmful substances. Through compassionate intervention, Wood’s Homes is pleased to support enhanced care options for young Albertans.”

    Bjorn Johansson, CEO, Wood’s Homes

    “This commitment to compassionate intervention is ensuring we bring as many people out of addiction as possible. It’s clear Alberta’s government is taking recovery seriously with significant investment into the delivery of compassionate intervention care.”

    Bruce Holstead, person in recovery and executive director, Fresh Start Recovery Centre

    “Human trafficking often has deep ties to mental health and addiction. Vulnerabilities caused by these issues make individuals more likely to be victimized by traffickers. Consequences of trauma resulting from being trafficked can also lead to new or deepening adverse mental health and addictions impacts. Compassionate intervention has the potential to provide a much-needed tool for prevention and rehabilitation supports for people directly impacted by, or at risk of human trafficking.”

    Paul Brandt, founder and CEO, #NotInMyCity, and co-chair, Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons

    “When we opened Wihchihaw Maskokamik Society (Bear Lodge), it was with the goal to help our people find healing and support, and connect with culture and services to help save their lives. I have seen first-hand the damage that addiction can cause to a person’s life, and I’m hopeful that we now have an opportunity to help people who are most in need to change their lives for the better.”

    Glori Sharphead, senior manager, Wihchihaw Maskokamik Society (Bear Lodge), Enoch Cree Nation 

    “We need to ask ourselves if it is better to leave someone to harm themselves or others with ongoing addiction or if we should compassionately intervene. The answer is obviously to intervene and do what we can to save someone’s life.”

    Earl Thiessen, person in recovery and executive director, Oxford House Foundation

    “The George Spady Society is a proud partner and contributor of the Alberta Recovery Model. Our organization appreciates the government’s approach to prioritizing the lives of people suffering from addiction through a range of care options and providing opportunities for compassionate intervention when needed.”

    Dawn-Marie Diab, CEO, George Spady Society

    “Acknowledging that no single solution will fit all, we support diverse approaches to meet community needs. The Compassionate Intervention Act addresses a critical gap in our systems, and we are encouraged by its potential to bolster the continuum of care for individuals facing severe addiction issues. We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate in shaping this effort, ensuring the number of lives lost to addiction is reduced through a dignified, human centered approach.”

    Johanna Knettig, co-CEO, Bissell Centre

    “There is nothing more heart-wrenching than families watching a loved one struggle with the illness of addiction. The families supported by PEP Society are glad to see this government’s plan for compassionate intervention, and we look forward to having this resource to rebuild health and wellness across Alberta.”

    Lerena Greig, executive director, PEP Society

    “CMHA Alberta Division and Centre for Suicide Prevention knows families struggle to access community-based addiction supports and treatment for their loved ones, all while watching their loved ones’ mental health and addiction issues deteriorate to a crisis. A framework to compassionately intervene with the most vulnerable among us can help. We are committed to continuing to build a community-based system of care that includes treatment combined with peer and family support throughout the journey.”

    Mara Grunau, CEO, Canadian Mental Health Association, Alberta Division and Centre for Suicide Prevention

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Joins Markey, Governor Healey, Massachusetts Delegation in Denouncing Trump’s Cuts to K-12 Education Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Trump cut $106 million to Massachusetts schools, imperiling literacy programs, air quality updates, math tutoring, and more.

    Letter Text (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), joined Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, and the entire Massachusetts Congressional delegation – Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Representatives Richard Neal (MA-01), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), and Bill Keating (MA-09) in writing to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon after the U.S. Department of Education notified the Commonwealth of Massachusetts that the Department would rescind $106 million in funding already disbursed to school districts across the state for K-12 education. This clawback is part of a nationwide Trump administration effort to wrest from 41 states more than $2 billion in funding intended to support students and educators.

    In the letter the lawmakers write, “Congress authorized this funding as part of the American Rescue Plan Act, and Massachusetts has continuously distributed it to local school districts. The Trump administration advised Massachusetts that American Rescue Plan Act funding would remain available until March 2026. As of last week, school districts across the Commonwealth expected to receive it, to the tune of $106 million. Relying on the expectation set by the Trump administration, school districts and schools developed their budgets and made spending decisions. For example, the New Bedford school district allocated funds for a school-based health center. Some school districts were anticipating using the funding for mental health supports, security, air quality improvement, and math tutoring.”

    The lawmakers continue, “Instead, many school districts will now lose millions of dollars. New Bedford faces more than $15 million in losses. Springfield could lose more than $47 million. Although the Department represented that it would instead consider making funding available to states on an ‘individual project-specific basis,’ that pathway would create red tape by requiring school districts to invest time and resources to request funding that the Trump administration promised would remain available. The Administration’s reneging on its funding promise is both harmful and incredibly frustrating to students, families, educators, and school district leaders, especially considering that the funding the Administration is now pulling back may be used to fuel billionaire tax cuts at the expense of students.”

    The lawmakers conclude, “The about-face on the continued availability of this essential funding is an insult to the hardworking educators, school staff, and public officials who are dedicated to providing students the best possible opportunities. Massachusetts gives students the best education in the country. We urge you to reverse course and allow leaders in the Commonwealth to deliver for students and communities without continued chaos and disruption.”

    Impacted school districts in Massachusetts:

    • Springfield ($47,357,654)
    • New Bedford ($15,603,433) 
    • Fitchburg ($6,578,468)
    • Everett ($4,897,300)
    • Revere ($4,613,327)
    • Boston ($3,468,659)
    • Leominster ($1,868,215)
    • Stoughton ($1,512,470)
    • Worcester ($1,454,350)
    • Chelsea ($1,448,715)
    • Lawrence ($1,307,307)
    • Dracut ($648,702)
    • Holyoke ($395,863)
    • West Springfield ($354,868)
    • Lynn ($339,357)
    • Fairhaven ($250,802)
    • Greater Fall River Regional Vocational Technical ($115,465)
    • Ludlow ($83,334)
    • Blue Hills Regional Vocational Technical ($21,461)
    • Mashpee ($2,481)
    • Mater Dolorosa Catholic School in Holyoke ($118,894)
    • Saint Stanislaus School in Chicopee ($172,692)

    Representative Pressley has continuously fought back against the Trump administration’s attacks on education and standing up for students, educators, and their families. On March 20, she condemned Trump’s executive order dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. On February 10, she took to the House floor to uplift the essential federal role of in education and give Republicans a well-needed history lesson. 

    On February 6, Representative Pressley, Senator Markey, members of the Massachusetts congressional delegation, along with the Massachusetts Teachers Association, American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts, Massachusetts Association of School Committees, and Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents, released a joint statement after President Trump vowed to dismantle the Department of Education.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: “Sanctuary” Policies Put Accused Killer Back on the Streets

    Source: The White House

    So-called “sanctuary” jurisdictions endanger the lives of the Americans who live there.

    The latest example comes in Prince George’s County, Maryland, where an illegal immigrant was arrested, charged with murder and assault, then released back onto the streets despite an ICE immigration detainer request — a result of the county’s insane “sanctuary” policies.

    Fortunately, ICE eventually arrested the illegal immigrant and he’ll soon be on his way back to Guatemala.

    The negligence of leftist politicians is putting lives at risk.

    • In 2019, then-Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks — now a U.S. Senator — bragged about “not participating in immigration enforcement” and claimed in 2024 that immigration enforcement “should not be the responsibility of local governments.”
    • In 2019, then-Prince George’s County Council Member Deni Taveras — now a member of the Maryland House of Delegates — said “there is an incredible amount of fear” about immigration enforcement.
    • Acting Prince George’s County Executive Tara Jackson said: “The Prince George’s County Police Department does not engage in federal immigration enforcement actions … Our focus is on ensuring public safety and building trust with all members of our community, regardless of their immigration status.”
    • Maryland State Del. Nicole Williams (D-Prince George’s) introduced a bill to ban local law enforcement agencies from cooperating with ICE: “People would not feel safe in terms of reporting actual crime that is taking place within their communities.”
    • Maryland State Sen. Alonzo Washington (D-Prince George’s) said local law enforcement should not be enforcing immigration laws: “We’re going to build a better relationship with our immigrant community so we know exactly who they are and we can protect them.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Texas Man Charged with Child Pornography Offenses

    Source: US State of California

    A federal grand jury returned an indictment last week charging Carlos Eduardo Pineda-Morales, 34, of Denton, Texas, with receipt of child pornography and access with intent to view child pornography.

    According to an indictment unsealed today, Pineda-Morales used a communications application, a cloud storage service, and digital devices that he owned to receive and access child pornography between Oct. 7, 2024, and Oct. 30, 2024.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin Jr. for the Eastern District of Texas made the announcement.

    The FBI Dallas Office – Frisco Resident Agency and the Denton Police Department investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney McKenzie Hightower of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Miller for the Eastern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Continues Efforts to Stop Unlawful Tax Return Preparers

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Today, the federal tax filing deadline, the Justice Department’s Tax Division acknowledges the majority of taxpayers and tax return preparers who voluntarily meet their yearly filing obligations. The Tax Division also cautions taxpayers to choose their return preparers carefully and to look out for unscrupulous preparers who make promises of tax reductions not based on legitimate positions and who include errors or false information on tax returns that could leave a taxpayer subject to liability for unpaid taxes, penalties, and interest.

    Over the last year, the Tax Division has worked with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices around the country to bring civil and criminal actions against dishonest tax preparers. These actions include criminal indictments and prison sentences when appropriate as well as civil injunctions to stop ongoing fraud, civil penalties, and disgorgement of ill-gotten proceeds when appropriate. The Justice Department’s message has been clear: those who prepare fraudulent returns will face serious and lasting consequences.

    Examples of civil injunctions obtained by the Tax Division over the last and current filing seasons include:

    • On Oct. 28, 2024, a federal district court in the Southern District of Indiana permanently enjoined Juan Santiago and his tax preparation business, Madison Solutions LLC, from preparing tax returns for others or employing any person acting as a federal tax return preparer. The government’s complaint alleged that Santiago and his business engaged in fraudulent filing schemes by improperly claiming Head of Household filing status, the Child Tax Credit, and business deductions to which their clients were not entitled. The government estimated that these false returns cost the government over $1 million each filing season.
    • On Oct. 3, 2024, a federal district court in the Southern District of Florida entered a permanent injunction against George and Luis Brito and their business, Brito and Brito Accounting USA Inc. The injunction prohibits them from preparing tax returns for others. The government’s complaint alleged that since 2019, the Britos had prepared thousands of tax returns annually, and that they prepared returns that understated their clients’ income by claiming false or inflated business expenses and fabricating residential energy credits.
    • On March 29, 2024, following a 12-day trial, a federal district court in the Eastern District of Michigan permanently enjoined Annetta Powell and seven of her businesses from preparing tax returns for others. The court found that Powell and her businesses prepared returns that reported fake Schedule C businesses and business expenses, claimed household help income they knew the customers did not qualify for, and claimed head of household filing status without doing the required due diligence. The court also ordered Powell to disgorge $697,797 in ill-gotten profits.

    The Tax Division has also sought to strip fraudulent preparers of ill-gotten gains and to hold in contempt those who attempt to flout court-ordered restraints on further fraudulent activity. Over the last year, the division has brought these cases to court, including:

    • On Oct. 24, 2024, a federal district court in the Northern District of Texas held that Jennifer Murley violated a previous injunction against returning tax returns for others. The IRS had suspended Murley’s Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN), but she and her tax preparation firm misappropriated EFINs assigned to others. The court ordered Murley to disgorge over $700,000 in ill-gotten gains she received for preparing returns in violation of the previous court order.
    • On Oct. 23, 2024, a federal district court in the Southern District of Florida found Gerald Vito and James Eleby in contempt for violating a previous injunction from 2021 that enjoined them from preparing tax returns for others. Vito and Eleby worked with Kwame Thomas to continue to file returns after being barred from doing so, and the court ordered them to disgorge a total of $988,789.56 in ill-gotten and to notify their clients of the injunction or face possible incarceration.

    Criminal indictments and convictions against fraudulent preparers obtained by the Tax Division since the 2024 filing season include the following :

    • Thierry Musese, who ran a return preparation business from his barbershop located in Auburn, Maine, was charged with preparing false returns and generating fraudulent refunds for clients by including bogus business losses, fuel and residential energy credits. Musese also allegedly defrauded his clients by diverting a portion of their tax refund to himself without their permission. If convicted Musese faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of preparing a false tax return and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for wire fraud.
    • John Borgela, a Florida return preparer, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for conspiring to file hundreds of false tax returns for clients from his business, Empire Tax services. Borgela typically inflated tax withholdings and reported fictitious itemized deductions to reduce his clients’ tax liability or to generate refunds. He concealed his involvement in the fraud by not including his name as the person who prepared the return on his clients’ tax returns.
    • Vervia Watts, a return preparer in Illinois, was sentenced to one year and a day in prison for preparing and filing false returns for clients. Watts prepared over 900 fraudulent income tax returns for her clients, reporting false education expenses and business income to obtain larger refunds from the IRS. She caused a tax loss to the United States of approximately $1.3 million.
    • On April 17, 2024, Jonathan Barefoot, a Mississippi return preparer, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for preparing false tax returns for clients. Barefoot conspired with others to claim inflated tax refunds for clients by reporting false education credits, itemized deductions, and business losses. He and his co-conspirators caused a loss to the United States of approximately $3.5 million.

    The Tax Division reminds taxpayers that the IRS has information, tips, and reminders on its site for choosing a tax preparer carefully (Choosing a Tax Professional and How to Choose a Tax Return Preparer) and has launched a free directory of credentialed federal tax preparers. The IRS also offers taxpayers tips to protect their identities and wallets when filing their taxes.

    In addition, IRS Free File, a public-private partnership, offers free online tax preparation and filing options on IRS partner websites for individuals whose adjusted gross income is under $79,000. For individuals whose income is over that threshold, IRS Free File offers electronic federal tax forms that can be filled out and filed online for free. The IRS has tips on how seniors and individuals with low to moderate income can get other help or guidance on tax return preparation, too.

    In the past decade, the Tax Division has obtained civil injunctions and criminal convictions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gambian Man Convicted on Torture Charges

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A Colorado jury convicted a Gambian national, Michael Sang Correa, on torture charges for his participation in the torture of numerous victims in The Gambia in 2006, including through beating and flesh burning, because of the victims’ purported involvement in a plot against The Gambia’s then-President, Yahya Jammeh.

    “Michael Sang Correa tried to evade responsibility for his crimes in The Gambia by coming to the United States and hiding his past,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “But we found him, we investigated him, and we prosecuted him. The lesson is: if you commit violent crimes—let alone torture or other human rights violations—do not come to the United States. If you do, the Department of Justice, together with its law enforcement partners, will leave no stone unturned to see that your crimes are exposed and justice is served. I thank the jurors for their service and the witnesses for the courage to relive the horror they experienced at Correa’s hands.”

    “The torture inflicted by Michael Sang Correa and his co-conspirators is abhorrent,” said Acting U.S. Attorney J. Bishop Grewell for the District of Colorado. “Today’s verdict shows you can’t get away with coming to Colorado to hide from your past crimes. The jurors are to be commended for their service throughout this trial and the witnesses for traveling so far to serve the interests of justice.”

    “Correa’s crimes caught up with him today,” said Special Agent in Charge Steve Cagen of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Denver, who oversees HSI operations in Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming. “Correa chose the wrong country to try to escape from justice. HSI actively investigates and apprehends human rights violators who run from their criminal pasts and come here. We have a zero-tolerance policy for human rights violators.”

    According to evidence presented at trial, Michael Sang Correa, 46, served in an armed unit known as the “Junglers,” which answered to The Gambia’s then-President, Yahya Jammeh. The jury found that, as a Jungler, Correa conspired with others to commit torture. The jury also found that, together with others, he tortured five victims. The evidence at trial showed that Correa and his co-conspirators targeted these victims based on suspicions that they plotted against Jammeh.

    The evidence at trial proved that in March 2006, shortly after a failed coup attempt, Correa and his co-conspirators transported the victims to the main prison of The Gambia, known as “Mile 2 Prison.” For the rest of the month of March and well into April 2006, Correa and his co-conspirators beat, stabbed, burned, and electrocuted the victims. A victim testified that he had his thigh burned by hot, molten plastic; the Junglers also placed the victim in a large bag, suspended him in the air, and dropped him to the ground. Another victim testified that he was suffocated when Correa and his co-conspirators placed a plastic bag over his head; one of Correa’s co-conspirators also put the barrel of a pistol in his mouth. In addition to suffocation from a plastic bag over the head, another victim testified he was electrocuted on his body, including his genitals; hanged upside down and beaten in that position; and stabbed in the shoulder. A fourth victim endured electrocution and was hit in the head with a pistol. A fifth victim’s testimony indicated that he had cigarettes extinguished into his skin and experienced electrocution and was also struck in the face with a hammer. These and other horrific acts of torture and abuse emerged in the testimony of the victims at trial and revealed that Correa played an integral role in inflicting this torture on the victims.

    Ten years after these crimes, Correa obtained a visa to enter the United States, arriving in this country in December 2016. Correa escaped apprehension until 2019, and upon his arrest by ICE that year he was placed in removal proceedings. He was charged with torture in 2020. This is the first conviction of a non-U.S. citizen on torture charges in a federal district court.

    Correa faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each of the five torture counts and the count of conspiracy to commit torture. He will remain in U.S. custody pending his sentencing at a date to be determined by the Court. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The HSI Denver Field Office investigated the case, with support from HSI agents in Senegal, as well as personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Banjul, The Gambia, and the FBI Legal Attaché in Senegal.  The Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center (HRVWCC) significantly supported the case. Established in 2009, the HRVWCC furthers the government’s efforts to identify, locate, and prosecute human rights abusers in the United States, including those who are known or suspected to have participated in persecution, war crimes, genocide, torture, extrajudicial killings, female genital mutilation, and the use or recruitment of child soldiers.

    Acting Principal Deputy Chief Christina Giffin and Trial Attorney Marie Zisa of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melissa Hindman and Laura Cramer-Babycz for the District of Colorado prosecuted the case, with assistance from HRSP Historian/Analyst Dr. Christopher Hayden.

    Members of the public who have information about former human rights violators in the United States are urged to contact U.S. law enforcement through the HSI tip line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE (1-866-347-2423) or internationally at 001-1802-872-6199. They can also email HRV.ICE@ice.dhs.gov or complete its online tip form at www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp.

    MIL OSI USA News –