NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Attorneys for Southwestern Border Districts Charge More than 1,020 Illegal Aliens with Immigration-Related Crimes During the Second week in April as part of Operation Take Back America.

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: U.S. Attorneys for Southwestern Border Districts Charge More than 1,020 Illegal Aliens with Immigration-Related Crimes During the Second week in April as part of Operation Take Back America.

    Since the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 04.14.2025 Sen. Cruz, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Allow American Victims of Terrorism to Sue International Organizations Supporting Terrorists

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and colleagues introduced the LIABLE Act, which removes immunity from, and allows suits against, international organizations that provide material support to designated terror groups which commit terrorism against Americans.
    Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “The United Nations Relief and Works Agency officials have for decades knowingly provided support to Hamas terrorists, including salaries and materials. That support facilitated Hamas’s terrorist attack on October 7th, which was the worst one-day massacre of Jews since the Holocaust and included the murder and kidnapping of dozens of Americans. Those victims and their families deserve the ability to hold UNRWA accountable, and the LIABLE Act would give them that opportunity.”
    The bill is co-sponsored by Sens. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.).
    Sen. Cramer said, “International organizations who knowingly support foreign terrorist organizations should be held legally responsible for their complicity in terrorism. The LIABLE Act ensures those who provide material support to terrorism—whether through direct involvement or by aiding and abetting—can no longer hide behind legal immunity.”
    Sen. Budd said, “I’m proud to stand with Senator Cruz and my colleagues to introduce the LIABLE Act, which would ensure that victims of terrorism, along with their families, can seek justice and hold international organizations accountable for aiding and abetting terrorist acts. There is no better example of this than UNRWA, an organization with longstanding ties to Hamas, whose staff members participated in the horrific October 7th attacks.  America must send a clear message: supporting terrorism will never be tolerated or ignored.”
    Sen. Ricketts said, “UNRWA employees provided material support for Hamas terrorists and contributed to the barbaric October 7th attacks,” said Ricketts. “They need to be held accountable for aiding and abetting terrorism. This bill will enable American victims of terrorism to get justice.”
    Sen. Hagerty said, “UNRWA has provided material support to the terrorist organization Hamas and has cultivated anti-Israel extremism and terrorism. UNRWA employees directly participated in the terrorist attacks of October 7th that killed dozens of Americans and UNRWA schools produced over 100 graduates who participated in the atrocities of that terrible day. I am proud to cosponsor this necessary legislation that makes it possible to hold UNRWA accountable for its complicity in terrorism.”
    Sen. Barrasso said, “Any international organization aiding terrorist groups must be investigated and held accountable. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency has a lot to answer for after providing resources to Hamas terrorists. The blood of innocent Americans and Israelis who were kidnapped or killed on October 7 is on their hands. I am proud to join Senator Cruz and my colleagues on this important legislation to give victims and their families an opportunity for much-deserved justice.”
    Sen. Scott said, “For years, UNRWA has been aiding Iran-backed Hamas in their spread of hateful antisemitism. UNRWA has supported Hamas in enabling these terrorists to commit the horrific massacre and mass kidnapping of Israelis and Jewish Americans over 550 days ago, on October 7th, and the sick individuals responsible for this terrorism must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I’m proud to join my colleague, Senator Ted Cruz, to introduce the LIABLE Act and ensure the victims and their families can finally bring UNRWA to justice.”
    Sen. Schmitt said, “International organization like UNWRA are deeply tied with Hamas and must be held accountable for playing a role in kidnapping, murdering, and maiming countless innocent lives on October 7th. I am proud to stand with Senator Cruz as a cosponsor of the LIABLE Act to hold these organizations accountable.”
    Read the bill text here.
    BACKGROUND
    The Limiting Immunity for Assisting Backers of Lethal Extremism (LIABLE) Act would allow American victims of terrorist groups to sue international organizations that provide resources to terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. These organizations would otherwise be immune from lawsuits pursuant to the International Organization Immunity Act (IOIA), which parallels the immunity provided to foreign states through the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA).
    During the Biden administration, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) received hundreds of millions of dollars which was poured into the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. That process would normally constitute material support for terrorism, because the assistance directly and indirectly benefits Hamas—a known terrorist group. And yet, the Biden administration granted waivers among other legislative measures to circumvent the law and enable UNRWA to support Hamas.

    ICYMI: WSJ Op-Ed: “Let Terror Victims Sue UNRWA”
    Sen. Cruz and colleagues wrote to then-AG Garland urging the U.S. Department of Justice to open a criminal investigation into UNRWA USA, a U.S.-based non-profit that raises funds for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), for providing material support for terrorism.

    Sen. Cruz is committed to being the Senate leader in supporting our ally, Israel, and bolstering the U.S.-Israel relationship.

    Sen. Cruz introduced a bill to designate the Iranian-controlled Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization.  
    Sen. Cruz led a letter to then-U.N. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield opposing Palestinian effort to suspend Israel from the U.N. General Assembly.
    Sen. Cruz introduced the Terminating Unlawful Negligence and Nullifying Exemptions and Licenses to Sanctions (TUNNELS) Act of 2024, to rescind the licenses employed by the Biden administration to channel U.S. aid through international and non-governmental organizations to Gaza, and prevent these licenses from being reissued.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Statement on Trump’s Illegal Deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    BURLINGTON, Vt., April 14 – In an Oval Office meeting with President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador, President Trump failed to demand the release of Kilmer Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident who was wrongly deported from the United States and sent to a Salvadoran prison. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released the following statement in response:

    Just a few weeks ago, the Trump administration admitted that the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a father of three who has been in the country more than decade, was an “administrative error.”

    Then, the U.S. Supreme Court — in a 9-0 decision backed by every Trump-appointed justice — ruled that the administration must bring Abrego Garcia back to the United States.

    Now, in open defiance of the Supreme Court and without any evidence, the White House claims that Abrego Garcia is a “terrorist,” who was “sent to the right place.”

    This is a blatant LIE. As Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote, “To this day, the Government has cited no basis in law for Abrego Garcia’s warrantless arrest, his removal to El Salvador, or his confinement in a Salvadoran prison. Nor could it. The Government remains bound by an Immigration Judge’s 2019 order expressly prohibiting Abrego Garcia’s removal to El Salvador.”

    Kilmar Abrego Garcia is an innocent man and the father of three. He must not be allowed to rot in an El Salvadorian jail based on lies and defiance of our Constitution. He must be brought home immediately.

    This is just another step forward in Trump’s move toward authoritarianism.

    Fight back!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Viper arrest 14 and seize $4.8m worth of illicit tobacco

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    This is a joint media release from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and Victoria Police.

    Detectives from the VIPER Taskforce executed warrants at 12 tobacco stores across Melbourne last week as part of the ongoing investigation by Taskforce Lunar into organised crime syndicates linked to the illicit tobacco trade.

    Members of the taskforce were joined at the warrants from 7–11 April by representatives from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), who also executed warrants at the stores.

    Police attended 12 stores, which they will allege are linked to two of the organised crime syndicates involved, in Altona Meadows, Truganina, Craigieburn, Broadmeadows, Tullamarine, Mill Park, Bundoora, Weir Views, Watsonia, Altona North, Prahran and Hawthorn.

    As a result, the following was seized:

    • 14,593 e-cigarettes (vapes) with a street value of over $729,650 profit
    • 681,368 cigarettes representing $953,915 excise avoided
    • over 305kg of loose-leaf tobacco worth $650,388 excise avoided
    • over $22,500 in cash, and
    • three conducted electricity devices and one baton.

    Fourteen people were arrested and interviewed in relation to the offences of possess tobacco and possess proceeds of crime. They are expected to be charged on summons.

    Detectives from the VIPER Taskforce ran the same operation from 21 November – 2 December, 2024, executing 16 search warrants across regional and metropolitan Melbourne, seizing the following:

    • 582,335 cigarettes representing $791,975 excise avoided
    • over 745 kg of loose-leaf tobacco, worth $1,565,907 excise avoided
    • over 131,000 in cash, and
    • over 3,400 e-cigarettes (vapes) with a street value of over $170,000 profit.

    Victoria Police continues to support local councils and the Victorian Department of Health who have responsibility for tobacco and vape enforcement and compliance.

    Detectives continue to work alongside external agencies such as the ABF, AFP, TGA, ATO and interstate counterparts.

    Investigators continue to appeal to anyone, especially store owners and staff, who have information about these incidents and who is responsible to come forward.

    Anyone with information about these incidents or with further information about serious and organised crime linked to the illicit tobacco trade is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link.

    Quotes attributable to Detective Acting Inspector Justin Shields, VIPER Taskforce:

    “The warrants this week in support of the Taskforce Lunar investigation into the operation of these crime syndicates are a strong demonstration of state and Commonwealth agencies coming together to target the issue of illicit tobacco in every way possible.

    “We have been clear that this is no longer about simply the investigation of the individual incidents – this is about doing absolutely everything we can to deter, disrupt and dismantle these syndicates and those at the helm of them.

    “This includes the targeting of anyone across Victoria who is involved in the distribution and sale of illicit tobacco, at any level. Ultimately, this is contributing to enabling those organised crime syndicates to operate here in Victoria.

    “While people’s lives remain at risk due to this heightened criminal activity, we will continue to target these organise crime syndicates and do everything we can to hold them accountable.”

    Quotes attributable to Assistant Commissioner, Jade Hawkins, Australian Taxation Office:

    “These arrests and the seizure of illicit tobacco products demonstrate the ATO’s ongoing commitment to supporting our partners in removing it from the community while creating a level playing field for legitimate businesses.

    “We’ll continue to work with our partners to detect, disrupt and dismantle the organised crime syndicates who are using profits from selling illicit tobacco to fund other serious illegal activities. By doing this, it ensures there will be financial and criminal implications for those who are involved.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: One-way Traffic

    Source: ACT Party

    The Haps

    St Francis of Assisi recommended having the serenity to accept what you can’t change, the courage to change what you can, and the wisdom to know the difference. He’d probably be quite useful for dealing with the Trump Tariff situation.

    The Government of New Zealand cannot change the events unfolding overseas, but there are still useful things it can do. When you can’t change trade policy, the best trade policy is good domestic policy.

    Regardless of trade conditions, the New Zealand Government can choose better domestic policies. It is (mostly) getting value from taxpayer funded services, regulating lightly, and managing the assets it owns. That’s where the emphasis should be as the May 22 Budget approaches.

    One-way Traffic

    Never has Parliament seen such a one-sided debate as the two hours it set aside for the second reading of the Treaty Principles Bill. A dozen MPs spoke against the Bill, but not one referred to the principles set out in the Bill. They certainly didn’t explain why they were opposed to the principles.

    We saw the vote in Parliament, so we know the Bill was defeated in one sense, but in another sense it succeded. No idea can survive being displaced by a better ideal. The filtering of ideas is how open societies advance. On the other hand, no idea has ever been defeated by emotion and abuse alone. Only light can drive out darkness.

    So long as an idea remains the best available argument, its time in the sun will come back around. Let’s put it another way, if there were better ideas than those put in the Bill, why didn’t opponents say what they were, at some point during a two hour debate?

    Take Willie Jackson, who got booted from Parliament for calling David Seymour a liar, again. What’s interesting is this: Free Press knows Jackson had a chance to debate Seymour on TV3, but turned it down multiple times. For some reason we’re reminded of Ronald Reagan’s comment on the American flag: These colors don’t run.

    Jackson didn’t just run in the media, though, he ran in the House as well. Parliament sat for over 100 days over the 14 months David Seymour was the Associate Minister of Justice responsible for the Treaty Principles Bill. Jackson could have asked Seymour questions hundreds of times but he only asked one question on the Bill. The question is captured in the YouTube video, viewed 80,000 times. The video shows why Jackson didn’t come back for more.

    For all his talk, Jackson ran like diarrhoea when challenged to serious debate. Perhaps it’s not his fault, though. Perhaps nobody could give him good arguments. After all, if someone so passionately opposed to the Bill did have a good argument, they’d use it, wouldn’t they?

    Not one MP in the debate got up and said ‘The Bill says x. I disagree with x. My reason is y. I think we’d have a better country if…z. None of them got to x. Nobody (except David Seymour) quoted the Bill. Even media commentators accepted David Seymour’s point that the opponents were not engaging with the Bill.

    When the hysteria and personal attacks die down, people will be left to answer the simple question: what was wrong with the Treaty Principles Bill? Nobody has given an answer that engages with the contents of the Bill. That’s why we believe the Principles below will be the law of New Zealand sooner or later, it’s just a matter of time.

    If you’re one of those people who’ve quietly (or not so quietly) supported David Seymour and ACT advancing the Principles below, thank you. We predict that, between now and the next election, ACT will lay out a new approach to making these undefeated principles part of our way of life. Until then we are grateful for your support.

    Principle 1 The Executive Government of New Zealand has full power to govern, and the Parliament of New Zealand has full power to make laws,— (a) in the best interests of everyone; and (b) in accordance with the rule of law and the maintenance of a free and democratic society.

    Principle 2 (1) The Crown recognises, and will respect and protect, the rights that hapū and iwi Māori had under the Treaty of Waitangi/te Tiriti o Waitangi at the time they signed it. (2) However, if those rights differ from the rights of everyone, subclause (1) applies only if those rights are agreed in the settlement of a historical treaty claim under the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975

    Principle 3 (1) Everyone is equal before the law. (2) Everyone is entitled, without discrimination, to— (a) the equal protection and equal benefit of the law; and (b) the equal enjoyment of the same fundamental human rights.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AFL-CIO, Unions Sue Trump Administration Over Cuts to Key Labor Relations Agency

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    AFL-CIO, AFGE, AFSCME, AFT, IAM, SEIU, and UFCW Are Plaintiffs in the Lawsuit to Restore the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service

    NEW YORK – The AFL-CIO and unions representing workers across private and public sector industries sued the Trump administration today over its dismantling of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS), including firing mediators and staff, and closing field offices across the country.
    FMCS is a small but important independent federal agency that is integral to the government’s labor relations infrastructure. Among the critical services FMCS provides, it helps resolve contract negotiations between workers and employers to protect both the economy and workers’ rights, generating over $500 million in national economic savings each year, even by conservative estimates. But DOGE cuts have decimated the agency: 93% of FMCS staff have been placed on leave, the mediation workforce has been taken down from the 80-100 needed for the agency’s work to just five, and all of the field offices have been closed.

    The suit argues that the administration’s actions are illegal under the Administrative Procedure Act and the U.S. Constitution because they amount to an effective dismantling of FMCS that has prevented it from performing its statutory responsibilities required by Congress.

    “FMCS is a little-known but critical government agency that works to bring labor and management together to solve problems between workers and employers—and it’s illegally under attack by Elon Musk and his DOGE,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “Without FMCS, there will be longer and drawn-out contract negotiations, as well as delays in implementing increased wages and improved benefits won through collective bargaining. The unnecessary cuts to FMCS make absolutely no economic sense and will cost taxpayers, consumers, businesses and workers. Congress created FMCS nearly 80 years ago, and only an act of Congress can shutter it. I’m proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our affiliated unions today in filing this lawsuit to challenge this illegal, cruel and wrong-headed action by DOGE.”

    “We are filing this lawsuit because once again, the administration is unlawfully shutting down an agency simply because billionaires do not like it. Hobbling employers’ and workers’ ability to negotiate will only hurt our communities,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “FMCS helps to mediate thousands of collective bargaining agreements and other disputes, ensuring workers are paid fairly while commerce and services continue to flow. The agency’s meager $55 million budget – which accounts for less than 0.0014% of the overall federal budget – generates more than $500 million in annual savings for our economy. Shutting it down helps only billionaires like Elon Musk and his anti-union friends, who want to take away workers’ voice on the job.”

    “This case is about more than a single agency — it’s about upholding workers’ fundamental bargaining rights and protecting a foundation stone of labor relations in America,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “FMCS was created by Congress as a neutral arbiter to promote labor peace and fair negotiations, a role it has proudly carried out for nearly 80 years. The president says he cares about working people, but that’s hard to believe when he attempts to abolish an agency that helps them negotiate fair contracts with their employers. FMCS was crucial to securing an agreement during the Oregon Nurses’ Association’s strike in February, and FMCS mediators were in the room for first contracts at charter schools across New Orleans, New York, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh—discussions that suddenly stalled in the face of the administration’s attacks. The AFT and our co-plaintiffs are suing to block the destruction of FMCS so it can continue to fulfil its Congressional mandate and ensure the administration follows, rather than ignores, federal law.”

    “The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service is a small but mighty agency that directly benefits the U.S. economy by helping to resolve costly and disruptive labor disputes in the public and private sectors. Trump and Elon Musk’s efforts to abolish FMCS have nothing to do with saving taxpayers money and everything to do with gutting workers’ union rights and protections. It’s shameful, it’s wasteful, and it must be stopped,” said American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) National President Everett Kelley.

    “The Trump administration has no legal right to eliminate FMCS through executive action, and no rational reason to eliminate an agency that helps working people,“ said United Federation of Teachers President Michael Mulgrew.

    “The Trump administration’s reckless attempt to eliminate FMCS is yet another attack on working people and our rights to collectively bargain,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “FMCS is a small, but vitally important agency that serves as a much-needed independent arbiter during negotiations between workers and employers. For the IAM Union, FMCS has been vital in resolving contract disputes with national and international economic consequences, including a strike of 4,300 U.S. Navy shipbuilders at Bath Iron Works, and helping to avoid work stoppages on numerous occasions. We are proud to stand with our partners in the labor movement to fight back against this illegal attack on the rights of all working families.”

    “We will not let this administration’s union-busting tactics take away our rights, and we will not take orders from an unelected billionaire. America’s public service workers serve our nation without regard to profits, politics, or glory. That’s why SEIU members are standing with our siblings at  AFL-CIO, AFGE, AFSCME, AFT, IAM, UFCW and other unions to fight back against the President’s unlawful dismantling of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service,” said SEIU President April Verrett. “This isn’t just about protecting federal workers and their unions. It’s about protecting our communities. When you take away the voices of workers serving veterans, securing the border, and protecting public health, you silence the voices of all those who rely on their services, too.”

    The legal challenge was brought by AFL-CIO, American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), International Associations of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), unions, as well as many locals and affiliates, which have worked with FMCS mediators in labor disputes with their members’ employers. Many are actively engaged in collective-bargaining negotiations with FMCS when the mediator was forced to abruptly leave or cancel the negotiations because they had been placed on leave. With only five mediators remaining at FMCS, these unions and their workers will be left in the lurch, working under expired contracts or no contracts, and strikes or lockouts are much more likely.

    The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The complaint can be found online here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police respond to IPCA report into fatal crash following Ōtaki pursuit

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police accept the findings by the Independent Police Conduct Authority in relation to a fatal crash which occurred following a Police pursuit near Ōtaki.

    First and foremost, our thoughts and sympathies are with the people and families impacted by this crash.

    On 26 April 2024, police briefly pursued a stolen vehicle on State Highway 1, south of Levin, after it was involved in an aggravated robbery in Ōtaki. Police abandoned the pursuit due to high speeds of the driver. They later found the vehicle driving north in the southbound lane of the expressway and it eventually crashed head on into another vehicle.

    Tragically, the driver and one passenger of the stolen vehicle died, and another passenger suffered serious injuries. The four people in the other vehicle suffered serious to moderate injuries.

    Relieving Central District Commander Inspector Ross Grantham says the IPCA found that overall Police managed this complex and dangerous fleeing driver incident appropriately in the circumstances:

    “The outcome of this incident, which was the death of two young people and serious injuries to five members of the public is a tragedy and was completely avoidable.

    Police use every serious incident as an opportunity to learn and we note the minor breaches of our police policy raised by the IPCA and have taken these onboard,” says Inspector Grantham.

    The IPCA has recommended Police amend their Fleeing Driver Policy to specify that when a police vehicle is carrying crew members, those crew members are responsible for managing police communications during pursuits. Police are considering this recommendation.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police seeking information about speeding motorcyclist, Queenstown

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Sergeant Sam Oram

    Queenstown Police are seeking information from the public after a speeding motorcyclist failed to stop for Police.

    At around 4:20am yesterday (Monday 14 April), a vehicle was seen by Police travelling at around two times the posted speed limit on Frankton Road, near Yewlett Crescent.

    The bike was signalled to stop, however it failed to do so. Due to the speed, Police did not pursue. The last sighting of the bike was at about 4:25am as it travelled past the Z petrol station on Frankton Road, heading towards the Queenstown CBD.

    This driving behaviour puts not only the bike riders at risk, but also other motorists. Police will continue to take a zero-tolerance approach to this kind of behaviour and in all cases where possible, Police will make follow-up enquiries to ensure these dangerous road users are held accountable.

    Police would like to hear from anyone who saw this bike travelling through Queenstown in the early hours of yesterday morning. The bike was a sports bike with two people on it.

    We would also like to hear from anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage of the bike.

    Please contact Police on 105, either over the phone or online, referencing file number 250414/1674.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police accept IPCA findings into Palmiro MacDonald matter

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Relieving Central District Commander Inspector Ross Grantham:

    Police accepts the findings by the Independent Police Conduct Authority which investigated complaints against three officers involved in the investigation and trial regarding the murder of Palmiro MacDonald.

    Mr MacDonald went missing in March 2016 and his remains were found several months later in Horowhenua. Police began a homicide investigation and three people were charged with his murder. However, charges against all parties were eventually dropped or dismissed in court.

    We accept and agree with the findings by the IPCA that there were issues with disclosure of information but that these were not intentional or deliberate acts.

    Since this incident, the Solicitor-General has issued guidelines for the use of inmate admissions evidence, and Police now require senior detective supervisors to review inmate admissions evidence against these guidelines in homicide investigations.

    Police were also involved in the development of the High Court ‘Criminal Disclosure in High Court Trials’ practice note which was implemented in 2023. That practice note requires specific consideration of ‘inmate witnesses’ or ‘incentivised witnesses’ in terms of ensuring disclosure obligations are addressed.

    Police are confident that these two significant changes to the process will avert as best as possible any future mistakes being made.

    The IPCA recommended Police prescribe in policy that it be standard practice that all prison informant interviews being undertaken for the purpose of taking statements should be video or audio recorded.

    Police do not agree with the recommendation, but will engage with the Authority in an effort to resolve the issue.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorneys for Southwestern Border Districts Charge More than 1,020 Illegal Aliens with Immigration-Related Crimes During the Second week in April as part of Operation Take Back America.

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    Since the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from 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). 

    Last week, the U.S. Attorneys for Arizona, Central California, Southern California, New Mexico, Southern Texas, and Western Texas charged more than 1,020 defendants with criminal violations of U.S. immigration laws.  

    The Southern District of Texas filed 229 cases in border security-related matters. As part of those cases, 80 face allegations of illegally reentering the country with the majority having felony convictions such as narcotics, firearms or sexual offenses, or prior immigration crimes. A total of 126 people face charges of illegally entering the country, 18 cases involve various instances of human smuggling with others relating to firearms, false statements and other immigration matters. One such case alleges Victor D. Perozo-Zarraga committed fraud and misuse of a visa after authorities found him in possession of fraudulent legal permanent resident and Social Security documents. He indicated he had legal status to be in the United States, which he does not, according to the complaint. Other relevant matters this week include a Mexican visa holder who attempted to bring child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and drugs across the border. Christian Christopher Rodriguez-Lopez was ordered to serve 151 months after attempting to enter the United States from Mexico. Upon inspection, law enforcement located approximately five kilograms of cocaine in his vehicle. Further investigation following his arrest resulted in the additional discovery of CSAM on his cell phone. His visa has since been revoked.   

    The Western District of Texas filed 295 immigration and immigration-related criminal cases. Among the new cases, Mexican national Jorge Alberto Garcia-Drue was encountered at the Frio County Jail in Pearsall after he was arrested for allegedly refusing to provide accurate identification. Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Enforcement Removal Operations agents determined that Garcia-Drue was an alien illegally present within the United States and that he had been previously removed from the country. A review of his criminal history revealed that he had also been convicted on Dec. 10, 2014 of harboring illegal aliens and aiding and abetting. For that conviction, Garcia-Drue was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison. 

    The District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 261 defendants. Specifically, the United States filed 103 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 140 aliens for illegally entering the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States also filed 14 cases against 18 individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona. These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). 

    The Southern District of California filed 116 border-related cases, including charges of transportation of illegal aliens, bringing in aliens for financial gain, receipt of bribes by public officials, reentering the U.S. after deportation, and importation of controlled substances.  

    The Central District of California filed charges against 21 defendants who allegedly were found in the U.S. following removal. Many of the defendants charged were previously convicted of felony offenses prior to their removal from the United States, including alien smuggling, burglary, grand theft, and assault with a deadly weapon. 

    The District of New Mexico brought the following criminal charges: 63 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326), four individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324), and 38 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325). Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions, with some of those convictions being for drug trafficking, alien smuggling, and grand theft. 

    We are grateful for the hard work of our border prosecutors in bringing these cases and helping to make our border safe again.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jury Convicts Home Health Agency Executive of Fixing Wages and Fraudulently Concealing Criminal Investigation

    Source: US State of California

    A federal jury convicted a Nevada man today for participating in a three-year conspiracy to fix the wages for home healthcare nurses in Las Vegas and for fraudulently failing to disclose the criminal antitrust investigation during the sale of his home healthcare staffing company.  

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Eduardo “Eddie” Lopez of Las Vegas, Nevada conspired to artificially cap the wages of home healthcare nurses in the Las Vegas area between March 2016 and May 2019. The three-year conspiracy affected the wages of hundreds of Las Vegas registered nurses and licensed practical nurses who provide care to patients in their homes. During the pendency of the government’s investigation, Lopez then sold his home healthcare staffing company for over $10 million while fraudulently concealing the government’s criminal investigation from the buyer.   

    “Wage-fixing agreements are nakedly unlawful attempts at unjustly profiting off American workers,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigal A. Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Today’s verdict highlights what should be a clear message with antitrust crimes: the agreement is the crime. The Antitrust Division will zealously prosecute those who seek to unjustly profit off their employees. The nurses here deserved better and, under President Trump’s leadership, they will be protected.”

    Lopez was convicted of one count of participating in a wage-fixing conspiracy and five counts of wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 14. A violation of the Sherman Act carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $1 million criminal fine for individuals.  A violation of the wire fraud statute carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The Antitrust Division’s San Francisco Office and the FBI’s International Corruption Unit investigated the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada. Senior Litigation Counsel Jeffrey Cramer and Mikal Condon, Assistant Chief Andrew Mast, and Trial Attorneys Paradi Javandel and Conor Bradley, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez are prosecuting the case.

    Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Home Health Agency Executive of Fixing Wages and Fraudulently Concealing Criminal Investigation

    Source: United States Attorneys General 13

    A federal jury convicted a Nevada man today for participating in a three-year conspiracy to fix the wages for home healthcare nurses in Las Vegas and for fraudulently failing to disclose the criminal antitrust investigation during the sale of his home healthcare staffing company.  

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Eduardo “Eddie” Lopez of Las Vegas, Nevada conspired to artificially cap the wages of home healthcare nurses in the Las Vegas area between March 2016 and May 2019. The three-year conspiracy affected the wages of hundreds of Las Vegas registered nurses and licensed practical nurses who provide care to patients in their homes. During the pendency of the government’s investigation, Lopez then sold his home healthcare staffing company for over $10 million while fraudulently concealing the government’s criminal investigation from the buyer.   

    “Wage-fixing agreements are nakedly unlawful attempts at unjustly profiting off American workers,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigal A. Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Today’s verdict highlights what should be a clear message with antitrust crimes: the agreement is the crime. The Antitrust Division will zealously prosecute those who seek to unjustly profit off their employees. The nurses here deserved better and, under President Trump’s leadership, they will be protected.”

    Lopez was convicted of one count of participating in a wage-fixing conspiracy and five counts of wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 14. A violation of the Sherman Act carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $1 million criminal fine for individuals.  A violation of the wire fraud statute carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The Antitrust Division’s San Francisco Office and the FBI’s International Corruption Unit investigated the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada. Senior Litigation Counsel Jeffrey Cramer and Mikal Condon, Assistant Chief Andrew Mast, and Trial Attorneys Paradi Javandel and Conor Bradley, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez are prosecuting the case.

    Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Welch, other lawyers on Judiciary Committee send letter commending law firms that have resisted Trump’s unconstitutional executive orders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) today joined lawyers on the Senate Judiciary Committee, led by Subcommittee on the Constitution Ranking Member Peter Welch (D-Vt.), in sending a letter to the American Bar Association (ABA) commending lawyers and law firms that are resisting President Trump’s unconstitutional attacks on the legal profession. 

    “As fellow members of the legal community, we applaud lawyers who are resisting President Trump’s illegal and unconstitutional attacks on the legal profession,” the senators wrote. “These orders are unlawful—a tool of intimidation, and a weaponization of the federal government. The president’s actions existentially threaten essential rights guaranteed by our Constitution.”

    “The Sixth Amendment right to counsel is undermined when a president signals that choosing to represent his political opponents carries the risk of retribution,” the senators added. “The First Amendment protection against viewpoint discrimination is imperiled when a president seeks to punish lawyers who advocate against his policies. By levying punishments outside the ordinary legal process, these orders violate constitutional due process.”

    The senators concluded, “The American Bar Association has stalwartly supported lawyers that have resisted President Trump’s bullying. We join the ABA in commending these lawyers, who have taken financial and professional risks to fight for the rule of law and our constitutional rights. We urge others to join you.”

    Between March 6th and March 27th, President Trump issued executive orders targeting four law firms against which he has personal grievances, such as representing his political opponents and associating with lawyers who have been critical of the president. The executive orders limit the targeted law firms’ access to federal buildings, suspend security clearances, and prevent federal agencies from engaging with firm lawyers.

    Three law firms—Jenner & Block, WilmerHale, and Perkins Coie—have rightfully challenged the president’s executive orders in court, asserting that the orders are in violation of the Constitution and the principles that underlie it. In each of these cases, judges appointed by presidents from both political parties have properly issued temporary restraining orders against President Trump.

    In addition to Senators Coons and Welch, the letter was signed by the following lawyers on the Senate Judiciary Committee: Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.). Senator Coons is a graduate of Yale Law School.

    You can read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Emergency Services Games donates $10,000 to mental health charity

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Emergency Services Games donates $10,000 to mental health charity

    Tuesday, 15 April 2025 – 7:37 am.

    Emergency services personnel who took part in the Australian Police and Emergency Services Games held in Tasmania last month have raised $10,000 for charity.Acting Deputy Commissioner Rob Blackwood said that in a sold out event, 500 participants attended to help raise funds for charity through the AP&ES Games ‘charity of choice’ fundraiser event.“We’re pleased to announce that thanks to the generosity shown by all who attended our fundraiser event that we can present Mitch McPherson founder of Speak Up, Stay ChatTY with a cheque for $10,000,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Blackwood said.“The Games create the opportunity for emergency service workers who share a common goal to build camaraderie and promote healthy living.“We know emergency service workers and volunteers often face particularly challenging and stressful situations and we recognise the importance of supporting our employees and volunteers to keep a healthy body and healthy mind as they continue to help the community.”“That’s why we’ve decided to donate the $10,000 to Speak Up, Stay ChatTY – an important charity aimed at promoting positive mental health and preventing suicide by normalising conversations about mental health and encouraging people to seek help when they need it.”The Games brought together not just police, fire, ambulance and SES, but also those emergency staff that work in defence, customs, corrections, royal lifesaving, environment and the coast guard to name just a few.“The 2025 Games was the largest multidiscipline sporting event to ever take place in Tasmania,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Blackwood said.“More than 2,000 competitors competed in over 50 individual sporting events and over 5,000 medals being presented to our competitors.” he said.“This year more than 200 volunteers also donated their time to make the games possible.“Supporting the mental and physical health of police officers, as well as other emergency services is extremely important, and we hope this donation will go some way in helping support other Tasmanians in need.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Attorney general’s statutes amendment act introduced

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Government introduced the attorney general statutes amendment act, 2025, to the legislative assembly on Monday, April 14, 2025.

    If passed by the legislature, the amendments will affect the following provincial statutes:

    Judicial Compensation Act:

    Amendments to the Judicial Compensation Act will statutorily implement the 2022 Judicial Compensation Commission’s recommendation with respect to non-judicial pensionable-service provisions in the Judicial Compensation Act. This will ensure Provincial Court judges, who were public servants before being appointed to the bench, receive the same benefits for their non-judicial service as other Public Service Pension Plan members.

    Land Title Act:

    Amendments to the Land Title Act will clarify the Land Title Office’s ability to transfer a deceased person’s land to a special administrator appointed by the court. Appointing administrators is a standard procedure that allows administrators to temporarily manage an estate, while there are ongoing legal proceedings about a will or other special circumstances. The amendment specifically addresses the transfer or sale of land, which may be desirable to preserve the value of an estate.

    Libel and Slander Act:

    Amendments to the Libel and Slander Act will update the description of the court document used to initiate a legal action for libel.

    Members Remuneration and Pensions Act:

    Amendments to the Members Remuneration and Pensions Act will implement the March 2025 decision of the legislative assembly management committee to forgo the statutorily authorized increase to members of the legislative assembly’s remuneration for 2025.

    Police Act:

    Amendments to the Police Act will allow the appointment of an acting chief civilian director of the Independent Investigations Office in the event that the director is unable to fulfil their role. Amendments will also authorize the appointment of a deputy chief civilian director of the Independent Investigations Office, to whom the chief civilian director could delegate their powers and duties. These amendments will allow the Independent Investigations Office to reduce operational risks and help ensure investigations into incidents involving police officers are conducted proficiently, without unnecessary delays and with the ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

    Small Claims Act:

    Housekeeping amendments to the Small Claims Act will remove an outdated reference to a provision that was repealed in the Civil Resolution Tribunal Act. The provision concerned a previous process where a Civil Resolution Tribunal decision could be made void, and the claim could be disputed in the Provincial Court. Regular housekeeping amendments, such as this, provide clarity and make legislation easier to understand.

    Wills, Estates and Succession Act:

    Amendments to the Wills, Estates and Succession Act will add First Home Savings Accounts to the definition of a benefit plan. This will allow people to name beneficiaries for these accounts, helping in their life planning by ensuring surviving beneficiaries can access First Home Savings Accounts efficiently, in the same way they can access other registered savings plans, such as Tax Free Savings Accounts.

    The amendments will allow the government to quickly add new plans without needing to amend the legislation.

    Learn More:

    For more information about B.C. legislation, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/Legislation

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Carbon Streaming Announces Filing of Claim Against Former Executives and Consultants

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Carbon Streaming Corporation (Cboe CA: NETZ) (OTCQB: OFSTF) (FSE: M2Q) (“Carbon Streaming” or the “Company”) today announces that it has started a lawsuit in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice against several former executives, directors, consultants, and associated entities. As outlined in the lawsuit, Carbon Streaming is trying to hold the defendants to account for their breaches of fiduciary duty, fraudulent misrepresentation, and unjust enrichment that have caused financial harm to the Company.

    The defendants named in the claim include Justin Cochrane, Conor Kearns, Anthony Milewski, Michael Beck, Maurice Swan, Andrew Scott Tester, Jeanne Usonis, The Oregon Group LLC, Regent Advisors LLC, Black Vulcan Resources LLC, Carbon Advisors LLC, and Angstrom Capital Limited.

    Key Allegations:

    • Breach of Fiduciary Duty: The lawsuit alleges that the defendants who were serving as Carbon Streaming’s executives and directors did not act in the Company’s best interests, including approving and allowing payments for advisory and consulting fees to entities that provided little to no real services to the Company.
    • Fraudulent Misrepresentation: The lawsuit alleges that certain defendants made false representations and omissions that misled the Company, resulting in financial losses.
    • Unjust Enrichment: The lawsuit also seeks to recover funds that were improperly diverted to some of the defendants and their associated entities, who were unjustly enriched at the expense of Carbon Streaming.

    Financial Impact:

    Carbon Streaming seeks damages against the defendants, including:

    • A minimum of USD $30.1 Million against Justin Cochrane.
    • A minimum of USD $4.1 Million against Conor Kearns.
    • A minimum of USD $1.4 Million against Anthony Milewski and The Oregon Group LLC.
    • A minimum of USD $4.1 Million against Anthony Milewski and Black Vulcan Resources LLC.
    • A minimum of USD $850,000 against Michael Beck and Regent Advisors LLC.
    • A minimum of USD $400,000 against Michael Beck, Anthony Milewski, and Carbon Advisors LLC.
    • A minimum of USD $4.1 Million against each of Maurice Swan, Andrew Scott Tester and Jeanne Usonis.

    A copy of the issued Statement of Claim can be found here.

    About Carbon Streaming

    Carbon Streaming’s focus is on projects that generate high-quality carbon credits and have a positive impact on the environment, local communities, and biodiversity, in addition to their carbon reduction or removal potential.

    ON BEHALF OF THE COMPANY:
    Marin Katusa, Chief Executive Officer
    Tel: 365.607.6095
    info@carbonstreaming.com
    www.carbonstreaming.com

    Investor Relations
    investors@carbonstreaming.com

    Media
    media@carbonstreaming.com

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, are forward-looking information, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company holding the defendants to account.

    When used in this news release, words such as “estimates”, “expects”, “plans”, “anticipates”, “will”, “believes”, “intends” “should”, “could”, “may” and other similar terminology are intended to identify such forward-looking information. This forward-looking information is based on the current expectations or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking information is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. They should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be an accurate indication of whether or not such results will be achieved. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: general economic, market and business conditions and global financial conditions, including fluctuations in interest rates, foreign exchange rates and stock market volatility; volatility in prices of carbon credits and demand for carbon credits; change in social or political views towards climate change, carbon credits and environmental, social and governance initiatives and subsequent changes in corporate or government policies or regulations and associated changes in demand for carbon credits; the Company’s expectations and plans with respect to current litigation, arbitration and regulatory proceedings; limited operating history for the Company’s current strategy; concentration risk; inaccurate estimates of project value, which may impact the ability of the Company to execute on its growth and diversification strategy; dependence upon key management; impact of corporate restructurings; the inability of the Company to optimize cash flows or sufficiently reduce operating expenses; reputational risk; risks arising from competition and future acquisition activities failure or timing delays for projects to be registered, validated and ultimately developed and for emission reductions or removals to be verified and carbon credits issued (and other risks associated with carbon credits standards and registries); foreign operations and political risks including actions by governmental authorities, including changes in or to government regulation, taxation and carbon pricing initiatives; uncertainties and ongoing market developments surrounding the validation and verification requirements of the voluntary and/or compliance markets; due diligence risks, including failure of third parties’ reviews, reports and projections to be accurate; dependence on project partners, operators and owners, including failure by such counterparties to make payments or perform their operational or other obligations to the Company in compliance with the terms of contractual arrangements between the Company and such counterparties; failure of projects to generate carbon credits, or natural disasters such as flood or fire which could have a material adverse effect on the ability of any project to generate carbon credits; volatility in the market price of the Company’s common shares or warrants; the effect that the issuance of additional securities by the Company could have on the market price of the Company’s common shares or warrants; global health crises, such as pandemics and epidemics; and the other risks disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated as of March 31, 2025 filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Any forward-looking information speaks only as of the date of this news release. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein. Except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Lead Illinois Democratic Delegation in Message to Secretary Kennedy: The Dismantling of HS Does Nothing to ‘Make America Healthy Again’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    April 11, 2025
    In a letter to the HHS Secretary, the lawmakers pushed back against the destruction of HHS and its impact on the state
    [SPRINGFIELD, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today led the Illinois Democratic Delegation in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressing frustration and concern that HHS has slashed critical federal funding for the state’s public health programs and infrastructure.
    “We write to express our real concern about the Department and Health and Human Services’ (HHS) actions to terminate federal funds for state and local health departments, fire critical public health staff, dismantle health agencies, and close regional offices, including the HHS Region 5 office in Chicago, Illinois.  Your decision puts the health and well-being of our people at risk, and will do nothing to ‘Make America Healthy Again,’” the lawmakers wrote.
    Last month, it was reported that HHS would terminate $11.4 billion in federal funding for state and local health departments, including more than $125 million in funding for the Illinois Department of Public Health.  Lawmakers were also told that Illinois would lose access to an additional $324 million in anticipated federal funding that was already allocated to protect Illinois residents from infectious diseases.  Further, Illinois could lose up to $28 million in Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grants for mental health and substance use disorder treatment.
    In an effort to combat the Trump Administration’s destructive funding rescissions, a 24-state coalition, which included Illinois, filed a lawsuit against HHS for the rollback of public health funding.  Earlier this month, a federal court barred HHS from terminating these funds for a 14-day period.
    “The state’s [Illinois’] efforts to prepare for future public health emergencies—which could include the worsening avian flu situation, measles outbreaks, and other respiratory illness challenges—will be severely hampered if HHS rescinds this essential federal funding.  Now that a federal court has blocked HHS from terminating these funds, we urge you to abandon these ill-conceived and dangerous plans,” the lawmakers continued their letter.
    In addition to ripping away billions in promised federal funding, Secretary Kennedy has overseen the destruction of HHS’ workforce and infrastructure, putting thousands of dedicated career civil servants out of a job while gutting critical federal agencies.  Since President Trump’s inauguration, 10,000 HHS employees have left the agency or been fired.  A couple weeks ago, HHS announced that an additional 10,000 public health workers will be fired, including 3,500 from the Food and Drug Administration, 2,400 workers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1,200 workers from the National Institutes of Health and 300 workers from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. 
    “A reduction in force of this magnitude threatens the ability of HHS to ensure the safety of our nation’s foods, drugs, and medical devices; to inspect and regulate nursing homes; to develop breakthrough cures and treatments for patients with cancer, ALS, and heart disease; and to respond quickly when a public health crisis emerges,” the lawmakers wrote.
    The lawmakers continued their letter, emphasizing that closing regional health offices and shutting out states from federal resources does nothing to support the health and safety of Americans.
    “Finally, it was reported that HHS would dismantle and consolidate several health agencies under an ‘Administration for a Healthier America,’ and close several regional offices, including the HHS Region 5 office in Chicago.  HHS Region 5 has been an essential partner in implementing and coordinating federal resources and initiatives.  It has worked with state, local, and tribal governments in Illinois to address a range of public health concerns, including infectious disease outbreaks, mental and behavioral health needs, food recalls, and more,” the lawmakers wrote.  “Eliminating this office or consolidating it into another regional office risks reducing access to agency personnel and HHS resources for Illinois.”
    The lawmakers concluded their letter by reminding Secretary Kennedy of his responsibility to improve public health, not destruct the institution that ensures Americans have the resources to stay healthy.
    “It is one thing to undertake efforts to address waste, fraud, and abuse in government.  It is quite another to cite these reasonable goals as an excuse to instead decimate our nation’s public health infrastructure.  HHS has provided no details on its plans or any explanation of how these steps will improve HHS’ ability to carry out its mission to enhance the health and well-being of all Americans.  The complete lack of transparency on these critical decisions supports the logical conclusion that these decisions were made for political purposes without considering their real-world impact,” the lawmakers wrote.
    “As HHS Secretary, you are tasked with the serious responsibility of protecting our nation’s health and you have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of millions of Americans.   Do not neglect this responsibility, and do not waste this opportunity,” the lawmaker concluded their letter.
    A copy of the letter is available here and below:
    April 11, 2025
    Dear Secretary Kennedy,
                We write to express our real concern about the Department and Health and Human Services’ (HHS) actions to terminate federal funds for state and local health departments, fire critical public health staff, dismantle health agencies, and close regional offices, including the HHS Region 5 office in Chicago, Illinois.  Your decision puts the health and well-being of people at risk, and will do nothing to “Make America Healthy Again.”
    In March, it was reported that HHS would be terminating $11.4 billion in federal funding for state and local health departments, including more than $125 million for Illinois.  We also have been informed that Illinois will not be able to access an additional $324 million in anticipated federal funding for future work to prevent and address infectious disease.  The Illinois Department of Public Health has leveraged these federal funds to improve its technologies and laboratories, support the public health workforce, and strengthen local health departments.  However, the state’s efforts to prepare for future public health emergencies—which could include the worsening avian flu situation, measles outbreaks, and other respiratory illness challenges—will be severely hampered if HHS rescinds this essential federal funding.  Now that a federal court has blocked HHS from terminating these funds, we urge you to abandon these ill-conceived and dangerous plans. 
    It also was announced that an additional 10,000 public health workers will be fired from HHS, including 3,500 from the Food and Drug Administration, 2,400 workers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1,200 workers from the National Institutes of Health, and 300 workers from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.  This is on top of the reported 10,000 HHS employees who have already left the agency since January 20, including probationary employees who were fired earlier this year, many of whom were not rehired, despite two court rulings ordering their reinstatement.  A reduction in force of this magnitude threatens the ability of HHS to ensure the safety of our nation’s foods, drugs, and medical devices; to inspect and regulate nursing homes; to develop breakthrough cures and treatments for patients with cancer, ALS, and heart disease; and to respond quickly when a public health crisis emerges.
    Finally, it was reported that HHS would dismantle and consolidate several health agencies under an “Administration for a Healthier America,” and close several regional offices, including the HHS Region 5 office in Chicago.  HHS Region 5 has been an essential partner in implementing and coordinating federal resources and initiatives.  It has worked with state, local, and tribal governments in Illinois to address a range of public health concerns, including infectious disease outbreaks, mental and behavioral health needs, food recalls, and more.  Eliminating this office or consolidating it into another regional office risks reducing access to agency personnel and HHS resources for Illinois.
    It is one thing to undertake efforts to address waste, fraud, and abuse in government.  It is quite another to cite these reasonable goals as an excuse to instead decimate our nation’s public health infrastructure.  HHS has provided no details on its plans or any explanation of how these steps will improve HHS’ ability to carry out its mission to enhance the health and well-being of all Americans.  The complete lack of transparency on these critical decisions supports the logical conclusion that these decisions were made for political purposes without considering their real-world impact.  
    As HHS Secretary, you are tasked with the serious responsibility of protecting our nation’s health and you have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of millions of Americans.   Do not neglect this responsibility, and do not waste this opportunity. 
    Thank you for your attention to this matter.  We look forward to your timely response.
    Sincerely,
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Four Appointments to State Board of Education

    Source: US State of Missouri

    APRIL 14, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced four appointments to the State Board of Education. As his first appointments to the Board, these individuals reflect Governor Kehoe’s vision and commitment to supporting education.

    Michael Matousek, of Kansas City, was appointed to the State Board of Education.

    Mr. Matousek currently serves as the director of the Government Freight Conference at the American Trucking Association. He has previous experience as the state legislative affairs director for the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association and legislative director in the Office of Congressman Sam Graves. Mr. Matousek earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Florida.

    Kenneth “Brooks” Miller Jr., of Sunrise Beach, was appointed to the State Board of Education.

    Mr. Miller previously served as the president and CEO of Jordan Valley Community Health Center. In addition to his professional career, he has served as the vice president of the Springfield Board of Public Utilities and was most recently on the Truman State University Board of Governors. Mr. Miller earned his master’s degree in education administration and bachelor’s degree in business administration from Northeast Missouri State University.

    Jon Otto, of Kansas City, was appointed to the State Board of Education.

    Mr. Otto serves as corporate counsel for Evergy, Inc. focusing on corporate governance, SEC compliance, corporate finance, and real estate transactions. Prior to joining Evergy, he was an attorney at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, LLP and Polsinelli, PC law firms. Mr. Otto has served as a board member for Académie Lafayette charter school, University Health KC, Missouri Charter Public School Association, Child Protection Center, Minddrive, and the UMKC Law Alumni Association. Mr. Otto earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law and his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Clark Atlanta University.

    Dr. Thomas Prater, of Springfield, was appointed to the State Board of Education.

    Dr. Prater is a physician and partner at Mattax-Neu-Prater Eye Center in Springfield. From 2016 to 2020, he served as the Zone 2 Councilman on the Springfield City Council. He was also a member of the Springfield R-12 Board of Education from 1998 to 2014. Dr. Prater is an active member of the Missouri State Medical Society and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Hampshire Man Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child Sex Abuse Images

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DAVID EDDY, 59, of Manchester, New Hampshire, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 210 months of imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for child exploitation offenses stemming from his sexual abuse of a young girl.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in September 2022, Eddy sexually abused a minor girl, who was approximately five years old, and used his cell phone to take photographs of his sexual abuse.  Analysis of Eddy’s phone revealed more than 150 child sexual abuse images and videos of the minor victim and other child victims of sexual abuse.

    Eddy was arrested on related state charges on October 5, 2022.  On September 25, 2024, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of production of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

    Eddy has been detained since his arrest.  The state charges are pending.

    This matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Simsbury Police Department, with the assistance of the Manchester (N.H.) Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anastasia E. King and Nancy V. Gifford.

    This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Would looser lending rules help more people buy a house – or just put them at risk?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Grant, Associate Professor in Finance, University of Sydney

    doublelee/Shutterstock

    Big promises on housing were at the centre of both major parties’ announcements at the official federal election campaign launches on the weekend.

    Among the highlights, Labor pledged to build 100,000 new homes and extend a government-guaranteed 5% deposit scheme to all first home buyers. The Coalition promised to make interest payments on the first A$650,000 of a mortgage tax-deductible for up to five years, for eligible first home buyers purchasing new builds.

    Amid this flurry of policies, it’s important we don’t forget another Coalition promise from earlier this month – lowering the 3% mortgage serviceability “buffer”.

    Promising to help would-be homebuyers without access to the “bank of mum and dad”, the policy aims to make loans easier to get amid high interest rates and house prices. But it has also reignited debate over lending regulation.

    What exactly does this buffer do, and what might we lose by lowering it?

    Protecting banks and borrowers

    Mortgage buffers are a risk management tool, regulated by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA).

    When banks assess a home loan, they don’t just check if you can repay it at today’s rate. They test whether you could still afford it if interest rates were higher.

    Suppose a borrower in Sydney takes out a mortgage of $780,000 (around the average loan size). At a 6% interest rate, the monthly repayments over 30 years would be about $4,672.

    Under the current serviceability buffer – three percentage points – banks assess whether this prospective borrower could still afford repayments if interest rates rose to 9%, which would increase their monthly repayments to around $6,270.

    This buffer doesn’t increase the price the borrower actually pays. It simply ensures they have the capacity to service higher repayments if conditions worsen.

    The last time mortgage rates were above 9% for an extended period (1996), Peter Dutton was in the Queensland Police Service, the Swans had lost the AFL Grand Final, and Oasis were about to cancel their Australian tour. Could history repeat itself?



    Read more:
    Labor and Coalition support for new home buyers welcome but other Australians also struggling with housing affordability

    Why lower it?

    APRA increased the serviceability buffer from 2.5% to 3% in late 2021. But at the time, Australia’s cash rate was very low, at just 0.1%. It’s now 4.1%.

    Critics argue the buffer has become too restrictive now that rates are higher, locking out first home buyers and those without parental financial help.

    The buffer can also act as a barrier to refinancing. Those who qualified for a loan when interest rates were low may no longer meet serviceability requirements under higher rates. Research suggests that removing refinancing barriers can reduce loan defaults and support household spending.

    The risks

    There are good reasons for the measures we have to protect borrowers from future shocks.

    Reducing the buffer allows more borrowers to qualify for the same loan. But it also means there’s less built-in protection against future rate rises.

    Research shows the risk of a borrower defaulting on their mortgage increases sharply when their loan-to-value ratio – the amount borrowed divided by the property’s purchase price – is above 75%, or where a borrower is spending two-thirds of their income on the mortgage.

    But buffers also need to be set carefully, ensuring they don’t unnecessarily lock out creditworthy borrowers.

    The mortgage serviceability buffer is designed to protect borrowers from sudden financial shocks.
    doublelee/Shutterstock

    Help for first home buyers?

    When considered together with the Coalition’s additional policies – to allow first home buyers to withdraw up to $50,000 from their superannuation for a home deposit and deduct mortgage payments from their taxable income – the implications become clearer.

    Economic theory suggests that combined, such measures would move more borrowers closer to the margin of affordability.

    Many would likely take on the maximum debt they could qualify for, leaving them highly exposed if economic or interest rate conditions deteriorate.

    And the very borrowers likely to rely on superannuation withdrawals to fund their deposits are also those with limited savings and potentially high loan-to-value ratios. The borrowers most affected by the barrier are therefore among the most vulnerable to repayment stress.

    What about house prices?

    There’s the obvious question of what reducing the barriers to borrowing would do to house prices, without a corresponding increase in supply.

    Research has shown stricter borrower-level constraints are effective in slowing house price growth, especially during periods of rapid credit expansion.

    These policies are most effective when targeted toward high-risk borrower groups such as first home buyers or those with high loan-to-valuation ratios.

    Some economists argue buffers need not be static. Instead, they could be tightened during booms to prevent the housing market overheating, and eased during tougher times to avoid cutting off credit unnecessarily.

    So, should we lower the buffer?

    Serviceability buffers aren’t just bureaucratic hurdles. They are an unseen brake on unsustainable borrowing and a cushion against future shocks.

    Borrower constraints don’t only reduce default risk – research shows they also redistribute credit more efficiently, shifting it away from overheated urban markets and toward lower-risk borrowers.

    The first cut to the cash rate in nearly five years has eased Australian mortgage stress risk in the short term. With renewed borrowing appetite, the role of buffers becomes even more critical.

    Removing them may help more people into homes in the short run, but it comes at the risk of greater pain later.

    Andrew Grant has previously received funding from the Australian Institute of Credit Management and illion (Experian).

    – ref. Would looser lending rules help more people buy a house – or just put them at risk? – https://theconversation.com/would-looser-lending-rules-help-more-people-buy-a-house-or-just-put-them-at-risk-253658

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Five Outstanding Business Leaders Inducted into the Hall of Fame

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The School of Business inducted five extraordinary business leaders into its Alumni Hall of Fame on Friday night, at a joyful ceremony that included a sold-out crowd of 400 at the Hartford Marriott Downtown.

    The new inductees included:

    • Trisha M. Bailey, Ph.D. ’99, ’23 H, a serial entrepreneur and owner and CEO of Bailey’s Pharmacy & Medical Equipment & Supplies;
    • Laurie A. Havanec ’82, ’94 JD, the retired Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer at CVS Health;
    • John Hodson ’85 President of True Benefit;
    • Gregory P. Lewis ’92 retired Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Honeywell International; and
    • Robert J. Skinner ’93, Founding Partner & Co-CEO of IEQ Capital.

    Each of the inductees, all alumni who have had remarkable careers and made significant contributions to society, shared their personal stories about their journeys, their passion for helping others and their love of UConn.

    Bailey: UConn Saw the Light in Her When Others Didn’t

    Bailey is a serial entrepreneur who, in addition to running her flagship company, oversees 15 other businesses. She has been named the JP Morgan Chase Woman of the Year. She made the largest single donation in history to UConn Athletics, and is involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors in the U.S. and Jamaica. Bailey, a mother of five, is also the author of the book “UNBROKEN’’ about her life’s journey and her unwavering values of compassion, excellence, and empowerment.

    She told the audience that in 1990 she left behind a life of poverty of Jamaica to relocate to Hartford. A high school counselor had once told her she wasn’t “college material,’’ she recalled. “She doesn’t know what she’s talking about!’’ Bailey remembered thinking that day. The UConn audience cheered at her response. UConn, she said, saw the light in her when others didn’t, and gave her a full scholarship.

    She hopes that her success inspires many other girls and women.

    “Make sure your excellence is so profound it cannot be denied,’’ she said. “I want young girls across the globe to see that this honor is for you. Keep striving. You are amazing!’’

    Havanec Astonished by Today’s UConn Students

    Havanec, who recently retired from CVS Health, oversaw 300,000 employees in her role in talent development and acquisition, compensation and benefits, and diversity, equity and inclusion. She earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing from UConn, and six weeks after the birth of her second child, she returned to earn her JD degree from UConn Law. In 2019, she endowed a need-based scholarship to help other women attend law school. She is a two-time cancer survivor who advocates for early detection and prevention.

    She returned to Storrs last week, for the first time in 20 years, and said the experience was exhilarating. She was impressed by the sophistication, real-life decision-making, and leadership she found in the students. She said the student investors at the School of Business’ Hillside Ventures are exceptional.

    “When they leave UConn, they’ll be amazing sponsors for the university,’’ she said. “I know it is scary leaving college. Be courageous. Go out there and show the world what you have!’’

    Havanec, a passionate UConn basketball fan, also gave a shout-out to the UConn women’s basketball team, just days after they won the national championship. “They overcame so much adversity,’’ she said. “They are role models for all of us!’’

    Hodson Spoke About The Deeper Meaning of Dreams

    Hodson, founded his employee benefits company, True Benefit, to foster inclusivity, ethics, and community engagement. He has worked tirelessly to improve insurance policies for the transgender community. In addition, he has created scholarships for transgender students and has supported UConn’s ‘Name, Image and Likeness’ initiatives.

    In his award acceptance speech, he spoke about a recurring dream that he was on the golf course and something—a tree branch, an octogenarian, or a storm—prevents him from completing his round.

    “I know it was a metaphor for ‘Am I good enough?,’” he said. As his company grew, so did his stress and the pressure to not disappoint his stakeholders. He was in his early 50s when he met his wife, who believed in him and pushed him to the next level. Now he dreams of standing on the fairway and “smoking’’ the shot. He said he wouldn’t be where he is today without help from great friends.

    His message to students is one of compassion. “I think it is a lot harder to be a student today than it was when I was growing up,’’ he said. “Just be yourself, be kind to yourself, and don’t do it alone. Lean on others and you’ll be OK.’’

    Lewis: Push Past Fear; Don’t Lose Your Humanity

    Lewis has worked for Honeywell, a Fortune 100 company, since 2006. Most recently he was the Senior Vice President and CFO, providing leadership through corporate headquarter relocation, COVID-19, and economic and geo-political shifts. In February, he stepped down as CFO and became a special advisor to the CEO as the company separates into three.

    He praised his parents for showing him the pathway to success, teaching him care and compassion, and to strive to be the best every day. He told students and young alumni that he owes his success to doing hard things and doing them well; demonstrating leadership; and always caring about others.

    “Push past fear and uncertainty, say yes a lot, and don’t lose your humanity,’’ he said. “No one succeeds alone. Don’t live with regret. Struggle and failure is a step toward growth.’’

    Lewis, who met his wife Barbara (Reynolds ’89) at UConn, and raised two daughters together, spoke of his love for his family and the 40 people there to support him. He is active in community organizations including serving as the Chair of the Charlotte (NC) Small Business Innovation Fund, as a member of an organization fighting homelessness, and on the Board of Medtronic.

    Skinner: Play for the Name on the Front of the Jersey

    Skinner’s company, IEQ Capital, merges intellectual and emotional factors in investing. He has been named one of America’s top wealth advisors by Forbes. He is active in the board of several golf charities including PGA REACH, the foundation associated with PGA of America.

    Planning to become a lawyer, Skinner instead found himself in the business world and wanted to build a company.

    “UConn is my family. I have great memories and great friendships from those years,’’ he said. “At UConn I found myself. I developed the grit, excellence, and the belief that I can do something really big.’’

    In accepting his award, he told the audience to “play for the name on the front of the jersey, not the name on the back.’’

    He praised former UConn men’s basketball head coach Jim Calhoun, who was in attendance with current coach Dan Hurley and assistant coach Luke Murray, whom he met his freshman year. “He got my fire burning, got me to believe in winning and doing things that others don’t think you can,’’ he said. “I’m beyond grateful for the recognition. Every day I think about being a Husky!’’

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Calls on DOJ to Investigate EPIC City Following Accusations of Religious Discrimination, Sharia Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to open an investigation into the East Plano Islamic Center’s (EPIC) planned Muslim community, EPIC Ranches City, in Josephine, Texas, which is under state investigation by Governor Abbott and has been accused of risking religious discrimination of Christians, Jews, and other non-Muslim minorities:

    “A master-planned ‘community of thousands of Muslims’ could violate the constitutional rights of Jewish and Christian Texans, by preventing them from living in this new community and discriminating against them within the community. I further encourage the Department to investigate whether Christians, Jews, and other non-Muslim minorities would receive equal protection under the law in this new community. Religious discrimination, whether explicit or implicit, is unconstitutional under the First and Fourteenth Amendments. Religious freedom is a cornerstone of our nation’s values, and I am concerned this community potentially undermines this vital protection,” wrote Sen. Cornyn.

    “The East Plano Islamic Center and the for-profit corporation it created to plan this city recently announced a development called ‘EPIC Ranches City’ in Josephine, Texas. The City would be a ‘thriving ecosystem’ of thousands of homes centered around a mosque and a private Islamic school. The 402-acre community will also include commercial developments, a community college, and sports facilities. The Center is designed as an exclusive religious settlement where Islamic principles govern not only daily life and education, but commerce,” he continued.

    “Religious-based discrimination is a constitutional violation as well as a federal rights violation. Appropriate steps should be taken to ensure that this community does not run afoul of these obligations. It may also be appropriate for an investigation to explore whether the proponents of the proposed development are abiding by existing federal and state prohibitions on the enforcement of sharia law,” he concluded.

    The full text of the letter is available here and below.

    April 11, 2025

    The Honorable Harmeet Dhillon

    Assistant Attorney General

    Civil Rights Division

    United States Department of Justice

    950 Pennsylvania Avenue

    Washington, DC 20530

    Dear Assistant Attorney General Dhillon,

    I write to recommend the Department of Justice open a civil rights investigation into whether a potential planned community in Texas would violate federal law. Specifically, I am concerned that a master-planned “community of thousands of Muslims” could violate the constitutional rights of Jewish and Christian Texans, by preventing them from living in this new community and discriminating against them within the community. I further encourage the Department to investigate whether Christians, Jews, and other non-Muslim minorities would receive equal protection under the law in this new community. Religious discrimination, whether explicit or implicit, is unconstitutional under the First and Fourteenth Amendments. Religious freedom is a cornerstone of our nation’s values, and I am concerned this community potentially undermines this vital protection.

    The East Plano Islamic Center and the for-profit corporation it created to plan this city recently announced a development called “EPIC Ranches City” in Josephine, Texas. The City would be a “thriving ecosystem” of thousands of homes centered around a mosque and a private Islamic school. The 402-acre community will also include commercial developments, a community college, and sports facilities. The Center is designed as an exclusive religious settlement where Islamic principles govern not only daily life and education, but commerce.

    I want to particularly call attention to the language the Center’s corporation, Community Capital Partners, has used to advertise this development. Community Capital Partners has made clear the homes would be for sale to noncitizens from other countries, and that sales would be restricted to those who “contribute to the overall makeup of [the] community.” After questions from the Dallas Morning News, the developer changed this language to hide their clear intentions, but they still admit the underlying goal, saying that the community would “conduct thorough individualized assessments of prospective buyers to ensure they align with [their] goals.” These stealth edits, only in response to questions, create an impression of potential discrimination. I am concerned that the Center, through its for-profit affiliated entity, is attempting to create an enclave that will discriminate on the basis of religion, and, further, is hiding this intent from the public. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 explicitly prohibits discrimination in housing sales, rentals, and financing based on race, religion, or national origin. The primary goal of this landmark legislation was to combat housing segregation and ensure equal access to housing opportunities. The developer’s description is a reason for caution and indicates the Center’s practices may be in violation of federal law.

    Governor Abbott has opened several investigations at the state level. These include an inquiry into the funeral home operating without the required license, a review of whether investors have been fully informed, and an examination of potential violations of consumer protection laws related to the development. Governor Abbott further announced that the Texas State Securities Board is investigating the Center “for potential failures to comply with applicable state and federal securities requirements, including protections against fraud.” Finally, I note that the Governor, in coordination with the Texas Workforce Commission has opened an investigation under the Texas Fair Housing Act. This law, like the federal Fair Housing Act, prohibits housing discrimination on the basis of religion and explicitly bans any advertising that expresses a preference, limitation, or discrimination based on religion. I encourage the Department to coordinate with Texas-based officials in their important efforts to confirm that this community will not violate the law. 

    In conclusion, I recommend the Department investigate the community’s impact on the rights of Jewish and Christian Texans. I also encourage the Department to take steps ensure that Christians, Jews, and other non-Muslim minorities will receive equal protection under the laws in this development. Religious-based discrimination is a constitutional violation as well as a federal rights violation. Appropriate steps should be taken to ensure that this community does not run afoul of these obligations. It may also be appropriate for an investigation to explore whether the proponents of the proposed development are abiding by existing federal and state prohibitions on the enforcement of sharia law. 

    Sincerely,

    Senator John Cornyn

    U.S. Senator

    Cc: The Honorable Pam Bondi, Attorney General

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: WILSON ROAD, MYLOR (Grass Fire)

    Source: South Australia County Fire Service

    MYLOR

    Issued on
    15 Apr 2025 05:36

    Mylor Grassfire

    Issued for MYLOR near Aldgate in the Mount Lofty Ranges.

    The CFS is responding to a grass fire near Mylor in the Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia.

    30 CFS volunteers on 7 trucks, supported by SA Police, are on scene and have contained the fire, preventing it from spreading to a nearby property.

    The cause of the fire is yet to be determined and Fire Investigators will attend the scene later today.

    Emergency services may be working on and around roads in the area, and motorists are advised to stay away. If you need to travel on roads in the area, please take care and drive to the local conditions.

    Message ID 0008517

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Monrovia Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Producing and Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A San Gabriel Valley man was sentenced today to 360 months in federal prison for producing and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) depicting himself sexually abusing a toddler.

    David Lisandro Perez Figueroa, 23, of Monrovia, was sentenced by United States District Judge John F. Walter, who also ordered Perez Figueroa to pay $2,799 in restitution and placed him on lifetime supervised release.

    Perez Figueroa pleaded guilty in November 2024 to one count of production of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography.

    From an unknown date until December 2023, Perez Figueroa recorded his sexual abuse of a 2-year-old child for the purpose of making a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct.

    In July 2023, Perez Figueroa distributed the CSAM via the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, in an account linked to Perez Figueroa.

    British law enforcement investigating a target in the United Kingdom discovered the X chat logs with CSAM and, soon after, notified federal law enforcement in the United States, according to court documents. Based on this information, federal agents executed a search warrant at Perez Figueroa’s residence on December 5, 2023 and arrested him.

    Homeland Security Investigations investigated this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Jenna W. Long of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section, Mirelle N. Raza of the General Crimes Section, Amy E. Pomerantz of the Criminal Appeals Section, and Sarah E. Spielberger of the Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section prosecuted this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Andover Man Sentenced to Over Five Years in Prison for Possessing Over 30 Firearms and Explosives as a Convicted Felon

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A North Andover, Mass. man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possessing over 30 firearms and explosives as a convicted felon.

    Daniel Medina, 65, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 63 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In December 2024, Medina pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a machine gun, unlawful possession of explosive materials and felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Sentencing is scheduled for April 3, 2025. In October 2024, Medina was charged by criminal complaint.

    On July 1, 2024, law enforcement was dispatched to the area of Medina’s North Andover residence after receiving a report of an explosion. Upon arrival, damage to two vehicles was observed as well as a piece of mail addressed to Medina beneath the damaged rear passenger door of one vehicle. The damage to the vehicles and materials left behind were consistent with common items used in manufacturing homemade explosive devices, specifically ball bearings or shrapnel. Witnesses observed Medina running from the damaged vehicles toward his residence following the explosion.

    During a search of Medina’s residence, the following items were seized: more than 32 firearms, including 12 rifles, 15 pistols, three shotguns and two antique firearms; 9,000 rounds of various calibers of modern ammunition manufactured outside of Massachusetts; 75 magazines for various caliber firearms; various firearm parts; a Glock switch device; books pertaining to the building of firearms and manufacturing of explosives and drugs; shrapnel accessories such as BB’s and ball bearings; multiple firework containers; and various containers of powders produced and shipped in interstate commerce.

    Potassium chlorate and aluminum powder – the same flash powder found in the suspected explosive material used in the explosion – were found in the containers.
     

    Medina is prohibited from possessing firearms, ammunition and explosive material due to a 2002 state conviction of assault and battery in Lawrence District Court, for which he was sentenced to two and a half years in jail.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the North Andover Police Department, Massachusetts State Police and the Essex County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterbury Gang Member Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JUSTIN CABRERA, also known as “J.U.,” 26, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 204 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for offenses stemming from his participation in the 960 gang, a violent Waterbury street gang.

    Today’s announcement was made by Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Maureen T. Platt, State’s Attorney for the Waterbury Judicial District; Anish Shukla, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; and Waterbury Police Chief Fernando C. Spagnolo.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in an effort to address drug trafficking and related violence in Waterbury, the FBI, ATF, and Waterbury Police have been investigating multiple Waterbury-based groups, including the 960 gang.  On September 14, 2021, a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a 36-count indictment charging Cabrera and 15 other alleged 960 gang members with racketeering, narcotics trafficking, firearm possession, murder, attempted murder and assault, and obstruction of justice offenses.

    On October 31, 2017, four 960 members used a stolen car to carry out a drive-by shooting of members of ATM, a rival gang, at the corner of Bank Street and Porter Street in Waterbury.  An ATM member was shot and wounded in the attack.  Cabrera drove a second vehicle, or “trail car,” used in the shooting, conducted surveillance of ATM members prior to the shooting, and picked up the shooters after the event.

    Cabrera has been detained since September 16, 2021.  On September 16, 2024, he pleaded guilty to one count of attempted murder and assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, and one count of carrying and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

    This investigation has been conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, Waterbury Police Department, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service, with the assistance of the Southington Police Department, Watertown Police Department, New Milford Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction, Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory, and the DEA Laboratory.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Geoffrey M. Stone, John T. Pierpont, Jr. and Natasha M. Freismuth, and Supervisory Assistant State’s Attorney Don E. Therkildesen, Jr. and Deputy Assistant State’s Attorney Alexandra Arroyo, who were cross-designated as Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys in this matter.

    This prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) programs.

    PSN is a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.

    OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Winter Haven Man Indicted For Narcotics And Firearms Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Dontavious Grant (31, Winter Haven) with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted on all counts, Grant faces a minimum penalty of five years, up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Grant that the United States intends to forfeit a Glock firearm used in the commission of the offense. 

    According to the indictment, on September 18, 2024, Grant possessed a Glock firearm knowing he had been convicted of multiple felonies, including robbery, attempted manslaughter, armed false imprisonment, attempted robbery, and a prior conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. As a convicted felon, Grant is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. On the same day, Grant also possessed marijuana with the intent to distribute it and his possession of the Glock firearm was in furtherance of that offense. 

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

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Judge Sentences Cherokee Man To 30 Years In Prison For Second Degree Murder In Indian Country

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Max O. Cogburn, Jr. sentenced Brandon Tyler Buchanan to 30 years in prison for second degree murder, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Buchanan, 33, an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term and to pay $888,500 in restitution to the victim’s estate.

    Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Chief Carla Neadeau of the Cherokee Indian Police Department (CIPD) join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.

    According to filed court records and court proceedings, on November 11, 2022, CIPD officers responded to a 911 call following reports of a shooting. When the officers arrived, Buchanan admitted to shooting someone. CIPD officers discovered the body of the victim, Kobe Toineeta, a short distance away behind a row of trees, who had sustained five gunshot wounds. Court documents show that a Smith & Wesson, Model M&P, .9mm handgun was later found in Buchanan’s apartment. Laboratory testing confirmed that it was the firearm Buchanan used to shoot and kill the victim.

    On May 31, 2024, Buchanan pleaded guilty to second degree murder and remains in federal custody. He will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility. 

    In making today’s announcement U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the FBI and the Cherokee Indian Police Department for their investigation of the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex Scott of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, King, Bipartisan Group Introduce Bill to Expand Telehealth Access

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Angus King, and a bipartisan group of 58 senators introduced legislation to expand telehealth access in Maine and across the country. The Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act would permanently expand coverage of telehealth services through Medicare, make COVID-19 telehealth flexibilities permanent, improve health outcomes, and make it easier for patients to connect with their doctors. Current flexibilities are set to expire on September 30 unless Congress approves the extension.
    “One fifth of the U.S. population resides in rural or medically underserved communities where access to virtual care is vital, allowing patients to receive necessary care from the comfort and safety of their homes,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation will permanently remove barriers to telehealth and ensure that more Americans can efficiently and safely connect with their health care providers.”
    “As one of the most rural states in the nation, Maine people already face many challenges when accessing affordable, quality healthcare,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan CONNECT for Health Act would ensure that telehealth – which so many rural Maine people rely on – remains available for the foreseeable future. I am happy to work with all of my colleagues on common sense legislation that keeps Maine people living healthier lives.”
    Specifically, the CONNECT for Health Act would:
    Permanently remove all geographic restrictions on telehealth services and expand originating sites to the location of the patient, including homes;
    Permanently allow health centers and rural health clinics to provide telehealth services;
    Allow more eligible health care professionals to utilize telehealth services;
    Remove unnecessary in-person visit requirement for telemental health services;
    Allow for the waiver of telehealth restrictions during public health emergencies; and
    Require more published data to learn more about how telehealth is being used, impacts of quality of care, and how it can be improved to support patients and health care providers.
    The CONNECT for Health Act was first introduced in 2016 and is considered the most comprehensive legislation on telehealth in Congress. Since 2016, several provisions of the bill have been enacted into law or adopted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, including provisions to remove restrictions on telehealth services for mental health, stroke care, and home dialysis.
    The bill has the support of more than 150 organizations including the American Medical Association, AARP, American Hospital Association, National Association of Community Health Centers, National Association of Rural Health Clinics, and American Telemedicine Association.
    In addition to Senators Collins and King, the bill was introduced by Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Peter Welch (D-VT), John Barrasso (R-WY), Alex Padilla (D-CA), John Thune (R-SD), Tina Smith (D-MN), James Lankford (R-OK), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Fetterman (D-PA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jim Justice (R-WV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Todd Young (R-IN), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Gary Peters (D-MI), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Steve Daines (R-MT), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), and John Boozman (R-AR).
    The full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Expand Child Care Relief to Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    To alleviate childcare costs for working families, Murray, Smith, Shaheen, Warnock, and Wyden introduce Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act to permanently expand child care tax credits
    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined Senator Tina Smith (D-MN), and Senate Democratic colleagues to introduce the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act, legislation to help more working families cover a greater share of the high cost of child care.
    The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act would permanently expand the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC). This bill would help ease the burden of high childcare costs on working families by increasing the maximum tax credit to $4,000 per child, allowing families to receive up to $8,000 in tax credits to offset up to $16,000 in expenses. It would also make the credit refundable to ensure low-income working families can benefit. The credit would also be indexed to inflation to retain its value over time.
    “Instead of addressing the growing child care crisis, Trump is indiscriminately firing the very workers who help child care and Head Start centers keep their doors open—making child care more expensive and harder to get for working parents,” said Senator Murray. “While Trump raises families costs by nearly $4000 a year and pushes child care even farther out of reach, my Democratic colleagues and I are continuing to fight to lower families’ costs in every possible way, and I am proud to reintroduce the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act as one additional way to help get families some additional relief to afford the child care they need.”
    “I constantly hear from families in Minnesota who are struggling with the high cost of childcare. For some, it rivals mortgages and is even higher than tuition at the University of Minnesota. Families need real relief and this bill will lower costs and put more money back into the pockets of parents,” said Senator Smith. “When childcare works, everything else does, too—families thrive, the economy grows, and our communities get stronger. That’s why I’m committed to fighting to lower costs and improve access to childcare.”
    “No matter where I go in New Hampshire, families tell me about how much they struggle to access affordable child care,” said Senator Shaheen. “The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit is a proven and effective tool for bringing quality, affordable child care within reach for more families. Expanding this credit to keep up with the rising cost of child care is the right thing to do for workers, families and our nation’s economy.”
    “American families have to deal with hefty expenses when raising a child or caring for a loved one. That’s why the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act is so crucial, especially right now,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “It will help parents and caregivers afford caretaking costs in a time when margins are tight for many families across the country. Tax cuts should go to hardworking Americans, not the wealthiest people in the nation.”
    “The cost of raising a family in this country is already way too high, and it’s getting even more expensive as Trump’s global tariffs jack up the cost of food, cars and products families use every day,” said SenatorWyden. “This proposal is a commonsense, pro-family policy aimed at helping parents and people caring for loved ones, and it’s striking that this kind of bill is nowhere to be found in the Republican tax agenda that costs a staggering $7 trillion. Trump and Republicans are locked in on giving trillions in new handouts to corporations and the wealthy and sticking everybody else with the bill, but pro-family proposals like this one prove that there’s a better way forward.”
    The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act would:
    Increase the maximum credit amount to $4,000 per child, allowing families to receive up to $8,000 in tax credits to offset up to $16,000 in expenses;
    Automatically adjust it to keep pace with inflation;
    Save money by phasing out the credit for families making more than $400,000; and
    Ensure low-income families can benefit from the tax credit by making it refundable.
    Senator Murray has led the fight to tackle the child care crisis in Congress. She was instrumental in ensuring Congress took action when the COVID pandemic forced the child care sector to the brink of collapse. She authored the stabilization provisions in the American Rescue Plan alongside Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) and helped secure a historic $24 billion in stabilization funds and an additional $15 billion for CCDBG in the legislation. One third of child care providers who received a stabilization grant said their child care program would have closed permanently without the grants. She introduced legislation and pushed to extend the stabilization grants—and has continued to push to deliver supplemental funding to address the child care crisis, particularly given the tight fiscal constraints the Fiscal Responsibility Act has imposed on annual appropriations. Critically, Senator Murray has introduced and continues working to build the support needed to pass her Child Care for Working Families Act, comprehensive legislation to tackle the child care crisis and ensure families across America can find and afford the high-quality child care they need.
    In addition to Senators Murray, Smith, Shaheen, Warnock, and Wyden, the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act is cosponsored by Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Angus King (I-ME), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
    The bill is also endorsed by the National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Child Care Aware of America, Save the Children, First Focus Campaign for Children, First Five Years Fund, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Moms Rising, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), Zero to Three, Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Early Care and Education Consortium (ECEC).
    Read more about the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit Enhancement Act HERE.

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