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Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Houston Seeks Suspect in April Fools’ Foiled Bank Robbery

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

    HOUSTON, TX—The FBI Houston’s Violent Crime Task Force is asking for the public’s help in identifying and locating the man behind an “April Fools’ Day” foiled bank robbery in southwest Houston. Crime Stoppers of Houston is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the robber.

    The robbery occurred at approximately 9 a.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the PNC Bank located at 7414 South Sam Houston Parkway in southwest Houston. During the robbery, the suspect entered the bank, approached the counter, and handed the teller a note threatening the robber’s own family and demanding money. The teller was able to walk to a secure part of the bank, hence foiling the bank robbery, and the suspect eventually departed without any money. No one was physically hurt during the robbery.

    The robber is described as a black male in his late 40s, approximately 6’0” tall, with a slim build. During the robbery he wore a black hoodie, black pants, and black/white sneakers.

    Photographs of the suspect from the robbery can be found on FBI Houston’s X and Facebook accounts.

    Crime Stoppers of Houston, a non-governmental organization, is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of this robber. If you have any information, please call the Crime Stoppers tip line at 713-222-TIPS (8477) or the FBI Houston Field Office at (713) 693-5000. Tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers through their website, www.crime-stoppers.org, or the Houston Crime Stoppers mobile phone app which can be downloaded for both iPhone and Android devices. All tipsters remain anonymous.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President calls for holistic overhaul of policing

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President calls for holistic overhaul of policing

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a bold, coordinated, and community-driven approach to crime-fighting, describing policing in South Africa as being at a crossroads that demands urgent reform and collaboration from across all sectors of society.

    The President was delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Policing Summit held in Ekurhuleni on Tuesday. 

    President Ramaphosa applauded the Ministry of Police for convening what he termed a “critical” gathering, which brings together government, civil society, business, interfaith groups, labour, and communities to reshape the country’s safety and security strategy.

    “Safeguarding our nation’s safety and security requires that we are proactive, innovative and solution-oriented in our approach… Just as crime is an all-of-society problem, overcoming crime must be an all-of-society effort.

    “In doing so, we must marshall our full support behind the hardworking men and women of the South African Police Service,” the President said. 

    The President said crime has a direct impact on the economy, as it discourages investment, disrupts business activity and leads to increased security costs for companies. 

    He noted that social ills such as poverty and inequality, unemployment, lack of opportunity, patriarchy and misogyny, and broken family structures are just some of the issues that contribute to crime and criminality. 

    “Addressing crime without understanding its root causes is like a doctor treating a patient for a fever without diagnosing the underlying illness. 
     
    “It is therefore encouraging that this summit has as one of its key objectives adopting a more holistic approach to law-enforcement, encompassing not just the police but the entire policing system,” the President said. 

    The President emphasised that policing must be grounded in the Batho Pele principles of service delivery, which include respect, empathy, accessibility, and accountability. 

    He said that the policing terrain of today is complex and multi-faceted and the police strive to fulfil their mandate in the context of emerging threats. 
     
    These threats, he said, include transnational organised crime, illegal mining, extortion syndicates, the theft of economic infrastructure, money laundering and terror financing. 
     
    “And yet, even in this extremely challenging environment, the South African Police Service continues to register successes in fighting crime in its various operations,” the president said.

    Restoring public trust 

    The President warned that restoring public trust in the police is critical to winning the fight against crime.

    “We need to improve the relationships between the police and the communities they serve. We need to work to improve the morale of SAPS members, many of whom are battling heavy workloads, insufficient resources and outdated systems. 
     
    “Even as the SAPS budget has increased over the past ten years, the reality is that the number of police personnel has been declining while the country’s population has been growing,” the President said. 
     
    President Ramaphosa stressed that policing cannot succeed without the active involvement of communities. 

    He called for a stronger role for Community Policing Forums (CPFs), citizen empowerment, and partnerships with the private sector, which has already played a crucial role in equipping victim support centres and bolstering frontline capacity.

    “We know that communities are the most potent resource for fighting crime. Crimes happen in communities and criminals are often known to communities. 
     
    “From this summit we need a clear plan on how to better involve communities in crime prevention and detection, and on harnessing the potential of CPFs in line with relevant legislation and regulations,” he said. 
     
    The role of technology and data

    The President welcomed and backed the focus of the summit on exploring the role of technology in modern policing, investigation and intelligence.

    “We need to harness modern technologies to support crime-fighting. Technology is particularly crucial when analysing crime trends and patterns. It is also valuable in empowering citizens,” President Ramaphosa said.

    He further advocated for applying a socio-economic lens to crime data to better tailor responses for example, by examining links between substance abuse and robbery, or alcohol abuse and gender-based violence.

    “Data plays a pivotal role in policing and law-enforcement. And we need to apply a socio-economic lens when analysing such data. The data may tell us, for example, about a community with a high prevalence of housebreaking and robbery, in which substance abuse is also rife. 
     
    “Understanding the connections revealed by this data should inform the approach to policing in that community. There is ample data on the linkages between alcohol abuse and the prevalence of gender-based violence,” the President said.

    He added that a holistic policing approach would, for example, need to involve working with local authorities to enforce municipal by-laws for establishments selling alcohol. 

    As part of facilitating access to SAPS services, the President said it is encouraging that discussions are planned for how to leverage innovative digital platforms such as mobile apps, online reporting systems and virtual communication channels to improve the public’s interaction with the police. 
     
    “To turn the tide against crime, we need better collaboration among the different agencies in the law-enforcement space,” he said.

    The President further highlighted that there is a proliferation of organised crime in South Africa, including the manufacture of illicit drugs, kidnapping for ransom and money laundering. 

    He said this is taking place alongside a growth in illegal mining, extortion in the construction sector, and the theft of public infrastructure.
     
    Addressing corruption

    The President urged police to stay away from corrupt activities, stressing that corruption has infiltrated every part of society, including the SAPS. 

    He said while prosecuting corrupt officers is important, it is equally crucial to instil a culture of honesty and integrity within the police service. 

    The President emphasised the need to strengthen the fundamentals of policing through ethics, accountability, and professionalism. 

    He expressed hope that the summit would focus on promoting ethical conduct, restoring public trust in law enforcement, and upholding the rule of law. 

    Key initiatives include protecting whistleblowers, implementing the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, and improving recruitment and training to attract the right calibre of candidates to the SAPS. 

    “If the SAPS is to fulfil its crucial mandate, we have to emerge from these few days with a clear plan on how to address the systemic deficiencies that are negatively impacting policing. 
     
    “As a country we owe the SAPS our full support. As government we remain committed to turning the tide against crime and to making our communities safer. 
     
    “It is our hope that the recommendations emerging from this summit translate into deeper collaboration, more effective methods and a promising future for policing in South Africa,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

    DikelediM
    Tue, 04/08/2025 – 13:57

    1107 views

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Seven to appear in court for illegal mining

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, April 9, 2025

    Seven suspects are expected to appear in court soon after they were nabbed following police operations in Limpopo.

    “Vala Umgodi Operations conducted in the Sekhukhune District in Limpopo led to the arrest of seven suspects for illegal mining of sand and possession of suspected precious minerals (raw Chrome), on Sunday, 06 April 2025, at [the] Nebo and Burgersfort Policing areas,” the South African Police Service (SAPS).

    In its statement on Tuesday, the SAPS said a 36-year-old man was arrested for the possession of suspected stolen precious minerals (raw chrome) at Spitzkop Farm in the Burgesfort policing area.

    “The suspect was found loading chrome in a yellow dumbbell truck. Another suspect aged 18 was arrested for contravention of immigration act in the area,” said the police.

    Additionally, five suspects aged between 28 and 51, were nabbed for illegal mining of sand on Sunday, 06 April 2025, at Ga-Marishane Village in the Nebo policing area. 

    Members of Vala Umgodi Operation conducted a disruptive operation at the area when a group of people were noticed loading sand into a white leyman truck. Police confiscated three shovels and the truck that was loaded with sand.

    “The suspects will appear before the local magistrate’s court soon. Police investigations are ongoing,” said the SAPS.  –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Four murder suspects killed in shootout with police

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, April 9, 2025

    Four suspects, who were wanted for cases of murder in the vicinity of Inanda, were shot and fatally wounded in a shootout with police on the M4 Highway in Umlazi on Tuesday afternoon.

    Police had gathered intelligence about the whereabouts of the wanted suspects, and when police pounced on them at a mall in Umlazi, the suspects sped off. 

    “When the police caught up with them, the suspects fired shots towards the police. To protect themselves and other road users, police returned fire,” the South African Police Service said in a statement. 

    During the shootout, four suspects were shot and fatally wounded. No police officer sustained any injuries during the shootout.

    “The suspects were found in possession of three firearms. The four suspects were wanted for at least three cases of murder in Inanda, two of which were double murders. The murders were committed in March and April 2025,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: GBV laws must be strengthened: President Ramaphosa

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the urgent need to confront and address existing blind spots within the legal system, which continue to undermine the rights and interests of survivors of gender-based violence (GBV).

    Delivering the keynote address at the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) biennial conference on Wednesday, the President said it is critical that these legal deficiencies are urgently identified and resolved.

    “A central issue is overcoming the blind spots in the law and the legal system that are working against the rights and interests of survivors.

    “For the fight against gender-based violence to be strengthened and have a measurable and sustainable impact, it is critical that these deficiencies are addressed to bring about change,” the President said. 

    Judges, magistrates, legal professionals and policymakers from across the world are currently meeting at the biennial conference of the IAWJ underway in Cape Town to address the global scourge of gender-based violence and femicide through judicial leadership and activism.

    This year’s conference is organised under the theme” “Resilience: Women in Leadership to End Gender-Based Violence & Femicide”.

    It is the first to be hosted in South Africa under the leadership of a female Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa, Mandisa Maya, who is also the IAWJ Vice President. 

    President Ramaphosa last addressed the IAWJ back in 2022, which was the year the country passed a trio of laws to strengthen the legal framework and offer greater protection to survivors.

    Following an extensive public consultation process, the country amended three existing laws as part of the wider effort to combat GBVF. 

    Amendments were made to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act to introduce a new category of sexual intimidation, and to expand the scope of the National Register for Sex Offenders. 

    The Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act was amended to regulate the granting and cancellation of bail, to regulate sentences for offenses committed against vulnerable persons, and to advance the right of complainants to participate in parole proceedings.

    Lastly, the Domestic Violence Act was amended to expand the existing definitions of domestic violence, and to enable survivors to apply for protection orders online.

    President Ramaphosa stressed that while courts are constitutionally mandated to dispense justice without fear or favour, it is equally important that justice is seen to be done.

    He said that in addressing the scourge of gender-based violence, it is not enough to have laws in place — they must be implemented and enforced effectively.

    “In the context of gender equality, and within the context of high levels of gender-based violence more specifically, what do we mean? It means laws cannot just be written — they must be enforced. 

    “It means that perpetrators must be held accountable, and that the sentences they are given should reflect the seriousness of their crimes. When judicial discretion is exercised in a prescribed minimum sentencing regime, the reasons for departure must indeed be substantial and compelling,” he said. 

    The President further highlighted the need for fairness, not only in ensuring the accused receives a fair trial, but also in how survivors of gender-based violence are treated by the courts.

    “It means fairness, and this doesn’t only apply to an accused’s right to a fair trial. It also applies to fair treatment of survivors of GBV by our courts, and that they should not be subjected to bias and victim-blaming,” the President said. 

    President Ramaphosa emphasised that the IAWJ is a catalyst for change, highlighting the unique contribution that women judges make to the legal profession. 

    “As women judges, your lived experiences provide insight into the realities behind the cases, and you have the power to reshape how the law is interpreted, how justice is delivered, and how society evolves. 

    “This conference is an opportunity to sharpen our collective commitment to law that heals, courts that transform, and to systems that centre humanity,” he said. 

    In addition to utilising the law, President Ramaphosa emphasised the need to embark on many other efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide, and have a multifaceted approach that will include education and spreading awareness about the importance of gender equality from a young age. 

    He also underscored the importance of engaging men and boys in the conversation to prevent gender-based violence. He further called on society to advocate for women’s empowerment and economic independence, which would help reduce their vulnerability to abuse.

    “We must make men and boys part of the conversation to prevent gender-based violence. We should also as society insist that women should have more control over their lives and economic independence which will reduce their vulnerability to violence.

    “I wish you well in your deliberations and I am confident that the outcomes of this conference will make a significant impact in advancing the fight against gender based violence and femicide,” the President said. 

    The biennial conference will end on Saturday, 12 April. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, chairs meeting with Odisha Chief Minister, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, in New Delhi to review implementation of three New Criminal Laws in the State

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, chairs meeting with Odisha Chief Minister, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, in New Delhi to review implementation of three New Criminal Laws in the State

    Odisha government should prioritize the 100% implementation of the New Criminal Laws across all levels of administration for the next six months

    Next decade is crucial for the development of Odisha; considering the state’s future industrial and technological growth, New Criminal Laws will play a vital role in strengthening law & order

    State’s Home Secretary should review the progress of implementing the New Criminal Laws once a week, Chief Secretary and DGP should review it every 15 days, and the Chief Minister should review on a monthly basis, setting a timeline for their implementation in the state

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 8:42PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, chaired a review meeting on the implementation of three new criminal laws in Odisha, in the presence of Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, in New Delhi today. The meeting reviewed the implementation and present status of various new provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensics in Odisha. The meeting was attended by the Union Home Secretary, Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Odisha, the Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD), the Director, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), and other senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the government of Odisha.

     

     

    During the meeting, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, said that the Odisha government should prioritize 100% implementation of the new criminal laws across all levels of administration for the next six months.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the next decade is crucial for the development of an emerging state like Odisha. Considering the state’s future industrial and technological growth, he highlighted that the three new criminal laws will play a vital role in strengthening the law and order.

     

    Union Home Minister said that the state’s Home Secretary should review the progress of implementing new criminal laws on a weekly basis and the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police should review it fortnightly and the Chief Minister should review on a monthly basis, prioritizing the timelines of implementation.

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    VV/RR/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2120594) Visitor Counter : 46

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Workshop on Developing Ecosystem for Assistive Technology in India” Organised by NITI Aayog

    Source: Government of India

    Workshop on Developing Ecosystem for Assistive Technology in India” Organised by NITI Aayog

    Organised in Collaboration with Govt of Maharashtra

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 6:37PM by PIB Delhi

    NITI Aayog in collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra, organised a workshop on the theme “Developing Ecosystem for Assistive Technology in India” at YASHADA, Pune today.

    The workshop was inaugurated by Shri Sanjay Shirsat, Minister of Social Justice and Special Assistance Department, Govt of Maharashtra. Dr. V.K. Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, Smt. Sujata Saunik, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Maharashtra, Dr. Rajib Kumar Sen, Senior Adviser, NITI Aayog, Shri Niranjan Kumar Sudhanshu, Director General, YASHADA, and Shri K.S. Rejimon, Joint Secretary, NITI Aayog, were also present among other dignitaries.

    In his inaugural address, Hon’ble Minister highlighted the importance of domestic capabilty of AT industry and its role in promoting inclusivity.

    Dr. V.K. Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, in his special address, emphasised the need for developing an eco-system for Assistive Technology which is critical for social inclusion in achieving the vision@2047.

    The day long workshop included three sessions deliberating the challenges, gaps, best practices, initiatives and role of Central Government, State Govt., International organisation, Industry/ Start-ups etc.

    The first session focused on “Improving Access to Assistive Technology in India”. The session provided a comprehensive view of how key government initiatives, policies, and inter-sectoral collaborations which are playing a transformative role in making assistive technologies more accessible for persons with disabilities (PwDs), the elderly, and other marginalised communities. 

    In the second session on “State Initiatives in Assistive Technology”, The representatives from state Governments of Goa, Kerala, Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Telangana and Tamil Nadu, highlighted how targeted policies, partnerships, and on-the-ground efforts are improving the reach and impact of AT.

    The third session of the Assistive Technology workshop focused on “AT Manufacturing and Global Collaborations” brought forth significance of fostering a strong domestic manufacturing base for AT and the immense value of global partnerships. Representatives of WHO, UNDP, ATSCale (UNOPS), World Bank, AssisTech Foundation and Tynor, highlighted the key role of global collaborations in advancing AT in India, as India aspires to become a global hub for AT innovation and manufacturing.

    In the Concluding session Shri Ramdas Athawale, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment addressed the participants and underscored the importance of building an inclusive society.

    The deliberations and suggestions emerged during the workshop will pave the way for developing an eco-system for Assistive Technology in India to achieve Viksit Bharat vision @2047 of building an inclusive society.

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2120533) Visitor Counter : 89

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM to visit Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on 11th April

    Source: Government of India

    PM to visit Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on 11th April

    PM to lay the foundation stone and inaugurate various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi

    Special focus of projects: road, electricity, education, tourism

    PM to present Geographical Indication (GI) certificates to newly registered local items and products

    PM to perform darshan and pooja at Guru Ji Maharaj Temple in Isagarh, Madhya Pradesh

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 9:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will visit Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on 11th April. He will travel to Varanasi and at around 11 AM, he will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore. He will also address a public meeting.

    Thereafter he will travel to Madhya Pradesh and at around 3:15 PM, he will perform darshan and pooja at Guru Ji Maharaj Temple in Isagarh. Further, at around 4:15 PM, he will participate in a public programme at Anandpur Dham and address the gathering on the occasion.

    PM in Uttar Pradesh

    Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi. In line with his commitment to infrastructure development, particularly enhancing road connectivity in Varanasi, he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for various road projects in the region. Furthermore, he will lay the foundation stone for a road bridge between Varanasi Ring Road and Sarnath, flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih crossings of the city and a highway underpass road tunnel on NH-31 at the Varanasi International Airport worth over Rs 980 crore.

    Giving a boost to the electricity infrastructure, Prime Minister will inaugurate two 400 KV and one 220 KV transmission substations and associated transmission lines of Jaunpur, Chandauli and Ghazipur districts of Varanasi division worth over Rs 1,045 crore. He will also lay the foundation stone of a 220 KV transmission substation at Chaukaghat, Varanasi, a 132 KV transmission substation in Ghazipur and augmentation of the Varanasi city electricity distribution system worth over Rs 775 crore.

    Prime Minister will inaugurate a Transit Hostel at the Police Line and barracks at PAC Ramnagar Campus, to improve facilities for the security personnel. He will also lay the foundation stone of new administrative buildings at various police stations and a residential hostel in Police Line.

    In line with his vision to ensure education for all, Prime Minister will inaugurate projects including a Government Polytechnic College at Pindra, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Government College at village Barki, 356 rural libraries and 100 Anganwadi centres also. He will also lay the foundation stone for renovation of 77 primary school buildings under the Smart City Mission and the construction of a new building for Kasturba Gandhi School at Cholapur, Varanasi. Promoting sports infrastructure in the city, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for a synthetic hockey turf with floodlights and spectator gallery at Uday Pratap College and a mini stadium at Shivpur.

    Prime Minister will also inaugurate the redevelopment of Samne Ghat and Shastri Ghat at Ganga river, 130 rural drinking water schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission worth over Rs 345 crore, improvement of six municipal wards of Varanasi and landscaping and sculpture installations at various sites of Varanasi.

    Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for MSME Unity Mall for artisans, infrastructure development works of Transport Nagar Scheme at Mohansarai, 1 MW solar power plant at WTP Bhelupur, Community halls in 40 Gram panchayats and beautification of various parks in Varanasi.

    Prime Minister will also handover Ayushman Vay Vandana cards to first time benefitting senior citizens over 70 years. He will present Geographical Indication (GI) certificates to various local items and products including  tabla, painting, thandai, tiranga barfi among others. He will also transfer over Rs 105 crore bonus to milk suppliers of Uttar Pradesh associated with Banas Dairy.

    PM in Madhya Pradesh

    In line with his commitment to furthering the cultural and spiritual heritage of India, Prime Minister will visit Anandpur Dham of Isagarh Tehsil in the Ashoknagar district in Madhya Pradesh. He will perform darshan and pooja at Guru Ji Maharaj Temple. He will also tour the temple complex at Anandpur Dham.

    Anandpur Dham has been established for spiritual and philanthropic purposes. Spanning 315 hectares, it houses a modern gaushala (cowshed) with over 500 cows and runs agricultural activities under Shri Anandpur Trust campus. The trust has been operating a charitable hospital in Sukhpur village, schools in Sukhpur and Anandpur and various Satsang Centers across the country.

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2120622) Visitor Counter : 52

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CSD holds national security education student forum and premieres national security microfilm (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Correctional Services Department (CSD) today (April 9) held a national security education student forum at Queen Elizabeth Stadium and premiered a national security education microfilm produced by the CSD. The Acting Secretary for Security, Mr Michael Cheuk, was the officiating guest. Other guests included Deputy Director-General of the Police Liaison Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government (CPG) in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Mr Xie Wei; Deputy Director of the liaison office of the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the CPG in the HKSAR Mr Xie Zhixiang; and the Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Wong Kwok-hing.
     
    More than 1 600 teachers and students from 29 schools, principals, parent-teacher association members, members of Fight Crime Committees, members of the Committee on Community Support for Rehabilitated Offenders, and various community partners of the CSD attended the forum.
     
    To raise public awareness of safeguarding national security, the CSD produced two national security education microfilms, namely “Momentary Glory” and “Unfailing Love”. Adapted from real cases, the microfilms feature stories of teenagers who were incited to commit illegal acts which endanger national security, and paid a heavy price in the end. Through the microfilms, the CSD hopes to enhance the public’s ability to think critically and discerningly, and raise their awareness of abiding by the law.
     
    Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Cheuk said that the CSD has shouldered the mission of safeguarding national security and has taken initiatives to go beyond the prison walls to actively promote community crime prevention education to nurture young people to become a new generation that loves the country and Hong Kong, are law-abiding citizens and have a positive mindset. The microfilm “Momentary Glory”, shown at today’s forum, portrays the heavy price of committing crimes that endanger national security. He hoped that students can understand that they should think twice before they act and not to commit any crimes to avoid lifelong regrets.
     
         The forum also featured a video clip of the real protagonist in the microfilm. In the video, he shared his emotional journey of repentance and feelings after being misled into committing illegal acts and ultimately being sentenced to imprisonment. There was also an interactive session in the forum, allowing students to express their views on the microfilm to inspire them to think from different perspectives. Moreover, the CSD arranged for rehabilitated persons to talk about the cost they had to pay for committing crimes and their rehabilitation experiences, reminding students to determine the authenticity of information and refrain from engaging in illegal activities.
     
    The two microfilms will be uploaded to various official media platforms of the CSD and the Education Bureau on National Security Education Day on April 15 to convey messages of safeguarding national security to more students and the public.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government cautions public against online video about investment plan purported to be recommended by CE

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government cautions public against online video about investment plan purported to be recommended by CE 
    The spokesman strongly condemned those who have attempted to distribute fake investment advice in the name of the Chief Executive. The incident has been referred to the Police for a follow-up investigation.
    Issued at HKT 18:34

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Colleagues Lead Legislation to Stop Anticompetitive Practices in Meat-Packing Industry, Promote Fair Playing Field for Livestock Producers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    Download broadcast quality video HERE 

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined Sens. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) to introduce bipartisan legislation that would beef up enforcement of anticompetitive practices in the consolidated meatpacking industry, aiding cattle producers and bringing down prices at the meat counter.

    The Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act would strengthen the enforcement of the Stockyards and Packers Act by adding a team of investigators equipped with subpoena power within the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to ensure compliance by America’s meatpacking industry.  

    “For decades, America’s Big Four meatpackers’ anticompetitive practices have made it harder for Iowa cattle producers to receive a fair price,” Grassley said. “Our bill empowers USDA, in coordination with the Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission, to crack down on bad actors, ensuring a fair and functional marketplace that supports everyone who produces and enjoys quality American meat.”

    “For too long, Oregon ranchers and consumers have been greedily exploited by the Big Four meatpackers that sneak their way around regulations,” Wyden said. “While local ranchers work tirelessly day and night to support their small business and feed families across the country, these big companies keep raking in bigger bills at the expense of local communities in red and blue states alike. It’s way past time to level the playing field for local ranchers and bring grocery prices down for consumers at the meat counter by better enforcing laws that are already on the books.”

    “Anticompetitive practices in the meatpacking industry hurt producers and consumers alike,”Rounds said. “Currently, four large companies, two of which are foreign-owned, control over 80% of the meat processing market. Our legislation would establish an office within the USDA to investigate violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921, which will support competition in meat and poultry markets.”

    “Vermonters rely on fresh foods from local farmers and ranchers to feed their families,”Welch said. “But with meat and dairy prices at the grocery store soaring sky high, small producers across the country are struggling to make ends meet and support their businesses. The rapid consolidation of the meatpacking industry further cripples fair competition. Our bipartisan bill will bring down costs for consumers and create opportunities for producers in red and blue states alike.”

    The Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act is endorsed by the National Farmers Union and the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association.

    “If the bad actors in the marketplace have nothing to hide, then they should have no problem with reinforcing USDA’s oversight authority through the measures provided in this bill. It’s not enough that producers stand on a level playing field in the marketplace – there also needs to be a referee, with a whistle, there to throw a flag when there’s a penalty. USCA fully supports the Meat Packing Special Investigator Act and would like to applaud our Champions for ‘Competition’ in the Senate who never waver on supporting producers not just in Oregon, South Dakota, and Iowa – but across the countryside,” said Justin Tupper, President of the United States Cattlemen’s Association.

    “A special investigator at USDA is an important step to cracking down on unfair practices and leveling the playing field for independent livestock producers. Senators Wyden, Rounds, and Grassley get it—strong enforcement keeps monopolies in check. When family farmers and ranchers thrive, so do our rural communities,” said Rob Larew, President of the National Farmers Union.

    Background:

    Today, just four companies control 85% of the beef market and 67% of the pork market. That’s a significant increase from 36% and 34% in 1980. The Big Four meatpackers have created a distorted marketplace through anticompetitive practices while turning big profits at the expense of livestock and poultry producers.

    Additional cosponsors include Sens. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.).

    Click HERE for broadcast quality video of Grassley discussing the legislation.

    Text of the legislation can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Highlights Efforts to Safeguard Critical Resources for Victims of Crime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Amid National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) highlighted his ongoing oversight of the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Crime Victims Fund. 

    Last Congress, Grassley revealed the Biden administration diverted more than $1 billion away from the Crime Victims Fund, which provides critical resources to crime victims and survivors nationwide. Since Grassley began shining light on the issue, the fund’s balance has grown by more than $3 billion. 

    Grassley recently wrote to Attorney General Pam Bondi urging the DOJ to safeguard the fund. Read his letter to Bondi HERE.

    Video and transcript of Grassley’s remarks follow.

    Floor Remarks by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa
    Senate President Pro Tempore
    “Supporting Victims and Survivors of Crime”
    Wednesday, April 9, 2025

    [embedded content]

    VIDEO

    Today, I come to the floor to support National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.  

    For many years, I’ve pressed the Department of Justice to do its part to shore up what is called the Crime Victims Fund.  

    That fund supports victims and survivors of crime across the nation. 

    On Monday, I, along with Senators Ernst, Crapo and Risch, sent a letter to Department of Justice.  

    That letter urged the Department of Justice to ensure that criminal fines and penalties are collected and deposited into the Crime Victims Fund.

    I made this request because last Congress, my oversight revealed Biden administration failures.

    Specifically, since the enactment of the Victims of Crime Act fix in 2021, the Biden Justice Department failed to collect and deposit more than a billion dollars in criminal fines and penalties which belongs to this fund.  

    Instead, the Biden administration allowed the fines to be paid to foreign governments and elsewhere. 

    Since my oversight shined the light on the Biden Justice Department’s failures and misguided approach, the Department of Justice Inspector General opened its own independent audit.  

    And at my request, the Government Accountability Office also agreed to review the Department of Justice’s administration of this Crime Victims Fund. 

    History has shown sunshine is the best disinfectant.  

    Since my Crime Victims Fund oversight began, the balance increased from $1 billion dollars in 2023, the lowest in over a decade, to its current balance of $4.3 billion. 

    Those figures that I just gave you came from the Department of Justice’s statistics. 

    The Department of Justice must ensure the Crime Victims Fund has adequate resources. 

    If the Department of Justice doesn’t, organizations across the nation helping survivors and helping victims of crime are at serious risk of potentially closing their doors and not being able to continue this help.  

    The Department of Justice shouldn’t allow the mistakes of the Biden administration to happen again.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: West Virginia Man Charged with Possession of an Unregistered Firearm After Attempting to Take Flashbang Grenade Through Airport Security

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

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Morgantown, West Virginia, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of possession of an unregistered firearm, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The one-count Indictment named Zachary Vincent Velling, 26, as the sole defendant.

    According to the Indictment and public information from the Allegheny County Police Department, on November 12, 2024, Velling entered airport security at the Pittsburgh International Airport and placed his carry-on luggage through the x-ray machine. Representatives with the Transportation Security Administration noticed a suspicious object within Velling’s luggage, which officers from the Allegheny County Police Department ultimately determined to be a MK24 MOD 0,6 Bang/Flash diversionary hand grenade. The grenade is a firearm and destructive device under federal law that was not registered to Velling in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Velling was previously charged in relation to this incident in the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas with possession of an offensive weapon and criminal attempt. Those charges have been dismissed as a result of this federal Indictment.

    “Attempting to pass through airport security with any firearm or destructive device poses an unacceptable risk of harm to the innocent traveling public,” said Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti. “This danger is heightened when, as in this case, the destructive device is possessed illegally. We are steadfast in our commitment to work with our partners at the FBI, ATF, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, and Transportation Security Administration to ensure safe air travel.”

    The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Allegheny County Police Department; Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office; and Transportation Security Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

    An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Justice Department, FBI Join U.S. Coast Guard During Offload of More than $509 Million in Illegal…

    Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

    Attorney General Pamela Bondi joined FBI Director Kash Patel and leaders from the U.S. Coast Guard as they offloaded over 48,400 pounds of illegal drugs valued at more than $509 million at Port Everglades, Florida.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCGOrAuupXs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arlington Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Fentanyl Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A man identified as a member/associate of the Heath Street Gang was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

    Cerone Davis, 31, of Arlington, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to one year in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In January 2025, Davis pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.  

    On or about June 8, 2023, Davis was arrested on the grounds of the Mildred C. Hailey Apartments, a public housing complex in Jamaica Plain, in possession of numerous individually packaged bags of fentanyl. At the time of his arrest, Davis was on supervised release in connection with a prior federal conviction for distributing cocaine in the very same housing complex, and was specifically prohibited from being in that area.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Feld Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement. The investigation was supported by the Boston Housing Authority Police Department and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Hoefle of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Monroe County Men Charged With Drug Trafficking And Firearms Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Eli Valentine Calero, age 43, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, and John Charles Ehrhard, Jr., age 56, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, were indicted yesterday, April 8, 2025, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges. 

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the superseding indictment alleges that between May 2024 and March 2025, Calero and Ehrhard, Jr. conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania.  The indictment alleges that during that time Ehrhard, Jr. distributed methamphetamine on multiple occasions and possessed a firearm and ammunition in furtherance of his drug trafficking, when he was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior felony conviction. The indictment further alleges that on March 12, 2025, Calero possessed over 500 grams of methamphetamine and cocaine for distribution.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.

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

    The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is lifetime imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

    Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Honduran National for Illegally Possessing Firearm and Illegal Re-Entry After Having Been Removed from the U.S. on 2 Prior Occasions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green, Kentucky, returned an indictment today charging a Honduran national with illegally re-entering the United States and possessing a firearm.   

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, and Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division made the announcement.

    According to the indictment, Alexis Pinto-Mejia, age 38, a citizen of Honduras, was charged with possessing a firearm on February 25, 2024, in Warren County, Kentucky, knowing he was illegally and unlawfully in the United States. Pinto-Mejia was also charged with illegally re-entering the United States after having previously been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about April 4, 2006, and July 6, 2016.

    The defendant previously made an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on a federal complaint and arrest warrant. The Court ordered the defendant detained pending trial. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 17 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. The Court ordered the defendant detained pending trial.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is being investigated by HSI Bowling Green, ATF Bowling Green, and ICE ERO.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.

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

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Finds Man Guilty in Shooting at Social Club Which Left an NFL Prospect Paralyzed

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Roger Lee Jones, 42, of Washington, D.C., was found guilty by a Superior Court jury, on April 7, 2025, of one count of assault with intent to kill while armed and other related charges, for shooting a man in retaliation for an earlier dispute at a social club. The verdict was announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and followed a two week trial.

                The jury also found Jones guilty of three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of aggravated assault while armed, one count of assault with a dangerous weapon, one count of carrying a pistol without a license, one count of unauthorized use of a vehicle, one count of simple assault, one count of fleeing a law enforcement officer, and one count of threats. Superior Court Judge Danya A. Dayson scheduled sentencing for June 13, 2025.

                According to the evidence presented at trial, on January 22, 2022, Victim 1 was working as a security guard at Kick Axe Throw Social located in Northeast, DC. Jones was a patron there with his ex-girlfriend and child’s mother, Victim 2. At the establishment, Jones got into an argument with Victim 2, took the keys to Victim 2’s vehicle, and left the bar with the keys.  After Jones left the bar, Victim 2 called Jones to ask for the return of her vehicle. 

                At approximately 12:10 a.m., Jones returned to the front of Kick Axe Throw Social where Victim 2 was waiting. Jones refused to return the keys or the vehicle, and then violently attacked Victim 2 by punching her multiple times in the face.  Security staff intervened and stopped Jones’s assault.  In response, Jones made threatening statements to the security staff, then left the scene in Victim 2’s vehicle. Victim 1 was not one of the security staff who broke up the fight.

                After leaving Kick Axe Throw Social, Jones called an accomplice, who drove to the defendant’s location. Jones and the accomplice then drove back to Kick Axe using the accomplice’s vehicle. 

                Meanwhile, Victim 2 traveled to her home and called Jones to again ask him to return her vehicle. Jones replied by telling Victim 2 to stay where she was and that he was coming to kill her. 

                At 1:07 a.m., as Victim 1 was standing by the trunk of his car preparing to leave Kick Axe Throw Social, Jones approached Victim 1 from behind and fired seven shots at him from close range. Victim 1 suffered gunshot wounds to his chest and back and was paralyzed immediately from the waist down. Prior to the incident, Victim 1 was a National Football League (NFL) prospect. The defendant and the accomplice then fled the scene in the accomplice’s vehicle.

                At approximately 1:54 a.m., as police officers with the Metropolitan Police Department were assisting Victim 2 by her residence, Victim 2 and the officers spotted her vehicle being operated with its headlights off.  Officers immediately began to follow the vehicle with emergency equipment activated, but Jones refused to comply with officer commands to stop the vehicle. Jones was able to make good his escape.

                Jones was identified through surveillance footage, cell phone tracking data, vehicle data, and ballistics evidence linking the gun used in this incident to a shooting committed on February 19, 2022, by the accomplice.

                In announcing the verdict, U.S. Attorney Martin and Chief Smith commended the work of officers and detectives of the Metropolitan Police Department who investigated the case. They also commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward Dunn and Benjamin Helfand, who investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Miller and Travis Wolf, who prosecuted the case at trial. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Guilty at Trial of Illegally Possessing a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MACON, Ga. – A Baldwin County man with a prior aggravated assault conviction, who had a pistol with an extended magazine during a tense standoff with deputies, was found guilty by a federal jury of illegally possessing a firearm this week.

    Dormaine Mitchell, 39, of Milledgeville, Georgia, was found guilty of one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on April 8, following a two-day trial that began on April 7. Mitchell faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal is presiding over the case. A sentencing date will be determined by the Court.

    “We are relieved that no one was injured in this incident and thankful to the officers who effectively managed a tense and dangerous situation,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Alongside our law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will vigorously pursue justice against repeat offenders who disregard federal law and illegally possess firearms.”

    “A prohibited person in possession of stolen firearms is a clear and present danger to our communities,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka of the Atlanta Field Division. “We are incredibly grateful for the courage and quick action of our law enforcement partners who responded to this high-risk situation. Their dedication ensured a safe outcome for everyone involved. ATF is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners as we work together to protect the public and pursue justice.”

    “Law enforcement has a strong footprint in Baldwin County, and this case demonstrates the positive outcomes resulting from the collaboration between the Sheriff’s Department and our federal partners,” said Baldwin County Sheriff Bill Massee.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, a Baldwin County Sheriff’s deputy observed the defendant driving erratically by running off the side of the road and into oncoming traffic on Vinson Highway near Laboratory Road on Oct. 13, 2022. The officer stopped the vehicle and noticed the driver, Mitchell, had a strong smell of alcohol and slurred speech. Mitchell told the officer he did not have weapons in the car. However, when Mitchell reached for his wallet, the officer saw the extended magazine of a Glock 22 pistol sticking out from between the driver’s seat and the center console. The officer pulled her weapon and commanded Mitchell to put his hands on the steering wheel. The officer then saw Mitchell lower his right hand. The officer called for backup, took cover and gave verbal commands. At some point during their encounter, Mitchell moved the firearm and placed it on the passenger seat of the vehicle. More officers arrived, and Mitchell was taken into custody. While Mitchell was escorted to the police car, he told the officer, “You better be glad it didn’t go bad.” Mitchell has a lengthy criminal history, including a prior aggravated assault conviction in Baldwin County, Georgia, Superior Court. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.

    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).

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, along with assistance from the Milledgeville Police Department and the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, are investigating the case.

    Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julius Jefferson are prosecuting the case for the Government.
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Lower Ship Harbour — Update: RCMP arrests woman involved in hate motivated crime in Lower Ship Harbour

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has arrested a woman involved in a hate motived crime that occurred in Lower Ship Harbour.

    On March 25, at approximately 11:10 a.m., RCMP officers received a report of mischief at a residential property on West Ship Harbour Rd. The mischief is considered to be motivated by hate based on race, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression.

    As a result of the investigation and information from the pubic, a 64-year-old woman from Dartmouth was identified as being involved in the incident. She was arrested on April 6 and will be facing a charge of Mischief.

    The woman was later released and is scheduled to appear in Dartmouth Provincial Court on May 12 at 9:30 a.m.

    File #: 25-40728

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Collins, King, Kelly, Heinrich Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Address PFAS Contamination in Private Wells

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) are reintroducing bipartisan legislation to address per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in private wells. The Technical Fix for the State Response to Contaminants Program bill would ensure that states have the flexibility to use $5 billion provided in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS and other emerging contaminants in small and disadvantaged communities to assist private well owners.
    “Nearly half of all Granite Staters get their water supply at home from private wells—they shouldn’t have to worry that the water they’re drinking is unsafe,” said Senator Shaheen. “Our bipartisan legislation would ensure that assistance from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help communities address toxic PFAS is available to more Granite Staters, regardless of where their drinking water comes from.”
    “PFAS and other harmful contaminants have been discovered in private water systems in Maine and across the country, and contamination will only become more evident as testing becomes more readily available,” said Senator Collins. “It is crucial that the funding we provided through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law be executed with the appropriate flexibility not only to support public water systems but also to help address contamination for those who rely on private wells. With more than half of Maine residents getting their drinking water from private wells, and an estimated 23 million people or more nationwide relying on residential wells, it is important that the historic investments in safe drinking water help all families.”
    “Every Maine community and household deserves access to clean drinking water that is free of harsh or toxic chemicals like PFAS,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Technical Fix for the States Response to Contaminations Program is responsible legislation that will allow states more flexibility when it comes to mitigating PFAS contamination and provide assistance to those communities that rely on private wells. I want to thank my colleagues for taking this bipartisan step forward to protecting our drinking water and shared public health.”
    “In Arizona, many families rely on their own wells for their drinking water, and they deserve to know that water is safe and free of dangerous PFAS contamination,” said Kelly. “This fix will give states the flexibility to use existing federal funding to address contamination in private wells, helping make sure families in small and rural communities have access to clean, safe water.”
    “Safe water is essential to the health and well-being of New Mexicans,” said Heinrich. “That’s why I’m proud to cosponsor legislation that will protect rural communities from dangerous forever chemicals by ensuring states can use funding to access new technology that detects and gets rid of water contaminants in private wells. Everyone deserves clean and safe drinking water.”
    Congress intended Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding for small and disadvantaged communities to be available for states to address private well contamination. However, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency initially interpreted the statute as only allowing for assistance to private wells if the purpose of the activity was to consider connecting private wells to public water systems. In the Fiscal Year 2024 government funding legislation, Senator Shaheen successfully secured language to temporarily address this issue for that year’s funding. The Technical Fix for the State Response to Contaminants Program would be a permanent fix.
    Senator Shaheen leads efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination, respond to the chemical exposure and remediate polluted sites. As a lead negotiator of water provisions in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Senator Shaheen worked to secure $10 billion to specifically address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, $5 billion of which is targeted to small and disadvantaged communities. To date, New Hampshire has received more than $325 million in water infrastructure funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including $66 million to address PFAS.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Amicus Brief in Support of Inclusive Curriculum

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, as part of a multistate coalition of 19 attorneys general, filed an amicus brief before the U.S. Supreme Court in Mahmoud v. Taylor in support of the Montgomery County Board of Education’s decision to incorporate LGBTQ+ inclusive books into its curriculum. In their brief, the attorneys general argue that the incorporation of LGBTQ+ inclusive books into language arts curriculum falls within state and local governments’ discretion to shape their curriculum and does not infringe on the free exercise right of religion.  

    “Representation in our curriculum isn’t just about inclusion, it’s about making sure every student has the opportunity to see themselves reflected in the stories and lessons they engage with,” said Attorney General Bonta. “By making sure curriculum reflects the diverse identities and experiences of all students, we create an environment where all students can thrive and feel a sense of belonging. At the California Department of Justice, we will continue to stand up for the rights of LGBTQ+ students and ensure that all of our students are provided with a learning environment that fosters a culture of respect, empathy, and belonging.”

    The Montgomery County Board of Education, like other school authorities around the country, is charged with one of the most important functions of government — nurturing successive generations of children into capable citizens of a diverse but unified nation. Recognizing the importance of this responsibility, courts have long afforded state and local governments significant discretion to craft school policies in order to best serve this goal, so long as they act within the constraints of state and federal law. This discretion encompasses not only what schools teach, but also how they create an environment that is conducive to educating their students. LGBTQ + students face disproportionate levels of stereotyping, discrimination, and even violence, with profound psychological and educational consequences. The books at issue here address these problems by promoting tolerance of, and respect for, people who are LGBTQ+.

    In the amicus brief, the coalition urges the Supreme Court to affirm the ruling made by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit arguing that:

    • The county’s efforts to ensure safe and supportive learning environments for LGBTQ+ students fall within state and local governments’ broad discretion to shape public education.
    • States have a responsibility to protect students from harm including LGBTQ+ youth, who experience disproportionately high levels of discrimination and violence.
    • Exposure to these books do not violate the free exercise of religion.

    In filing the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys generals of Massachusetts, Maryland, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.

    A copy of the brief can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Natuashish — Natuashish RCMP investigates residential arson, seeks public’s assistance

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Natuashish RCMP is investigating a residential arson that occurred on April 9, 2025. Police are seeking information from the public.

    Shortly after 2:15 a.m. today, Natuashish RCMP received a report of a residence on fire on Pokue Street in Natuashish and attended the scene to find the home fully engulfed in flames. The owner was not at home when the fire started. Evidence gathered as part of the investigation suggests that the fire was intentionally set.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Natuashish RCMP asks the public to check for any available surveillance footage in the area of Pokue Street around the time of the fire and to report any suspicious activity or information about this incident to the detachment by calling (709)-478-8900. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pickens County man arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Material* chargesRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Dacus Ethen King, 35, of Easley, S.C., on six charges connected to the sexual exploitation of a minor. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office made the arrest. Investigators with the Attorney General’s Office, also a member of the state’s ICAC Task Force, assisted with this investigation.

     

    Investigators received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which led them to King. Investigators state King distributed and possessed files of child sexual abuse material.  

     

    King was arrested on April 8, 2025. He is charged with one count of sexual exploitation of a minor, second degree (§16-15-405), a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment; and five counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, third degree (§16-15-410), a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment on each count.

     

     

    The case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Office.

     

    Attorney General Wilson stressed all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.

     

     

     

    * Child sexual abuse material, or CSAM, is a more accurate reflection of the material involved in these heinous and abusive crimes. “Pornography” can imply the child was a consenting participant.  Globally, the term child pornography is being replaced by CSAM for this reason.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Defendants Charged Following Armed Coup Attack in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

    Source: US State of California

    Three defendants transferred from the DRC to the U.S. and one other arrested in Utah after Armed Coup Attack to overthrow the DRC government

    Note: View the criminal complaint.

    A criminal complaint was unsealed today in the District of Utah charging Marcel Malanga, 22, Tyler Thompson, 22, Benjamin Zalman-Polun, 37, and Joseph Peter Moesser, 67, all U.S. citizens, with conspiring to provide material support and resources, conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to bomb places of government facilities, and conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons in a foreign country, among other offenses.

    Malanga, Thompson, and Polun are expected to make their initial appearances at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, New York. Moesser is expected to make his initial appearance on April 10 at the federal courthouse in Salt Lake City. After their initial appearances in New York, it is expected that Malanga, Thompson, and Polun will appear in Salt Lake City, Utah, for further legal proceedings.

    As alleged in the complaint, the defendants conspired to unlawfully carry out a coup d’état in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The coconspirators conducted an armed military operation (Armed Coup Attack) specifically targeting DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Deputy Prime Minister for the Economy Vital Kamerhe (Kamerhe), attacking both the Palais de la Nation (the official residence and principal workplace of the president) and Kamerhe’s private residence in Kinshasa, DRC. Men wearing camouflage fatigues and armed with weapons attacked and entered the Palais de la Nation. Armed men also attacked Kamerhe’s residence, which was riddled with bullet holes after the attack. At least six people died during the attack, including two police officers protecting Kamerhe’s residence, and at least one innocent civilian. The goal of these rebel forces was to overthrow the DRC government, establish a new government known as the New Zaire, and install Christian Malanga, now deceased, as the president of the New Zaire.

    Christian Malanga acted as a leader and organizer of these rebel forces. It was the goal of these rebel forces to topple the DRC government and to murder President Félix Tshisekedi, Kamerhe, and others, with the goal of installing Christian as the new president of the DRC. Marcel Malanga also held himself out as a leader of the rebel forces and identified himself as the “Chief of Staff of the Zaire army.” Polun was Christian Malanga’s chief of staff. Moesser was the explosives maker, explosives technician, and explosives supplier. Thompson was a soldier and drone specialist/operator.

    Also as alleged in the complaint, Christian Malanga, Marcel Malanga, Thompson, Polun, and Moesser conspired to provide material support and resources including services, training, expert advice or assistance, communication equipment, weapons, explosives, and personnel to the rebel army which was formed to overthrow the DRC government. Further, the defendants conspired to acquire and use weapons of mass destruction during the Armed Coup Attack. The coconspirators planned to use bombs that could be deployed to their targets by drone(s). Targets included people, private residences, and public buildings. They also intended to attach a flamethrower device to a drone and use it as an incendiary device to light people on fire.

    The defendants planned, scouted out targets, and identified victims for the Armed Coup Attack, with the purpose and intent to murder other persons, including high-level DRC government officials. They recruited others to join in the Armed Coup Attack as personnel for the rebel army and, in some cases, recruited personnel in exchange for money. The defendants also acquired and attempted to acquire explosive and incendiary devices with the purpose and intent to use such devices to target individuals, private property, and DRC government buildings. Coconspirators communicated with and procured destructive devices, to include carrier devices such as drones, explosives, incendiary devices, and delivery mechanisms, from businesses, private parties, and at least one individual associated with a foreign military to effectuate the Armed Coup Attack.

    Additionally, they procured from businesses and private parties, military equipment to include firearms, ammunition, uniforms, communication equipment, and communication jamming equipment. The coconspirators planned to transport weapons, explosives, and resources from the United States to the DRC to effectuate the Armed Coup Attack, and they then transported weapons and resources to the DRC. Further, the defendants engaged in firearms and weapons training in the United States and in Africa to provide services and support during the conspiracy and Armed Coup Attack.

    If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison for each count of conspiring to provide material support and resources; and up to life in prison for each count of conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to bomb places of government facilities, and conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons in a foreign country. Additionally, if convicted, Malanga and Thompson each face a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison for each count of taking a firearm out of the United States to engage in a felony. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Sue J. Bai, head of the U.S. Department of Justice National Security Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah, and Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, with assistance by the FBI New York Field Office and the FBI’s Legal Attaché Office in Nairobi, Kenya, which oversees the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan R. Whittaker, Chief, National Security and Cybercrimes Section, and Jonathan Stowers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah, and Trial Attorney Tanya Senanayake of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs has also provided substantial assistance to the prosecution team.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defendants Charged Following Armed Coup Attack in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Three defendants transferred from the DRC to the U.S. and one other arrested in Utah after Armed Coup Attack to overthrow the DRC government

    Note: View the criminal complaint.

    A criminal complaint was unsealed today in the District of Utah charging Marcel Malanga, 22, Tyler Thompson, 22, Benjamin Zalman-Polun, 37, and Joseph Peter Moesser, 67, all U.S. citizens, with conspiring to provide material support and resources, conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to bomb places of government facilities, and conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons in a foreign country, among other offenses.

    Malanga, Thompson, and Polun are expected to make their initial appearances at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, New York. Moesser is expected to make his initial appearance on April 10 at the federal courthouse in Salt Lake City. After their initial appearances in New York, it is expected that Malanga, Thompson, and Polun will appear in Salt Lake City, Utah, for further legal proceedings.

    As alleged in the complaint, the defendants conspired to unlawfully carry out a coup d’état in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The coconspirators conducted an armed military operation (Armed Coup Attack) specifically targeting DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Deputy Prime Minister for the Economy Vital Kamerhe (Kamerhe), attacking both the Palais de la Nation (the official residence and principal workplace of the president) and Kamerhe’s private residence in Kinshasa, DRC. Men wearing camouflage fatigues and armed with weapons attacked and entered the Palais de la Nation. Armed men also attacked Kamerhe’s residence, which was riddled with bullet holes after the attack. At least six people died during the attack, including two police officers protecting Kamerhe’s residence, and at least one innocent civilian. The goal of these rebel forces was to overthrow the DRC government, establish a new government known as the New Zaire, and install Christian Malanga, now deceased, as the president of the New Zaire.

    Christian Malanga acted as a leader and organizer of these rebel forces. It was the goal of these rebel forces to topple the DRC government and to murder President Félix Tshisekedi, Kamerhe, and others, with the goal of installing Christian as the new president of the DRC. Marcel Malanga also held himself out as a leader of the rebel forces and identified himself as the “Chief of Staff of the Zaire army.” Polun was Christian Malanga’s chief of staff. Moesser was the explosives maker, explosives technician, and explosives supplier. Thompson was a soldier and drone specialist/operator.

    Also as alleged in the complaint, Christian Malanga, Marcel Malanga, Thompson, Polun, and Moesser conspired to provide material support and resources including services, training, expert advice or assistance, communication equipment, weapons, explosives, and personnel to the rebel army which was formed to overthrow the DRC government. Further, the defendants conspired to acquire and use weapons of mass destruction during the Armed Coup Attack. The coconspirators planned to use bombs that could be deployed to their targets by drone(s). Targets included people, private residences, and public buildings. They also intended to attach a flamethrower device to a drone and use it as an incendiary device to light people on fire.

    The defendants planned, scouted out targets, and identified victims for the Armed Coup Attack, with the purpose and intent to murder other persons, including high-level DRC government officials. They recruited others to join in the Armed Coup Attack as personnel for the rebel army and, in some cases, recruited personnel in exchange for money. The defendants also acquired and attempted to acquire explosive and incendiary devices with the purpose and intent to use such devices to target individuals, private property, and DRC government buildings. Coconspirators communicated with and procured destructive devices, to include carrier devices such as drones, explosives, incendiary devices, and delivery mechanisms, from businesses, private parties, and at least one individual associated with a foreign military to effectuate the Armed Coup Attack.

    Additionally, they procured from businesses and private parties, military equipment to include firearms, ammunition, uniforms, communication equipment, and communication jamming equipment. The coconspirators planned to transport weapons, explosives, and resources from the United States to the DRC to effectuate the Armed Coup Attack, and they then transported weapons and resources to the DRC. Further, the defendants engaged in firearms and weapons training in the United States and in Africa to provide services and support during the conspiracy and Armed Coup Attack.

    If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison for each count of conspiring to provide material support and resources; and up to life in prison for each count of conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to bomb places of government facilities, and conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons in a foreign country. Additionally, if convicted, Malanga and Thompson each face a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison for each count of taking a firearm out of the United States to engage in a felony. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Sue J. Bai, head of the U.S. Department of Justice National Security Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah, and Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, with assistance by the FBI New York Field Office and the FBI’s Legal Attaché Office in Nairobi, Kenya, which oversees the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan R. Whittaker, Chief, National Security and Cybercrimes Section, and Jonathan Stowers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah, and Trial Attorney Tanya Senanayake of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs has also provided substantial assistance to the prosecution team.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Missouri Individuals Charged with Dealing Firearms without a License and Other Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Two individuals were indicted by a federal grand jury in separate cases this week for dealing in firearms without a license and other offense.

    A California, Missouri Man Indicted for Dealing Firearms without a License and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm

    According to an indictment returned this week, Aubrey Foxworthy, 81, of California, Missouri, was charged with dealing firearms in Morgan and Moniteau Counties from approximately June 2, 2023 through September 9, 2024.  He did not have a federal firearms license to deal firearms.  Foxworthy was also charged with possession of a rifle with a barrel length less than 16 inches and that rifle was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

    A Popular Bluff, Missouri Man Indicted for Dealing Firearms without a License

    According to an indictment returned this week, Philip Leroy Rains, 75, of Popular Bluff, Missouri, was charged with dealing firearms in Morgan County from approximately April 1, 2023 through April 4, 2024.  He did not have a federal firearms license to deal firearms.

    The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

    Under federal statutes, if convicted of dealing in firearms without a license, a prison sentence of up to 5 years and a fine of up to $250,000 is authorized.  Under federal statutes, if convicted of possession of an unregistered firearm, a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000 is authorized.  The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron M. Maness. These cases were investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Jefferson City Police Department, and the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Allston Man Charged with Allegedly Trafficking “Date Rape” Drug and Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – An Allston man has been indicted for trafficking methamphetamine and 1,4-Butanediol (BDO), an analogue of Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) – more commonly known as the “date rape drug” – out of his Allston home.

    Peter Schiepers, 32, is charged with one count of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine; two counts of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute Butanediol (an analogue of GHB); and two counts of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Schiepers was arraigned yesterday.

    According to the charging documents, in November 2024, law enforcement received information that Schiepers was supplying methamphetamine in and around the Boston area. Between November 2024 and February 2025, a cooperating source conducted multiple controlled purchases allegedly from Schiepers.

    Specifically, in January 2025, it is alleged that Schiepers conducted a transaction for one ounce of methamphetamine. In February 2025 he allegedly sold four ounces of methamphetamine and a liter of BDO. Schiepers allegedly told an undercover officer that he received the BDO in Chinese shampoo bottles and that he also used an application that allowed him to anonymously send some shipments to hotels and convenience stores nearby.
     
    The charge of possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine provides for a minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Stephen D. Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Field Office made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston Police Department and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney John O. Wray of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Worcester Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for Drug Distribution Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Worcester man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Worcester for his involvement in a cocaine distribution conspiracy.

    Luis Torres, 47, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to eight years in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release. The Court also entered a judgement of forfeiture of $26,480 in cash. In June 2024, Torres pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and one count of use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug felony. Torres was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2022.

    Torres conspired with others to coordinate delivery of a package from Puerto Rico known by him to contain 4 – 6 kilograms of cocaine and to take possession of the cocaine with the intent to distribute it. In June 2022, law enforcement intercepted the package and executed a controlled delivery during which another individual accepted the package while Torres sat in a nearby car. Torres was arrested at the scene and $26,480 in cash was recovered.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin Brown of the Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ILLEGAL ALIEN SENTENCED TO 46 MONTHS’ FEDERAL PRISON FOR REENTRY OFFENSE

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Rafael Sanchez-De La Rosa, 51, a Mexican citizen, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for Illegal Reentry by Removed Alien.  The sentence was announced by Michelle Spaven, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    “Enforcing immigration laws is a priority of the Department of Justice,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Spaven.  “This sentence reflects the seriousness of committing crimes while being in our country illegally.  The Northern District of Florida and our law enforcement partners are committed to keeping our communities safe.”

    “This case highlights the serious public safety risks posed by individuals who repeatedly violate our laws, both criminal and immigration,” U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Office (ICE-ERO) Miami Acting Field Office Director Juan Agudelo. “Despite being removed from the United States on multiple occasions, Mr. Sanchez-De La Rosa unlawfully re-entered the country and continued to endanger lives through repeated DUI offenses. ICE remains committed to working with local law enforcement partners to identify and remove those who present a threat to our communities.”

    On May 5, 2024, at around 1:30 a.m., Sanchez-De La Rosa was arrested by the Pensacola Police Department (PPD) and charged with his third driving under the influence (DUI) within ten years, amongst other offenses.  Sanchez-De La Rosa had been speeding nearly twenty miles over the speed limit.  PPD located two open containers in the center console of his vehicle, and Sanchez-De La Rosa admitted to consuming at least eight beers.  Federal officers with ICE subsequently determined Sanchez-De La Rosa was present in the United States illegally.  Sanchez-De La Rosa had been previously removed from the United States to Mexico in 2017 and again in 2018.  Sanchez-De La Rosa has now been convicted of DUI in Escambia County three times, in 2014, 2015, and 2024, two of which cases were felony convictions.  During his first DUI offense, Sanchez-De La Rosa seriously injured his passenger, requiring hospitalization.

    Sanchez-De La Rosa has an ICE detainer lodged against him and will begin deportation proceedings after he serves his federal prison term.  Sanchez-De La Rosa’s imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release, meaning if he returns to the United States during such timeframe, he will potentially face an additional period of incarceration related to violating his supervision.

    This conviction was the result of an investigation conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) Pensacola.  Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Callahan prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) 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).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –