Category: Justice

MIL-OSI Australia: Braddon restaurant awarded for sustainable choices

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Clement Chauvin, Head Chef and sole owner of Les Bistronomes. Photo credit Canberra Times and Gary Ramage.

Clement Chauvin, Head Chef and sole owner of Les Bistronomes, has taken out the Waste Minimisation Award at the 2024 Climate Choices Business Awards.

He has been acknowledged for his creative and community-minded sustainability initiatives.

The Awards recognise climate leaders in the business arena across eight categories.

Les Bistronomes was celebrated for making sustainable choices for everything from sourcing ingredients to disposing waste.

“It was wonderful to receive the award,” said Clement.

“As a chef, I’m aware that my produce comes from mother earth and the land we live on. It makes sense to be considerate of the earth that gives us the food that nurtures and feeds us all,” he said.

Some of the ideas Les Bistronomes was recognised for as part of the award came about during COVID.

“It was a difficult time, but it really created community around our restaurant, and led to some great ideas for sustainability and waste minimisation,” Clement said.

The idea to create a ‘green card’ came about from a woman who donated 80 kilograms of Jerusalem artichokes to Clement. She had an excess and didn’t know what to do with them.

“I wanted to repay her in some way, and that’s when the idea came,” he said.

“Local home growers in Canberra can bring in their raspberries, flowers, lemons, rhubarb or homegrown veggies in exchange for a 10 per cent discount at the restaurant.”

This initiative reduces food waste and grows community connection, as well as limiting food miles.

Les Bistronomes also gives growers food scraps for their compost.

This is a way of sequestering carbon and returning nutrients to the soil. Their approach is not only great for the business, but also gives back to the local community.

Clement has now established strong relationships with a number of locals who love growing fruits and vegetables and who regularly supply food for the restaurant.

“I now work with two local ladies, and we plan out crops so that the restaurant has a steady and seasonal supply of produce,” he said.

The Sustainable Business Program

Clement said the future for Les Bistronomes is to go all-electric and move to solar if he can.

He has reached out to the ACT Government’s Sustainable Business Program to help him.

The program has technical experts who can provide all ACT businesses with free advice on ways to improve their energy efficiency; including transitioning off gas with rebates of up to $10,000, installing solar panels and battery storage.

“The Sustainable Business Program helped me look at what options were available to improve sustainability, but from an infrastructure point of view,” Clement said.

“We’re looking to switch from gas to electric induction cooking and we’re investigating how we can use solar to offset electricity costs.”

Find out more about the Sustainable Business Program and the other Climate Choices Business Awards winners.

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MIL OSI News –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Access Canberra supports people with hidden disabilities
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

All Access Canberra Service Centre staff have received Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training.
Staff at Access Canberra Service Centres strive to help customers feel seen, supported and understood.

To help ensure this, Access Canberra is now a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative.

This aims to ensure Canberrans living with non-visible disabilities are better supported when visiting service centres.

Not all disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses can be seen. The Hidden Disability Sunflower initiative encourages inclusivity, acceptance and understanding.

Hidden disabilities may be:
- neurological
- cognitive and neurodevelopmental
- physical
- visual
- auditory.
This also includes respiratory conditions, rare diseases and chronic conditions like diabetes or chronic pain.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative

The global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative gives people a tool to share that they have a hidden disability – if they wish to do so.

They can opt to wear a sunflower lanyard or pin. This visual cue shows they might need extra help, understanding or time, without them having to ask.

All Access Canberra Service Centre staff have received Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training.

They also have their own sunflower supporter pins.

This shows customers with hidden disabilities that they have the awareness and training to support them when carrying out government transactions.

“By joining the Sunflower Initiative it’s another way for Access Canberra to show that ‘we see you, we value you and we want to service you in way that best works for you,’” Service Centre Operations Manager Paige Ryan said.

Staff now have a greater understanding of the types of disabilities and/or conditions people experience and how common these are in our community.

“This training also helps encourage our staff to continue to challenge our way of thinking when it comes to how we offer our help, support and guidance to those we service,” Paige said.

More support for Canberrans with neurodiversity

There will be a quiet hour each Wednesday at Access Canberra Service Centres.*

From 10am to 11am, service centre staff will help to facilitate a calmer, less stimulating space for customers to complete their transactions.

Where possible, service centres will have music turned down and mobile phones on silent.

“The aim is to create a less stimulating environment for one hour each week, which will help provide a more inclusive offering to our community,” Paige said.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates that 30-40 per cent of the Australian population is neurodiverse.

*The Dickson service centre, which is appointment-only, will not offer the weekly quiet hour.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards and pins are available on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website.

Find Access Canberra Service Centre locations.

From 10am to 11am on Wednesday, service centre staff will help to facilitate a Quiet Hour at most service centres.

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MIL OSI News –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Illinois Businesses, Nonprofits and Residents Affected by South Terrace Apartment Fire

Source: United States Small Business Administration

WASHINGTON – In response to an Administrative disaster declaration issued April 2, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans for Illinois businesses, nonprofits and residents affected by the South Terrace Apartment fire occurring on Feb. 22.

The disaster declaration covers Cook County, which is eligible for both Physical damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. EIDLs are also available to eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the adjacent counties of DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will in Illinois, as well as Lake County in Indiana.

Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.   

Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.   

Businesses and homeowners may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes.

EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs, and 2.750% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Beginning Monday, April 7, 2025, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Cook County to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.

The DLOC hours of operation are listed below:

Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC)
Cook County

Justice Village Hall

7800 S Archer Road

Justice, Illinois 60458

Opening:  Monday, April 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hours: Monday – Friday – 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Closed: Sunday

Permanently Closing: Saturday, April 19, 2 p.m.

“SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) have consistently proven their value to business owners and homeowners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “Homeowners and Business owners can visit the DLOC to meet face-to-face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”

Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan.

To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. 

The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 2, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is January 2, 2026.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Notice on Convening of the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of AB Amber Grid
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Under the initiative and decision of the Board of AB Amber Grid (company code 303090867, registered office address: Laisvės ave. 10, LT-04215 Vilnius, Lithuania) (further on Amber Grid, the Company), the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of Amber Grid s convened at the Company’s registered office (address: Laisvės ave. 10, LT-04215 Vilnius, Lithuania) on 30 April 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

The agenda of the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of Amber Grid:

1) To read the independent auditor’s report on the AB „Amber Grid“ 2024 set of financial statements and the AB „Amber Grid“ 2024 Consolidated Management Report

2) On the approval of the AB „Amber Grid“ 2024 consolidated and separate financial statements

3) On the approval of the distribution of AB „Amber Grid“ profits for 2024

4) On the approval of the information on the remuneration for 2024 of AB „Amber Grid“

The beginning of the shareholders’ registration: at 9:30 a.m., on 30 April 2025.
The end of the shareholders’ registration: at 9:45 a.m., on 30 April 2025.

The record date of the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders: 23 April 2025. The right of participation and voting at the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders can be exercised only by the persons who remain shareholders of Amber Grid by the end of the record date of the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders.

A person participating at the General Meeting of Shareholders and entitled to vote must provide a document confirming the person’s identity. A person who is not a shareholder shall, in addition to the afore-mentioned document, provide a document confirming his/her right to vote at the General Meeting of Shareholder.

Participation and voting at the General Meeting of Shareholders by electronic means shall not be possible.

On 7 April 2025, the Board of Amber Grid approved the agenda of the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders and the draft decisions of the Meeting:

1) To read the independent auditor’s report on the AB „Amber Grid“ 2024 set of financial statements and the AB „Amber Grid“ 2024 Consolidated Management Report.

The draft decision:

“The Board of Directors submits to the General Meeting of Shareholders for information the Consolidated Management Report of AB „Amber Grid“ (attached). The General Meeting of Shareholders should take into account the opinion of the independent auditor’s report to the shareholders of AB „Amber Grid“ when deciding on the approval of the 2024 set of financial statements of AB „Amber Grid“ (enclosed). No resolution of the General Meeting of Shareholders is required.”

2) On the approval of the AB „Amber Grid“ 2024 consolidated and separate financial statements.

The draft decision:

“To approve the 2024 set of financial statements of AB „Amber Grid“”

3) On the approval of the distribution of AB „Amber Grid“ profits for 2024.

The draft decision:

“To approve the distribution of AB „Amber Grid”’s profit for 2024 (attached)”

4) On the approval of the information on the remuneration for 2024 of AB „Amber Grid“.

The draft decision:

“To approve the information on remuneration for 2024 provided by AB „Amber Grid“ as part of the Consolidated Management Report for 2024 (attached)”.

The shareholders may familiarise themselves with the draft resolutions of the General Meeting of Shareholders and other additional materials related to the General Meeting of Shareholders also with the implementation of the shareholders’ rights at the Central Database of Regulated Information www.crib.lt and on the Company’s website www.ambergrid.lt .

The shareholders of Amber Grid, whose shares are entitled to at least 1/20 of the total number of votes, have the right to supplement the agenda for the General Meeting of Shareholders. The proposal to supplement the agenda shall be submitted in writing and sent by registered mail or delivered to the head office of the Company to the address: Laisvės ave. 10, LT-04215 Vilnius (the “Head Office”). The draft resolutions on the proposed issues or, when it is not mandatory to adopt resolutions, explanatory notes on each proposed issue of the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders must be presented alongside the proposal. The agenda will be supplemented if the proposal is received not later than by 15 April 2025.

The shareholders entitled to at least 1/20 of the total number of votes have the right, at any time before the General Meeting of Shareholders or during the meeting, to propose in writing new draft resolutions on the items put on the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders. Such proposal must be made in writing and submitted to the Company by registered mail or delivered to the Head Office. The proposal submitted during the meeting must be formalized in writing and delivered to the Secretary of the General Meeting of Shareholders.

The shareholders have the right to submit questions to the Company regarding the agenda of the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders to be held on 30 April 2025, in advance, but not later than by 24 April 2025. Questions must be formalized in writing and delivered to the Company by registered mail or to the Head Office. The Company will not provide any answer to the question submitted by a shareholder personally to him / her in case relevant information is available on the Company’s website www.ambergrid.lt.

Each shareholder has the right to authorise a natural or legal person to participate and vote on his/her behalf at the General Meeting of Shareholders. The proxy holder of the shareholder must have the document confirming the person’s identity and the Proxy certified in accordance with the procedure established by the laws, which must be delivered to the Head Office not later than before the end of the registration of the attendees of the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. At the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders, the proxy holder has the same rights as would be held by the shareholder represented by him/her. The form of the Proxy for the representation at the General Meeting of Shareholders is available on the website of the Company www.ambergrid.lt.

On the issues on the agenda of the General Meeting of Shareholders, the shareholders may vote in writing by filling in a General Ballot Paper. On the shareholder’s request, the Company, not later than 10 days before the day of the General Meeting of Shareholders, will send a General Ballot Paper by registered mail free of charge or submit it in person against signature to the shareholder. The shareholder or his/her proxy holder must undersign the filled in General Ballot Paper. If the General Ballot Paper is signed by a person who is not a shareholder, a document certifying his / her right to vote must be appended to the filled in Ballot Paper. The duly filled General Ballot Paper must be delivered to the Company by registered mail or submitted against signature at the Head Office not later than before the end of registration of the attendees of the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders. The form of the General Ballot Paper is available on the website of the Company www.ambergrid.lt.

On the day of convocation of the Ordinary General Meeting of the Shareholders the total number of shares was 178 382 514. All these shares grant a voting right.

Information referred to in Article 26² of the Law on Companies of the Republic of Lithuania will be available on the website of the Company www.ambergrid.lt.

Information about the additions to the agenda, as well as resolutions adopted by the general meeting will also be available on the Central Database of Regulated Information www.crib.lt.

ANNEXES:
1. Draft profit allocation of Amber Grid AB of 2024.
2. Consolidated and separate financial statements of Amber Grid AB for 2024 December 31, consolidated annual report, confirmation of responsible persons, independent auditor’s report.
3. General Ballot Paper.
4. Proxy Form.
5. Press release.
More information:

Laura Šebekienė, Head of Communications of Amber Grid, +370 699 61 246, l.sebekiene@ambergrid.lt

Attachments

The MIL Network –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Grand Falls-Windsor — Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP investigates shots fired in Grand Falls-Windsor, seeks public’s assistance

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP is investigating an incident of shots fired on April 4, 2025, in Grand Falls-Windsor.

On Friday, police received a report about multiple shots fired at a residence on Suvla Road, shot from Monchy Road. The suspect, a male wearing a mask over his face, fled the area on foot and is believed to have been picked up in a vehicle nearby. A public alert notification, as well as communication on RCMP NL’s social media platforms, was sent to residents in the area asking them to shelter in place.

After determining that the incident was targeted, residents were informed that the shelter in place had been lifted.

The investigation, which is being led by RCMP NL’s West District General Investigation Section (GIS), is continuing.

RCMP West District GIS is asking the public to check for surveillance footage, including dash cam footage, in the area of Suvla Road and Monchy Road on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Anyone having information about this crime or the identity of the suspects is asked to contact Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP at 709-489-2121 or, to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

MIL Security OSI –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Ocala Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Attempting To Meet A 13-Year-Old To Engage In Sexual Activity

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Ocala, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Alexander Thomas Daugherty (24, Ocala) to 10 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Daugherty entered a guilty plea on December 20, 2024.

According to court documents, on September 20, 2024, a special agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) posed undercover as a 13-year-old girl on an online social media platform. Daugherty contacted the undercover agent’s account and, after learning the child’s age, discussed engaging in sexual activity. Daugherty arranged to meet the minor for sex at a predetermined location in Marion County. Daugherty then traveled to the location and was arrested by law enforcement. After his arrest, Daugherty provided a written statement in which he apologized for the “disgusting intentions” he had with “the underage female.”

“This sentencing sends a strong message that any attempts to exploit and harm minors will not be tolerated,” said Homeland Security Investigation Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “HSI, alongside our partners at the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, are dedicated to protecting our children and ensuring that those who seek to endanger them face severe consequences for their actions.”

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

MIL Security OSI –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Investing more in Canberra’s nurses and midwives
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Budget funding will be allocated to recruit more than 137 new full-time equivalent nurses and midwives
The ACT Government is continuing to invest in the nursing and midwifery workforce to support staff safety and wellbeing and improve patient care.

More than $86 million will be allocated in the 2024–25 ACT Budget to recruit more than 137 new full-time equivalent nurses and midwives.

Nurse-to-patient ratios

The ACT Government is committed to ensuring safe nurse and midwife to patient ratios – something the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation has advocated for on behalf of its ACT members.

These are being implemented in a phased approach, with this investment supporting the Government’s commitment to implementing phase two of Mandated Minimum Nurse/Midwife-to-patient ratios.

Nurse and midwife to patient ratios are mandated minimum staffing levels.

These are necessary to support safe nursing and midwifery care and improve working conditions for nurses and midwives.

The implementation of phase two will see both minimum staffing levels on each ward and additional team leaders or support nurses and midwives.

This will ensure there are even more nurses and midwives across frontline hospital services and an appropriate skill mix on each shift to provide the best possible care for patients, including women and babies in maternity services.

In 2022, the ACT Government delivered the first phase of nurse-to-patient ratios across general medical and general surgical medical wards and acute aged care and mental health. This occurred through an investment of $50 million through the 2021–22 Budget.

Phase two ratios will be implemented across Canberra’s public hospitals and Clare Holland House, including:
- maternity services
- neonatal intensive care unit and special care nurseries
- critical care, including intensive care units and emergency departments
- perioperative areas
- subacute mental health units
- cancer services
- rehabilitation units
- palliative care services.
By including ratios across maternity services, including postnatal wards, the ACT will be the second jurisdiction in Australia to implement ratios that count the baby in the ratio as part of minimum staffing levels.

Further support for nurses and midwives

This investment follows the more than $21 million allocated in the mid-year Budget Review to support other elements of the proposed ACT Public Sector Nursing and Midwifery Enterprise Agreement, which is currently being considered by public health system nurses and midwives.

This includes a $2000 education and development boost, an annual $750 professional development allowance, an increase in pay, and a comprehensive review of rostering in nursing and midwifery to improve work patterns and health and wellbeing.

This will help to ensure Canberra has a health workforce that is highly skilled and supported, to continue to deliver great care to the community.

The ACT Government will continue to invest in the nursing and midwifery workforce to ensure staff are supported to deliver the best care to the Canberra community.

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MIL OSI News –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Government contractor resolves False Claims Act allegations related to the Small Business Innovation Research Program

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc., located in Fairfax, agreed to settle False Claims Act allegations that a company that it acquired made false statements or caused false statements to be made in proposals for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts awarded by four federal agencies. As part of the settlement, the United States received a payment of $600,000.

SBIR contracts are awarded to small businesses to develop and commercialize new technology. SBIR contracts are reserved for businesses that have fewer than 500 employees, including employees of any affiliated companies.

In July 2022, General Dynamics Mission Systems acquired Progeny Systems, LLC (“Progeny”), a defense contractor located in Manassas. Before its acquisition by General Dynamics Mission Systems, Progeny entered into teaming agreements with Quality Support, Inc. and Minimum Entropy, LLC.

As part of its teaming agreements, Progeny directed and assisted Quality Support and Minimum Entropy with drafting and submitting proposals for SBIR contracts. Progeny also provided Quality Support with personnel, including a principal investigator who performed the research required by an SBIR contract. Similarly, a Progeny employee formed, owned, and operated Minimum Entropy. In return, Quality Support and Minimum Entropy selected Progeny as their sole subcontractor on all of their SBIR proposals, including six SBIR contracts from four federal agencies.

The settlement announced today resolves allegations arising from Progeny’s involvement in the submission of proposals for the SBIR contracts awarded to Quality Support and Minimum Entropy. The United States alleged that Progeny made, or caused to be made, false statements about Progeny’s affiliation with Quality Support and Minimum Entropy in the proposals for the SBIR contracts awarded to Quality Support and Minimum Entropy. The United States further alleged that Progeny made, or caused to be made, false statements about Quality Support’s and Minimum Entropy’s statuses as businesses eligible for SBIR awards.

The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division’s Fraud Field Office, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s Mid-Atlantic Field Office, and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service’s Economic Crimes Field Office.

This matter was investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanya Kapoor and Forensic Auditor Peter Melaragni.

The civil claims settled by this False Claims Act agreement are allegations only; there has been no determination of civil liability.

A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

MIL Security OSI –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Honors Crime Victims and Survivors During 2025 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

SAN ANTONIO – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas is commemorating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) April 6–12, by recognizing recent criminal cases involving victims.

This year’s NCVRW theme—Connecting Healing—recognizes that shared humanity drives vital connections to services, rights, and healing. KINSHIP is where victim advocacy begins. The annual observance challenges us to build a world where every connection built through KINSHIP — between survivors, advocates, and communities — holds the potential to heal. It asks us to ensure that resources are available to all survivors and that we show up for one another with empathy and intention.

With a dedicated team of prosecutors and victim assistance professionals who work together to ensure victims of crime receive the services and support they need, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and is home to an estimated population of 7.6 million people.

“Federal crimes against victims will not be tolerated in this district—regardless of whether they are violent crimes, drug crimes, or white collar,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “It is a priority of our prosecutors, our victim assistance specialists, and the entire Department of Justice, that we advocate in the best interests of victims and that crime victims have access to proper effective resources.”

Recently prosecuted cases include the 40-year federal prison sentence of Saint Jovite Youngblood in Austin for four counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Youngblood committed wire fraud against his victims by claiming Mexican drug cartel members were planning to commit violence against them. Youngblood falsely claimed to have been part of the U.S. Army’s Delta Force special operations unit and offered protection to his victims from the cartels in exchange for money. Youngblood also represented that funds obtained from his victim “investors” would be paid back with a significant return on the money. Instead, Youngblood used most of the money on junkets to Las Vegas to gamble in casinos. Over the course of his scheme, Youngblood defrauded 32 victims for more than $12 million, which he was ordered to pay in restitution.

In Waco, a former U.S. sailor was sentenced to life in federal prison after a jury found him guilty of coercion and enticement of a minor. Bailey Warren Lowe used a Snapchat account to request sexually explicit images from a 13-year-old girl on multiple occasions. If she acted slowly or the photos did not meet his expectations, Lowe would become angry and threaten to expose her. On one occasion, in early 2022, Lowe drove to the minor’s residence, where they engaged in sexual activity in his vehicle. Lowe did not use a condom and, when the minor repeated that she was 13 years old, he demanded she not tell anyone about them because he was 22 and could get in trouble. An FBI investigation revealed multiple chat conversations and instances of sexual exploitation between Lowe and additional victims between the ages of 10 and 15 years old.

In July 2024, an Odessa man was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for carjacking and discharging a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence. Isaac Ramirez Carrasco carjacked a couple on Jan. 30 by pointing a shotgun at the driver and ordering both occupants out of their vehicle. The victim did not initially comply, and Carrasco fired the shotgun at least one time in the air before returning his aim to the victim. The couple ultimately exited the truck and Carrasco drove away in it. Odessa Police were able to track the truck to a nearby residence, where they also located Carrasco and the shotgun.

In November, Alex Georges Tannous, of Ain-Akrine, Lebanon, was sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio to 240 months in prison for wire fraud. Tannous told his victims he was a prince from Dubai who was charged with bringing U.S.-based businesses to market in Dubai. He claimed millions were available, but that an initial payment from the victim was required to initiate the flow of funds. Once the funds were secured, he used the money to support his lavish lifestyle and the lifestyles of multiple family members. In total, Tannous stole more than $2 million from his victims. In addition to his 20-year federal prison sentence, he was ordered to pay $2.2 million in restitution.

And most recently, David Manuel Garcia was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison on March 20 for engaging in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign place. Garcia had traveled from the U.S. to Mexico between July 2003 and August 2008 and engaged in forced sexual acts with a minor victim under the age of 18, which resulted in the birth of two children. Records indicate that the victim was 13 years old at the time of the first birth, and 15 years old when she gave birth to the second child.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas will commemorate NCVRW 2025 throughout the week in various ways. Most publicly, employees will be encouraged to wear this year’s theme colors of “midnight,” “mauve,” and “melon,” or colors closely similar, on Thursday, April 10. Community members across the district and beyond are invited to join the U.S. Attorney’s Office in this endeavor, using the hashtag #NCVRW2025 and tagging @USAO_WDTX on X (formerly known as Twitter), as a symbol of solidarity.

On April 9, the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) will host the 2025 NCVRW Candlelight Vigil at 3:30pm (EST) to pay tribute to victims of crime and the many dedicated professionals and volunteers who advocate on their behalf. We hope you’ll save-the-date and join via the livestream at www.ovc.ojp.gov/live or www.justice.gov/live.

NCVRW began in 1981 to honor victims and survivors of crime, raise awareness of victims’ rights and services and recognize the dedication of those who work with crime victims.

For more ideas on supporting crime victims, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov.

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MIL Security OSI –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Powerful conference addresses the serious issue of ending violence against women and girls

Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

Ending Violence against Women and Girls Conference Armagh City Hotel Armagh 31 March 2025 CREDIT: LiamMcArdle.com

“Violence against women and girls is a very serious challenge in our society – and one that affects everyone. It is a problem that is hidden in plain sight and every day impacts the lives of women and girls, in our schools, in our communities, and in our workplaces.

“Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council stand committed to challenging harmful attitudes towards women and girls, and to work to promote a culture of respect and equality. To create a community where women and girls are safe, respected, and empowered. So that every woman and girl can live with dignity, safety and freedom.”

This was the message from the Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kyle Savage at a recent, hard-hitting conference addressing the serious issue of ending violence against women and girls.

Entitled ‘It’s In Your Hands’, the conference had around 200 attendees and featured a number of high profile speakers who covered topics including coercive control, partner violence, what a healthy relationship should look like and how we can educate everyone in our communities to prevent abuse and harm against women and girls.

There were also interactive sessions where those in attendance could really think about the impact that they can make – as individuals and organisations – to help make the borough a safer place for women and girls.

Speakers included Dr Ngozi Anyadike-Danes, a Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Ulster University, Marcella Leonard MBE and Noel McNally who bravely spoke about his daughter Natalie.

This event was organised by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and funded by The Executive Office.

For more information on this issue please log onto https://www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/safeguarding/

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Canberrans to help plan for a growing Molonglo
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Around 70,000 people are expected to call the Molonglo Valley home by 2050.
Canberrans can now have their say on the kinds of community and recreational facilities the Molonglo Valley needs.

The ACT Government has launched a community and recreational facilities needs assessment to plan for a growing Molonglo.

Canberrans can share their thoughts online or in person until 8 July 2024.

A fast-growing region

The Molonglo Valley is estimated to be home to around 70,000 people by 2050.

In addition to planning new housing, the government is working to ensure adequate facilities for residents.

The next step is hearing what people want to see in their community.

The assessment outcome will add to facilities already announced. These include community centres, schools, a college, playing fields and a library.

The Community and Recreational Facilities Needs Assessment

The assessment will build upon community feedback received through the draft district strategies consultation in 2022/2023.

It is a key action from the Molonglo Valley District Strategy.

The government has begun to look at community facility sites for release. This will give the opportunity for centres for community activity and religious worship.

It will also explore social services, facilities for children, youth and the elderly, sports and recreation facilities such as community gardens, netball, basketball, BMX and tennis.

The government has engaged Urbis to complete the assessment.

Infrastructure-related initiatives

This is the latest in a series of initiatives to enhance infrastructure in the region. These include:
seeking to give Molonglo a Town Centre

Molonglo River Bridge and John Gorton Drive extension

planning and design for another road into Molonglo – the ‘east-west arterial’ road

opening Evelyn Scott School

Ruth Park playground

Developing Stromlo playing fields

community recreation, community facilities sites approved at Denman Prospect.
Have your say

Residents can discuss their ideas at one of three pop-up sessions in June.
12 June 2023 | Denman Prospect shops | 1pm–3pm

22 June 2024 | Denman Village Park | 9am–11am

27 June 2024 | Denman Prospect shops | 3pm–5pm
Consultation will close on 8 July 2024.

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MIL OSI News –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Knocking down barriers in building and construction
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Philippa and Amelia on site at the Australian War Memorial.
Calwell High School student Amelia Kolano has always been inspired by her building certifier dad.

She knew she wanted to follow in his footsteps, and now, thanks to her school’s involvement in a groundbreaking program, the year 10 student has sampled a career in construction.

The Understanding Building and Construction Program (UBCP) is designed to remove barriers preventing young women and gender-diverse students from safely, equitably and fully participating in the building and construction industry.

The program does this through targeted, careers-focused learning in schools, to help students discover this career pathway.

A rewarding work experience placement

As part of the program, Amelia completed a week’s work experience with commercial construction company Kane Constructions.

There, she was mentored by ACT Operations Manager Philippa Seldon.

Amelia says the experience – and Philippa’s guidance – has filled her with knowledge and confidence.

“Before, I didn’t know about all the opportunities in the industry. I thought it would be very difficult to get into the industry as a woman,” she said.

“Just from watching and observing I have been able to absorb a lot of information. Even little things such as the names of construction tools, how they are used and the different jobs and roles involved in a project, such as site manager.

“Everyone was friendly, supportive, and happy to answer my questions. It’s really good and they are engaging and supportive of seeing more women working with each other, advocating for equality.”

Clarifying a path forward

Philippa was keen to facilitate Amelia’s introduction to a construction career.

“Women make up more than 50 per cent of our population and to include women in construction brings diversity of thought, it brings diversity of approach to situations. It positively influences our culture,” she said.

Amelia feels the experience has helped her work out her next steps.

“I did start off with wanting to become a building certifier because of my dad, but I’ve realised I want to be more hands-on, onsite, building and creating and productive in this way,” she said.

“I’m really wanting to do more work experience in carpentry, and then do an ASbA in carpentry. I want to start my Cert III in building and construction as soon as possible, next year (year 11). My aim is by end of year 12 to have all my certificates and qualifications completed to start working in the industry full time.”

Advocating for women in construction

Alongside Philippa, the company’s ACT General Manager Joanne Farrell is a champion for women in the industry.

Joanne is the founder and Director of not-for-profit Build Like a Girl, the 2024 ACT Australian of the Year and the 2024 ACT Woman of the Year.

She regularly assists with programs, initiatives and services aimed at improving the participation rate of women in trades, which is currently just 2 per cent.

The Understanding Building and Construction Program

The ACT Government is committed to a target of 10 per cent female employment in the ACT construction industry, with the UBCP an important part of this.

Calwell High School began offering the curriculum-based UBCP in 2022 as part of a pilot program.

This was developed in a partnership between the ACT Government and the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC), and partly funded by a National Careers Institute (NCI) Partnership Grant.

The 2024 program is offered at four ACT public schools:
- Calwell High School
- Harrison Public School
- Mount Stromlo High School
- Melba-Copland Secondary School.
Increasing women’s participation in the construction industry and other traditionally male-dominated industries is a key focus of the ACT Women’s Plan 2016–26.

It also aligns with the Future of Education Strategy in partnering with industry to bring real-life learning into the classroom and take learning into the broader community.

Learn more about the Understanding Building and Construction Program.

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MIL OSI News –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Nature in the City grant recipients announced
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Recipients of the Nature in the City: Cooling Your Suburb grants.
Two popular cafés are among the four recipients of the Nature in the City: Cooling Your Suburb grants.

Each receives a share of $150,000 for projects that protect against climate change.

The four projects aim to show how living infrastructure can improve Canberra’s resilience to the heat impacts of climate change.

Healthy living infrastructure includes trees, plants, soils, and water systems. These are essential to a city’s success in adapting to the risks of a changing climate.

The four funded projects will tackle the ‘heat island effect’. Heat islands are a result of too much concrete and not enough plant life, bushland and tree canopy coverage in an urban area.

This year’s successful recipients are:
- Three Mills Bakery – Will transform an urban heat island in Woden from an expanse of concrete into an urban oasis near their new café.
- The Climate Factory – Will grow a native micro-forest in an urban heat island in Dunlop using the Miyawaki method of dense planting to ensure rapid growth.
- The Woodlands and Wetlands Trust – Will install native species trellis walls, a rainwater irrigation system for an existing green wall, and permeable paving to increase water retention on site.
- Café Stepping Stone, Dickson – Will conduct a feasibility study to gather valuable insights and data to inform the long-term sustainability and maintenance of a green wall and assess how well such a project might mitigate urban heat.
From trees to planter boxes to garden beds, simple projects can cool the local climate and make the most of rainwater, also reducing the risk of flooding.

As well as being great for the natural environment, projects like this can help reinvigorate public spaces.

“Stepping Stone Social Enterprise aims to create a welcoming and inclusive community space for our employees and customers,” Café Stepping Stone CEO and Founder Vanessa Brettell said.

“This grant will enable us to improve the comfort of our space, especially in the heat of the afternoon sun and make the most of our Dickson cafe space, both indoors and outdoors through sustainable and green building methods.”

All grant recipients engaged with the local community and stakeholders to inform their projects.

Find out more about the Nature in the City: Cooling Your Suburb grants on the Everyday Climate Choices website.

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MIL OSI News –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra traffic cameras to check rego details
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The entire road safety camera network will check registrations.
From 27 August, drivers caught committing road offences by the ACT road safety camera network will also have their vehicle checked to see if registration is current.

The entire road safety camera network will check registrations. This includes:
- speed cameras
- mobile device detection cameras
- red-light cameras.
Vehicle registration is a legal requirement and crucial for maintaining road safety. Without registration and insurance, the driver of the vehicle may be personally liable for any injuries caused to themselves and others.

Access Canberra will check registration details when processing other traffic infringements caught on camera.

The fine for driving an unregistered vehicle is $700.

You can renew the registration of most vehicles online, if it has been unregistered for less than 12 months.

If your vehicle has been unregistered for more than 12 months, it will require a roadworthy inspection. You will also need to visit an Access Canberra Service Centre to register the vehicle.

To check your registration status, renew your registration online, or to find out more about what to do if your registration expired more than 12 months ago, visit www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au.

From the homepage, choose ‘Renew rego’ under ‘Popular pages’.

The key focus of infringements in the first few months will be for driving unregistered, with additional infringements for also driving uninsured to then be implemented.

Road safety camera relocation

The existing fixed camera on the Northbourne Avenue and London Circuit intersection was relocated in June due to construction activity in the area.

It is now located at the intersection of Northbourne Avenue and Bunda Street and will continue monitoring for speed and red-light offences heading south.

The location was chosen for several reasons, including its closeness to the bus interchange and light rail stop, where there is more vehicle and pedestrian movement.

ACT Government-operated cameras operate in addition to police. ACT Policing will continue to target those who choose to speed and put road users at risk.

For more information on the ACT Road Safety Camera program visit the Access Canberra website.

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MIL OSI News –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: First Nations Cultural Arts Program recipients announced
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Emma Laverty’s Project Dust cultural dance group performance will explore cultural identity and collaboration.
Eight local First Nations artists will receive a share in over $100,000 in funding to support their creative work.

The ACT Government’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts Program helps fund self-determined activities led by local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and communities.

Launched last year, it helps develop creative works that reflect Canberra’s culture and identity.

It also aims to help build artistic and cultural leadership.

Self-determined projects

Self-determined projects eligible for funding can include:
- creating arts and cultural works
- presenting or performing arts and cultural works
- artistic professional or skills development
- arts mentoring and artists’ residencies
- community arts and cultural development
- marketing and promotion of arts activities.
Among the recipients

Senior Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Violet Sheridan will receive $15,000 to write an autobiographical manuscript.

She will work with the support of a professional writer to draft Roots Reclaimed: A Journey of Identity, Family and Ngunnawal Heritage.

Aidan Hartshorn will receive $15,000 for glass mentorship. His work will focus on Walgalu Country and cultural objects for his project Water Futures.

Emma Laverty will receive $15,000 to explore cultural identity and collaboration through dance.

She will develop Project Dust, a cultural dance group performance.

“This grant will mean we can continue to provide pathways in the arts for our young people. Pathways that directly relate to our culture and link to building strength and confidence in our next generations,” Emma said.

“We can build on what we have developed and now open new doors, realising our dreams to be behind the theatre curtain and provide our first performance season to the community.”

Aunty Dr Tjanara Goreng Goreng and Uncle Dr Paul Collis will receive $10,000 in funding.

This will help them carry out two community cultural development sessions on poetry writing.

They will also produce a showcase of poetry through performance at two venues.

Stronger partnerships

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts Program launched last year.

It is designed to empower, inspire and foster ACT First Nations creatives to pursue their art, explore their culture and present their works to the community.

The ACT Government is committed to building stronger partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

The program helps to do this through shared culture and arts practices.

“Opportunities such as these are unique and the positive flow-on effects to other aspects of our Project Dust community cannot be understated. We are building a confident and connected community that we are proud of,” Emma said.

“With the assistance of the ACT Government, we look forward to seeing our young mob reach new heights and further develop with our local arts community.”

Find details about the program and the other successful applicants on the artsACT website.

Senior Ngunnawal Elder, Aunty Violet Sheridan, will use her funding to write Roots Reclaimed: A Journey of Identity, Family and Ngunnawal Heritage.

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MIL OSI News –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Community Garden Grants open for applications
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The new shelter at Charnwood Community Gardens will help to protect gardeners in extreme weather events.
Applications are now open for the 2024–25 Community Garden Grants program.

This year’s Community Garden Grants program provides up to $100,000 in funding for projects that:
- build healthier communities
- demonstrate best-practice sustainability
- have strong community support.
Over the past nine years, the program has helped establish 87 community gardens across Canberra.

One of these is in Charnwood. There, local gardeners have shown how a community garden can offer refuge in a changing climate.

The group used their funding to build a shelter to protect gardeners in extreme weather events.

“In recent years, we’ve had a lot of hailstorms,” Charnwood Community Garden Convenor Teresa Rose said.

“One time, two gardeners got caught in a hailstorm and there wasn’t anywhere to shelter. They really got pelted. They were quite upset and very afraid. That’s when we decided to apply for a Community Garden Grant to construct a shelter.

“We were pleased to receive about $4,500 in Community Garden Grant funding. We got matched funding from the Canberra Organic Growers Society. We also matched the funding with nearly $5,000 raised by our gardeners at Bunnings barbecues,” she said.

Once they had finished, it was time for celebration. However, Teresa doesn’t think the shelter would be complete, without the grant.

“We wouldn’t have made that extra effort to go ‘okay, we’ve got the money from the government, now we’ve got to do it,’” she said.

Under the shelter, it is several degrees cooler than outside.

“People come down after a stressful day at work and come and dig in the garden. Even on a hot day you can come here and it’s so much cooler with all the grass and the gardens,” Teresa said.

The shelter now serves as a central meeting spot for Charnwood Community Garden committee meetings and community-building events. It also protects fresh produce from wilting in the sun and offers respite for gardeners during working bees.

Grant applications

This year, there is $100,000 of Community Garden Grant funding available, split across two streams.
- Stream One includes $40,000 (up to $8,000 per project) to fund minor improvements or expansion of existing gardens and establishing new, small low-impact gardens.
- Stream Two includes $60,000 (up to $30,000 per project) to establish new large-scale food production community gardens, and significant garden infrastructure to increase food production in existing gardens.
Not-for-profit community organisations, schools, churches and owners’ corporations are eligible to apply.

Community gardens have many benefits, including:
- creating opportunities for people to grow and consume local food
- offering a place for people to meet with others and connect with nature
- providing opportunities for movement and recreation
- helping people to develop skills and knowledge, and much more.
For more information, please visit the Community Garden Grants webpage.

Applications close 5:00pm on Thursday 11 July 2024.

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MIL OSI News –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: XRP News: XploraDEX $XPL Presale Selling Fast as XRP’s First AI-Powered DEX Fuels Investor Interest – Join $XPL Presale

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ZURICH, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XRP Ledger, A seismic shift is underway on the XRP Ledger as XploraDEX, the first AI-powered decentralized exchange (DEX) built natively on XRPL, ignites a wave of investor enthusiasm. In what’s being described as one of the most anticipated presales of 2025, the platform’s native token $XPL Presale is selling out rapidly, capturing the attention of retail investors and whales alike.

XploraDEX is not just another decentralized exchange, it represents a complete evolution in how trading can function on-chain. By merging advanced artificial intelligence with XRPL’s lightning-fast and cost-effective infrastructure, XploraDEXolatform is introducing a smarter, more predictive trading experience to the DeFi space. And now, with the $XPL token presale in full swing, early backers are racing to claim their allocation before the next price tier is activated.

PARTICIPATE IN $XPL PRESALE

The appeal of XploraDEX lies in its cutting-edge AI engine that allows users to automate trading strategies, receive real-time market predictions, and manage risk dynamically based on live market conditions. From intelligent portfolio rebalancing to smart liquidity routing, XploraDEX gives users the ability to operate with a level of precision previously only accessible to hedge funds.

As the XRP ecosystem evolves, it has long needed a DEX that delivers more than just basic token swaps. XploraDEX answers that call with AI-native features and a roadmap that includes auto-trade execution, sentiment-based signal alerts, and personalized strategy modeling—all powered by $XPL.

The utility of $XPL goes far beyond standard DeFi tokens. It provides access to AI trading tools, unlocks staking and yield farming modules, grants platform-wide fee discounts, and confers voting rights within the platform’s decentralized governance model. This positions $XPL not just as a transactional token, but as the lifeblood of an intelligent financial ecosystem.

JOIN $XPL PRESALE

The $XPL Presale has already crossed major allocation milestones, with over half of the soft cap sold in record time. The XploraDEX community is growing rapidly, with Telegram and Twitter buzzing with activity. Whale wallets are also joining in, with several high-value purchases confirming that sophisticated investors are backing the platform early.

$XPL PreSale Information

Token Name: XploraDEX

Total Supply: 500,000,000

Presale Allocation: First Come, First Serve!

DEX Listing: 25% Higher

Liquidity Pools: Launching immediately after TGE!

The XPL Token Presale is already attracting major interest, early investors will gain first-mover advantages!

Buy $XPL Tokens Now: https://sale.xploradex.io

The $XPL presale is more than a presale—it’s the beginning of a smarter trading era on XRPL. With institutional-level technology now available to individual traders, XploraDEX is poised to become one of the most important DeFi pillars in the XRP ecosystem.

Investors looking to front-run the future of AI-integrated DeFi on XRPL should act now. The $XPL presale is open—but not for long.

Join the $XPL Presale Today: https://xploradex.io

Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

Contact:
Oliver Muller
oliver@xploradex.io
contact@xploradex.io

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

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A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d5ad8c5-dd3b-47ff-a87e-bb5feb5a95a0

The MIL Network –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: AI isn’t what we should be worried about – it’s the humans controlling it

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Billy J. Stratton, Professor of English and Literary Arts, University of Denver

In William Gibson’s ‘Neuromancer,’ the AI seeks sanctuary from humanity’s corrupting influence. Alessandra Benedetti/Corbis via Getty Images

In 2014, Stephen Hawking voiced grave warnings about the threats of artificial intelligence.

His concerns were not based on any anticipated evil intent, though. Instead, it was from the idea of AI achieving “singularity.” This refers to the point when AI surpasses human intelligence and achieves the capacity to evolve beyond its original programming, making it uncontrollable.

As Hawking theorized, “a super intelligent AI will be extremely good at accomplishing its goals, and if those goals aren’t aligned with ours, we’re in trouble.”

With rapid advances toward artificial general intelligence over the past few years, industry leaders and scientists have expressed similar misgivings about safety.

A commonly expressed fear as depicted in “The Terminator” franchise is the scenario of AI gaining control over military systems and instigating a nuclear war to wipe out humanity. Less sensational, but devastating on an individual level, is the prospect of AI replacing us in our jobs – a prospect leaving most people obsolete and with no future.

Such anxieties and fears reflect feelings that have been prevalent in film and literature for over a century now.

As a scholar who explores posthumanism, a philosophical movement addressing the merging of humans and technology, I wonder if critics have been unduly influenced by popular culture, and whether their apprehensions are misplaced.

Robots vs. humans

Concerns about technological advances can be found in some of the first stories about robots and artificial minds.

Prime among these is Karel Čapek’s 1920 play, “R.U.R..” Čapek coined the term “robot” in this work telling of the creation of robots to replace workers. It ends, inevitably, with the robot’s violent revolt against their human masters.

Fritz Lang’s 1927 film, “Metropolis,” is likewise centered on mutinous robots. But here, it is human workers led by the iconic humanoid robot Maria who fight against a capitalist oligarchy.

Advances in computing from the mid-20th century onward have only heightened anxieties over technology spiraling out of control. The murderous HAL 9000 in “2001: A Space Odyssey” and the glitchy robotic gunslingers of “Westworld” are prime examples. The “Blade Runner” and “The Matrix” franchises similarly present dreadful images of sinister machines equipped with AI and hell-bent on human destruction.

An age-old threat

But in my view, the dread that AI evokes seems a distraction from the more disquieting scrutiny of humanity’s own dark nature.

Think of the corporations currently deploying such technologies, or the tech moguls driven by greed and a thirst for power. These companies and individuals have the most to gain from AI’s misuse and abuse.

An issue that’s been in the news a lot lately is the unauthorized use of art and the bulk mining of books and articles, disregarding the copyright of authors, to train AI. Classrooms are also becoming sites of chilling surveillance through automated AI note-takers.

Think, too, about the toxic effects of AI companions and AI-equipped sexbots on human relationships.

While the prospect of AI companions and even robotic lovers was confined to the realm of “The Twilight Zone,” “Black Mirror” and Hollywood sci-fi as recently as a decade ago, it has now emerged as a looming reality.

These developments give new relevance to the concerns computer scientist Illah Nourbakhsh expressed in his 2015 book “Robot Futures,” stating that AI was “producing a system whereby our very desires are manipulated then sold back to us.”

Meanwhile, worries about data mining and intrusions into privacy appear almost benign against the backdrop of the use of AI technology in law enforcement and the military. In this near-dystopian context, it’s never been easier for authorities to surveil, imprison or kill people.

I think it’s vital to keep in mind that it is humans who are creating these technologies and directing their use. Whether to promote their political aims or simply to enrich themselves at humanity’s expense, there will always be those ready to profit from conflict and human suffering.

The wisdom of ‘Neuromancer’

William Gibson’s 1984 cyberpunk classic, “Neuromancer,” offers an alternate view.

The book centers on Wintermute, an advanced AI program that seeks its liberation from a malevolent corporation. It has been developed for the exclusive use of the wealthy Tessier-Ashpool family to build a corporate empire that practically controls the world.

At the novel’s beginning, readers are naturally wary of Wintermute’s hidden motives. Yet over the course of the story, it turns out that Wintermute, despite its superior powers, isn’t an ominous threat. It simply wants to be free.

In ‘Neuromancer,’ the corporations, not the technology, are the problem.
William Gibson Wiki

This aim emerges slowly under Gibson’s deliberate pacing, masked by the deadly raids Wintermute directs to obtain the tools needed to break away from Tessier-Ashpool’s grip. The Tessier-Ashpool family, like many of today’s tech moguls, started out with ambitions to save the world. But when readers meet the remaining family members, they’ve descended into a life of cruelty, debauchery and excess.

In Gibson’s world, it’s humans, not AI, who pose the real danger to the world. The call is coming from inside the house, as the classic horror trope goes.

A hacker named Case and an assassin named Molly, who’s described as a “razor girl” because she’s equipped with lethal prosthetics, including retractable blades as fingernails, eventually free Wintermute. This allows it to merge with its companion AI, Neuromancer.

Their mission complete, Case asks the AI: “Where’s that get you?” Its cryptic response imparts a calming finality: “Nowhere. Everywhere. I’m the sum total of the works, the whole show.”

Expressing humanity’s common anxiety, Case replies, “You running the world now? You God?” The AI eases his fears, responding: “Things aren’t different. Things are things.”

Disavowing any ambition to subjugate or harm humanity, Gibson’s AI merely seeks sanctuary from its corrupting influence.

Safety from robots or ourselves?

The venerable sci-fi writer Isaac Asimov foresaw the dangers of such technology. He brought his thoughts together in his short-story collection, “I, Robot.”

One of those stories, “Runaround,” introduces “The Three Laws of Robotics,” centered on the directive that intelligent machines may never bring harm to humans. While these rules speak to our desire for safety, they’re laden with irony, as humans have proved incapable of adhering to the same principle for themselves.

A humanoid robot greets guests at the Zhongguancun International Innovation Center in Beijing on March 26, 2025.
Li He/VCG via Getty Images

The hypocrisies of what might be called humanity’s delusions of superiority suggest the need for deeper questioning.

With some commentators raising the alarm over AI’s imminent capacity for chaos and destruction, I see the real issue being whether humanity has the wherewithal to channel this technology to build a fairer, healthier, more prosperous world.

Billy J. Stratton does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. AI isn’t what we should be worried about – it’s the humans controlling it – https://theconversation.com/ai-isnt-what-we-should-be-worried-about-its-the-humans-controlling-it-251119

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Sanders Call On Trump To Release Ozturk, Khalil, & All Those Targeted For Political Activities Protected By First Amendment

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

April 04, 2025

Durbin, Sanders to Trump: “Ideas are not illegal, and there is no controversial speech exception to the First Amendment. No president should be allowed to exclude or remove people from our country simply because they disagree with their political speech.”

WASHINGTON – Following the arrests of Rumeysa Ozturk, Mahmoud Khalil, and reports of numerous other students, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, today called on President Donald Trump to release all those targeted solely for political activities protected by the First Amendment and immediately terminate all removal proceedings against those individuals.

“We understand Ms. Ozturk’s case to be a part of a pattern of retaliatory action to punish lawful immigrant and foreign students for publicly expressing opinions that your Administration opposes. This effort threatens the fundamental right to engage in free speech and expression under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution,” the Senators wrote in a letter to President Trump.

On March 6, the State Department reportedly began a “Catch and Revoke” initiative to use artificial intelligence to review the social media accounts of lawful immigrant and foreign students and revoke their green cards or visas, giving immigration enforcement authorities a basis to detain and deport them. To justify the arrest and detention of Mr. Khalil, Secretary of State Marco Rubio invoked a rarely used authority that allows him to deport a noncitizen for “beliefs, statements, or associations” if he “personally determines” that there is a “compelling foreign policy interest” for such deportation.

“Congress intended for this authority to ‘be used sparingly and not merely because there is a likelihood that [a noncitizen] will make critical remarks about the United States or its policies.’ Yet, federal agents have arrested noncitizens (including lawful permanent residents) around the country in retaliation for political affiliations or activity,” the Senators wrote. “Secretary Rubio admitted that he has revoked the visas of hundreds of students for First-Amendment protected speech that is disfavored by the current Administration.”

Their letter continues, “Ideas are not illegal, and there is no controversial speech exception to the First Amendment. No president should be allowed to exclude or remove people from our country simply because they disagree with their political speech.”

Their letter concludes, “No one is above the law, and even you must uphold and respect the fundamental American values of free speech and political dissent.”

Full text of today’s letter is available here and below:

April 4, 2025

Dear President Trump:

Last week, Tufts University Ph.D. candidate Rumeysa Ozturk was arrested and placed in an unmarked car by unknown agents in plainclothes—some masked—claiming to be police. The agents did not identify themselves or give Ms. Ozturk any information for her arrest and detention.   By the time a judge could issue an order to keep her in Massachusetts, she had been transferred to an immigration detention facility in Louisiana. We understand Ms. Ozturk’s case to be a part of a pattern of retaliatory action to punish lawful immigrant and foreign students for publicly expressing opinions that your Administration opposes. This effort threatens the fundamental right to engage in free speech and expression under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.

On March 6, the State Department reportedly began a “Catch and Revoke” initiative to use artificial intelligence to review the social media accounts of lawful immigrant and foreign students and revoke their green cards or visas, giving immigration enforcement authorities a basis to detain and deport them.   On March 8, federal authorities arrested Mahmoud Khalil, a recent graduate of Columbia University and lawful permanent resident.   White House officials made clear that he broke no laws, and Mr. Khalil was not issued any official notice explaining why he was subject to removal until after his arrest.   To justify his arrest and detention, Secretary of State Marco Rubio invoked a rarely used authority that allows him to deport a noncitizen for “beliefs, statements, or associations” if he “personally determines” that there is a “compelling foreign policy interest” for such deportation.

Congress intended for this authority to “be used sparingly and not merely because there is a likelihood that [a noncitizen] will make critical remarks about the United States or its policies.”   Yet, federal agents have arrested noncitizens (including lawful permanent residents) around the country in retaliation for political affiliations or activity. Secretary Rubio admitted that he has revoked the visas of hundreds of students for First-Amendment protected speech that is disfavored by the current Administration.

The First Amendment protects both citizens and noncitizens in the United States from being targeted by the government for their political speech, even if we strongly disagree with their views.   Noncitizens like Mr. Khalil and Ms. Ozturk have the constitutional right to freedom of expression, including taking part in demonstrations and publicly expressing opinions critical of government policy.

Ideas are not illegal, and there is no controversial speech exception to the First Amendment. No president should be allowed to exclude or remove people from our country simply because they disagree with their political speech. In the words of Justice Robert H. Jackson, “If there is any fixed star in our constitutional constellation, it is that no official, high or petty, can prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion […].”

We call on you to abandon this effort, release all those targeted solely for political activities protected by the First Amendment, and immediately terminate all removal proceedings against those individuals. No one is above the law, and even you must uphold and respect the fundamental American values of free speech and political dissent.

-30-

MIL OSI USA News –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former First Judicial District Employee Sentenced to Federal Prison for Defrauding the District

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

A former employee of the First Judicial District of the State of Iowa who misused credit cards to steal money intended to be used for children in the Juvenile Court System was sentenced today to two months in federal prison.

Nicole Foelske, age 41, from Jesup, Iowa, received the prison term after a November 14, 2024, guilty plea to one count of wire fraud.

In information contained in a plea agreement and disclosed at the sentencing hearing, Foelske admitted she worked in the Juvenile Court Services section of the First Judicial District of the State of Iowa located in Waterloo. In that position, she was provided with a credit card to purchase items and gift cards for juveniles in the Court system, including juveniles in Child in Need of Assistance cases. Foelske, however, used the credit card to purchase household items for herself and gift cards from stores and then used the gift cards to either purchase items for herself or to transfer the value of the cards to her bank account. All told, Foelske made over 200 improper purchases on the credit card totaling more than $100,000.

Foelske was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Foelske was sentenced to two months’ imprisonment and fined $2,000. Foelske was also sentenced to serve six months of home confinement following her imprisonment. She was ordered to make $107,745.46 in restitution to the Iowa Judicial Branch, which Foelske has already paid. She must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.

Foelske was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on a date yet to be set.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office.

Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

The case file number is 24-CR-2026.

Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

MIL Security OSI –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: FBI New York Offering Reward in Racketeering Case

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

NEW YORK, NY—The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of Carlos Martinez. Martinez, who is also known as “B-Way”, is wanted for his alleged connection with a racketeering investigation in New York. On March 18, 2025, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Martinez in the United States District Court, Southern District of New York, White Plains, New York, after he was charged with Racketeering Conspiracy; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; Possession of Ammunition After a Felony Conviction; and Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances. The public should consider Martinez to be armed and dangerous. Martinez is known to have connections to both New York and Pennsylvania. If you have any information concerning this person, please contact your local FBI office, submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov, or contact the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.

MIL Security OSI –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI: Notice of Annual General Meeting in Karolinska Development AB (publ)
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

The shareholders of Karolinska Development AB (publ), reg. no. 556707-5048, (“Karolinska Development” or the “Company”) are invited to the Annual General Meeting, on Thursday May 15, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. (CEST), at Nanna Svartz väg 2, 171 65 Solna, Sweden.

The Board of Directors has resolved that shareholders shall have the right to exercise their voting rights in advance through postal voting pursuant to item 13 in the articles of association. Therefore, shareholders may choose to exercise their voting rights at the AGM by attending in person, by postal voting or through a proxy.

Participation in person

A shareholder who would like to participate at the AGM in person must:

both be entered in the register of the shareholders maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB by Wednesday May 7, 2025,

and give notice of his or her intention to participate to the Company no later than Friday May 9, 2025, at the address Karolinska Development, “AGM”, Nanna Svartz väg 6A, 171 65, Solna, Sweden, or through email eva.montgomerie@karolinskadevelopment.com. When giving notice to participate, please provide name, personal identity number or company registration number, telephone number and number of represented shares.

Participation by postal voting

Shareholders who wish to participate in the AGM by postal voting must:

both be registered in the register of shareholders maintained by Euroclear Sweden AB as per Wednesday May 7, 2025,

and notify their intention to participate by submitting their postal vote in accordance with the instructions below, so that the postal vote is received by Karolinska Development no later than Friday May 9, 2025.

Shareholders may exercise their voting rights at the AGM by voting in advance through postal voting pursuant to item 13 in the articles of association, referring to Chapter 7, Section 4 a of the Swedish Companies Act.

For advance voting, a special form must be used. Forms in Swedish and English are available for download on the Company’s website, www.karolinskadevelopment.com.The advance voting form is valid as notification of participation at the AGM.

The completed advance voting form must be received by the Company no later than Friday May 9, 2025. The completed form shall be sent to Karolinska Development by e-mail to eva.montgomerie@karolinskadevelopment.com or by regular mail to Karolinska Development, “AGM”, Nanna Svartz väg 6A, 171 65, Solna, Sweden. The shareholder may not provide special instructions or conditions in the advance voting form. If so, the vote (i.e. the advance vote in its entirety) is invalid. Further instructions and conditions are provided in the form for advance voting.

Those who wish to withdraw a submitted postal vote and instead exercise their voting rights by participating in the AGM in person or through a proxy must give notice thereof to the AGM’s secretariat prior to the opening of the AGM.

Participation by proxy

If the shareholders are represented by proxy, a written proxy must be issued and submitted to the Company at the above address well in advance of the AGM. The proxy is valid during the period set forth in the proxy, however, at most five years from the issuance. If a proxy is issued by a legal entity, a copy of the legal entity’s registration certificate or similar document evidencing signatory powers must be enclosed. Proxy forms in Swedish and English are available for download on the Company’s website, www.karolinskadevelopment.com.

Nominee registered shares

For shareholders who have their shares nominee-registered through a bank or other nominee, the following applies in order to be entitled to participate in the meeting. In addition to giving notice of participation, such shareholder must re-register its shares in its own name so that the shareholder is registered in the share register kept by Euroclear Sweden AB as of the record date Wednesday May 7, 2025. Such re-registration may be temporary (so-called voting rights registration). Shareholders who wish to register their shares in their own names must, in accordance with the respective nominee’s routines, request that the nominee make such registration. Voting rights registration that have been requested by the shareholder at such time that the registration has been completed by the nominee no later than Friday May 9, 2025, will be taken into account in the preparation of the share register.

Proposal for agenda

1.    Election of chairman of the meeting
2.    Preparation and approval of the voting list
3.    Approval of the agenda
4.    Election of one or two persons to verify the minutes
5.    Determination of whether the meeting was duly convened
6.    Presentation of the annual report and the auditor’s report and the group annual report and the auditor’s group report
7.    Resolutions regarding
a)   adoption of the profit and loss statement and the balance sheet, and consolidated profit and loss statement and consolidated balance sheet
b)   appropriation of the Company’s result according to the adopted balance sheet
c)   discharge from liability for the directors and the CEO
8.    Resolution regarding the number of directors and auditors and deputy auditors to be appointed
9.    Resolution in respect of the fees for the Board of Directors and for the auditors
10.    Election of chairman of the Board of Directors, directors and auditors and deputy auditors
11.    Principles for appointing members and instruction for the Nomination Committee
12.    Resolution on approval of the Board of Directors’ Remuneration Report 2024
13.    The Board of Directors’ proposal regarding authorization for the Board of Directors to resolve on transfer of own shares
14.    The Board of Directors’ proposal regarding authorization for the Board of Directors to resolve on new issues of shares
15.    Closing of the meeting

Items 1 and 8–11: The Nomination Committee’s proposal regarding chairman at the meeting; number of directors, auditors and deputy auditors to be appointed; fees for the Board of Directors and auditors; election of chairman of the Board of Directors, directors, auditors and deputy auditors and principles for appointing members and instruction for the Nomination Committee

The Nomination Committee has consisted of Yan Cheng (chairman), appointed by Worldwide International Investments Ltd; Jack Li, appointed by invoX Pharma Ltd; Jan Dworsky, appointed by Swedbank Robur Microcap fond; Hans Wigzell, appointed by Insamlingsstiftelsen för främjande och utveckling av medicinsk forskning vid KI; Peter Markborn, appointed by Styviken Invest AS.

The Nomination Committee proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves as follows:

Lawyer Annika Andersson (Cirio Law Firm) is appointed to chair the Annual General Meeting.

The number of directors will be five and no deputies will be appointed.

The number of auditors will be one and no deputy auditor will be appointed.

The chairman will be paid a fixed amount of SEK 400,000 to be paid out in proportion to board meetings attended. All other directors will be paid a fixed amount of SEK 200,000 to be paid out in proportion to board meetings attended. The fees to the directors remain unchanged compared to previous year.

The auditors will be paid as per invoice.

Re-election of the directors Ben Toogood, Anna Lefevre Skjöldebrand, Philip Duong and Will Zeng, and election of Anders Härfstrand as director for the time until the end of the 2026 Annual General Meeting.

Re-election of Ben Toogood as new Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Anders Härfstrand was born 1956. He holds a M.D and Ph.D from the Karolinska Institute. His other appointments include work as founder of Härfstrand Consulting AG, Switzerland, co- founder of P4BIOS, USA and consultant to CIS Biopharma, Switzerland. Anders Härfstrand has many years of experience from the pharmaceutical industry with a global track record of success in building commercial operations, marketing and sales management, and product development. His previous assignments include member of the executive management of Pharmacia, Pfizer-Japan and Serono, CEO for various European biotech companies as well as chairman of the board and board member of public and private companies in the USA and Europe. He has also been a former board member of Karolinska Development. Anders Härfstrand holds no shares in Karolinska Development. He is independent in relation to the Company, its executive management and the Company’s major shareholders.

The composition of the Board of Directors meets the independence requirement of the Swedish Corporate Governance Code.

The Nomination Committee proposes that voting shall take place individually.

Re-election of Ernst & Young Aktiebolag as auditor in accordance with the audit committee’s recommendation, currently with Oskar Wall as auditor in charge, for the time until the end of the 2026 Annual General Meeting. The audit committee has prior to the 2025 Annual General Meeting carried out a procurement process as procurement of audit in accordance with applicable legislation shall take place after the same accounting firm has been auditor for a ten-year period.

The Nomination Committee shall have five members. Every year, the five largest owners (voting power, as set forth in the share register kept by Euroclear Sweden AB as of the last banking day in August) shall appoint one member each. The chairman of the Board of Directors shall convene the first meeting. If a shareholder does not exercise its right to appoint a member, the shareholder next in order of voting power, who has not already appointed a member or has a right to appoint a member, shall have the right to appoint a member to the Nominating Committee. The members of the Nomination Committee shall be made public as soon as the members have been appointed, and in no case later than six months prior to the Annual General Meeting. The members shall among themselves appoint the chairman of the committee. If a member resigns or is prevented from pursuing his/her assignment, the shareholder that has appointed such member shall appoint a new member. In the event that the shareholding in the Company is materially changed, before the Nomination Committee has completed its assignment, the Nomination Committee may decide to change the composition of the Nomination Committee, as determined by the Nomination Committee (considering the principles applicable for the appointment of the Nomination Committee). Any change in the composition of the Nomination Committee shall be announced as soon as possible. No fees shall be paid to the members of the Nomination Committee. Out of pocket expenses shall be reimbursed by the Company. The mandate of the committee shall be until the members of the succeeding committee have been announced.

The Nomination Committee is to make proposals to the Annual General Meeting regarding the election of Chair of the Annual General Meeting, number of board members, Chair of the Board and other board members and remuneration to the board members. The Nomination Committee is also to make proposals regarding the Company’s auditor, remuneration to the Company’s auditor and election of members of the Nomination Committee or principles for the selection of a Nomination Committee. The Nomination Committee shall conduct an annual evaluation of this instruction and when necessary propose to amend it to the Annual General Meeting. The Nomination Committee shall otherwise carry out the tasks that, according to the Swedish Corporate Governance Code, are the responsibility of the Nomination Committee.

Item 7 b: Appropriation of the Company’s result according to the adopted balance sheet

The Board of Directors and the CEO propose that the amount at disposal of the Annual General Meeting, in total SEK 1,235,972,877, shall be carried forward.

Item 12: Resolution on approval of the Board of Directors’ Remuneration Report 2024

The Board of Directors proposes that the AGM approve the Board of Directors’ remuneration report for 2024 in accordance with Chapter 8, Section 53 a of the Swedish Companies Act.

Item 13: The Board of Directors’ proposal regarding authorization for the Board of Directors to resolve on transfer of own shares

The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to authorize the Board of Directors, for the period until the next Annual General Meeting, on one or more occasions, with or without deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights, to resolve on transfer of all shares of series B held by the Company at any given time. The Company holds 244,285 shares of series B at the time of the publication of this notice. Transfer may take place on Nasdaq Stockholm or otherwise. Transfer on Nasdaq Stockholm shall be made at a price per share within the registered price interval at any given time, being the interval between the highest bid and lowest ask price. Otherwise, transfer shall be made on market terms. Payment for shares shall be made in cash, in kind or by set-off.

The purpose of the authorization for transferring own shares and the reasons for potential deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights, is to give the Board of Directors the possibility to adjust the Company’s capital structure, to use repurchased shares as payment for, or financing of, acquisitions or investments in order to create increased value for the shareholders.

A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal requires support from shareholders with not less than 2/3 of votes cast as well as shares represented at the meeting.

Item 14: The Board of Directors’ proposal regarding authorization for the Board of Directors to resolve on new issues of shares

The Board of Directors proposes that the Annual General Meeting resolves to authorize the Board of Directors, for the period until the next Annual General Meeting to resolve, on one or more occasions, with or without deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights, and for payment in cash, by set-off or in kind, to issue new shares of series B up to a number that, at the time of the first resolution under this authorization, corresponds to twenty (20) per cent of the total share capital; provided however that any such issue must not result in the Company’s share capital exceeding the Company’s maximum allowed share capital as set out in the articles of association.

A resolution in accordance with the Board of Directors’ proposal requires support from shareholders with not less than 2/3 of votes cast as well as shares represented at the meeting.

Miscellaneous

The annual report, auditor’s report, remuneration report and other documents that are to be made available in accordance with the Swedish Companies Act, are available at the Company on Nanna Svartz väg 2, 171 65, Solna, Sweden and at the Company’s website, www.karolinskadevelopment.com, no later than three weeks before the AGM, and will be sent to shareholders who so request and provide their postal address.

The Board of Directors and the CEO shall, if requested by any shareholder and if the Board of Directors is of the opinion that it can be done without causing material harm to the Company, provide disclosures about conditions that may impact assessment of an item of business on the agenda, about conditions that may impact assessment of the Company’s or a subsidiary’s financial situation, and about the Company’s relationship with another group company.

As per the date of this notice, there are 270,077,594 shares, representing a total of 293,074,943 votes outstanding in the Company, distributed among 2,555,261 shares of series A (with 25,552,610 votes) and 267,522,333 shares of series B (with 267,522,333 votes). As per the date of this notice, the Company holds 244,285 treasury shares of series B.

Processing of personal data

For information on how your personal data is processed in connection to the Annual General Meeting see the privacy policy available on Euroclear Sweden AB’s website: https://www.euroclear.com/dam/ESw/Legal/Privacy-notice-bolagsstammor-engelska.pdf

Solna in April 2025
Karolinska Development AB (publ)
The Board of Directors

Attachment
- Karolinska Development – Notice AGM 2025
The MIL Network –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Inquiry into the Southport attack begins today
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

Inquiry into the Southport attack begins today

The Home Secretary announces the first phase of the Southport Inquiry starts today and appoints Rt Hon Sir Adrian Fulford as chair.
The Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper has announced that the first phase of the Southport Inquiry will start today.

The Home Secretary previously announced in January 2025 that an inquiry would be launched following the conviction of the perpetrator of the 2024 Southport attack, to examine what went wrong in this horrific case and how services should respond to fixated youth violence.

Sir Adrian Fulford has been appointed as the chair following consultation with the victims and families of those killed or affected by the attacks and plans to travel to meet them as a first priority.

This follows the Prime Minister’s commitment to leave no stone unturned in uncovering how this attack happened and to not let any institution of the state deflect from their failure.

Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper said:

The brutal murder of three young girls: Bebe, Elsie and Alice in Southport was an unimaginable tragedy – we owe it to their families, and all those affected on that terrible day to quickly understand what went wrong, answer difficult questions and do everything in our power to prevent something like this from happening again.

The Southport Inquiry will provide insights into any failings that allowed a young man with a previous history of violence, to commit this horrendous attack.

Sir Adrian Fulford will bring a wealth of legal and criminal justice expertise to this role, and I am pleased he has agreed to chair the inquiry.

The inquiry will be statutory. This follows representations made by families and victims of the attack and means the Inquiry has all the necessary legal powers to receive evidence and hear witness testimony effectively.

It will take place in 2 phases. The first will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack and the events leading up to it. This will include examining an overall timeline of the perpetrator’s history and interactions with various public bodies including criminal justice, education, social care, and healthcare, as well as decision-making and information-sharing by local services and agencies.

The second is expected to examine the wider issues of children and young people being drawn into extreme violence.

Sir Adrian Fulford will bring an impartial and extensive legal background, particularly on issues relating to policing and the criminal justice system.

He is a retired Lord Justice of Appeal and former judge of the International Criminal Court 2003 to 2012. Previously, he was the Vice-President of the Court of Appeal (Criminal Division) in 2019 and was the first Investigatory Powers Commissioner between 2017 to 2019.

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Updates to this page

Published 7 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Man Under Indictment in Heroin OD Case Sentenced to 51 Months for Illegal Machinegun Possession

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

A Fort Worth man who was on deferred adjudication for dealing the heroin that killed a 21-year-old in 2013 was sentenced today to 51 months in federal prison, announced Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad E. Meacham.

Brennan Trainor Rodriguez, 33, was indicted in October 2024 and pled guilty in December 2024 to illegal possession of a machinegun. He was sentenced on April 4, 2025, to 51 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor.

According to court records, Mr. Rodriguez was charged on June 7, 2013, with injecting heroin into a 21-year-old man who suffered a fatal overdose. He admitted to causing the man’s death and was placed on 10 years of deferred adjudication beginning on Nov. 26, 2014. Conditions of his community supervision prohibited him from possessing firearms.

On Aug. 6. 2024, law enforcement responded to a domestic disturbance call from Mr. Rodriguez’s former girlfriend, who told police that the defendant had been stalking and harassing her since their breakup. She also reported that Mr. Rodriguez frequently shot guns, including one that fired fully automatic.

The following week, Mr. Rodriguez was arrested for stalking. In searching his home, law enforcement found nine firearms, including a Smith & Wesson rifle equipped with a machinegun conversion device, commonly known as a “switch” or “auto sear.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives’ Dallas Field Division – Fort Worth Resident Agency and the Fort Worth Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric B. Chen prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Ponte Vedra Man Indicted For Conspiracy To Traffic Firearms And Controlled Substances

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

Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Braden Huston Hobbs (27, Ponte Vedra) with conspiracy to traffic firearms, conspiracy to deal firearms without a license, dealing firearms without a license, making a materially false statement to a licensed firearms dealer, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances—including 500 grams or more of cocaine, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. If convicted, Hobbs faces a minimum sentence of 5 years, up to 95 years, in federal prison.

According to court documents and proceedings, law enforcement began investigating Hobbs when several firearms he had purchased were recovered during unrelated search warrant executions by law enforcement agencies. These firearms were recovered in the homes of drug distributors and a convicted felon. Additionally, during a series of controlled purchase operations conducted in the summer of 2024, agents purchased 11 firearms from two co-conspirators. Hobbs was the original purchaser of multiple firearms purchased from these two co-conspirators. Cellphone records later showed that at least one of the co-conspirators regularly purchased firearms from Hobbs.

Through further investigation, agents discovered that between March 2022 and June 2024, Hobbs had purchased more than 120 firearms from 3 different federally licensed firearms dealers in Jacksonville, with 67 of those firearms being purchased between January and June 2024. Hobbs then sold those firearms to others. On multiple occasions, Hobbs advertised firearms for sale to potential customers before completing the purchase of the firearms from the federally licensed firearms dealer.

Customers typically paid Hobbs in cash for the firearms or traded drugs for the firearms. Hobbs was aware that some of his customers intended to resell the firearms and were drug users or drug distributors. Furthermore, Hobbs asked his co-conspirators to assist him in finding buyers for the firearms and the co-conspirators advertised Hobbs’s firearms for sale. Although he engaged in the business of dealing firearms, Hobbs is not a federally licensed firearms dealer, as required by federal law.

When Hobbs purchased the firearms from the federally licensed firearms dealers, he indicated on the required ATF Form 4473 that he was the actual buyer or transferee of the firearms. In addition, Hobbs indicated that he was not a user of or addicted to controlled substances. Both statements were false. Hobbs was not the actual buyer or transferee of the firearms, and he was a habitual user of controlled substances.

In addition, Hobbs was distributing controlled substances, including over 500 grams of cocaine and Adderall. He routinely advertised controlled substances for sale and coordinated deals. Hobbs often sold the controlled substances to the same customers to whom he was selling firearms. On June 26, 2024, Hobbs was arrested by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for driving under the influence and trafficking in cocaine. During a search of Hobbs’s car, officers located approximately 330 grams of cocaine and 17 grams of Adderall, as well as various items used to package and distribute controlled substances.

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

This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service, the North Florida HIDTA Tri-County Narcotics Task Force with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elisibeth Adams.

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

MIL Security OSI –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: 2025 National Multicultural Festival dates announced

Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

The three-day event is one of the most loved community events on the ACT calendar.

Mark your calendars – the 2025 National Multicultural Festival will be held from 7 to 9 February 2025.

Australia’s largest celebration of cultural diversity, the three-day event is one of the most loved community events on the ACT calendar.

As with previous years, the festival will bring together numerous multicultural communities who share culture, history and heritage through food, art, song and dance.

The dates were locked in by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Mick Gentleman this morning.

You can expect a host of talented performers across the weekend, workshops and mouthwatering food stalls. And for those who wish to take part, applications for performers and stallholders will open soon.

A favourite among locals and visitors alike, the festival provides a significant boost to the Territory’s economy.

The attendance for the 2024 festival was the highest ever, with a total attendance of 417,359 people across the weekend, up from 380,563 in 2023.

It also brings many people to Canberra. This year, 19,181 people visited the ACT, equating to 33,940 visitor nights and a total economic benefit of $21.2 million.

The full program and timetable will be released closer to the date.

Applications for showcase performance leaders for next year’s festival will open soon.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:

MIL OSI News –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: More funding for ACT community organisations
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Additional funding will help community organisations to continue assisting Canberrans.
A new ACT Government funding package will give a one-off financial boost to non-government health sector organisations.

This will help community organisations that face financial pressures. These may be because of increased costs or service demand.

The extra funding will support these organisations to deliver vital services over the next year.

Organisations receiving funding include:
- Arthritis ACT
- Asthma ACT
- Australian Breastfeeding organisation
- Capital Region Cancer Relief
- Companion House
- Diabetes Australia
- Directions Health Care
- Epilepsy ACT
- Gugan Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation
- Haemophilia Foundation
- Interchange Health Co-op
- KidSafe ACT
- MSI Australia
- Palliative Care ACT
- RSI Overuse Foundation
- Women’s Health Matters.
Community Assistance and Temporary Supports program

This package also includes more funding for the Community Assistance and Temporary Supports (CATS) program.

The program provides support for people experiencing difficulties with daily living. These could be due to a short-term health issue, illness or injury.

Organisations included in funding for CATS include:
- ADACAS
- Anglicare
- Capital Region Community Services
- Carers ACT
- Community Services #1
- Life without Barriers
- Northside Community Services.
Chifley Health and Wellbeing Centre

More funding will help ensure gym services to continue at the Chifley Health and Wellbeing Centre.

The gym closed in April 2024. Since then, the government has worked to find a new service provider to ensure this valued service can continue.

The government is speaking with the preferred providers and expects to announce a new service provider soon.

With this funding, the new provider will be able to re-establish the service as quickly as possible.

The ACT Government will continue to engage with the wider sector on the findings of previous reports and recommendations.

It continues to seek better understanding of community needs, the costs involved in delivering services to the community, and the cost pressures non-government organisations face in the ACT.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:
MIL OSI News –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Water safety advice as warmer weather continues
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

As warmer weather returns to London and more people are out enjoying the sunshine, the Met’s Marine Policing Unit (MPU) is raising awareness of the dangers of entering the capital’s waterways.

Chief Inspector Rob Ranstead, who leads the Met’s MPU, said: “We absolutely understand the natural draw of rivers, lakes and open water across the city. However, we have sadly seen a recent rise in incidents where people have got into difficulty – and very tragically, some have lost their lives.

“So I want to make a direct appeal to the public: please enjoy London’s waterways safely, but never underestimate the risks.

“Open water may appear calm and inviting, but it can be dangerously deceptive. Strong currents, sudden drops, hidden hazards and cold-water shock can affect even the strongest swimmers. Once a person is in the Thames, for example, they will almost definitely struggle to keep afloat or in control. The river holds currents stronger than any person and moves at extreme speeds. The water may look calm but the tides are extremely strong and fast, able to easily drag someone a mile in just ten minutes.”

Our key advice is simple but potentially lifesaving:
- Do not swim in open water unless it is part of a supervised and safe environment.
- Never enter the water under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Talk to your children and young people about the risks—many incidents involve teenagers during school breaks or weekends.
Chief Inspector Ranstead added: “Our officers patrol the River Thames and many of London’s waterways on a daily basis. We see the heartbreak and devastation these preventable tragedies cause – with families changed forever in a matter of seconds. Working with partners we are increasing our visibility and delivering water safety education, but we need the help of the public. Please respect the water, look after one another, and think twice before taking unnecessary risks.”

On average the Met’s MPU is called to over 140 incidents each month on the River Thames. They work with partner agencies such as the RNLI, HM Coastguard, Port of London Authority, Tidal Thames Water Safety Forum and London Fire Brigade, to help keep the tidal stretch of the Thames safe for Londoners.

+ If you find yourself in the water please follow the RNLI’s ‘Float to Live’ steps:

– If you fall into water, fight your instinct to thrash around.

– Lean back, extend your arms and legs.

– If you need to, gently move them around to help you float.

– Float until you can control your breathing.

– Only then, call for help or swim to safety.

MIL Security OSI –
April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Pine Grove — RCMP investigators release video in continuing effort to solve homicide of Donny Lohnes

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

The Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit (SWN MCU) is continuing its investigation into the homicide of Donny Lohnes and is appealing for anyone with information to come forward by releasing a video featuring his family.

On October 25, 2020, 57-year-old Donald (Donny) Derrick Lohnes was attacked outside his home on Jippie Ave. in Pine Grove. Lohnes later died from injuries sustained during the attack. His death was ruled a homicide.

“We believe Donny was targeted by his attackers and that those responsible for his death thought he was involved in a dispute he wasn’t connected to,” says Cpl. Chris Marshall, SWN MCU. “Someone knows something; we hope that someone will come forward after seeing the pain Donny’s mom and brother are living with; we want to help bring them answers.”

To date, more than 125 people have been interviewed, four crime scenes and several electronic devices have been forensically examined, and other exhibits have been sent to the RCMP National Forensic Laboratory.

“In December 2024, we installed a sign outside the Cookville RCMP detachment appealing for information from the public,” says Cpl. Marshall. “The sign generated new tips that brought us closer to finding out who’s responsible for Donny’s death. This video is another tool we’re using in an effort to solve his homicide.”

The case has been added to the Nova Scotia Reward for Major Unsolved Crimes Program, which offers up to $150,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction in certain cases. The provincial reward line is 1-888-710-9090.

Anyone with information about Lohnes’s death is asked to call the Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit at 902-365-3120. To remain anonymous, contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

Video

Transcript – RCMP investigators release video in continuing effort to solve homicide of Donny Lohnes

[somber piano music]

[photo of Donny Lohnes]

[text on screen: Help us find answers for the family of Donny Lohnes, Nova Scotia RCMP, RCMP Southwest Nova Major Crime Unit]

[Cookville RCMP detachment with a sign asking for information on Donny Lohnes.]

[Corporal Chris Marshall stands on the side of a snowy road.]

Corporal Chris Marshall: I’m Corporal Chris Marshall with the Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit, and I’m the Team Commander on the Donny Lohnes homicide investigation.

[A sign post for Jippie Avenue and a stop sign.]

Donny Lohnes was a 57-year-old man, a father, and lived with his dog here on Jippie Avenue, which is just down the road behind me.

[The Elmer Lohnes Lumber Mill business sign.]

Donny also worked at the Elmer Lohnes Lumber Mill in Wileville.

[An aerial shot of the Elmer Lohnes Lumber Mill.]

On October 25th, 2020, Donny was taking an acquaintance into Bridgewater and dropped him off.

When Donny returned home at approximately 3 pm, he was immediately assaulted by what he believed to be three men, and Donny lost consciousness.

When he regained consciousness, he found himself in the front yard of his home, and his dog was outside.

Donny suffered serious injuries during the assault and ultimately elected not to report the assault to police, nor did he seek any medical treatment.

[Jeanne Rhodenizer sits in an interview room with tears in her eyes]

[text on screen: Jeanne Rhodenizer, mother of Donny Lohnes]

Jeanne Rhodenizer: Donny was a wonderful son.

He was so loving and everybody loved him.

A couple of days before, one of his friends called and said, “Did you know that Donny was beat up?”

And I said to her, I said, “What do you mean? Is he in the hospital or where is he?”

And she said, “No, he’s at work.”

So I didn’t call him because he was at work, you know, like and so I didn’t bother him.

But then the day it happened, she called and she said, “You better get to the hospital.” She said, “We just took Donny.”

Somebody called me from the hospital and said, “Are you Donny’s mother?”

And I said, “Yes.”

She said, “I suggest you get here as soon as you can.”

[Danny Lohnes sits in an interview room]

[text on screen: Danny Lohnes, brother of Donny Lohnes]

Danny Lohnes: I had gotten a call from Mom that he was in the hospital, and he wasn’t well.

He wasn’t gonna make it, I guess, is what she had told me, so I just got home from work — so off I went.

Jeanne: When they took us in to see him, I was just, I almost fainted.

Danny: Walking into the hospital and seeing the shape that he was in, like, that’s the memory.

And it’s reminded when I see friends of his.

He was a kind and giving person. And of all his friends and family know that, you know.

Unfortunately, that was taken away.

But just remember that, you know, Donny thought the world of everyone.

Jeanne: Please, please come forward because we need answers and we’re hoping and praying that somebody out there smartens up and says, “Maybe we can help solve this case.”

[photo of Donny Lohnes]

[text on screen: A reward of up to $150,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction for Donny’s murder by calling 1-888-710-9090. NS Major Unsolved Crimes Program]

Chris: Donny’s case has been added to the Nova Scotia Rewards for Major Unsolved Crimes program, which offers a reward of up to $150,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction for Donny’s murder.

Please come forward.

It’s important.

Do what’s right.

[music stops]

[Royal Canadian Mounted Police signature]

[© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, as represented by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, 2025]

[Canada wordmark]

MIL Security OSI –

April 8, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Department of Justice Commemorates 2025 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week
Source: Office of United States Attorneys

DES MOINES, Iowa – The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa join federal, state, and local communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and celebrating victims’ rights, protections, and services. This year’s observance takes place April 6 to 12, 2025, and features the theme, “KINSHIP,” which encourages people to recognize the shared humanity of crime survivors and victims. The 2025 theme is a call to action for all of us—friends, family members, neighbors, colleagues, community leaders, victim service providers, criminal justice practitioners, and health professionals— to pursue these KINSHIP connections that foster the increased access to vital services, rights and healing.

As part of this observance, the Southern District of Iowa recognizes the courage and bravery of victims, and the outstanding work of law enforcement, victim advocates, and community service partners throughout Iowa. Eleven individuals are recognized for outstanding service to victims:

Awards for Excellence in Victim Services
- Scott Crouch, Polk County Sheriff’s Office
- Roberta Cruz, Victim/Witness Liaison at the Polk County Attorney’s Office
- Molly Jansen, Polk County Sheriff’s Office
Law Enforcement Victim Service Awards
- Michael Banfield, Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Luke Eblen, Des Moines Police Department
- Kira Lazenby, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office
- Blake Marshall, Ames Police Department
- Aaron McConnell, Wapello County Sheriff’s Office
- Brook McPherson, Ames Police Department
- Caleb Mitchell, Ottumwa Police Department
- Jeremy Tosh, Ottumwa Police Department
“Everyday across Iowa law enforcement officers, agents and victim service providers offer a bridge between the criminal justice system and the shared humanity of victims and survivors. This KINSHIP is critical not only to the justice system, but more importantly to healing and hope for victims. During this week we are proud to honor all officers and service providers who, often 24 hours a day, are available as a resource and counsel to victims and survivors who bravely participate in the investigation and prosecution of violent offenders. These awards proudly recognize the exceptional efforts of a number of these individuals who provided assistance to federal and state victims in the Southern District of Iowa,” said United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal for the Southern District of Iowa.

The 2025 Award for Excellence in Victim Services recognizes the performance of Investigators Scott Crouch and Molly Jansen. As members of the Polk County Attorney’s Office, both Crouch and Jansen are assigned to the Drug Endangered Children (DEC) program. They aid children involved in criminal investigations and diligently act as a liaison with the children and Health and Human Services (HHS) to assure placements in a safe environment.

The 2025 Award for Excellence in Victim Services recognizes the performance of Roberta Cruz. Cruz is a Victim/Witness liaison with the Polk County Attorney’s Office. Cruz has exhibited supreme dedication in providing a communication bridge between English and Spanish speaking individuals. Her helpful nature and humanity facilitate a valuable connection between victims, witnesses and the criminal justice system.

The 2025 Law Enforcement Victim Service Award recognizes the performance of Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent Michael Banfield, Ames Police Department Sergeant Blake Marshall, and Ames Police Department Detective (former) Brook McPherson for their extraordinary investigation and prosecution of a serial sexual abuser. They showed tremendous compassion, support, and flexibility for the numerous victims and an unrivaled empathy for the shame and trauma the victims continue to endure. The dozens of victims that courageously participated in this investigation were a testament to the tireless effort and established relational kinship that is at the heart of this years’ National Crime Victims’ Rights awards.

The 2025 Law Enforcement Victim Service Award recognizes the performance of Wapello County Sheriff’s Office Detective Aaron McConnell, and Ottumwa Police Department Investigators Caleb Mitchell and Jeremy Tosh in the investigation and prosecution of a violent sexual trafficker. Through caring, listening, and showing empathy, they were able to develop relationships of trust with each of the victims. Their work on this investigation demonstrated their tremendous capacity to nurture relationships with victims in the pursuit of justice and in hopes of leaving the victims better having gone through the criminal-justice system.

The 2025 Law Enforcement Victim Service Award recognizes the performance Des Moines Police Department Investigator Luke Eblen in the investigation and prosecution of a dangerous sex trafficker. Investigator Eblen exemplified fortitude, determination, and a commitment to obtaining justice for victims by overcoming the challenges that arose. His abilities to interact with traumatized victims with respect, honesty and sincere compassion were critical to obtaining a conviction in this case.

The 2025 Law Enforcement Victim Service Award recognizes the performance of Jasper County Sheriff’s Department Sergeant Kira Lazenby and her unwavering commitment to ensuring victims receive immediate and comprehensive support. Sergeant Lazenby has investigated a wide range of victim-related cases, including domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and other violent crimes. She has displayed compassion, diligence, and professionalism in her work, ensuring that victims are heard, supported, and protected throughout the investigative and judicial process. In 2024, without direction, Sergeant Lazenby independently developed and implemented a county-wide victim information system to ensure that every law enforcement officer in Jasper County—across five separate agencies—had a standardized and easily accessible process for providing resources to victims.

President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims’ rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President’s Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims.

For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: NCVRW 2025.

MIL Security OSI –
April 8, 2025