NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Appointment to 21st Judicial Circuit

    Source: US State of Missouri

    APRIL 4, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Kehoe announced a judicial appointment to the 21st Judicial Circuit.

    Jeffery McPherson, of Webster Groves, was appointed as Circuit Judge in the 21st Judicial Circuit.

    Mr. McPherson is a partner at Armstrong Teasdale LLP. He earned his Juris Doctor from St. Louis University School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Southern Illinois University. In addition to his practice, McPherson currently serves on the Appellate Missouri Bar Association. McPherson will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Virginia W. Lay to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Big Harbour — RCMP investigating fatal house fire in Big Harbour

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Victoria County District RCMP, supported by the Nova Scotia Fire Marshal’s Office and the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service, is investigating a fatal house fire that occurred in Big Harbour.

    On April 3, at approximately 2:30 a.m., RCMP officers and fire services responded to a report of an active structure fire at a property on Big Harbour Rd. Upon arrival at the scene, first responders found a residence fully engulfed in flames.

    One occupant of the home was located deceased.

    At this time, the investigation, which is at an early stage, indicates that the cause of the fire is not suspicious. The investigation, however, is ongoing.

    Anyone with information about this fire, or with surveillance video or dashcam footage that could support the investigation, is asked to call the Victoria County District RCMP at 902-295-2350. To remain anonymous, contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Man Convicted of Crimes Arising Out of Plot Targeting Christian Churches

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    After an 11-day trial, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict yesterday against Zimnako Salah, 45, of Phoenix, Arizona, convicting him of strapping a backpack around the toilet of a Christian church in Roseville, California, with the intent to convey a hoax bomb threat and to obstruct the free exercise of religion of the congregants who worshipped there.  The jury’s verdict included a special finding Salah targeted the church because of the religion of the people who worshipped there, making the offense a hate crime.

    According to the evidence at trial, from September to November of 2023, Salah traveled to four Christian churches in Arizona, California, and Colorado, wearing black backpacks. At two of those churches, Salah planted those backpacks, placing congregants in fear that they contained bombs. At the other two churches, Salah was confronted by security before he got the chance to plant those backpacks.

    While Salah had been making bomb threats by planting backpacks in Christian churches, he had been building a bomb capable of fitting in a backpack. During a search of his storage unit, an FBI Bomb Technician seized items that an FBI Bomb Expert testified at trial served as component parts of an improvised explosive device (IED).

    A search of Salah’s social media records revealed that he had consumed extremist propaganda online. Specifically, those records showed that Salah had searched for videos of “Infidels dying,” and he had watched videos depicting ISIS terrorists murdering people.

    “This Department of Justice has no tolerance for anyone who targets religious Americans for their faith,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The perpetrator of this abhorrent hate crime against Christians will face severe punishment.”

    “Planting a hoax bomb at the Roseville church was not an isolated incident or a prank for this defendant,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith for the Eastern District of California. “His actions were designed to threaten and intimidate the congregation because he disagreed with their religious beliefs. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of federal and local law enforcement and the attorneys from my office and our DOJ partners in Washington D.C., our communities are safer with yesterday’s verdict. People of all religions should be able to worship freely and exercise their First Amendment rights in this country without fear of violence.”

    “The Sacramento Division of the FBI is proud of our collaboration with local partners in bringing Mr. Salah to justice. His deliberate targeting of multiple places of worship and calculated efforts to spread panic were intended to terrorize people of faith and disrupt the peace of our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to protecting the American people and will continue to work within the confines of the law to hold individuals accountable for acts of terrorism whether those acts are true threats or intended as hoaxes.”

    Salah faces a maximum penalty of six years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Salah is scheduled to be sentenced on July 18 by U.S. District Judge Dena Coggins. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Roseville (CA) Police Department, the San Diego Police Department, the San Diego Harbor Police Department, and the Arapahoe County (CO) Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Special Litigation Counsel Christopher Perras and Trial Attorney Sarah Howard of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, and Assistant United States Attorney Shea Kenny for the Eastern District of California.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Louis County Man Convicted of Charges Related to Five Armed Robberies

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

    ST. LOUIS – A jury in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on Thursday found a St. Louis County man guilty of all nine charges related to five armed robberies in Missouri and Illinois in 2023.

    Ronald O. Perkins, 29, of Black Jack, Missouri, was found guilty of four counts of robbery, one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, three counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and one count of transporting a firearm in interstate commerce with intent to commit a felony.

    According to evidence and testimony at trial, Perkins was armed with a handgun during each of the robberies, and often banged the gun on the counter while demanding money or pointed it at victims, who were left shaken and afraid.

    Perkins robbed a gas station and convenience store on Riverview Drive in St. Louis on Sept. 8, 2023. He entered the store, banged a pistol on the countertop and demanded money. He then grabbed money out of the register and fired several shots.

    On Nov. 8, 2023, Perkins robbed a gas station on Clayton Road in Richmond Heights, stealing cash and a pack of cigarettes. Less than two hours later, he robbed a 7-Eleven on Hoffmeister Avenue in St. Louis County, stealing cash.
     

    Four days later, he robbed a gas station on Fee Fee Road in St. Louis County of cash.

    Five days after that, he robbed a liquor store on St. Louis Road in Collinsville, Illinois, again stealing money from the register.

    Investigators obtained surveillance video showing each robbery, and later found clothes matching those worn by the robber in Perkins’ home and in one of the vehicles used by him to commit the robberies, evidence and testimony at trial showed. A distinctive scar on his hand matched the robber’s scar. The vehicles he drove matched those spotted in surveillance video from all five robberies. Officers recovered the gun that was a ballistic match to the firearm used in the first robbery from Perkins’ pants. Finally, Perkins’ left an electronic trail from his home to each robbery.

    “Taken together, it is a staggering amount of evidence,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Bluestone told jurors during a closing statement Thursday. The trial began Monday.

    Perkins is scheduled to be sentenced on July 3. Each robbery charge carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison. The discharge of a firearm charge carries a penalty of at least 10 years consecutive to the other charges. The brandishing charge carries a penalty of at least seven years consecutive to any other charge. The transporting charge carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison. Altogether, Perkins is facing at least 31 years in prison, with a maximum sentence of life.

    The St. Louis County Police Department, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the Collinsville Police Department, the Richmond Heights Police Department, the Columbia (Illinois) Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zachary Bluestone and Tiffany Becker are prosecuting the case.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Men Guilty of Multiple Drug and Gun Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that HENRY MITCHELL (“MITCHELL”), age 25, and JAYLAN WASHINGTON (“WASHINGTON”), age 29, former residents of New Orleans, pled guilty on April 1, 2025, before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to drug and gun charges contained in an indictment previously returned against them.  Listed below are the charges to which MITCHELL and WASHINGTON pled guilty and the possible sentence that can be imposed:

    CHARGE DEFENDANT PENALTY
    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute marihuana, Fentanyl, tapentadol and tramadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846

    MITCHELL

    WASHINGTON

    		 Up to 20 Years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release
    Possession With Intent to Distribute marihuana, Fentanyl, tapentadol and tramadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) MITCHELL Up to  20 Years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release
    Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) MITCHELL Up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000,   and up to 3 years of supervised release
    Possession of a Machine Gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o) MITCHELL Up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, not more than and up to 3 years of supervised release
    Possession of a Machine Gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o) MITCHELL Up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000,  and up to 3 years of supervised release
    Possession with Intent to Distribute marihuana, and tapentadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) WASHINGTON Up to 20 Years imprisonment , a fine of up to $1,000,000,  and at least 3 years of supervised release
    Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) WASHINGTON Not more than up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release
    Possession of a Machine Gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o) WASHINGTON Not more than up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release

    Each offense also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

    Sentencing will occur on July 8, 2025, at 10:00 am.  Both will remain detained without bond.

    Documents filed in court reflect that MITCHELL and WASHINGTON were openly selling various controlled substances in the Seventh Police District of New Orleans.  FBI Violent Task Officers observed this activity after receiving multiple citizen complaints and summoned New Orleans Police Department officers who surrounded the area and arrested MITCHELL and WASHINGTON.  A search of their vehicles revealed both controlled substances and firearms.  Officers also recovered “Glock switches”, devices that make semiautomatic weapons fully automatic.  These devices are considered machineguns under federal law.  Additionally, documents reveal that both MITCHELL and WASHINGTON have several prior felony convictions.

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

    The case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Task Force, and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Narcotics Unit is assigned the prosecution.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Detroit Man Sentenced to 40 months in Prison for Drug Trafficking Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DETROIT – A 52-year-old Detroit man, Israel Crumpton, was sentenced to 40 months in prison yesterday for trafficking heroin laced with fentanyl and cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck announced.

    Beck was joined in the announcement by James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    For over a six-month period in 2018 and 2019, Crumpton and several lesser co-conspirators distributed substantial quantities of heroin laced with fentanyl and crack cocaine in the 7700 block of East Palmer Street in Detroit. Crumpton led and organized the drug distribution business. As the leader, he secured bulk narcotics from his suppliers and sold or directed others to sell those drugs to resellers or users, generating significant cash proceeds.

    In November 2018, the County of Macomb Enforcement Team (COMET) became aware of Crumpton’s drug distribution business. COMET members subsequently surveilled Crumpton’s “trap house” and “stash house” in the 7700 block of East Palmer Street, observing numerous apparent illicit drug transactions occurring there. Based on its surveillance and other investigative activities, COMET secured search warrants for the two E. Palmer Street locations and another location on the westside of Detroit. Upon executing the search warrants, COMET members found and seized large quantities of distributable narcotics, drug paraphernalia, numerous firearms and ammunition, and over $40,000 in cash proceeds. Crumpton and a co-conspirator were charged with multiple counts of drug trafficking and one count of firearm possession. The co-conspirator pled guilty to drug trafficking. And, in May 2024, a jury convicted Crumpton of the drug trafficking charges.

    Yesterday, the Honorable Denise Page Hood sentenced Crumpton to 40 months in prison.
     

    “Our office aggressively pursues drug traffickers who push substantial quantities of dangerous drugs like heroin, fentanyl, and crack cocaine into our neighborhoods for personal gain and with indifference to the tragedy they inflict. Thanks to the outstanding teamwork among the Michigan State Police’s County of Macomb Enforcement Team, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and U.S. Attorney’s Office, a dangerous drug trafficker has been removed from our streets,” stated Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck.

    “Isreal Crumpton sold a poison in our community out of pure greed, all while armed with illegal firearms. ATF and the Michigan State Police are united in their partnership to identify and target for federal prosecution armed drug traffickers of fentanyl in our community. Mr. Crumpton’s plight should serve as a reminder that accountability is inevitable across Michigan for people who illegally possess firearms in furtherance of peddling poison in our community. The message should be very clear: If you deal deadly drugs while armed with an illegal firearm, you’re not just on our radar – you’re on the fast track to prison; so, pack a bag, we’re coming for you,” said James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Detroit Division.
     

    This case was investigated by the Michigan State Police’s County of Macomb Enforcement Team, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by AUSAs Pat Martin and Sarah Alsaden and investigated by AUSA Paul Kuebler.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: North Carolina Man Sentenced to Serve Seven Years in Federal Prison after Police Find Meth and Cocaine Worth More Than $350,000 Disguised as “Christmas Presents” in Vehicle

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OKLAHOMA CITY – JOHN CALVIN MOORE, 58, of North Carolina, has been sentenced to serve 84 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and illegal possession of a firearm after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    According to public record, on December 22, 2023, Moore was pulled over by an officer with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) for speeding while driving eastbound on I-40. During the stop, the officer noticed what appeared to be several gift-wrapped Christmas presents in the trunk of the vehicle. Moore told the officer he was traveling to North Carolina from California. During the stop, OCPD learned Moore’s vehicle was a rental, and was due to be returned to Ontario, California, on December 23, 2023, the day following the stop. OCPD called in a K-9 unit, which alerted to the presence of drugs in the vehicle. OCPD officers then searched the vehicle and found more than 42 pounds of methamphetamine and more than 38 pounds of cocaine inside heat-sealed bags, hidden within the Christmas presents in the trunk. Law enforcement estimates the street value of the drugs to be more than $350,000.

    Moore was charged by Superseding Information on August 30, 2024, with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He pled guilty to the Superseding Information on September 26, 2024, and admitted he possessed meth, which he intended to distribute, and that he possessed a firearm despite his previous felony conviction. Public record reflects that Moore has a previous felony conviction in New Jersey for possessing weapons for an unlawful purpose.

    At the sentencing hearing on March 28, 2025, U.S. District Judge Charles Goodwin sentenced Moore to serve 84 months in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the seriousness of the crime—that Moore acted as a courier to transport controlled substances across the country—and Moore’s criminal history.

    This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Criminal Interdiction Team of Central Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew E. Davis prosecuted the case.

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney’s Office Observes National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DETROIT, MI – In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), April 6-12, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, along with the Detroit Crime Victims’ Action Team, will be recognizing crime victims and those who have dedicated their lives to serve and assist victims of crime.
     

    “My office stands ready to support victims and ensure they know their rights,” stated Acting United States Attorney Julie Beck. “Our staff of professionals are dedicated to supporting federal crime victims by providing them with essential services they need to help reshape their futures.”
     

    “We have deep respect and gratitude for crime victims who courageously come forward to report their crimes to the police and come to testify in court. We ask a lot from them since they must re-live the violence and trauma they have experienced. Their families and friends are often victims of secondhand trauma. We thank you for your commitment to the criminal justice system. We could not perform our work without you,” said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy.
     

    Each year in April, the federal Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities throughout the country in their annual observances of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week by raising awareness of victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. This year’s theme of KINSHIP is a call to action to recognize that shared humanity should be at the center of supporting all survivors and victims of crime. KINSHIP is a state of being with survivors that drives vital connections to services, rights, and healing. KINSHIP is where victim advocacy begins.
     

    This year’s Crime Victims’ Rights Week events will kick off with a Survivor Walk-Sunday, April 6, 2025 @ 10:00 am on Belle Isle. The meeting point is adjacent to the Fountain. A second event – Crime Victim Awareness Event- Know the Signs- Education, Awareness and Action – will take place on Tuesday April 8, 2025 @ 2:30 pm at Henry Ford College- Rosenau Rooms, Bldg L (5101 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, MI). The main event will be a community and resource fair on Friday, April 11 @ 12pm at the Criminal Justice Center, 5301 Russel Street, Detroit.
     

    Nicole Marcell, a survivor of domestic violence will be the guest speaker and share her emotional story of how she is using her voice to help others.
     

    Following the event, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, Michigan, will be hosting a Wellness Event featuring vendors, food trucks, resources, and more. For additional information about 2025 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week activities or about victims’ rights and services in Wayne County, please contact Mechelle Donahoo, Director Victim Services, 313-224-5626 or visit our website at https://www.waynecounty.com/elected/prosecutor/home/aspx
     

    All are welcome to attend this event.
     

    This year marks the 41st anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act, commonly shortened to VOCA. This act was passed by Congress and signed into law on October 12, 1984. VOCA established the Crime Victims Fund (CVF), a Federal Victim Notification System, discretionary grants for victim service organizations, victim assistance positions in the Department of Justice, financial support for the Children’s Justice Act Program, and assistance and compensation for victims and survivors of terrorism.
     

    For more information about how to support all victims of crime, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.ojp.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Justice Announce Title IX Special Investigations Team

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Justice Announce Title IX Special Investigations Team

    Amid a staggering volume of Title IX complaints, the U.S Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announce the Title IX Special Investigations Team (SIT) to ensure timely, consistent resolutions to protect students, and especially female athletes, from the pernicious effects of gender ideology in school programs and activities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to find missing boy Chidubem

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are currently looking for 14-year-old Chidubem, who is missing from Woolwich.

    He was last seen at around 10:45hrs on Friday, 4 April wearing a full Woolwich Polytechnic uniform.

    Officers remain across Woolwich looking for Chidubem and appealing for the public’s help to find him.

    If you see him, please call 999, quoting CAD 3280/4APRIL.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Operation April Fool Results in the Arrest of 21 Most Wanted Individuals in Sebastian-Crawford County

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Fort Smith, AR – A three-day U.S. Marshals Service led operation in Fort Smith and the surrounding river valley area resulted in the apprehension of repeat wanted violent offenders on various state charges. Operation April Fool took place between April 1 – 3, as a multi-agency effort to arrest the most wanted individuals in the area, targeting repeat violent offenders and those that had eluded law enforcement with outstanding state felony warrants.

    The operation was led by the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Western Arkansas Fugitive Task Force and included the FBI and USMS task force officers from the Arkansas State Police, Arkansas Community Correction, Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Smith Police Department, Van Buren Police Department, Alma Police Department, Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Baxter County Sheriff’s Office, Mountain Home Police Department, Bentonville Police Department, and Rogers Police Department.

    Arrest warrants executed during the operation resulted in the apprehension of 21 wanted fugitives from justice. The individuals arrested are facing various state charges including aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, sexual assault, battery, felon in possession of firearms, possession and distribution of narcotics, kidnapping, and parole violations with extensive criminal history.

    U.S. Marshal Gary Grimes stated, “Our partnerships with law enforcement in the Western District of Arkansas directly contributed to the successful apprehension of these violent offenders.” 

    The operation was conducted in support of the U.S. Marshals Service and Department of Justice’s efforts to reduce violent crime by partnering with federal, state, county, and local enforcement. In FY 2024, the USMS apprehended and cleared 33,960 federal fugitive and 57,210 state fugitive cases nationwide.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Bipartisan Senate Leaders Urge Reversal of Course on LIHEAP Staffing Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski

    04.04.25

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Jack Reed (D-RI), Susan Collins (R-ME), and ten of their Senate colleagues who are LIHEAP champions sent a letter urging the Trump Administration to reverse course on the recent reported elimination of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) staff at HHS.

    The letter comes in response to the reduction of about 10,000 employees from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). These cuts reportedly include the entire staff running the $4.1 billion LIHEAP program, which helps millions of American households afford their heating and cooling bills.

    The thirteen Senators sent a bipartisan letter to HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy, Jr., writing:

    “We are concerned that the reported staff terminations will undermine the HHS’s ability to deliver this critical funding to low-income seniors and families. We are also concerned that the local community action agencies that help enroll qualified beneficiaries could be weakened by other actions and funding cuts being undertaken by HHS and the ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ (DOGE).”

    Full text of the letter follows:

    The Honorable Robert Kennedy, Jr.

    Secretary of Health and Human Services

    200 Independence Avenue SW

    Washington, DC 20201

    Dear Secretary Kennedy:

    We write regarding reports that you have terminated staff responsible for administering the Low-Income Home Energy Program (LIHEAP). If true, these terminations threaten to devastate a critical program dedicated to helping Americans afford their home energy bills.

    For over 40 years, LIHEAP has been the main federal program that helps low-income households and seniors pay their energy bills, providing vital assistance during both the cold winter and hot summer months. Each year, more than six million households across the country rely on LIHEAP to afford their energy bills. It is an indispensable lifeline, helping to ensure that recipients do not have to choose between paying their energy bills and affording other necessities like food and medicine.

    We are concerned that the reported staff terminations will undermine the HHS’s ability to deliver this critical funding to low-income seniors and families. We are also concerned that the local community action agencies that help enroll qualified beneficiaries could be weakened by other actions and funding cuts being undertaken by HHS and the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE). As you know, our states are expecting HHS to release nearly $400 million in FY25 funding later this month. Any delay in providing this funding will set back efforts to provide summer cooling grants, weatherize low-income homes, and plan for the next winter heating season.

    Access to affordable home energy is a matter of health and safety for many low-income households, children, and seniors. To that end, we urge you to reverse course on any staffing or funding cuts that would jeopardize the distribution of these funds to our constituents.

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your prompt response.

    Background

    The federally funded LIHEAP program is a crucial lifeline that helps over 6 million low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes afford their energy bills, including those who use natural gas, propane, electricity, and home heating oil.  Without this assistance, many Americans may not be able to afford their utility bills and could end up falling victim to extreme weather.

    Senators Murkowski, Collins, and Reed led the successful effort to provide a total of $4.1 billion for LIHEAP this fiscal year, with $4 billion through appropriations and $100 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds. In Fiscal Year 2024, Alaskans got $21.3 million from LIHEAP.

    HHS has already released 90 percent of those federal funds to state partners.  The remaining 10 percent, almost $400 million, used by states to pay for summer cooling, and emergency funding for households that need additional assistance and weatherization, cannot be released until HHS determines the state-by-state allocation. Now, it’s unclear how the remaining funds could be disbursed to the states.

    In addition to Murkowski, Reed, and Collins, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Angus S. King, Jr. (I-ME), Tina Smith (D-MN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Christopher Coons (D-DE), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Edward J. Markey (D-MA) Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Ernst, Colleagues Push to Secure Fertilizer Access for Farmers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Agriculture Committee Member Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a lifelong family farmer, joined Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and a bipartisan group of House and Senate lawmakers in a letter urging Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to reinstate potash and add phosphate – both critical fertilizer ingredients – to the U.S. Critical Minerals List.

    The designation will support domestic production and strengthen supply chains, important steps to protecting food security and stabilizing the market for farmers. The lawmakers state that doing so will send a powerful message that the United States is serious about safeguarding the nation’s food supply.

    “The importance of potash to the nation’s economic and national security was recognized in 2018 when DOI included potash on its list of 35 critical minerals. However, under the previous administration, the 2022 update removed potash from the list—a decision that clearly warrants reconsideration. We appreciate President Trump’s support for reversing this in his March 20, 2025, executive order,” the members wrote.

    The U.S. depends on imports for approximately 85 percent of its potash needs, primarily sourcing it from Canada. Worldwide, only 14 countries produce potash, with Belarus and Russia accounting for nearly 40 percent of total production. The members emphasized that the United States must address the growing risks to the potash supply chain, including a return to domestic potash production as quickly as possible.

    “At the very heart of this issue are the American farmers who work tirelessly to feed Americans and much of the world. Fertilizers containing potash and phosphate are essential to maintaining soil fertility, improving crop yields, and ensuring consistent food production. Without access to a stable and affordable supply of these minerals, farmers face higher costs, reduced yields, and increased uncertainty—challenges that threaten their livelihoods and the food security of millions of American families,” the members wrote.

    “Potash and phosphate are essential to growing the food that sustains our nation, and we rely heavily on imports to get them. Global disruptions put farmers in a tough spot, driving up costs and hurting farm profitability,” said Iowa Soybean Association President Brent Swart. “Adding these minerals to the Critical Minerals List helps secure a stable, domestic supply, protecting both our farms and the wallets of everyday consumers.” 

    “Fertilizers, specifically potash and phosphate, are crucial tools in the toolbox that Iowa corn farmers rely on as they supply food, feed, fiber, and fuel globally,” said Iowa Corn Growers Association President and farmer from Galt, Iowa, Stu Swanson. “ICGA supports the relisting of potash and the inclusion of phosphate on the U.S. Critical Minerals List. We thank Senator Ernst for her ongoing advocacy for Iowa agriculture.”

    In the Senate, additional cosigners include Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-Ark.), along with Sens. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.),  Christopher Coons (D-Del.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), James Risch (R-Idaho) and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho).

    In the House, the letter is led by Reps. Kat Cammack (R-Fla.) and Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.). Additional cosigners include Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Penn.), Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho), Scott Franklin (R-Fla.), Sharice L. Davids (D-Kan.), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa), Brad Finstad (R-Minn.), Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa), Daniel Webster (R-Fla.), Nicholas A. Langworthy (R-N.Y.), John R. Moolenaar (R-Mich.), Eric “Rick” Crawford (R-Ark.), Michael Simpson (R-Idaho), David G. Valadao (R-Calif.), Zach Nunn (R-Iowa), Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), Mike Bost (R-Ill.), Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.), Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.), David Rouzer (R-N.C.), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Tracey Mann (R-Kan.), Darin LaHood (R-Ill.), Donald Davis (D-N.C.), Gregory F. Murphy (R-N.C.) and Cliff Bentz (R-Ore.).

    Full text of the letter can be found HERE.

    Background:

    Grassley has long advocated for family farmers in Iowa and across the country. Grassley and Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) introduced the Fertilizer Research Act to shed light on market factors driving the cost of fertilizer by requiring the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to conduct a study on competition and trends in the fertilizer market to determine their subsequent impacts on price.

    Grassley also pressed Attorney General Garland to investigate anti-competitive activity and market manipulation in the fertilizer industry and urged President Trump to exclude potash under any proposed tariff regime.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

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

    Letter Text (PDF)

    Washington (April 4, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Health Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, and the entire Massachusetts Congressional delegation – Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representatives Richard Neal (MA-01), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), and Bill Keating (MA-09) – today wrote to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon after the U.S. Department of Education notified the Commonwealth of Massachusetts that the Department would rescind $106 million in funding already disbursed to school districts across the state for K-12 education. This clawback is part of a nationwide Trump administration effort to wrest from 41 states more than $2 billion in funding intended to support students and educators.

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

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

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

    Impacted school districts in Massachusetts:

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

    Senator Markey has continuously fought back against the Trump administration’s attacks on education and standing up for students, educators, and their families. On March 20, Senator Markey slammed Trump’s Executive Order to dismantle the Department of Education. On March 11, Senator Markey delivered remarks on the Senate Floor to spotlight Trump’s plan to gut the Department. On February 27, Senator Markey introduced the No Cuts to Public Schools Act, which would prevent any cuts to federal education formula funding during the Trump administration. On February 10, Senator Markey held a press conference in Boston with Massachusetts educators and teachers’ unions on Trump’s vow to dismantle the Department, and the impact on Massachusetts students, educators, and communities.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON THE FIRING OF NSA DIRECTOR GENERAL TIMOTHY HAUGH

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Know Your Immigration Rights

    If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

    Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

    Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

    Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

    The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

    Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Guardians of The North Celebrates Season Three

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 4, 2025

    Today, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA), alongside Creative Saskatchewan and Wavelength Entertainment, are celebrating the third season of the docuseries Guardians of the North, which was filmed in the province. 

    The docuseries follows wildland firefighters in Saskatchewan’s Indigenous and northern communities while they protect the people, property and resources of the north. 

    The season three premiere will air on April 8, 2025, at 10 p.m. CST on Citytv Saskatchewan. 

    The third season consists of six episodes that follows personnel from the SPSA as they respond to wildfires, carry out life-threatening rescues and investigate several suspicious fires possibly caused by arson. 

    “We are deeply grateful for all the northern responders who provide search and rescue, firefighting and emergency response services,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod said. “This compelling docuseries highlights the dedication of these first responders and the collaborative effort between communities, agencies and resources to protect the people of Saskatchewan.”

    “The 2024 wildfire season presented significant challenges across North America, with Saskatchewan experiencing above-average fire activity,” Wavelength Entertainment Producer Chris Triffo said. “It has been humbling and inspiring to document the unwavering talent and dedication of those individuals who work to keep us and our communities safe. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Citytv Saskatchewan, Creative Saskatchewan, and the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency for their invaluable partnerships in bringing these compelling stories to light.” 

    Guardians of the North receives funding from Creative Saskatchewan’s Feature Film and TV Production grant. The third season’s $286,666 investment is estimated to result in $952,449 of positive economic impacts for the province. 

    “Film is such a powerful export for our province,” Creative Saskatchewan CEO Erin Dean said. “Its unique ability to enhance our global presence also serves as a significant revenue-generator, driving economic growth and creating job opportunities within our community.” 

    The SPSA is a Treasury Board Crown that provides public safety services including fire safety training, investigation, emergency planning, response, recovery and emergency communications. The Agency operates Sask911, SaskAlert, the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program and the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre.

    Creative Saskatchewan is the economic development agency for Saskatchewan’s creative industries and the official film commission for the province. The agency’s investments propel creative entrepreneurs as they create, perform, innovate and export in their pursuit of commercial success.

    Wavelength Entertainment is a full-service production/distribution company with offices located throughout Canada. Wavelength is dedicated to the creation of smart, imaginative and entertaining content for global audiences, on all media platforms. The Emmy award winning team has worked together for over 20 years on programming that has been seen in 150 countries, 30 languages and hundreds of channels/platforms including Disney +, National Geographic, Netflix, Amazon, Discovery +, CBC, Rogers, History, Smithsonian, ID, HBO, TLC and A&E.

    For more information, please visit: https://www.wavelength-entertainment.com/guardians-of-the-north.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Members of methamphetamine drug ring in Casper are sentenced

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A drug trafficking case involving three people from Casper and their source of supply from Thornton, Colorado, was recently closed after all the parties involved were sentenced.

    William J. Varney, 57 of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced to 235 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release to follow for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Varney pleaded guilty on Dec. 23, 2024. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on March 14 in Cheyenne.

    Jolyn K. Furley, 50, of Thornton, Colorado, was sentenced to 168 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release to follow for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Furley pleaded guilty on Dec. 23, 2024. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on March 28 in Cheyenne.

    Julia Carlene Deshaw, 56, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release to follow for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, aiding and abetting. Deshaw pleaded guilty on Dec. 23, 2024. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on March 14 in Cheyenne.

    Gerald Dehnert, 65, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced to 97 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release to follow for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, aiding and abetting. Dehnert pleaded guilty on Jan. 8, and  U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on April 1 in Cheyenne.

    According to court documents, in August and September of 2023, Special Agents of the Central Enforcement Team of the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation received information that Julia Deshaw and William Varney were suspected of distributing large amounts of methamphetamine within the Natrona County area. Through the investigation, they learned that Deshaw, Varney, and Dehnert took turns driving to Colorado up to two times a week, bringing back approximately one to five pounds of methamphetamine each time for redistribution. Through surveillance and other investigative tactics, agents determined their supplier was Jolyn Furley.

    The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, the Wyoming Highway Patrol, and the Mills Police Department investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold prosecuted the case.

    Case No. 24-CR-00064

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Protestor Sentenced in Damaging U.S. Government Property at Union Station Following a Protest Rally

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Zaid Mohammed Mahdawi, 26, of Richmond, Virginia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in connection with spray-painting the monument at Columbus Circle in front of Union Station in Washington, D.C., on July 24, 2024, following a protest rally.

                The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., Special Agent in Charge Courtland Rae of the FBI Washington Field Office Counterterrorism Division, and Chief Jessica M. E. Taylor of the U.S. Park Police (USPP).

                Mahdawi received 10 days in federal prison, followed by six months of supervision. Chief Judge James E. Boasberg also ordered Mahdawi to serve 80 hours of community service and to pay $1,500 in restitution. Mahdawi pleaded guilty January 23, 2025, to destruction of government property, a misdemeanor.

                According to court documents, on July 24, 2024, an organization was granted a permit to demonstrate in the area of Columbus Circle, located at Massachusetts Ave. NE, and E St. NE, directly in front of Union Station. From about 3 p.m. until 5 p.m., demonstrators who had gathered in Columbus Circle pulled down flags affixed to the flagpoles; burned flags and objects; sprayed graffiti on multiple statutes and structures; and interfered with law enforcement’s ability to place individuals under arrest.

                Between approximately 3:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., Mahdawi lowered a United States flag from one of the flagpoles in Columbus Circle. The flag was subsequently stolen by another individual. Between 3:30 p.m. and 3:45 p.m., Mahdawi climbed the monument located in the center of Columbus Circle. His actions were captured on video footage filmed by USPP from an observation post looking down at Columbus Circle. The same event was captured in open-source video and photos later posted to various internet platforms. After climbing to a ledge, Mahdawi began to spray paint the monument.

                Footage obtained from a review of open-source videos posted to X (formerly Twitter) showed Mahdawi using red spray paint to write “HAMAS IS COMIN” on the Columbus statue. After completing the phrase, Mahdawi spray-painted an inverted red triangle above the slogan.

                The flags that were pulled down from the flag poles, and the statues and structures in Columbus Circle, are all property of the federal government. The National Park Service estimated that the cost to clean and repair the site at about $11,282.23.

                This case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office with invaluable assistance from the USPP’s Intelligence and Counterterrorism Unit, the FBI Richmond Field Office, and the United States Attorney’s Office – Eastern District of Virginia. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Martin and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan Horan.

    24cr535

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to Federal Prison For Illegally Reentering the United States After Three Prior Removals

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Bowling Green, KY – An illegal alien man was sentenced yesterday to 2 years and 6 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States after previously having been deported or removed.

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

    According to court documents, David Lopez-Guillen, 48, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to 2 years and 6 months in prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, for illegally reentering the United States after previously having been deported or removed. On April 14, 2022, in Russell County, Kentucky, Lopez-Guillen was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States three previous times, on or about January 19, 2001, April 25, 2005, and August 31, 2020. This is Lopez-Guillen’s second conviction in the Western District of Kentucky for illegal reentry.  

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by HSI Bowling Green and ICE ERO.

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

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Justice Announce Title IX Special Investigations Team

    Source: United States Attorneys General 4

    Today, amid a staggering volume of Title IX complaints, the U.S Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announce the Title IX Special Investigations Team (SIT) to ensure timely, consistent resolutions to protect students, and especially female athletes, from the pernicious effects of gender ideology in school programs and activities.

    The Title IX SIT will streamline Title IX investigations by creating a specialized team of investigators from across ED and Department of Justice offices. The establishment of the Title IX SIT will allow personnel to apply a rapid resolution investigation process to the increasing volume of Title IX cases and also enable ED and the Justice Department to work together to conduct investigations that are fully prepared for ultimate Justice Department enforcement.

    “Protecting women and women’s sports is a key priority for this Department of Justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This collaborative effort with the Department of Education will enable our attorneys to take comprehensive action when women’s sports or spaces are threatened and use the full power of the law to remedy any violation of women’s civil rights.”

    “Today’s establishment of the Title IX SIT will benefit women and girls across this nation who have been subjected to discrimination and indignity in their educational activities,” said Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “From day one, the Trump Administration has prioritized enforcing Title IX to protect female students and athletes. Traditionally, our Office for Civil Rights (OCR) takes months, even years, to complete Title IX investigations. OCR under this Administration has moved faster than it ever has, and the Title IX SIT will ensure even more rapid and consistent investigations. To all the entities that continue to allow men to compete in women’s sports and use women’s intimate facilities: there’s a new sheriff in town. We will not allow you to get away with denying women’s civil rights any longer.”

    The Title IX SIT includes:

    • ED Office for Civil Rights investigators and attorneys
    • DOJ Civil Rights Division attorneys
    • ED Office of General Counsel attorneys
    • ED Student Privacy and Protection Office case workers and an FSA Enforcement investigator

    Background:

    President Trump’s Executive Order Keeping Men out of Women’s Sports articulates United States policy, consistent with Title IX, to protect female student athletes from having “to compete with or against or having to appear unclothed before males.” President Trump’s Executive Order Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism states the truth that “The erasure of sex in language and policy has a corrosive impact not just on women but on the validity of the entire American system.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Justice Announce Title IX Special Investigations Team

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    Today, amid a staggering volume of Title IX complaints, the U.S Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announce the Title IX Special Investigations Team (SIT) to ensure timely, consistent resolutions to protect students, and especially female athletes, from the pernicious effects of gender ideology in school programs and activities.

    The Title IX SIT will streamline Title IX investigations by creating a specialized team of investigators from across ED and Department of Justice offices. The establishment of the Title IX SIT will allow personnel to apply a rapid resolution investigation process to the increasing volume of Title IX cases and also enable ED and the Justice Department to work together to conduct investigations that are fully prepared for ultimate Justice Department enforcement.

    “Protecting women and women’s sports is a key priority for this Department of Justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This collaborative effort with the Department of Education will enable our attorneys to take comprehensive action when women’s sports or spaces are threatened and use the full power of the law to remedy any violation of women’s civil rights.”

    “Today’s establishment of the Title IX SIT will benefit women and girls across this nation who have been subjected to discrimination and indignity in their educational activities,” said Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “From day one, the Trump Administration has prioritized enforcing Title IX to protect female students and athletes. Traditionally, our Office for Civil Rights (OCR) takes months, even years, to complete Title IX investigations. OCR under this Administration has moved faster than it ever has, and the Title IX SIT will ensure even more rapid and consistent investigations. To all the entities that continue to allow men to compete in women’s sports and use women’s intimate facilities: there’s a new sheriff in town. We will not allow you to get away with denying women’s civil rights any longer.”

    The Title IX SIT includes:

    • ED Office for Civil Rights investigators and attorneys
    • DOJ Civil Rights Division attorneys
    • ED Office of General Counsel attorneys
    • ED Student Privacy and Protection Office case workers and an FSA Enforcement investigator

    Background:

    President Trump’s Executive Order Keeping Men out of Women’s Sports articulates United States policy, consistent with Title IX, to protect female student athletes from having “to compete with or against or having to appear unclothed before males.” President Trump’s Executive Order Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism states the truth that “The erasure of sex in language and policy has a corrosive impact not just on women but on the validity of the entire American system.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced to Over Four Years in Prison for Possessing Firearm and Ammunition

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant was on federal supervised release when he attempted to enter casino with a firearm

    BOSTON – A previously convicted felon was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for possessing a firearm and ammunition.

    Tarik Muhammad, 30, of Boston, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 51 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In October 2024, Muhammad pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.

    On the evening of Feb. 4, 2023, Muhammad was denied entry to the Encore Casino in Everett when security detected that he was carrying a firearm. Casino security alerted law enforcement, but Muhammad left before they arrived. Security cameras at the casino show Muhammad leaving in a blue Toyota Rav 4. The following day, a notice was dispatched to law enforcement about the incident and with photos of Muhammad, the vehicle and license plate.

    On Feb. 6, 2023, Muhammad was spotted driving the Rav 4 in Roxbury. When law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop, Muhammad fled, leading to a high-speed chase that ended when Muhammad crashed into a parked vehicle. Muhammad tried to flee on foot but was apprehended. A loaded semi-automatic pistol was found in Muhammad’s waistband.

    Muhammad is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to several felony convictions including a June 2022 conviction in U.S. District Court in Boston of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base. Muhammad was on federal supervised release at the time of the offenses.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox; and Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Tolkoff of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Yarmouth — Yarmouth Town RCMP charge woman with sexual offences

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Yarmouth Town RCMP has charged an employee of the Tri-County Regional Centre for Education with sexual offences.

    On March 4, RCMP officers received a report of a sexual assault involving a teacher and a youth victim. Officers learned that in February, a teacher who was on staff at Maple Grove Education Centre had inappropriate contact with a former student. The teacher was on leave at the time of the incident.

    As a result of the investigation, on April 1, officers arrested 52-year-old Tina Lee Cottreau of Yarmouth. She has been charged with:

    • Sexual Assault
    • Sexual Interference
    • Sexual Exploitation

    Cottreau was released on conditions and will appear at Yarmouth Provincial Court on May 12.

    The investigation is ongoing. At this time, investigators do not believe there are other victims.

    Officers have confirmed that Cottreau remains on leave from work.

    The Nova Scotia RCMP encourages anyone who may be a survivor of sexual assault to come forward by contacting their local RCMP detachment or police of jurisdiction. Survivors can discuss incidents with officers before deciding to participate in an investigation and court process. To offer an anonymous tip, contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Assistant United States Attorney Joseph C. Murphy, Jr. Appointed as Interim United States Attorney of the Western District of Tennessee

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MEMPHIS, TN – Assistant United States Attorney Joseph C. Murphy, Jr. was appointed as the Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee by the United States Attorney General on March 28, 2025.

    Mr. Murphy began his career as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Memphis office in 1989. He was appointed as the Acting U.S. Attorney by the District Court and served in that position from 2021-2023. He was named as First Assistant U.S. Attorney in 2018 and served in that role until his appointment as Acting U.S. Attorney. In 2011, Mr. Murphy served as Criminal Chief, where he supervised Assistant U.S. Attorneys who investigated and prosecuted criminal cases. He also served three years as Deputy Chief of the office’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force. Prior to becoming Deputy Chief, Mr. Murphy served as a line Assistant U.S. Attorney in both the criminal division and drug task force unit.

    During his career with the Department of Justice, Mr. Murphy has tried more than 125 felony cases to verdict in the U.S. District Court. These cases included prosecutions of health care professionals for illegally distributing controlled substances; mail and wire fraud cases; and theft cases involving pension funds and interstate shipments. Mr. Murphy has also represented the government in more than 200 cases litigated before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit and argued numerous appeals before the court.

    Mr. Murphy is married and has two adult children. He is a native Memphian, a graduate of Lambuth College and the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis and is very active in community and legal affairs.

    ###

    For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Investing in Aging Infrastructure in Herkimer County

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of a $20.5 million project to replace the Thruway (I-90) bridge over Mohawk Street (Route 28) in the Village of Herkimer. The current bridge is original to the Thruway system and located just west of exit 30 (Herkimer – Mohawk – NY Route 28) on I-90 at milepost 219.91. Approximately 24,000 vehicles per day travel over the bridge.

    “We’re investing in aging infrastructure in Herkimer County and beyond, making it safer, more resilient and more reliable,” Governor Hochul said. “This project will ensure a seamless travel experience for the more than 24,000 daily drivers, and stand as a reliable part of our transportation network for years to come.”

    New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “The Thruway Authority is continuing our investment in replacing and rehabilitating bridges on the system that are more than 60 years old. We’re putting toll dollars to work to improve the dependability of the Thruway system and enhance safety for all drivers.”

    The current bridge will be replaced with a new structure, which will change from two spans into one. The change includes removing a pier from Mohawk Street, which will allow the creation of a full turning lane, increasing safety and sight distance at the adjacent intersections. When the project is complete, Mohawk Street will feature a new lane pattern with new reflective line striping to clearly identify all lanes and crosswalks. Vertical clearance on the new bridge will be maintained at 14’6”.

    The project will take place in two stages. During Stage 1, all traffic eastbound and westbound on I-90 will be shifted onto the westbound side of the bridge as work takes place on the eastbound side. When the project pauses in fall 2025 for the winter, traffic will be shifted back to its original configuration. In spring 2026, when Stage 2 begins, all traffic on I-90 will be shifted onto the new eastbound side of the bridge as work takes place on the westbound side.

    Safety upgrades as part of the project include the installation of lighting under the bridge for traffic and pedestrian safety. The new bridge will also maintain the pedestrian sidewalk on both sides of Mohawk Street. Additionally, the new bridge will feature an improved safety barrier and a snow fence on I-90. The new bridge will also include new storm water drainage structures and lines on Mohawk Street. On I-90, the nearby storm drain structures will be replaced and storm water treatment structures will be added, which filter debris from storm water. The project will maintain the function of the existing flood wall. The new bridge has also been designed to incorporate the installation of a new flood gate in the future.

    Mohawk Street will remain open during construction and sidewalk access will be maintained. Motorists on Mohawk Street will notice multiple changing traffic patterns during construction. Temporary traffic signals and crosswalks will be set up as necessary to accommodate pedestrians.

    Slate Hill Constructors, Inc. of Warners, New York is the project contractor following a competitive bidding process. Construction is expected to be complete in fall 2026. The work is weather dependent and subject to change.

    State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “With tens of thousands of New Yorkers taking the bridge over Mohawk Street each day, this project is vital for the safety of our drivers. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her continued partnership when it comes to bolstering our infrastructure system statewide.”

    Assemblymember William B. Magnarelli said, “Replacing the Thruway bridge over Mohawk Street in Herkimer County is just an example of how the state continues to invest in modernizing our highways to ensure that they remain safe and sustainable for all users.”

    Motorists are urged to be alert and follow the posted work zone speed limits. Fines are doubled for speeding a work zone.

    To further enhance safety for workers in a work zone, Governor Hochul signed legislation establishing the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program. The safety enforcement program began in April 2023 and is in effect in various active construction zones on the Thruway. Work zones with speed camera enforcement will have clear signage leading up to it and motorists violating the posted speed limit within the work zone will be fined.

    For up-to-date travel information, motorists are encouraged to download the Thruway Authority’s mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go. Travelers can also visit the Thruway Authority’s interactive Traveler Map which features live traffic cameras. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails, which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.

    About the Thruway Authority

    The Governor Thomas E. Dewey Thruway, built in the early 1950s, is one of the oldest components of the National Interstate Highway System and one of the longest toll roads in the nation. The Thruway Authority does not receive any dedicated federal, state or local tax dollars and is paid for by those who drive the Thruway, including one-third of drivers from out of state.

    In 2024, the Thruway Authority processed more than 400 million transactions and motorists drove 8.2 billion miles on the Thruway. The Authority’s approved 2025 Budget invests a total of $477.3 million in dedicated funding for capital projects across the Thruway system beginning in 2025, an increase of more than $33 million compared to the approved 2024 budget. The increased investment will lead to work on approximately 61 percent of the Thruway’s more than 2,800 pavement lane miles as well as the replacement or rehabilitation of 20 percent of the Thruway’s 817 bridges.

    The Thruway is one of the safest roadways in the country with a fatality rate far below the nationwide index. The Thruway Authority’s top priority is the safety of our employees and customers. In 2024, two Thruway Authority employees died and another was seriously injured in separate incidents while working on the Thruway. The lives of Thruway Authority employees, roadway workers and emergency personnel depend on all of those who travel the highway. Motorists should stay alert and pay attention while driving, slow down in work zones and move over when they see a vehicle on the side of the road. The State’s Move Over Law, which was expanded in March 2024, requires drivers to slow down and move over for all vehicles stopped along the roadway. Safety is a shared responsibility.

    For more information, follow the Thruway on Facebook, X and Instagram, or visit the Thruway website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Clearwater Man Indicted For Transportation Of Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Brian Francis McArdle (34, Clearwater) with transportation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and possession of CSAM. If convicted on all counts, McArdle faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.

    According to the indictment, from January 1, 2023, through April 2, 2024, McArdle transported and shipped a visual depiction, the production of which involved the sexual abuse of a minor. McArdle also knowingly possessed a visual depiction of the sexual abuse of a child under the age of 12.

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

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan National Indicted For Illegal Reentry Into The United States After Being Previously Deported

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Samuel Ortiz-Ordonez (24, Guatemala) with illegal reentry by a previously deported alien. If convicted, Ortiz-Ordonez faces up to two years in federal prison and subsequent deportation and removal from the United States.

    According to court documents, Ortiz-Ordonez was previously removed from the United States on June 15, 2023. Ortiz-Ordonez has never applied to the Attorney General of the United States and/or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for permission to lawfully reenter the United States. On March 13, 2025, Ortiz-Ordonez was found voluntarily back in the United States in Jacksonville, where he was encountered by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. After being approached by ICE officers, Ortiz-Ordonez abandoned the vehicle that he was driving and fled on foot through a local residential neighborhood. After a brief chase, he was apprehended by ICE officers.

    This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.

    An indictment is only an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Woman Sentenced on Drug, Gun Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Betty Ann Rosenbeck to Serve 98 Months for Trafficking Methamphetamine into SW Virginia

    ABINGDON, Va. – An Ohio woman, who trafficked ice methamphetamine from the Buckeye State into Southwest Virginia and carried a firearm while doing so, was sentenced yesterday to 98 months in federal prison.

    Betty Ann Rosenbeck, 42, of Huber Heights, Ohio, previously pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 

    According to court documents, on July 17, 2023, a traffic stop was conducted on Rosenbeck’s vehicle in Bristol, Virginia. At the time of the traffic stop, a K9 officer alerted to the presence of narcotics and officers seized two sets of digital scales, multiple plastic baggies, and a handgun magazine.

    Approximately ten days later, law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase of approximately one ounce of methamphetamine for $350 from Rosenbeck at a residence in Bristol, Virginia.

    Shortly thereafter, on August 11, 2023, investigators learned that Rosenbeck would be traveling back to Virginia after obtaining methamphetamine from a source in Dayton, Ohio. Federal search warrants were obtained and on August 12, 2023, officers stopped Rosenbeck’s vehicle in Abingdon, Virginia and executed warrants on her person and vehicle. During that search, officers located 441.8 grams of 84 percent pure methamphetamine concealed inside four plastic bags hidden in Rosenbeck’s under garments, and a loaded 9 mm handgun hidden in her tights. Officers also found a glass pipe, clear baggy with residue, and a ledger with names and dollar amounts.  

    Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee and Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Washington Division made the announcement.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration, Virginia State Police, Holston River Drug Task Force, and Washington County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

    Assistant United States Attorney Lena Busscher prosecuted the case for the United States.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: South Florida Federal, State, Local Law Enforcement Cooperation Leads to Murder Charges, Convictions Against MS-13 Gang Members

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, FBI Miami, Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), and other law enforcement worked in partnership to solve four local homicides connected to the MS-13 gang, a transnational criminal organization and recognized terrorist group. So far, the law enforcement collaboration has led to federal indictments in the Southern District of Florida charging murder in aid of racketeering activity (22-cr-60078 and 25-cr-20102); convictions that carry mandatory life sentences for six MS-13 members and associates; and pending charges against three defendants facing the death penalty.  

    The Investigation:

    Beginning in 2015, BSO Homicide Unit detectives investigated two murders that took place in a small area of Oakland Park, Florida, appeared to be gang related, and were carried out using knives or machetes:

    O.G., 18. On January 7, 2015, BSO detectives found the body of O.G. in Oakland Park, Florida. O.G. was 18 years old when he was killed by machete strikes to his head and neck.    

    C.O., 25. On October 19, 2015, BSO detectives responded to the scene of a stabbing in Oakland Park, Florida. They found 25-year-old C.O. in an alleyway. He had been stabbed many times in the neck and chest. C.O. was taken to the hospital but died soon after getting there. 

    Investigative leads on the two cases went cold in about 2016. In 2020, the BSO Cold Case Unit reopened the unsolved homicides and partnered with FBI Miami and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida (the investigative team). They learned of two additional murders with similarities to the ones BSO had reopened: 

    G.V.P., 22. On May 3, 2015, the body of G.V.P. was discovered in a vacant lot in Palm Beach, Florida. G.V.P. was 22 years old when he was stabbed repeatedly in the face, neck, torso, and groin. He was also shot in the head. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, which was handling that case, collaborated with the investigative team.       

    J.C.L., 18. In May 2021, the investigative team discovered the body of victim J.C.L.  after an extensive, multi-day excavation in Oakland Park, Florida. He had been punched, kicked, stabbed to death, and buried in a makeshift grave. J.C.L. was 18 years old when his family reported him missing. 

    Through investigative techniques and modern technologies, the team pieced together evidence showing that MS-13 was responsible for the four homicides.     

    The Federal Prosecutions:

    The team secured federal indictments in two cases in the Southern District of Florida related to these MS-13 murders: the July 2022 federal criminal case against six defendants (22-cr-60078) and the March 2025 federal criminal case against three defendants (25-cr-20102).   

    In the 2022 case, all six defendants have been convicted of murder in aid of racketeering activity, in violation of 18 U.S.C.§1959:  

    Andy Tovar (a/k/a “Fearless”) pled guilty to two counts of murder in aid of racketeering activity. Tovar, an MS-13 gang leader, approved the murder of victim O.G., and participated in victim G.V.P.’s murder in 2015 – including shooting him in the eye.

    Tovar has been sentenced to life in prison. 

    Wilson Tirado-Silva (a/k/a “Sombra”) pled guilty to four charges of murder in aid of racketeering activity for his role in: the 2014 stabbing murder of victim J.C.L., the 2015 murder by machete of victim O.G., the 2015 stabbing and gunshot murder of victim G.V.P., and the 2015 stabbing murder of victim C.O. Tirado-Silva was a local MS-13 leader responsible for growing the gang in South Florida. He took MS-13 recruits on kills as part of gang initiation.  

    Tirado-Silva faces a mandatory life sentence.  

    Miguel Angel Cabrera-Granados (a/k/a “Mariachi”) pled guilty to one count of murder in aid of racketeering activity. He participated in the 2014 stabbing murder of victim J.C.L. to gain gang membership credit.  

    Cabrera-Granados faces a mandatory life sentence.  

    Melvin David Cruz-Ortiz (a/k/a “Bigfoot”) pled guilty to three counts of murder in aid of racketeering activity for his role in the 2014 stabbing murder of victim J.C.L., the 2015 stabbing and gunshot murder of victim G.V.P., and the 2015 stabbing murder of victim C.O. Cruz-Ortiz committed the murders to gain gang membership credit. 

    Cruz-Ortiz faces a mandatory life sentence.

    Kevin Ricardo Gamez-Melendez (a/k/a “Ardilla”) pled guilty to one count of murder in aid of racketeering activity for his role in the 2015 stabbing and gunshot murder of victim G.V.P. 

    Gamez-Melendez faces a mandatory life sentence.

    Wilber Geovanni Vigil-Benitez (a/k/a “Solitario”) was convicted by a federal jury in the Southern District of Florida earlier this year for murder in aid of racketeering. The jury found Vigil-Benitez guilty for his role in the 2015 stabbing and gunshot murder of victim G.V.P. 

    Vigil-Benitez faces a mandatory life sentence.     

    In the March 2025 case (25-cr-20102), three defendants are charged with murder in aid of racketeering activity in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1959, in connection with the MS-13 stabbing and gunshot killing of victim G.V.P. They are all in federal custody:  

    • Jose Ezequiel Gamez-Maravilla (a/k/a “Chango”) 

    • Hugo Adiel Bermudez-Martinez (a/k/a “Blue”) 

    • Wilber Rosendo Navarro-Escobar (a/k/a “Power”)   

    The three defendants, whose cases are pending, face a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison and a maximum sentence of death. The indictment against them is an accusation and they are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

    “These vicious and callous acts by MS-13 not only shattered lives but also undermined the safety and security of South Florida communities,” said Hayden P. O’Byrne, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. “Through my office’s unwavering partnership with other federal, state, and local law enforcement, we are sending a clear message to those who inflict violence, feed drug addiction, or cause other harm to the people of our district: We will find you; we will prosecute you; and we will apply the full force of American justice.”  

    “Nine MS-13 terrorists have been taken off our streets and four cold murder cases have been solved thanks to the great investigative work of the FBI and our law enforcement partners,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Let this be a lesson: no matter how long it takes, we will never give up in our pursuit of justice.”

    “This investigation reflects the FBI’s unwavering commitment to arrest dangerous criminals who threaten the safety of our citizens and our communities. Combating violent crime continues to be a top priority for the FBI and the Miami Field Office,” said Brett Skiles, acting Special Agent in Charge FBI Miami. “The FBI is grateful for its close collaboration with numerous local, state, federal, and international law enforcement partners, whose combined efforts were essential to track down these violent suspects in South Florida, Central Florida, Kearney, Nebraska, Saint Paul, Minnesota, and Mexico City, Mexico. We commend our partners on their professionalism, diligence, and dedication to keeping our nation safe. However, the FBI and our law enforcement partners cannot do it alone. We ask the public to contact law enforcement if they have information about cold cases or any criminal activity. Two-way communication with our communities is vital to our work, and often holds the answers to solving crimes. Together, we will use all tools available and go to farthest reaches of the globe to bring to justice those who seek to endanger our citizens and society. We will not relent.”

    “The heartless and brutal actions of these ruthless and violent criminals demonstrate a complete disregard for human life,” Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony said. “BSO’s Cold Case Homicide investigators, who worked closely with our federal partners, proved once again that justice has no expiration date. We owe it to the families of the victims and to this community to make sure the people who committed these heinous crimes are held accountable.”

    Southern District of Florida Special Prosecutions Chief Brian Dobbins and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elena Smukler are prosecuting these cases. FBI Miami and BSO investigated, with valuable assistance from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Miami, Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office, NCIS Southeast Field Office, and Florida Department of Corrections.

    The U.S. Department of Justice has stated that MS-13 is a violent transnational gang composed primarily of immigrants or descendants from El Salvador that operates throughout parts of the United States. MS-13 is a recognized terrorist organization.

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

    This matter is also 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).

    FBI and HSI have nationwide tip lines for individuals who wish to share information about the MS-13 gang and its activities. The FBI tipline is 1-866-STP-MS13 (1-866-787-6713), and the HSI tipline is 1-866-DHS-2423

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case numbers 22-cr-60078 and 25-cr-20102.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Unions Sue Trump Administration Over Move to Bust Federal Employee Unions

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

    Lawsuit alleges union-busting executive order is retaliation against labor unions that have challenged the administration’s illegal workplace actions

    SAN FRANCISCO – Labor unions representing federal government workers across the country are suing the Trump administration over the president’s attempt to override the law through executive order and strip more than one million federal government employees of their union rights.

    The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleges that Trump’s executive order is a retaliatory attempt to punish federal employee unions that have been engaging in constitutionally protected speech. Unions have repeatedly scored court victories after suing in opposition to actions taken by the Trump administration targeting federal workers.

    The new complaint cites a White House fact sheet that specifically referenced a statement made by the lead plaintiff, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which represents more than 820,000 federal employees.

    Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that the Trump administration overbroadly applied the national security exemption to eliminate collective bargaining rights for over a million workers whose primary functions are not related to national security. Those employees work at agencies and departments like the Department of Veterans Affairs, Environmental Protection Agency, Food Safety and Inspection Service, and several others.

    The lawsuit was filed by Bredhoff and Kaiser. Other plaintiffs joining AFGE in the lawsuit are the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), National Association of Government Employees (NAGE-SEIU), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM), National Nurses United (NNU), and Service Employees International Union (SEIU), who collectively represent more than 950,000 federal employees.

    “AFGE is not going to be intimidated by a bully who is throwing a temper tantrum because our union is beating them in the court of law and in the court of public opinion,” AFGE National President Everett Kelley said. “Federal employees have had the right to join a union and bargain collectively for decades – through multiple wars, international conflicts, and a global health emergency during President Trump’s first term. During all that time they served the American people with honor and distinction. No one, including President Trump, ever suggested unions were a national security concern. Trump’s newest order to revoke union rights is a clear case of retaliation. But I’ve got news for him: we are not going anywhere.”

    “Federal workers and all AFSCME members have been making their voices heard in court and on the streets to protect public services and their jobs. They won’t let billionaires raid our communities without consequence – and that’s why they’re facing retaliation,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “The extremists in this administration have made their contempt for public service workers clear and know that stripping collective bargaining rights means stripping away their power. We are filing this lawsuit to stop this illegal effort to silence those who speak out and protect free speech for all working people.”

    “President Trump’s unlawful order isn’t just an attack on federal workers—it’s an attack on the public. NAGE members make sure veterans get the care they deserve, support our military, protect our environment, and keep our government running. By stripping away their rights, this administration is deliberately weakening public services and putting political loyalty ahead of skill and experience,” said NAGE National President David J. Holway. “If this order stands, the ones who will suffer most are the American people.”

    “America’s public service workers don’t work for profits, politics, or for glory – they serve our nation. The President’s unlawful executive order attacking federal unions is not only an attack on a million federal workers, but is a direct attack on all workers who seek a collective voice to bargain for a better future,” said April Verrett, president of the two-million member Service Employees International Union (SEIU). “This is blatant retaliation against brave workers who dared to exercise their First Amendment rights to criticize this administration’s authoritarian overreach. The labor movement stands in solidarity, and we will not let this administration’s union-busting tactics silence us.”

    “The VA nurses rely on collective bargaining to advocate for patient safety and ensure the best care for our veterans – most of whom are over 45 years old, and many of whom have a disability. Without these bargaining rights, we risk retaliation for speaking up and holding our employers accountable. Our veterans deserve nurses who can fight for their care without fear,” said Nancy Hagans, RN, president of National Nurses United (NNU).  “This latest move by the administration is a clear attempt to intimidate us for standing up against its efforts to dismantle and privatize the VA, which studies have shown is a better place for veterans to receive care compared to the private sector. We will not be silenced by this bully behavior.”

    “This is the most significant assault on collective bargaining rights we have ever seen in the United States,” said Randy Erwin, National President, National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM). “It is clear that this executive order is retaliation for federal unions fighting back against the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the civil service. This is yet another direct attack by the President not only on federal employees, but also veterans, working families, and the very fabric of our democracy. However, federal workers’ collective bargaining rights are protected by law and President Trump does not have the right to unilaterally eliminate them. NFFE and our allies are confident the rule of law will be upheld and the critical rights of working people will be protected.”

    MIL OSI USA News –