Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division
Headline: Defense Contractor Berg Co. Agrees to Pay $3.3M to Resolve Allegations of Causing Fraudulent Bids
Berg Companies Inc. (Berg) has agreed to pay $3.3 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting, or causing the submission of, false claims under prime vendor contracts with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), which the Department of Defense (DoD) uses to purchase goods and services.
Source: United States Attorneys General
Berg Companies Inc. (Berg) has agreed to pay $3.3 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting, or causing the submission of, false claims under prime vendor contracts with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), which the Department of Defense (DoD) uses to purchase goods and services.
Berg, based in Spokane, Washington, manufactures rigid wall shelters and sells them to the federal government, including through various prime vendor programs. In September 2019, Berg was acquired by Hunter Defense Technologies, Inc., which is a defense contractor that is based in Solon, Ohio.
Berg was a vendor to Noble Sales Co. Inc. doing business as Noble Supply & Logistics (Noble), which is a Boston-based prime contractor to DLA for Maintenance, Repair & Operations (MRO) contracts for the European Command. Under the MRO contracts, the DoD can place orders for goods and services through Noble. Noble is then required to solicit bids from two independently competing vendors for transactions below $25,000 and from three independently competing vendors for transactions at or above $25,000. According to DLA, MRO contracts are “a partnership aimed at achieving infrastructure savings, inventory cost reductions and favorable product pricing through leveraged buying.”
Pursuant to the settlement agreement, Berg admitted that, from 2019 to 2021, Berg coordinated with Noble and two other Noble vendors to submit inflated quotes for Berg-made rigid wall shelters so that the other vendors would win the awards at inflated prices. In the first scheme, Berg admitted that it coordinated and submitted inflated quotes on two solicitations for the sale of 10 Berg-made rigid wall shelters that Noble awarded to a New Mexico-based vendor. In the second scheme, Berg admitted that it coordinated and submitted inflated quotes on 26 solicitations for the purchase of 29 Berg-made rigid wall shelters that Noble awarded to a Florida-based vendor. As a result of these schemes, the United States contends that the requirements were not competed as required by the prime vendor contract and the military customers were overcharged for the Berg-made rigid wall shelters.
“Bid rigging of this type inhibits competition on the products and on prices, thereby creating the risk that the government is purchasing inferior products at exorbitant prices,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement reinforces the Department’s commitment in using the FCA to pursue anti-competitive fraud.”
“As evidenced in this settlement agreement, these contractors manipulated and undermined the fair and open bidding process designed to save our military and taxpayers money,” said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley for the District of Massachusetts. “We commend Berg for cooperating with the government to resolve this matter and taking responsibility for this conduct. As this settlement demonstrates, not only will my Office continue to use the False Claims Act to help root out fraud, waste and abuse involving taxpayer funds, but it will reward those that accept responsibility and cooperate with the government.”
“Collusion in government contracting erodes public trust, distorts fair competition, and drives up costs for taxpayers and service members,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison for the District of New Mexico. “Such conduct undermines the integrity of the procurement process and betrays the public’s expectation that government funds will be used responsibly. This resolution demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting taxpayer dollars, ensuring a level playing field for all businesses, and holding accountable those who seek to profit by manipulating federal contracting. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to defend the integrity of government procurement and safeguard the interests of the American people.”
“Today’s settlement announcement demonstrates the commitment of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), along with our law enforcement partners, to aggressively pursue those who undermine the integrity of the DoD contracting process,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Chad Gosch of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, DCIS Southwest Field Office. “DCIS will use all available resources to hold accountable those who betray the trust of the American taxpayer by corrupting the DoD procurement system for personal gain.”
“GSA OIG will continue to work with its investigative partners to hold government contractors accountable for concealing relevant information that may affect the award or performance of government contracts,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph Dattoria of the U.S. General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Division.
Berg cooperated with the government in this matter. As part of the settlement, Berg acknowledged and accepted responsibility for the facts that form the basis of this settlement.
This settlement resolves claims brought against Berg under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the FCA, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when they believe that a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and to receive a share of the recovery. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblowers, Mark G. Davis and Andrew G. Gunn, to receive a $561,000 share of the recovery. Davis is a U.S. Army veteran and former salesperson for one of the sub-vendors involved in the conspiracy allegation. Gunn is the managing director of a United Kingdom company that manufacturers storage equipment for United States military customers and sold its equipment through this prime vendor’s MRO contracts. The remainder of the matter remains under seal.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Offices for the District of New Mexico and District of Massachusetts, with assistance from the Defense Criminal Investigative Services, the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the General Services Administration Office of Inspector General.
The matter was handled by Trial Attorney Samson Asiyanbi of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Cunniff of the District of New Mexico, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lindsey Ross and Brian LaMacchia of the District of Massachusetts.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Source: US Marshals Service
Cheyenne, WY – The U.S. Marshals (USMS) District of Wyoming Fugitive Task Force (WFTF), along with members from the USMS Special Operations Group and with the assistance of several partner agencies, located and arrested early Friday a fugitive wanted on sexual assault and other charges.
Ricky Ayers, 53, a self-proclaimed sovereign citizen who had made threats against law enforcement during previous encounters, was wanted for sexual assault in the first degree, aggravated burglary, felonious restraint, and domestic battery.
Due to potential heightened threats to law enforcement, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office in Laramie asked for USMS assistance in apprehending Ayers, and the WFTF adopted the case for apprehension.
Investigators developed information that Ayers had a probable stockpile of weapons within his cabin and property in a remote area of Albany County. After taking Ayers into custody, the team located numerous weapons, primarily rifles, scattered throughout the property address.
Other agencies involved in Ayers’ capture include the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, Platte County Sheriff’s Office, Cheyenne Police Department SWAT, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Forest Service.
The Wyoming Fugitive Task Force, which is headed by the U.S. Marshals Service, District of Wyoming, was created in February 2004. Its mission is to track, locate, and apprehend state and federal fugitives. The Wyoming Fugitive Task Force is composed of numerous federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
Tips of wanted subjects or subjects who may be in violation of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act can be shared by submitting a tip through https://www.p3tips.com/USMS.aspx.
Source: US FBI
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the arrest of Pedro Danilo Espinoza-Guiffaro (34, Honduras) on a criminal complaint charging him with being unlawfully present in the United States after being previously removed from the United States. If convicted, Espinoza-Guiffaro faces a maximum penalty of two years in federal prison.
According to the complaint, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a targeted enforcement operation to arrest Espinoza-Guiffaro as he had an active Interpol Red Notice for Murder in Honduras. A surveillance team located Espinoza-Guiffaro in Duval County. During immigration processing, HSI agents learned that Espinoza-Guiffaro was previously ordered removed from the United States and actually removed from the United States in 2022 and 2024. There is no record Espinoza-Guiffaro ever applied for or received permission to return to the United States.
A complaint is merely a 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 HSI and FBI. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Lasry.
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).
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency
Headline: Last Day to Apply for Federal Assistance for March Storms
Last Day to Apply for Federal Assistance for March Storms
LITTLE ROCK, Ark
– Monday, July 14, is the last day to apply for federal disaster assistance if you had damage from the destructive storms and tornadoes that cut across north-central and northeast Arkansas in March
Homeowners and renters, including students, may apply for federal assistance if you live in Greene, Hot Spring, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Sharp or Stone County
FEMA has many types of assistance available
FEMA may be able to help with basic home repair costs, personal property loss, and temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home or residence hall
Repair or replacement assistance may be available for a primary vehicle, a computer damaged in the disaster, or books and other items required for school
For students, your property damage or loss must have occurred in a designated county
To apply for FEMA assistance, go to DisasterAssistance
gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362
Lines are open daily from 6 a
m
to 10 p
m
CT and specialists speak many languages
If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service
To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube
The U
S
Small Business Administration also offers low-interest disaster loans to Arkansas homeowners and renters, businesses of all sizes and nonprofit organizations
To apply to SBA, go to SBA
gov/disaster or call the Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955
Survivors may also apply for FEMA and SBA disaster assistance, submit documents and speak to someone about their applications at several sites
To find locations and hours, visit fema
gov/disaster/4865, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the link under “In-person Survivor Assistance
”For the latest information about Arkansas’ recovery, visit fema
gov/disaster/4865
Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x
com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook
com/FEMARegion6
toan
nguyen
Mon, 07/14/2025 – 13:08
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002810/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Marlena Maląg (ECR)
Directive 2011/64/EU established minimum excise duties on manufactured tobacco in the European Union, giving Member States the freedom to set higher rates based on their own circumstances. The Law and Justice Party Government of 2015-2023 made use of this freedom to pursue a policy of moderate excise duty increases, which led to a reduction in the shadow economy and growth in budgetary revenue in Poland. In 2024, Donald Tusk’s new governing coalition decided to significantly increase these rates, which has already led to a growth in the shadow economy, according to market analyses. Similar observations have been made in the Netherlands, which has seen an increase in the consumption of cigarettes without excise duty having been paid.
In relation to the above:
Submitted: 9.7.2025
Source: European Parliament
The Commission has adopted emergency measures[1] pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/429[2] and Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/687[3].
These measures include restrictions on the movement of susceptible animals and products from the affected areas. The definition of such restricted areas ensures safe trade from non-restricted areas of the EU, including affected Member States.
Consignments of live animals from different restricted areas are only authorised if all conditions laid down in Union law are met, including pre-export quarantine and veterinary certification.
Compliance with these requirements falls under the responsibility of the competent authorities of the Member States concerned. Member States must record the results of checks performed on animals involved in intra-EU trade in TRACES and their performance can be monitored during Commission audits.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission has adopted emergency measures[1] pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2016/429[2] and Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/687[3].
These measures include restrictions on the movement of susceptible animals and products from the affected areas. The definition of such restricted areas ensures safe trade from non-restricted areas of the EU, including affected Member States.
Consignments of live animals from different restricted areas are only authorised if all conditions laid down in Union law are met, including pre-export quarantine and veterinary certification.
Compliance with these requirements falls under the responsibility of the competent authorities of the Member States concerned. Member States must record the results of checks performed on animals involved in intra-EU trade in TRACES and their performance can be monitored during Commission audits.
Source: European Parliament
The EU Agri-Food Fraud Network (FFN)[1] works with law enforcement through the European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT), guided by the EU Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment Report.
EMPACT connects Member States, EU bodies, and international partners to combat serious organised crime. For illegal pesticides, the FFN co-leads with Europol the Operational Action Plan ‘Environmental Crime’ and supports Europol’s Operation SILVER AXE, targeting intellectual property rights protected non-compliant products.
Participants share related information via the Secure Information Exchange Network Application (SIENA), for secure exchange. The FFN contributes by data sharing, statistical analysis, and trend evaluation.
The Commission audits Member States to assess controls on marketing and use of plant protection products, including detecting fraud.
The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) actively detects dangerous goods, as pesticides, and works closely with customs authorities to support cross- border investigations. OLAF has coordinated a joint customs operation on dangerous substances, including pesticides, in the context of the Asia-Europe Meeting[2].
Moreover, OLAF provided support and specialised intelligence for operations leading to the interception of a significant consignments of illegal pesticides in Bulgaria and Romania[3][4].
The Commission works with partner countries at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development fighting illegal trade in pesticides and remains committed mitigating negative impacts of illegal pesticides on environment, thus ensuring the protection of European consumers .
Source: European Parliament
This in-depth analysis, commissioned by the European Parliament’s Policy Department for Justice, Civil Liberties and Institutional Affairs at the request of the Committee on Legal Affairs, explores the proposed 28th company law regime. It highlights the need for a unified, digital-native EU-level company registration system to reduce fragmentation, enhance legal certainty, and support innovation, entrepreneurship, and cross-border growth across the Single Market.
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002772/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Daniel Freund (Verts/ALE)
Gambling companies in Europe are extremely concentrated in Malta. There are 321 such companies with a Maltese licence[1].
The largest companies are: Flutter (TSG Interactive, PokerStars), Hillside (bet365), 888 (Mr. Green), Betsson, Super Group (Betway), and Tipico.
Another deeply concerning matter is the Maltese Gaming Act (Chapter 583 of the Laws of Malta)[2], which hinders the enforcement of rulings handed down by courts in other Member States against Maltese-licensed gabling companies. After almost two years of reviewing the compatibility of Malta’s Gaming Act with EU law, the Commission has recently decided to open an infringement procedure against Malta.
Submitted: 8.7.2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002772/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Daniel Freund (Verts/ALE)
Gambling companies in Europe are extremely concentrated in Malta. There are 321 such companies with a Maltese licence[1].
The largest companies are: Flutter (TSG Interactive, PokerStars), Hillside (bet365), 888 (Mr. Green), Betsson, Super Group (Betway), and Tipico.
Another deeply concerning matter is the Maltese Gaming Act (Chapter 583 of the Laws of Malta)[2], which hinders the enforcement of rulings handed down by courts in other Member States against Maltese-licensed gabling companies. After almost two years of reviewing the compatibility of Malta’s Gaming Act with EU law, the Commission has recently decided to open an infringement procedure against Malta.
Submitted: 8.7.2025
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Police reclassified a death on arrival case happened in Yuen Long yesterday (July 14) as murder.
At 5.42pm yesterday, Police received a report from a staff member of a residential care home on Long Wo Road that a man had collapsed
Police officers sped to the scene and found the 54-year-old man lying unconsciously on the ground. Sustaining no superficial injury, he was rushed to Pok Oi Hospital and was certified dead at 6.35pm.
Initial investigation revealed that the deceased allegedly had a dispute with a 50-year-old man, who assaulted him with fists and kicks. Police arrested the 50-year-old man for murder at scene. He is being detained for further enquiries.
Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death of the deceased.
Active investigations by the District Crime Squad of Yuen Long are under way.
Anyone who witnessed the case or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 4640.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Police reclassified a death on arrival case happened in Yuen Long yesterday (July 14) as murder.
At 5.42pm yesterday, Police received a report from a staff member of a residential care home on Long Wo Road that a man had collapsed
Police officers sped to the scene and found the 54-year-old man lying unconsciously on the ground. Sustaining no superficial injury, he was rushed to Pok Oi Hospital and was certified dead at 6.35pm.
Initial investigation revealed that the deceased allegedly had a dispute with a 50-year-old man, who assaulted him with fists and kicks. Police arrested the 50-year-old man for murder at scene. He is being detained for further enquiries.
Post-mortem examinations will be conducted later to ascertain the cause of death of the deceased.
Active investigations by the District Crime Squad of Yuen Long are under way.
Anyone who witnessed the case or has any information to offer is urged to contact the investigating officers on 3661 4640.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Redefining Woden as a vibrant, modern hub where people can live, work, and thrive.
The brand-new CIT Woden Campus is now complete and set to welcome students on 21 July.
Welcoming up to 6,500 students per year, the campus will deliver cutting-edge training in fields such as:
The project benefits
The campus also invites students and the community to enjoy CIT student-run businesses, including:
Let’s take a sneak peek!
The CIT Restaurant and Commercial Training Bar, as well as a Produce Shop/Apprentice Kitchen shop, are located on the ground floor.
There is an additional kitchen and training bar on Level 1 adjacent to the multipurpose space. The kitchen areas are all glassed, providing visual activation throughout and allowing the public to see culinary students in action.
The hair and beauty space includes areas for hairdressing, barbering, spray tanning, make-up, and beauty therapy, along with a reception area.
It connects directly to the ground floor commercial hair salon, making it easy for clients, students, and teachers to move between the two levels.
This spacious, open-plan area is designed to host a variety of events including media and music performances, exhibitions, graduations, open days, and hospitality training.
It opens onto the Level 1 Terrace, which features bench seating with power outlets, native landscaping, and edible gardens.
Screen and media areas include specialist graphic design computer labs, dedicated studios for photography, videos and music. Staff will also have workspaces for media, music and photography.
Designing with Country has been a guiding principle for the CIT Woden Campus project.
The large ‘oculus’ skylight provides a meaningful physical and visual connection with Sky Country from inside the building. It reflects a silhouette of a wedge tailed eagle or ‘Mulleun’, considered a totem animal for the local Ngunnawal people.
The bleachers support gathering or social spaces throughout the day. They go from levels 1 all the way up to level 5 to meet the oculus skylight.
CIT Woden is located next to the new public transport interchange being built on Callam Street. It will improve bus services, safety and enhance connectivity to the area.
It will feature 18 bus stops, passenger-friendly shelters and enhanced lighting and signage.
The transport interchange will also incorporate a light rail stop for the network’s future extension to Woden.
Three public green spaces are available for students, staff, and the community to enjoy.
A walking link between the new public transport interchange and the town centre, this corridor includes spaces for public seating, outdoor dining, and retail frontage
Located at the north end of the campus is asunny breakout space for students, staff, local businesses and residents.It includes trees, gardens, and areas for dogs.
Located at the western end of the campus is a gathering and ceremony space surrounded by a mix of native and non-native planting and seating with charging ports.
For more information visit the Built for CBR website.
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Source: US State of North Dakota
Hill ASC Inc., doing business as Hill Associates, of Rockville, Maryland, agreed to pay at least $14.75 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in connection with a General Services Administration (GSA) contract for information technology services.
This settlement relates to a contract under which Hill provided information technology services to federal agencies from 2018 to 2023 through GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program. The MAS program provides the government with a streamlined process to buy commonly used commercial goods and services. GSA negotiates contract terms and other agencies can then buy goods and services from the contractor under that GSA MAS contract. The settlement resolves allegations that Hill billed federal agencies for labor of information technology personnel who did not have the experience or education required under the contract. In addition, it resolves allegations that, although GSA required technical evaluations for contractors who sought to offer highly adaptive cybersecurity services to government customers, and Hill had not passed such an evaluation, Hill submitted claims for such cybersecurity services and other services that were not within the scope of the MAS contract. Finally, it resolves allegations that Hill charged the government for unapproved fees, failed to provide government customers with required information about discounts for prompt payment, and included unallowable incentive compensation in a cost submission in connection with a new contract proposal.
Under the settlement with the United States, Hill has agreed to pay $14.75 million, plus additional amounts if certain financial contingencies occur. The settlement amount was based on the company’s ability to pay.
“Information technology contractors are expected to charge the government appropriately for their services,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to pursue cyber fraud and hold accountable those companies that knowingly fail to meet contractual obligations to the American taxpayers.”
“Federal agencies should get what they have paid for from GSA contractors, nothing less,” said GSA Deputy Inspector General Robert C. Erickson. “I appreciate the hard work of all the attorneys, auditors, and special agents involved in this investigation.”
“False claims and similar unfair advantage by contractors undermine the integrity of the contracting process and can result in significant adverse effects to vital security concerns,” said Treasury Deputy Inspector General Loren Sciurba. “Treasury OIG is committed to conducting and assisting other agencies to the utmost in investigations, audits, and other work to detect and prevent these violations of the public trust.”
“As the nation’s tax watchdog, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) is dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s contracting and procurement processes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jessica Cipolla of TIGTA’s Gulf States Field Division. “We remain steadfast in our mission to expose and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the IRS. Anyone doing business with the IRS or the Department of the Treasury is expected to operate with the highest levels of honesty and integrity. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners for their continued collaboration and critical support in this investigation.”
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the GSA’s Office of the Inspector General, the Treasury Department’s Office of Inspector General, and TIGTA. The matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Christopher Terranova of the Fraud Section.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Source: US State of North Dakota
Hill ASC Inc., doing business as Hill Associates, of Rockville, Maryland, agreed to pay at least $14.75 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in connection with a General Services Administration (GSA) contract for information technology services.
This settlement relates to a contract under which Hill provided information technology services to federal agencies from 2018 to 2023 through GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program. The MAS program provides the government with a streamlined process to buy commonly used commercial goods and services. GSA negotiates contract terms and other agencies can then buy goods and services from the contractor under that GSA MAS contract. The settlement resolves allegations that Hill billed federal agencies for labor of information technology personnel who did not have the experience or education required under the contract. In addition, it resolves allegations that, although GSA required technical evaluations for contractors who sought to offer highly adaptive cybersecurity services to government customers, and Hill had not passed such an evaluation, Hill submitted claims for such cybersecurity services and other services that were not within the scope of the MAS contract. Finally, it resolves allegations that Hill charged the government for unapproved fees, failed to provide government customers with required information about discounts for prompt payment, and included unallowable incentive compensation in a cost submission in connection with a new contract proposal.
Under the settlement with the United States, Hill has agreed to pay $14.75 million, plus additional amounts if certain financial contingencies occur. The settlement amount was based on the company’s ability to pay.
“Information technology contractors are expected to charge the government appropriately for their services,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to pursue cyber fraud and hold accountable those companies that knowingly fail to meet contractual obligations to the American taxpayers.”
“Federal agencies should get what they have paid for from GSA contractors, nothing less,” said GSA Deputy Inspector General Robert C. Erickson. “I appreciate the hard work of all the attorneys, auditors, and special agents involved in this investigation.”
“False claims and similar unfair advantage by contractors undermine the integrity of the contracting process and can result in significant adverse effects to vital security concerns,” said Treasury Deputy Inspector General Loren Sciurba. “Treasury OIG is committed to conducting and assisting other agencies to the utmost in investigations, audits, and other work to detect and prevent these violations of the public trust.”
“As the nation’s tax watchdog, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) is dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s contracting and procurement processes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jessica Cipolla of TIGTA’s Gulf States Field Division. “We remain steadfast in our mission to expose and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the IRS. Anyone doing business with the IRS or the Department of the Treasury is expected to operate with the highest levels of honesty and integrity. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners for their continued collaboration and critical support in this investigation.”
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the GSA’s Office of the Inspector General, the Treasury Department’s Office of Inspector General, and TIGTA. The matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Christopher Terranova of the Fraud Section.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division
Headline: Justice Department Releases Guidance on Implementing President Trump’s Executive Order Designating English as the Official Language of the United States
WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Justice released Guidance to ensure compliance with President Trump’s Executive Order No. 14224, which establishes English as the official language of the United States of America. Consistent with the Executive Order, the Department of Justice will lead a coordinated effort across federal agencies to minimize non-essential multilingual services, redirect resources toward English-language education and assimilation, and ensure legal compliance with the Executive Order through targeted measures where necessary.
Source: US Marshals Service
Wheeling, WV – Three (3) subjects were located and arrested in Powhatten, Belmont County, OH.
Jesse Thompson, 21, Chaz Suarez, 23, and Stormetta Hawkins, 32, were arrested today around 8:00am by the U.S. Marshals Service – Mountain State Fugitive Task Force in Powhatten, OH. Thompson, Suarez and Hawkins were wanted by the Moundsville Police Department due to an investigation involving a home invasion where the victims were pistol whipped and five (5) firearms were stolen.
The U.S. Marshals Service was requested to assist in locating Thompson, Suarez and Hawkins from Moundsville Police Department. Deputy U.S. Marshals received information that the subjects were staying in Powhatten, OH.
On July 11, 2025, Deputy Marshals, Task Force Officers, Belmont County Sheriff Deputies and Powhatten Police responded to 200 block of State Route 7 in Powhatten, OH. U.S. Marshals announced their presence and immediately located and arrested Thompson, after further search of the residence Hawkins and Suarez were located and placed in custody. During the search of Suarez, DUSMs located a loaded H&K .45 caliber pistol in his waist band. Upon further investigation, Powhatten Police Department and Belmont County conducted a search of the residence and located and seized two (2) additional firearms which were suspected to be from the home invasion, ammunition and small amount of suspected Methamphetamine.
All subjects were transported to the Belmont County Jail in Flushing, OH pending extradition hearing to West Virginia.
The U.S. Marshals Service is the nation’s oldest federal law enforcement agency, having served the country since 1789.
Source: US FBI
Ten individuals have been charged for their roles in the shooting of an Alvarado police officer at the Prairieland Detention Center.
Today’s announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas FBI R. Joseph Rothrock, and Enforcement Removal Operations Dallas Acting Field Office Director Joshua Johnson.
According to a criminal complaint filed today, the defendants, dressed in black military-style clothing, began shooting fireworks at the facility, as part of an organized attack.
After approximately 10 minutes of convening, one or two individuals broke off from the main group and began to spray graffiti on vehicles and a guard structure in the parking lot at the facility. An Alvarado police officer responded to the scene after correctional officers called 911 to report suspicious activity. When the Alvarado police officer arrived, one alleged defendant positioned in nearby woods shot the officer in the neck area. Another alleged assailant across the street fired 20 to 30 rounds at unarmed correctional officers who had stepped outside the facility.
As alleged in the complaint, AR-style rifles were found at the scene. The assailants fled from the detention center but were stopped by additional law enforcement officers. Some defendants were wearing body armor, some were armed, and some had two-way radios. A total of twelve sets of body armor were found during searches of vehicles associated with the defendants, on their persons, and in the area around the Prairieland Detention Center.
Additionally, officers found spray paint, flyers stating, “FIGHT ICE TERROR WITH CLASS WAR!” and “FREE ALL POLITICAL PRISONERS,” and a flag stating, “RESIST FACISM – FIGHT OLIGARCHY.” One of the alleged attackers had cell phones inside a “Faraday bag,” used to block phone signals and commonly used by criminal actors to try to prevent law enforcement from tracking their location.
Ten individuals were charged in one complaint with three counts of attempted murder of federal agents and three counts of discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. Those include:
• Cameron Arnold
• Savanna Batten
• Nathan Baumann
• Zachary Evetts
• Joy Gibson
• Bradford Morris
• Maricela Rueda
• Seth Sikes
• Elizabeth Soto
• Ines Soto
As outlined in the complaint, officers photographed the graffiti, flyers, flag, body armor, and magazines containing ammunition:
“Make no mistake, this was not a peaceful protest,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson. “This was an ambush on federal and local law enforcement officers. This increasing trend of violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated in the Northern District of Texas. Those who use violence against law enforcement officers will be found and prosecuted using the toughest criminal statutes and penalties available.”
“The incident at the Prairieland Detention Center underscores the dangers that officers face daily. We want to thank all the law enforcement agencies that promptly responded and assisted in apprehending the suspects,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “The FBI stands with our partners and pledges that violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated. We are committed to thoroughly investigating this weekend’s incident and will hold those responsible accountable for threatening the safety of law enforcement.”
“Violence, threats of violence, and attempts of vandalism at our ICE Facilities will not deter our officers at ICE from fulfilling their duties, said Josh Johnson, Acting ERO Dallas Field Office Director. “This type of vigilante lawlessness is emblematic of the dangers federal, state, and local law enforcement officials face every day.”
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, the defendants face a minimum penalty of ten years in federal prison and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The investigation was conducted by the Dallas FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Office (ICE ERO), Homeland Security Investigations, ATF, Texas Department of Public Safety, Alvarado Police Department, and Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.
Source: US FBI
Ten individuals have been charged for their roles in the shooting of an Alvarado police officer at the Prairieland Detention Center.
Today’s announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas FBI R. Joseph Rothrock, and Enforcement Removal Operations Dallas Acting Field Office Director Joshua Johnson.
According to a criminal complaint filed today, the defendants, dressed in black military-style clothing, began shooting fireworks at the facility, as part of an organized attack.
After approximately 10 minutes of convening, one or two individuals broke off from the main group and began to spray graffiti on vehicles and a guard structure in the parking lot at the facility. An Alvarado police officer responded to the scene after correctional officers called 911 to report suspicious activity. When the Alvarado police officer arrived, one alleged defendant positioned in nearby woods shot the officer in the neck area. Another alleged assailant across the street fired 20 to 30 rounds at unarmed correctional officers who had stepped outside the facility.
As alleged in the complaint, AR-style rifles were found at the scene. The assailants fled from the detention center but were stopped by additional law enforcement officers. Some defendants were wearing body armor, some were armed, and some had two-way radios. A total of twelve sets of body armor were found during searches of vehicles associated with the defendants, on their persons, and in the area around the Prairieland Detention Center.
Additionally, officers found spray paint, flyers stating, “FIGHT ICE TERROR WITH CLASS WAR!” and “FREE ALL POLITICAL PRISONERS,” and a flag stating, “RESIST FACISM – FIGHT OLIGARCHY.” One of the alleged attackers had cell phones inside a “Faraday bag,” used to block phone signals and commonly used by criminal actors to try to prevent law enforcement from tracking their location.
Ten individuals were charged in one complaint with three counts of attempted murder of federal agents and three counts of discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. Those include:
• Cameron Arnold
• Savanna Batten
• Nathan Baumann
• Zachary Evetts
• Joy Gibson
• Bradford Morris
• Maricela Rueda
• Seth Sikes
• Elizabeth Soto
• Ines Soto
As outlined in the complaint, officers photographed the graffiti, flyers, flag, body armor, and magazines containing ammunition:
“Make no mistake, this was not a peaceful protest,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson. “This was an ambush on federal and local law enforcement officers. This increasing trend of violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated in the Northern District of Texas. Those who use violence against law enforcement officers will be found and prosecuted using the toughest criminal statutes and penalties available.”
“The incident at the Prairieland Detention Center underscores the dangers that officers face daily. We want to thank all the law enforcement agencies that promptly responded and assisted in apprehending the suspects,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “The FBI stands with our partners and pledges that violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated. We are committed to thoroughly investigating this weekend’s incident and will hold those responsible accountable for threatening the safety of law enforcement.”
“Violence, threats of violence, and attempts of vandalism at our ICE Facilities will not deter our officers at ICE from fulfilling their duties, said Josh Johnson, Acting ERO Dallas Field Office Director. “This type of vigilante lawlessness is emblematic of the dangers federal, state, and local law enforcement officials face every day.”
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, the defendants face a minimum penalty of ten years in federal prison and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The investigation was conducted by the Dallas FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Office (ICE ERO), Homeland Security Investigations, ATF, Texas Department of Public Safety, Alvarado Police Department, and Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.
Source: US FBI
Ten individuals have been charged for their roles in the shooting of an Alvarado police officer at the Prairieland Detention Center.
Today’s announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas FBI R. Joseph Rothrock, and Enforcement Removal Operations Dallas Acting Field Office Director Joshua Johnson.
According to a criminal complaint filed today, the defendants, dressed in black military-style clothing, began shooting fireworks at the facility, as part of an organized attack.
After approximately 10 minutes of convening, one or two individuals broke off from the main group and began to spray graffiti on vehicles and a guard structure in the parking lot at the facility. An Alvarado police officer responded to the scene after correctional officers called 911 to report suspicious activity. When the Alvarado police officer arrived, one alleged defendant positioned in nearby woods shot the officer in the neck area. Another alleged assailant across the street fired 20 to 30 rounds at unarmed correctional officers who had stepped outside the facility.
As alleged in the complaint, AR-style rifles were found at the scene. The assailants fled from the detention center but were stopped by additional law enforcement officers. Some defendants were wearing body armor, some were armed, and some had two-way radios. A total of twelve sets of body armor were found during searches of vehicles associated with the defendants, on their persons, and in the area around the Prairieland Detention Center.
Additionally, officers found spray paint, flyers stating, “FIGHT ICE TERROR WITH CLASS WAR!” and “FREE ALL POLITICAL PRISONERS,” and a flag stating, “RESIST FACISM – FIGHT OLIGARCHY.” One of the alleged attackers had cell phones inside a “Faraday bag,” used to block phone signals and commonly used by criminal actors to try to prevent law enforcement from tracking their location.
Ten individuals were charged in one complaint with three counts of attempted murder of federal agents and three counts of discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. Those include:
• Cameron Arnold
• Savanna Batten
• Nathan Baumann
• Zachary Evetts
• Joy Gibson
• Bradford Morris
• Maricela Rueda
• Seth Sikes
• Elizabeth Soto
• Ines Soto
As outlined in the complaint, officers photographed the graffiti, flyers, flag, body armor, and magazines containing ammunition:
“Make no mistake, this was not a peaceful protest,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson. “This was an ambush on federal and local law enforcement officers. This increasing trend of violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated in the Northern District of Texas. Those who use violence against law enforcement officers will be found and prosecuted using the toughest criminal statutes and penalties available.”
“The incident at the Prairieland Detention Center underscores the dangers that officers face daily. We want to thank all the law enforcement agencies that promptly responded and assisted in apprehending the suspects,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “The FBI stands with our partners and pledges that violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated. We are committed to thoroughly investigating this weekend’s incident and will hold those responsible accountable for threatening the safety of law enforcement.”
“Violence, threats of violence, and attempts of vandalism at our ICE Facilities will not deter our officers at ICE from fulfilling their duties, said Josh Johnson, Acting ERO Dallas Field Office Director. “This type of vigilante lawlessness is emblematic of the dangers federal, state, and local law enforcement officials face every day.”
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, the defendants face a minimum penalty of ten years in federal prison and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The investigation was conducted by the Dallas FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Office (ICE ERO), Homeland Security Investigations, ATF, Texas Department of Public Safety, Alvarado Police Department, and Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.
Source: United States Attorneys General
WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Justice released Guidance to ensure compliance with President Trump’s Executive Order No. 14224, which establishes English as the official language of the United States of America. Consistent with the Executive Order, the Department of Justice will lead a coordinated effort across federal agencies to minimize non-essential multilingual services, redirect resources toward English-language education and assimilation, and ensure legal compliance with the Executive Order through targeted measures where necessary.
“As President Trump has made clear, English is the official language of the United States,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice will lead the effort to codify the President’s Executive Order and eliminate wasteful virtue-signaling policies across government agencies to promote assimilation over division.”
“President Trump’s Executive Order marks a pivotal step toward unifying our nation through a common language and enhancing efficiency in federal operations,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “The Department of Justice ensures that while we respect linguistic diversity, our federal resources will prioritize English proficiency to empower new Americans and strengthen civic unity.”
While leaving room for linguistic diversity that exists in private and community spheres, this Guidance will help streamline federal processes, reduce administrative burdens, and increase operational efficiency across agencies by removing extensive translation services and de-prioritizing multilingualism over English proficiency. Implementing the Executive Order will enhance social and economic integration, offer new Americans a vital pathway for civic engagement, and further bind Americans together with a shared language.
President Trump’s Executive Order rescinds Executive Order No. 13,166, signed by President Clinton on August 16, 2000. Executive Order No. 13,166 directed agencies to enhance access to federal programs for persons with limited English proficiency and required tailored guidance for recipients of federal funding—straining federal resources and impeding the assimilation of new Americans.
This is the latest Guidance issued by the Department of Justice to implement and administer President Trump’s agenda.
Read the Guidance HERE.
Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division
Hill ASC Inc., doing business as Hill Associates, of Rockville, Maryland, agreed to pay at least $14.75 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act in connection with a General Services Administration (GSA) contract for information technology services.
This settlement relates to a contract under which Hill provided information technology services to federal agencies from 2018 to 2023 through GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) program. The MAS program provides the government with a streamlined process to buy commonly used commercial goods and services. GSA negotiates contract terms and other agencies can then buy goods and services from the contractor under that GSA MAS contract. The settlement resolves allegations that Hill billed federal agencies for labor of information technology personnel who did not have the experience or education required under the contract. In addition, it resolves allegations that, although GSA required technical evaluations for contractors who sought to offer highly adaptive cybersecurity services to government customers, and Hill had not passed such an evaluation, Hill submitted claims for such cybersecurity services and other services that were not within the scope of the MAS contract. Finally, it resolves allegations that Hill charged the government for unapproved fees, failed to provide government customers with required information about discounts for prompt payment, and included unallowable incentive compensation in a cost submission in connection with a new contract proposal.
Under the settlement with the United States, Hill has agreed to pay $14.75 million, plus additional amounts if certain financial contingencies occur. The settlement amount was based on the company’s ability to pay.
“Information technology contractors are expected to charge the government appropriately for their services,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will continue to pursue cyber fraud and hold accountable those companies that knowingly fail to meet contractual obligations to the American taxpayers.”
“Federal agencies should get what they have paid for from GSA contractors, nothing less,” said GSA Deputy Inspector General Robert C. Erickson. “I appreciate the hard work of all the attorneys, auditors, and special agents involved in this investigation.”
“False claims and similar unfair advantage by contractors undermine the integrity of the contracting process and can result in significant adverse effects to vital security concerns,” said Treasury Deputy Inspector General Loren Sciurba. “Treasury OIG is committed to conducting and assisting other agencies to the utmost in investigations, audits, and other work to detect and prevent these violations of the public trust.”
“As the nation’s tax watchdog, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) is dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)’s contracting and procurement processes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jessica Cipolla of TIGTA’s Gulf States Field Division. “We remain steadfast in our mission to expose and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the IRS. Anyone doing business with the IRS or the Department of the Treasury is expected to operate with the highest levels of honesty and integrity. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners for their continued collaboration and critical support in this investigation.”
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, the GSA’s Office of the Inspector General, the Treasury Department’s Office of Inspector General, and TIGTA. The matter was handled by Senior Trial Counsel Christopher Terranova of the Fraud Section.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Source: Government of Canada regional news
A responsive justice system is essential to ensuring survivors of gender-based violence are supported, and people committing these crimes are held to account. To support survivors of gender-based violence, Alberta’s government is launching a new grant program to strengthen support services across the province.
Through the Community Pathways to Justice grant, $1.25 million in one-time funding will be made available to help community-based organizations and Indigenous communities enhance access to justice and provide survivor-centered services. This initiative is part of Alberta’s 10-year strategy to end gender-based violence by preventing harm, holding offenders accountable and empowering those impacted. The grant supports programs that focus on victim support, education and awareness, legal navigation, system coordination and restorative justice.
“We are making this significant investment because gender-based violence has no place in society. This funding empowers community programs to help survivors identify gender-based violence, know how to respond and have the support they need to move forward if they are impacted. Alberta’s government is standing with survivors and the organizations that support them.”
“We are leading with action. This grant delivers real support when and where survivors need it most, a key part of our made-in-Alberta strategy to end gender-based violence.”
Funding will be awarded to eligible Alberta-based organizations, including registered not-for-profits, charities, and Indigenous communities. Grants range from $50,000 to $150,000 and must be used for operational activities. The application process will open on July 14 and will close on August 1.
“No one should have to live in fear of violence, and no survivor should have to face their journey to justice alone. Supported by our National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence, this grant is a meaningful step in making sure more Albertans can access the support, advocacy and safety they deserve. Our federal government is proud to partner with Alberta to help build a future where gender-based violence has no place, and where every survivor knows they are seen, heard and supported.”
Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence builds on our province’s strengths – across government and with community partners – to achieve our vision of a province where every Albertan lives in safety, free from gender-based violence.
Source: US State of California
A federal jury convicted a Washington man on Friday for tax evasion and filing false tax returns related to a scheme to conceal income received from his commercial property business.
The following is according to court documents and evidence presented at trial: Steven Loo, of Seattle, controlled and operated eight companies that owned commercial real estate. Each was managed by independent property management companies, which were responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the real estate. Loo diverted the income he earned from his real estate by instructing the property management companies to issue checks, categorized as asset management fees, to two other entities that Loo controlled. Loo knew that the funds deposited into these bank accounts, totaling more than $4.8 million, were income to him and that he was required to report and pay tax on the funds. Nevertheless, Loo filed tax returns for 2015 through 2020 that did not report or pay tax on these funds.
Evidence presented at trial showed that Loo owes $1.6 million in taxes on his unreported income.
Loo is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 9. He faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each of the false tax return charges and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each of the tax evasion charges for which he was convicted. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, and U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller for the Western District of Washington made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Regina Jeon of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Dion and Sean Waite for the Western District of Washington prosecuted the case.
Source: US State of California
A federal jury convicted a Washington man on Friday for tax evasion and filing false tax returns related to a scheme to conceal income received from his commercial property business.
The following is according to court documents and evidence presented at trial: Steven Loo, of Seattle, controlled and operated eight companies that owned commercial real estate. Each was managed by independent property management companies, which were responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the real estate. Loo diverted the income he earned from his real estate by instructing the property management companies to issue checks, categorized as asset management fees, to two other entities that Loo controlled. Loo knew that the funds deposited into these bank accounts, totaling more than $4.8 million, were income to him and that he was required to report and pay tax on the funds. Nevertheless, Loo filed tax returns for 2015 through 2020 that did not report or pay tax on these funds.
Evidence presented at trial showed that Loo owes $1.6 million in taxes on his unreported income.
Loo is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 9. He faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each of the false tax return charges and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each of the tax evasion charges for which he was convicted. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, and U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller for the Western District of Washington made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Regina Jeon of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Dion and Sean Waite for the Western District of Washington prosecuted the case.
Source: US State of California
A federal jury convicted a Washington man on Friday for tax evasion and filing false tax returns related to a scheme to conceal income received from his commercial property business.
The following is according to court documents and evidence presented at trial: Steven Loo, of Seattle, controlled and operated eight companies that owned commercial real estate. Each was managed by independent property management companies, which were responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the real estate. Loo diverted the income he earned from his real estate by instructing the property management companies to issue checks, categorized as asset management fees, to two other entities that Loo controlled. Loo knew that the funds deposited into these bank accounts, totaling more than $4.8 million, were income to him and that he was required to report and pay tax on the funds. Nevertheless, Loo filed tax returns for 2015 through 2020 that did not report or pay tax on these funds.
Evidence presented at trial showed that Loo owes $1.6 million in taxes on his unreported income.
Loo is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 9. He faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each of the false tax return charges and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each of the tax evasion charges for which he was convicted. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, and U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller for the Western District of Washington made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Regina Jeon of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Dion and Sean Waite for the Western District of Washington prosecuted the case.
Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division
A federal jury convicted a Washington man on Friday for tax evasion and filing false tax returns related to a scheme to conceal income received from his commercial property business.
The following is according to court documents and evidence presented at trial: Steven Loo, of Seattle, controlled and operated eight companies that owned commercial real estate. Each was managed by independent property management companies, which were responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the real estate. Loo diverted the income he earned from his real estate by instructing the property management companies to issue checks, categorized as asset management fees, to two other entities that Loo controlled. Loo knew that the funds deposited into these bank accounts, totaling more than $4.8 million, were income to him and that he was required to report and pay tax on the funds. Nevertheless, Loo filed tax returns for 2015 through 2020 that did not report or pay tax on these funds.
Evidence presented at trial showed that Loo owes $1.6 million in taxes on his unreported income.
Loo is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 9. He faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each of the false tax return charges and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each of the tax evasion charges for which he was convicted. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, and U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller for the Western District of Washington made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Regina Jeon of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Dion and Sean Waite for the Western District of Washington prosecuted the case.
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Bing Han, Lecturer in Economic Crime, University of Portsmouth
At the beginning of 2025, panic about fraud and human trafficking erupted on Chinese social media. It started when a Chinese actor called Wang Xing was tricked into travelling to Thailand for an audition, where he was abducted by criminals and taken to a scam centre in Myanmar.
Wang was reported missing and, within three days, the Thai police had located and returned him to Thailand. Details of the operation were not revealed, leading to speculation that withholding more information was part of a deal that led to Wang’s release.
Inside the compound, Wang’s head was shaved and he told the police he was forced to undergo the first phase of training on how to carry out scams.
Read more:
Scam Factories: the inside story of Southeast Asia’s brutal fraud compounds
One such scam is known as “pig butchering”. This type of scam began attracting attention in China around 2019, and is typically carried out by Chinese organised crime groups. Scammers establish fake romantic and trusting relationships with victims before luring them into fraudulent investments or other financial traps.
Pig-butchering scammers have stolen billions of dollars from victims worldwide. In one notable example from 2023, a banker from Kansas in the US called Shan Hanes embezzled US$47 million (£34.6 million) from his bank to cover his losses after falling victim to a pig butchering scam. Hanes was subsequently sentenced to more than 24 years in prison. So, what do we know about how pig butchering scams work?
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A pig butchering scam consists of three stages: hunting, raising and killing. These stages correspond to scammers finding victims online, talking with them to build trust and then getting them to invest large amounts of money in fraudulent schemes.
There are some similarities between a pig butchering scam and a traditional romance scam. Scammers may, as in a traditional scam, approach their victims by posing as a possible romantic partner on a dating app or a friend on social media.
But the key difference lies in how the scam is executed. In a traditional romance scam, trust is based on the victim’s desire to maintain a romantic relationship with the scammer. Because of this, traditional romance scams can sometimes last for years.
Pig butchering scams, in comparison, generally take place over a shorter time frame. Rather than focusing on extracting money solely through emotional manipulation, they lean heavily on the victim’s desire to make money together with the scammer. They often involve just a few months of talking with the victim.
The scammers present themselves as financially successful and confident people with broad networks and attractive investment opportunities. Once a victim makes a small initial investment, scammers rapidly escalate the process and push them into making much larger financial commitments.
In one example from 2024, a woman in the US state of Connecticut called Jacqueline Crenshaw met a man on an online dating site. He was posing as a widower with two children and frequently spoke with Crenshaw over the phone. Within two months, they began discussing investing in cryptocurrency.
Crenshaw sent him US$40,000 (£29,500) initially and received screenshots from him showing supposedly huge profits from the cryptocurrency investment. The scammer soon encouraged Crenshaw to invest much more, which ultimately led to her losing nearly US$1 million (£738,000).
Pig butchering scams are typically run by highly organised criminal groups. These groups have management teams, provide training to new recruits and often hire people as models who occasionally interact with victims.
The Chinese government has taken several steps to combat fraud in recent years. It enacted the Anti-Telecom Fraud Law in 2022, which was designed specifically to prevent and punish the use of telecommunications and internet technologies to defraud individuals and organisations. It was introduced in response to the growing prevalence of pig butchering scams in China.
The Chinese Ministry of Public Security has also developed a mobile application called the National Anti-Fraud Center App. The app allows the public to report scams and access real-time risk alerts related to fraud. Alongside the work of other government departments, it has helped intercept 4.7 billion scam calls and 3.4 billion fraudulent text messages since the beginning of 2024.
The crackdown on fraud within China has made it more difficult for criminal groups to operate domestically, prompting many to relocate their bases abroad. South-east Asian countries – particularly Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar – have become a preferred destination for such groups.
Regions of northern Myanmar, such as Kokang and Wa State, have become breeding grounds for organised fraud over the past few years. Chinese is widely spoken in both of these areas and local customs closely resemble those in China.
This has been exacerbated by persistent corruption in border areas, poor governance and instability. The collapse of the illegal online gambling industry in south-east Asia following the pandemic has also led crime groups to search for new sources of revenue. These conditions have together facilitated the proliferation of large-scale fraudulent operations.
Organised fraud has evolved into a key pillar of the local economy in certain parts of south-east Asia. The profits generated from online scams are estimated to amount to 40% of the combined GDP of Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.
Criminal leaders have established tightly controlled compounds that serve as hubs for online scams, with their primary activities centred on pig butchering. These compounds are frequently presented as “technology parks”, which helps recruit workers. However, many people are forced to work in the scam centres.
Pig butchering scams can inflict severe financial harm on victims. But are also closely tied to violent crime, human trafficking and other forms of organised criminal activity. They pose a growing threat to regional and global security.
Bing Han does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. ‘Pig butchering’ scams have stolen billions from people around the world. Here’s what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/pig-butchering-scams-have-stolen-billions-from-people-around-the-world-heres-what-you-need-to-know-252774